PDO Thread Lifts for Nasolabial Folds & Marionette Lines in San Diego
Quick Answer: PDO thread lifts may help improve the appearance of certain smile lines, marionette lines, and lower-face concerns when mild tissue sagging contributes to their appearance. The procedure uses absorbable threads placed beneath the skin to provide support and, with certain thread types, a modest lifting effect. However, PDO threads don't reliably eliminate deep facial folds, restore lost volume, or replace a surgical facelift. The best treatment depends on your facial anatomy, skin laxity, volume changes, and aesthetic goals.
Hi, I'm Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, founder of Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa in beautiful Point Loma, San Diego.
Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed that the lines around your mouth seem a little deeper than they used to?
Maybe your smile lines have become more pronounced.
Maybe you're beginning to notice lines extending downward from the corners of your mouth.
Or perhaps your lower face doesn't look quite as defined as it once did.
These are very common changes, and there's nothing wrong with them.
But if they're something you'd like to address, I want you to understand the options available.
One procedure patients sometimes ask me about is the PDO thread lift.
PDO threads can be considered for certain concerns involving tissue support and mild facial laxity. However, they're not the answer to every wrinkle or fold.
At Beauty Energy Exchange, my approach is to understand what's causing your concern before recommending a treatment.
Let's discuss how PDO threads work, whether they may help nasolabial folds and marionette lines, and what you should know before deciding if they're right for you.
What Are Nasolabial Folds and Marionette Lines?
These two types of facial folds are often discussed together, but they're not exactly the same.
Nasolabial Folds: Your Smile Lines
Nasolabial folds are the creases that extend from the sides of your nose toward the corners of your mouth.
They're often called smile lines or laugh lines.
Almost everyone has some degree of nasolabial folding.
These natural facial contours can become more noticeable over time because of changes in:
Facial fat distribution and volume
Skin elasticity
Underlying facial structure
Tissue support
Repeated facial movement
Some people notice these folds primarily when smiling.
Others see deeper creases even when their face is relaxed.
Marionette Lines: Lines Below the Mouth
Marionette lines extend downward from the corners of the mouth toward the chin.
They can sometimes contribute to a downturned appearance around the mouth.
Like nasolabial folds, marionette lines may become more noticeable as facial anatomy changes over time.
However, not everyone develops them for the same reason.
For some people, volume loss contributes to their appearance.
For others, changes in tissue position, skin laxity, or facial structure may be more relevant.
The important point is that different causes may require different treatment approaches.
That's why I don't believe in automatically recommending threads, fillers, or any other procedure simply because a client has a particular type of facial line.
What Is a PDO Thread Lift?
PDO stands for polydioxanone.
It's an absorbable material that has also been used in certain medical sutures.
In aesthetic procedures, specially designed PDO threads can be placed beneath the skin.
Different types of threads serve different purposes.
PDO Lifting Threads
Some lifting threads have small barbs or other structural features that engage the surrounding tissue.
When placed appropriately, they may provide support and modest repositioning of selected tissues.
These are the types of threads commonly discussed for certain lower-face lifting goals.
PDO Smooth Threads
Smooth threads don't work in exactly the same way as lifting threads.
They generally aren't intended to mechanically lift sagging facial tissues to the same degree.
They may be used for selected aesthetic goals involving tissue remodeling, depending on the treatment plan.
It's important to understand which type of thread is being proposed because different threads don't provide identical results.
Do PDO Threads Stimulate Collagen?
Placing absorbable threads beneath the skin can trigger a tissue response that may involve collagen formation.
However, the extent of collagen remodeling and its visible cosmetic benefit vary.
I wouldn't promise a particular amount of collagen production, skin tightening, or long-term improvement for every patient.
Can PDO Threads Improve Nasolabial Folds?
Sometimes, but the answer depends on what's contributing to the folds.
This is an important distinction.
Nasolabial folds aren't always caused by loose skin alone.
They may also reflect facial volume distribution, structural anatomy, and the natural relationship between the cheeks and mouth.
For some patients with mild tissue descent, appropriately placed lifting threads may improve certain facial contours and indirectly soften the appearance of nearby folds.
However, PDO threads cannot reliably erase deep nasolabial folds.
And if the primary concern is volume loss or a naturally deep anatomical crease, threads may not be the most useful treatment.
What If My Smile Lines Are Very Deep?
If your nasolabial folds are especially prominent, a personalized evaluation is important.
Sometimes dermal fillers or another approach may be worth discussing.
Other patients may benefit from a broader treatment plan.
And when substantial tissue descent or skin laxity is involved, nonsurgical procedures may provide only limited improvement.
My goal is to explain what's realistically possible rather than promise that one procedure will make every line disappear.
Can PDO Threads Improve Marionette Lines?
PDO threads may be considered for selected patients whose marionette-line concerns involve mild lower-face tissue descent or nearby jowling.
In certain situations, modest repositioning of tissues may change the appearance of the lower face.
However, threads don't directly restore lost volume or correct every cause of marionette lines.
For example, someone with volume-related changes near the mouth may require a different treatment discussion from someone whose primary concern is mild sagging.
This is why I look at the lower face as a whole.
The mouth, chin, jawline, cheeks, and surrounding tissues all influence facial balance.
PDO Threads vs. Dermal Fillers for Smile Lines and Marionette Lines
One question I hear is:
Are PDO threads better than fillers?
My answer is that neither treatment is automatically better.
They work differently.
TreatmentWhat it doesWhen it may be consideredPDO lifting threadsMay provide modest tissue support or repositioningSelected cases involving mild tissue descentHyaluronic acid fillersAdd injectable volumeSelected volume-related folds or contour concernsSculptraStimulates collagen formation graduallyCertain approved facial wrinkle and volume-related concernsSkin-tightening proceduresAim to improve selected skin laxity concernsWhen skin firmness contributes to the concern
When Might Fillers Make More Sense?
Dermal fillers may be relevant when volume changes contribute to a facial fold or contour concern.
However, adding volume isn't always helpful, and inappropriate placement can create unwanted fullness.
Dermal fillers also carry risks, including rare but serious complications involving blood vessels.
When Might Threads Make More Sense?
Threads may be worth discussing when mild tissue laxity or descent appears to be a meaningful part of the concern.
But they aren't a substitute for every type of filler or for surgical lifting.
Can Threads and Fillers Be Combined?
Sometimes, for appropriately selected patients.
However, using several procedures doesn't automatically produce better or more natural-looking results.
Each treatment should have a clear purpose, and timing needs to be individualized.
If you're comparing different aesthetic approaches, you can also read my guide to combining Botox, fillers, and PDO threads in Point Loma.
What Happens During a PDO Thread Lift?
The exact procedure depends on the thread type, treatment area, and individualized plan.
Here's what a typical appointment may involve.
1. Consultation and Facial Assessment
Before discussing thread placement, I'll review your concerns, medical history, previous aesthetic treatments, and goals.
I'll also evaluate your facial anatomy and determine whether tissue laxity, volume changes, or other factors may be contributing to your concern.
Not everyone is an appropriate candidate for threads.
2. Treatment Planning
If a thread procedure is suitable, we'll discuss the proposed treatment areas, the type of threads being considered, realistic benefits, risks, and recovery expectations.
This is also the time to ask questions.
I want you to understand what we're trying to accomplish and what the procedure may not improve.
3. Preparation and Thread Placement
The treatment area is prepared, and appropriate anesthesia or other comfort measures may be used.
The threads are then placed beneath the skin using a procedure suited to the specific thread system and treatment plan.
Some lifting threads are positioned to provide tissue support or modest repositioning.
4. Recovery Instructions
After treatment, you'll receive instructions specific to the procedure.
These may address facial movement, pressure on the treated areas, skincare, exercise, sleeping positions, and other recovery considerations.
The goal is to support appropriate healing and help you recognize symptoms that require follow-up.
How Soon Will I See PDO Thread Lift Results?
Some patients may notice an initial change in facial contours soon after placement of lifting threads.
However, that immediate appearance isn't necessarily the final result.
Swelling, bruising, tissue settling, and healing can all influence how the face looks during the first several days or weeks.
The final outcome may take additional time to evaluate.
And although PDO threads can stimulate a tissue response, gradual collagen remodeling doesn't guarantee progressively better or longer-lasting lifting.
I want clients to understand the difference between an early visible change and a fully assessed cosmetic outcome.
How Long Do PDO Thread Lift Results Last?
PDO thread lift results are temporary.
The duration varies depending on factors including:
The specific thread system
Thread placement and technique
Facial anatomy
Skin and tissue characteristics
The degree of laxity being treated
Individual healing and aging
The threads themselves gradually absorb, and visible lifting effects can change over time.
Some patients experience longer-lasting improvements than others.
However, I wouldn't promise a fixed 9-month, 12-month, or 18-month result for everyone.
It's also important to know that the presence of collagen remodeling doesn't necessarily mean a patient will maintain the same degree of visible lift.
A consultation can help establish reasonable expectations for your specific treatment plan.
What Is Recovery Like After PDO Threads?
PDO thread lifts are minimally invasive procedures, but they still require recovery.
You may experience temporary symptoms such as:
Swelling
Bruising
Tenderness
Tightness or pulling sensations
Discomfort when moving certain facial muscles
Temporary unevenness or irregularities
Some people feel comfortable returning to routine activities relatively quickly.
Others may prefer several days of recovery, particularly if swelling or bruising is noticeable.
Can I Return to Work Immediately?
That depends on the treatment and your individual response.
If you have an important event, photoshoot, vacation, or work commitment coming up, please discuss timing before scheduling.
I wouldn't recommend assuming you'll look exactly as expected immediately after the procedure.
What Should I Avoid After Treatment?
Your provider may recommend temporarily limiting certain activities or pressure on the treated areas while healing.
Follow the instructions provided for your specific procedure rather than relying on generic social media aftercare advice.
Contact your provider if you experience unexpected or worsening symptoms.
What Are the Risks of PDO Thread Lifts?
This is one of the most important parts of deciding whether a thread procedure is right for you.
Although PDO threads are often described as minimally invasive, they aren't risk-free.
Possible side effects and complications include:
Swelling and bruising
Pain or persistent discomfort
Infection
Facial asymmetry
Skin dimpling or puckering
Visible or palpable threads
Thread extrusion through the skin
Irregular contours
Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
Less common complications may require additional medical care or treatment.
Signs of infection, increasing pain, unusual swelling, or a thread protruding through the skin should be assessed promptly by your provider. Severe symptoms require urgent medical evaluation.
PDO thread lifts are not equivalent to a surgical facelift, and the degree of improvement may be limited, particularly for patients with significant tissue descent or loose skin.
Before recommending a procedure, I believe it's important to review the potential benefits, risks, limitations, and alternatives.
Who Might Be a Good Candidate for PDO Threads?
PDO thread lifts may be worth discussing if you're noticing mild facial laxity and are interested in a nonsurgical procedure.
You might be considering treatment because:
Your lower face appears less defined
You're beginning to notice mild jowling
You're concerned about facial tissue descent
You want to explore modest lifting options
You'd prefer to learn about nonsurgical treatments before considering surgery
However, these concerns don't automatically make someone a candidate.
Your medical history, skin characteristics, anatomy, expectations, and the specific procedure all matter.
Some patients may be better served by dermal fillers, a different skin treatment, or a surgical consultation.
Others may decide that no treatment is necessary.
I believe an honest assessment is more valuable than recommending threads to every person who walks through the door.
Advanced PDO Thread Lift Training in Point Loma
When you're considering a procedure involving threads placed beneath the skin, understanding your provider's training is especially important.
I'm Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, founder of Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa.
My clinical background and continuing aesthetic education inform how I approach facial anatomy, treatment planning, and patient assessment.
My PDO Thread Training
My documented training includes:
American Academy of Facial Esthetics — Virtual PDO Smooth Threads training
Dr. Gideon Kwok — MINT PDO Thread Lift Hands-On Training, 2024
Dr. T.J. Tsay — MINT PDO Thread Lift Hands-On Training, 2024
Dr. T.J. Tsay — MINT Intermediate PDO Threadlift Hands-On Training, 2025
My additional education includes facial anatomy workshops, cadaver-based training, and advanced injectable education.
These experiences help inform how I evaluate patients and discuss aesthetic treatment options.
Training is one important part of provider selection, but every procedure still requires appropriate patient assessment, informed consent, and careful consideration of risks.
You can explore my complete medical education and aesthetic training.
My Approach to Natural-Looking Facial Rejuvenation
One thing I want my clients to know is that I don't believe every facial fold needs to disappear.
Smile lines are part of normal facial anatomy.
And some of the expressions and features that make your face uniquely yours naturally involve folds, movement, and volume changes.
If you want to explore treatment, I believe we should start by understanding what bothers you and what you'd realistically like to improve.
Sometimes a PDO thread procedure may be worth discussing.
Sometimes a different aesthetic treatment makes more sense.
And sometimes the best decision is to leave things exactly as they are.
At Beauty Energy Exchange, my goal is to help you feel informed and comfortable with your choices.
Natural. Balanced. Beautifully You.
How Much Do PDO Thread Lifts Cost in San Diego?
The cost of a PDO thread lift depends on the proposed treatment areas, thread system, complexity of the procedure, and individualized plan.
At Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa, we publish starting prices for MINT PDO Thread Lifts and other aesthetic treatments.
Because prices and treatment recommendations may change, visit our current med spa pricing page for updated information.
A $50 consultation booking fee applies and may be credited toward a treatment or retail purchase at our med spa.
During your consultation, we can review the options that may be appropriate, discuss expected results and risks, and explain the estimated cost before you decide whether to proceed.
PDO Thread Lifts in Point Loma, San Diego
Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa is located at 1050 Rosecrans Street, Suite 8, in Point Loma, San Diego.
We welcome clients from Ocean Beach, Liberty Station, Shelter Island, Sunset Cliffs, Downtown San Diego, and surrounding communities.
Whether you're interested in improving selected lower-face concerns, learning about thread lifts, or comparing nonsurgical rejuvenation options, I'd love to help you explore what's appropriate for your goals.
You don't need to arrive knowing which treatment you want.
That's what a consultation is for.
You can also learn more about our PDO thread lift treatments in San Diego.
Frequently Asked Questions About PDO Threads for Smile Lines and Marionette Lines
1. Can PDO threads get rid of nasolabial folds?
PDO lifting threads may improve the appearance of certain nasolabial folds when mild tissue descent contributes to the concern. However, they don't reliably erase deep smile lines, and results vary. Some patients may benefit from a different treatment approach.
2. Do PDO threads work for marionette lines?
They may help selected patients whose marionette-line concerns involve mild lower-face tissue descent. However, marionette lines can also be influenced by volume changes and facial structure, so threads aren't appropriate for everyone.
3. Are PDO threads better than dermal fillers?
Not necessarily. PDO threads and dermal fillers work differently. Lifting threads may provide modest tissue support, while fillers add volume. The best choice depends on what's causing your facial concern and the potential risks and benefits of each treatment.
4. How long do PDO thread lift results last?
Results are temporary and vary depending on the thread system, treatment technique, facial anatomy, tissue characteristics, and individual response. No specific duration of visible lifting can be guaranteed.
5. Do PDO threads stimulate collagen?
The placement of absorbable threads can trigger a tissue response that may involve collagen formation. However, the extent of visible improvement varies, and collagen remodeling doesn't guarantee sustained lifting or correction of deep facial folds.
6. Is there downtime after a PDO thread lift?
Yes, some recovery time may be needed. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and temporary irregularities can occur. Your provider should explain expected healing and activity restrictions based on your specific procedure.
7. What are the risks of PDO thread lifts?
Potential risks include swelling, bruising, pain, infection, asymmetry, skin dimpling, visible or protruding threads, irregular contours, and unsatisfactory results. A qualified provider should discuss the possible complications and alternatives before treatment.
8. Can PDO threads be combined with Botox or fillers?
Sometimes, for appropriately selected patients. These treatments address different concerns, and combining them isn't always necessary or better. The timing and suitability of any combination should be determined through an individualized assessment.
9. How much do PDO thread lifts cost in Point Loma?
The cost depends on the treatment area, threads used, and individualized plan. Beauty Energy Exchange publishes current starting prices at https://www.beautyenergyexchange.com/pricing. A $50 consultation booking fee may be applied toward a treatment or retail purchase.
10. Where can I get PDO thread lifts in San Diego?
Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa offers personalized PDO thread lift consultations at 1050 Rosecrans Street, Suite 8, San Diego, CA 92106. Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, has completed documented MINT PDO thread lift training and evaluates treatment suitability based on each client's anatomy, medical history, and goals.
Final Thoughts: The Right Treatment Begins With Understanding Your Face
If you're concerned about nasolabial folds, marionette lines, or changes in your lower face, I hope this guide has helped you understand what PDO threads may—and may not—accomplish.
Thread lifts may provide modest improvement for selected concerns involving tissue support and mild laxity.
But they don't replace every type of filler, and they don't create the same results as surgery.
I want you to feel confident in your decisions because you understand your options, not because someone promised you a dramatic transformation.
At Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa in Point Loma, my approach is personal, thoughtful, and focused on respecting your natural features.
If you're considering PDO threads or another facial rejuvenation treatment, I'd love to meet you and discuss your goals.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Learn More About PDO Thread Lifts in San Diego
Explore Nyree's Education & Training
View Current Treatment Pricing
Book Your Personalized Consultation
With warmth,
Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM
Founder & Aesthetic Provider
Beauty Energy Exchange Medspa
1050 Rosecrans Street, Suite 8
San Diego, CA 92106
Call or text: (858) 330-2477
Natural. Balanced. Beautifully You.
Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness
1050 Rosecrans St, Suite 8
San Diego, CA 92106
https://www.beautyenergyexchange.com
