May 19, 2025

In the age of Instagram filters and carefully curated social media content, it can be challenging to separate reality from idealized imagery, especially when it comes to aesthetic treatments. PDO thread lifts in Atlanta have exploded in popularity over the past few years, with countless before-and-after photos flooding social media showing dramatic transformations that seem almost too good to be true. And in many cases, they are. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we believe in transparency and setting realistic expectations for our patients. That’s why we’re pulling back the curtain on PDO thread lifts to show you what real results look like and what you can expect from this innovative treatment. What Are PDO Thread Lifts? Before discussing the reality of results, it’s important to understand what PDO thread lifts are. PDO (polydioxanone) threads are absorbable surgical sutures that have been used in medicine for decades. When used for aesthetic purposes, these threads are inserted beneath the skin using fine needles or cannulas to lift and support sagging tissue. There are different types of PDO threads, each designed for specific purposes: The Instagram vs. Reality Gap Social media has created unrealistic expectations about what PDO thread lifts can achieve. Here’s what those perfect Instagram before-and-afters often don’t tell you: 1. Many Photos Show Immediate Post-Procedure Results Those dramatic transformations you see online typically capture the immediate post-procedure appearance when swelling enhances the lifting effect. This temporary swelling creates a more dramatic result that will settle within days. “What many people don’t realize is that there’s an initial ‘overcorrection’ with thread lifts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “The dramatic lift you see immediately after the procedure will soften by about 30% as swelling subsides and the threads settle into their final position.” 2. Lighting, Angles, and Filters Create Misleading Comparisons Professional photography techniques can dramatically alter the appearance of results: 3. The Most Dramatic Results Come from Combining Treatments Many of the most impressive before-and-afters show results from combination treatments, not threads alone. Providers often perform thread lifts alongside: Real Results: What PDO Threads Lifts Can Accomplish Now that we’ve addressed the misleading aspects of social media imagery, let’s talk about what realistic, satisfying results from PDO threads look like: Subtle but Noticeable Lifting In properly selected patients, PDO threads typically provide: While not dramatic, these improvements can significantly improve your overall appearance, creating a more refreshed, rested look without changing your fundamental features. Improved Skin Quality Over Time Beyond the mechanical lifting effect, PDO threads stimulate collagen production, which leads to: Duration of Results Realistic expectations for how long PDO thread results last: Who Benefits Most from PDO Threads? Another aspect that social media rarely addresses is patient selection. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for thread lifts, and understanding who benefits most helps set appropriate expectations. Ideal Candidates for PDO Threads The best results typically occur in patients with: When Threads Might Not Be Your Best Option PDO threads may not be ideal for: Making an Informed Decision About PDO Thread Lift If you’re considering PDO threads, here’s how to approach the decision with realistic expectations: Questions to Ask Your Provider Red Flags to Watch For Be cautious of providers who: PDO thread lifts can deliver beautiful, natural-looking results when approached with realistic expectations and performed by skilled providers on appropriate candidates. While they don’t create the dramatic transformations often portrayed on social media, they offer something many patients value more: subtle, natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal downtime. At Radiance Aesthetic Medicine, we believe in the power of PDO threads as part of a comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation. By understanding what threads can and cannot achieve, you can make an informed decision about whether this treatment is right for you. When you choose to have a PDO thread lift in Atlanta, choose Radiance Aesthetic Medicine. We’ll work with you to create realistic expectations and a treatment plan designed to give you beautiful results that enhance your natural features without changing who you are.