It is a non-surgical procedure that uses PDO threads to lift soft tissues in sagging skin. Some people also call it “mini face lift”, as it is a bridging option between Botox/fillers and surgical facelift. PDO threads are FDA-approved polydioxanone suture that completely dissolves over 6-8 months. PDO threads not only physically lift the skin up but also stimulate natural production of collagen. PDO threads are safe suture materials that have been used in cardiovascular and orthopedic surgeries for over 30 years. The effects of threads last approximately a year and possibly longer.

• Procedure takes one hour to complete.
• This is a minimally-invasive procedure, not a surgery.
• Results can last up to 12 months.
• Short downtime
• PDO stimulates collagen production.
• Very safe. No risk of artery occlusion.
• Great when combined with Botox and fillers.

MINT™ stands for Minimally Invasive Non-surgical Thread. It is a unique absorbable thread designed to approximate and fixate sagging tissues. The thread is made from a complex sugar polydioxanone or PDO – a safe suture material that has been used in orthopedic and cardiovascular surgeries for over 30 years. MINT PDO is the gold standard for pulling soft tissues and has been FDA approved as a facial fixation thread. MINT PDO has 360 degrees of helical barbs around the threads and its unique structure creates a strong pulling effect and fixes the facial tissue in various directions effectively. MINT PDO’s helical molding structure has been secured by the Patent Act.

First, you will have an initial consultation to determine if you are a good candidate by examining your skin and reviewing your medical history. Once we discuss your goals and expectations, you will receive pre-treatment instructions. Before the procedure, we draw vectors on your face to maximize benefits. After a local anesthesia is given, threads are inserted gently to the areas to lift. The procedure takes about 30-45 minutes. After care instruction will be given.

You will see the lifting effect immediately after the procedure. You will continue to see improvements as the swelling goes down and your body produces collagen which will increase skin firmness, tone, and hydration.

Results can last up to 9-12 months, but the results can last for up to one year as PDO can help stimulate collagen production and neovascularization in the skin. Results will vary depending on the degree of sagging, thickness of the skin, and the facial structure of the patient.

• People who seek to avoid surgical procedures but wish to physically lift sagging skin more than what botox or filler can do.
• People with mild to moderate sagging skin.
• People who have no history of autoimmune disorders, such as scleroderma or sarcoidosis.

• Mid-lower face (nasolabial folds and marionette lines)
• Under chin (submental area)
• Eyebrow lift (Foxy-eye lift)

Swelling, bruising, tenderness are expected for a few days to 2 weeks.

Although you can resume daily activities, we discourage strenuous activities, facial massage, prolonged chewing, or dental treatment for at least a week. For swelling, use ice packs. You can gently wash your hair and face on the next day. You should sleep in the supine position for the next 3-5 days to prevent the movement of threads.

A facelift is a great option for those with severe sagging skin and tissue who can invest in this long-term solution and time off to recover. The results of a facelift are drastic and can last up to ten years. In contrast, PDO threads can be a fantastic alternative for those who are looking to address sagging skin through a minimally invasive procedure without invasive surgery, and at a fraction of the cost of a facelift. The results are natural and instant with minimal downtime and trauma.

Common side effects may include soreness, minor bruising, swelling and mild discomfort. If you experience any other complications or an extended period of the side effects, please consult with your provider. To avoid the risk of complications, we recommend that you verify your provider has received professional PDO thread training credentials.

Yes! MINT^TM is compatible with many other procedures, so you can take advantage of all the best things each treatment has to offer for synergistic effects. Target wrinkles with neuromodulators, restore volume with dermal fillers, address skin texture with laser treatments, and take care of sagging skin with MINT^TM.

The cost of PDO threads depends on the patient’s needs and anatomy. While prices vary according to the areas that need to be treated, they start anywhere from $1000-3000 on average.