Are PDO Threads Better Than Ultherapy?
When it comes to non-surgical skin tightening, both PDO threads and Ultherapy are effective options that work differently. While both provide a lifted, youthful appearance, PDO threads might offer some unique advantages, especially for those seeking quick, visible results with lasting benefits.
Let’s take a closer look at how these two treatments compare.
Quick “TL:DR” Overview
PDO Threads: Immediate lift, stimulates collagen, customizable with thread types; results last 12 months.
Ultherapy: Ultrasound-based, gradual lift over 3-6 months, stimulates deep collagen; results last 12 months.
Costs:
PDO Threads: $1,500 - $6,000, varies by thread type and area.
Ultherapy: $2,000 - $4,000, varies by treatment size and provider.
Customization: PDO threads allow targeted lifting (barbed for lift, smooth for collagen boost); Ultherapy is less customizable.
Downtime: Minimal for both, suitable for busy schedules.
Best For: Those wanting immediate, customizable results might prefer PDO threads.
PDO Threads vs. Ultherapy: How They Work
PDO Threads are absorbable sutures made from polydioxanone, inserted under the skin to physically lift sagging areas while stimulating collagen production. This dual-action approach gives immediate lift, with ongoing collagen production enhancing results over time. The procedure is quick (around 30 to 45 minutes) and provides a more targeted lift, which can be customized with different thread types based on specific areas and goals.
Ultherapy utilizes ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen in deeper skin layers, promoting gradual lifting over 3-6 months. While non-invasive and needle-free, Ultherapy’s results depend on your body’s natural collagen response, requiring patience to see full effects.
Comparing Costs: PDO Threads & Ultherapy
When considering non-surgical facial rejuvenation options, understanding the costs associated with each procedure is essential. Here's a comparison of the average costs for PDO thread lifts and Ultherapy:
PDO Thread Lift Costs:
Average Range: $1,500 to $6,000
Factors Influencing Cost:
Number and Type of Threads Used: More threads or specialized types (e.g., barbed vs. smooth) can increase the price.
Treatment Areas: Larger or multiple areas may require additional threads, raising the overall cost.
Provider's Expertise and Location: Experienced practitioners in metropolitan areas may charge higher fees.
For instance, some clinics offer PDO thread lifts starting as low as $300, while others may charge up to $4,500 or more, depending on the factors mentioned above.
Ultherapy Costs:
Average Range: $2,000 to $4,000
Factors Influencing Cost:
Treatment Area Size: Full-face treatments are more expensive than targeting specific regions like the brow or neck.
Provider's Credentials and Location: Board-certified specialists in high-demand areas may have higher fees.
Number of Sessions: While many patients achieve desired results with one session, some may require additional treatments, affecting the total cost.
For example, a full-face and neck Ultherapy treatment in New York City averages between $4,000 and $5,500.
Results and Longevity: Which Lasts Longer?
PDO threads offer an immediate lifting effect, which continues to improve as collagen production increases. These results can last from 12 to 18 months, depending on the client’s skin type and collagen response.
Ultherapy, while also lasting around 12 months, requires a waiting period for results to develop, making PDO threads a preferable choice for those wanting faster, noticeable changes.
Customization: A Key Benefit of PDO Threads
One significant advantage of PDO threads is their versatility. Barbed threads are ideal for lifting sagging areas like the cheeks and jawline, while smooth threads focus on collagen stimulation in more delicate areas. This adaptability allows for tailored treatment plans, offering patients a personalized approach not available with Ultherapy’s broader, single-energy method.
Minimal Downtime with Both Options
Both treatments are low-risk with minimal downtime. PDO threads may require slight precautions, like avoiding facial pressure for the first week, while Ultherapy allows for immediate return to routine. This makes both procedures appealing for those with busy lifestyles.
Making the Choice: Is PDO the Right Fit?
While both treatments can rejuvenate and lift the skin, PDO threads provide an immediate lift, customizable options, and long-lasting collagen benefits that make them especially appealing. Beauty Cult by Dr. Clara Yu in Redondo Beach and Costa Mesa specializes in PDO thread treatments, offering a personalized consultation to help clients achieve their aesthetic goals.
If you’re considering a non-surgical facelift, schedule a consultation with Beauty Cult to explore how PDO threads can provide a refreshed, natural-looking lift tailored to your needs.
