Thread lifting has emerged as a powerful, non-surgical alternative to traditional facelift surgery, offering noticeable lifting and rejuvenation with minimal downtime. The treatment works by inserting fine, absorbable sutures into the skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate collagen production.
If you are exploring a thread lift, you will quickly encounter terms like PDO threads and Cog threads. While all threads are typically made from Polydioxanone (PDO)—a material safely used in medical sutures for years—they are far from identical. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right treatment for your specific aesthetic goals.
The Fundamental Difference: Structure and Function
The primary distinction between thread types lies in their structure and the type of result they are designed to deliver.
PDO Threads (Smooth & Twisted)
These are the foundational threads, often referred to as smooth or mono threads, and sometimes twisted threads. They are thin, straight, and lack barbs or “cogs.” These threads are not designed for significant lifting. Instead, they are placed in a mesh-like pattern beneath the skin to create a scaffold.
Their primary goal is Collagen Stimulation and Skin Tightening. As the body naturally absorbs the smooth threads over time, it creates a powerful healing response, generating new collagen. This process improves skin texture, firmness, and fine lines. They are best used for refining jawlines, treating crepiness under the eyes or on the neck, or improving overall skin quality where sagging is minimal.
Cog Threads (The Lifting Threads)
Cog threads are the revolutionary component of the true non-surgical thread lift. These are designed to actively grip and lift tissue. Their structure features small, strategically placed barbs or “cogs” along the length of the suture, resembling tiny hooks.
The cogs anchor into the underlying soft tissue. Once inserted, the clinician gently pulls the thread taut, physically lifting the sagging skin and securing it in a higher position. Their primary goal is Physical Lifting and Repositioning. They provide an immediate, noticeable lift to jowls, cheeks, and brow areas. They are best used for treating moderate to significant sagging, defining the jawline, lifting the mid-face, and addressing deep folds.
Choosing the Right Approach
In many effective thread lift procedures, the best outcome is achieved by using a combination of thread types. Cog threads are used to perform the major lifting and anchoring, while smooth PDO threads are placed in adjacent areas to refine texture, strengthen the skin, and boost overall collagen production.
If you’re considering facial rejuvenation, a detailed consultation is essential. We will assess your level of skin laxity and determine the most effective strategy, ensuring the right combination of Cog Threads vs PDO Threads is used to meet your unique aesthetic goals. Contact us today to begin your journey.
