Complication After PDO Threads Lift

Abstract

Thread-lifting is as a minimally invasive procedure with limited scarring, rapid recovery, and fewer complications compared with the standard incisional surgery for facial rejuvenation. Using absorbable thread-like polydioxanone is a relatively simple procedure that is also performed by nonmedical professionals in Korea. Although several acute or delayed complications after using nonabsorbable thread types were also reported, it is uncommon to find cellulitis caused by a delayed complication after thread-lifting. A 41-year-old woman presented to our clinic with inflamed multiple palpable masses. She underwent 3 courses of acupoint embedding therapy at a Korean oriental medical clinic. She was treated with combination antibiotic therapy; however, the inflammation did not subside. Consequently, excisional biopsy was performed under local anesthesia. During the procedure, threads were detected and removed. Dimpling, thread exposure, alopecia, under-correction, asymmetry, and parotid gland injury also can occur as early complications of the procedure. Fortunately, these reactions are predominantly mild to moderate in intensity, and can be corrected by a relatively simple procedure. Chronic inflammatory reactions in the thread-lifting area, as identified in the authors' case, are an infrequent complication. It is recommended to consult with experts in the field for the implementation of this procedure. In addition, experts also need to notify the above side effects and solutions in advance to ensure safe and satisfactory procedures for their patients.