Treatment Overview
Polydioxanone (PDO) Collagen Stimulators are advanced bio-stimulatory threads and injectables widely used in Korea for anti-aging and facial rejuvenation. Unlike traditional fillers that only add volume, PDO collagen stimulators gradually trigger fibroblast activity and collagen regeneration, creating firmer, smoother, and more elastic skin over time.
PDO is a biocompatible, absorbable material that dissolves naturally in the body over 6–9 months, leaving behind a collagen scaffold that maintains skin lifting and firming effects for much longer. Korean dermatologists use PDO not only for thread lifting, but also in collagen-stimulating micro-injections (PDO powder or liquid boosters), combining them with Botox, fillers, and skin boosters for comprehensive anti-aging results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Collagen Regeneration: Boosts natural skin elasticity and firmness.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Softens fine lines and folds around eyes, mouth, and cheeks.
- Skin Tightening: Improves sagging in jawline, cheeks, and neck.
- Facial Contouring: Creates subtle V-line and youthful facial definition.
- Texture Refinement: Minimizes pores and enhances skin smoothness.
- Long-Lasting Results: Collagen stimulation continues even after PDO dissolves.
- Non-Surgical & Safe: Natural, gradual rejuvenation with minimal downtime.
Ideal Candidates
PDO Collagen Stimulators in Korea are recommended for:
- Adults in their 30s–60s seeking non-surgical anti-aging.
- Patients with mild to moderate sagging or early wrinkles.
- Men and women looking for gradual, natural rejuvenation.
- Individuals who tried fillers but want longer-lasting effects.
- Patients interested in skin quality improvement, not just lifting.
- Those combining PDO with other treatments (threads, Botox, PRP, lasers).
Possible Risks & Complications
PDO collagen stimulator treatments are safe in Korea’s leading clinics, but minor risks may include:
- Swelling & Bruising: Common, resolves in days to weeks.
- Tenderness or Tightness: Temporary as threads or PDO boosters settle.
- Lumps or Irregularities: Rare, corrected by massage or adjustment.
- Infection or Inflammation: Very rare with sterile techniques.
- Thread Migration/Breakage: Extremely rare when high-quality PDO is used.
Techniques Used in Korea
Korean dermatologists apply PDO in two main forms:
- PDO Thread Lifting:
- Cog/Barbed Threads: For lifting sagging cheeks, jawline, and midface.
- Mono Threads: Smooth threads for collagen stimulation and fine wrinkles.
- Screw/Tornado Threads: For volume restoration in hollow areas.
- 3D/4D Lifts: Advanced mapping for multi-directional tightening.
- PDO Collagen Stimulating Injectables:
- PDO Powder/Booster: Injected intradermally to trigger collagen regeneration.
- Skin Booster PDO + HA Mixes: Improves hydration and glow.
- Microinjection Technique: Disperses PDO evenly for skin rejuvenation.
Korean clinics often pair PDO with PRP, exosomes, or mesotherapy for enhanced results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately After: Mild redness, swelling, or tightness.
- 1–2 Weeks: Bruising fades, threads or injections settle.
- 1–3 Months: Collagen regeneration begins; skin feels firmer.
- 3–6 Months: Optimal lifting and texture improvement.
Aftercare Tips:
- Avoid exaggerated facial movements for 1–2 weeks (thread lifts).
- Refrain from sauna, alcohol, or heavy exercise for 1–2 weeks.
- Sleep on your back for the first week after thread lifting.
- Use hydrating skincare and sun protection to maintain results.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Subtle lift and firmness (threads) or refreshed skin (boosters).
- Short-Term (1–2 Months): Wrinkles soften, pores refine.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Strong collagen stimulation and tightening.
- Long-Term: Results last 12–18 months; collagen effects extend beyond thread dissolution.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Analysis – Doctor evaluates sagging, wrinkles, and skin quality.
- Preparation – Numbing cream or local anesthesia applied.
- PDO Application – Threads inserted or collagen-boosting PDO solution injected.
- Post-Care – Cooling packs, soothing masks, or boosters provided.
- Follow-Up – Review after 2–3 weeks; maintenance planned every 12–18 months.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Global leaders in PDO thread design and collagen stimulator innovation.
- Advanced PDO injection protocols (powder and liquid boosters).
- Expertise in V-line and 3D lifting techniques.
- Integration with regenerative therapies (PRP, exosomes, stem cells).
- Affordable compared to Western clinics, with superior safety standards.
- Seoul’s reputation as the epicenter of PDO anti-aging treatments.
Cost Range
Pricing depends on technique, thread type, or PDO booster used:
- PDO Mono Threads (per session): USD 300 – 600
- Partial PDO Lift (Jawline/Cheeks): USD 800 – 1,500
- Full PDO Thread Lift: USD 1,500 – 3,000
- PDO Collagen Stimulator Injections (Booster): USD 500 – 1,000
- Luxury Anti-Aging Package (PDO + Fillers + Exosomes): USD 3,500 – 6,000
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 80
- Numbing or sedation fee: USD 50 – 200
- Optional add-ons (exosomes, PRP, laser): USD 200 – 800
💡 Many patients call PDO collagen stimulators the “double-effect treatment”—offering both immediate lift and long-term collagen regeneration for graceful anti-aging.
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Leaders in PDO lifting + collagen stimulator boosters.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in PDO thread + filler combination lifts.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Experts in PDO boosters for pore and scar refinement.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for PDO-based V-line lifting programs.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Luxury collagen-stimulating PDO protocols with regenerative add-ons.
