A PDO thread lift gives an immediate lifting effect with very little downtime, but the aftercare you follow in the first week makes a big difference to how well your threads settle and how natural your results look. This simple 7-day UK-focused guide walks you through what to expect and how to care for your skin after treatment.
A PDO thread lift works by inserting dissolvable threads under the skin to lift, tighten, and stimulate collagen. Because the threads need time to anchor and integrate, the first few days are crucial. Most people can go back to work right away, but you should still treat your face gently and avoid anything that may disrupt the threads.
Day 1 — Keep it Calm and Clean
You’ll likely notice tightness, swelling, or mild bruising. Stick to gentle cleansing, avoid touching your face unnecessarily, and sleep on your back with your head elevated. Don’t apply makeup yet.
Day 2 — Reduce Swelling
Cold compresses (wrapped in cloth) help reduce swelling. Stick to soft foods if your jaw area feels tender. Continue sleeping on your back.
Day 3 — Take it Easy
You may see some puckering or slight unevenness, which is normal and usually settles. Avoid heavy chewing, dental work, or opening your mouth too wide. No exercise yet.
Day 4 — Keep Movements Minimal
The threads are settling, so avoid facial massages, beauty treatments, steam rooms, or saunas. Keep skincare simple — no exfoliants, retinoids, or active acids.
Day 5 — Light Routine
You can apply light makeup if the entry points have closed and there’s no irritation. Still avoid workouts and anything that raises your heart rate.
Day 6 — Slow and Steady
Any swelling or tightness should be improving. Stick to gentle skincare, avoid rubbing your face, and continue to skip facials, tanning, or heat exposure.
Day 7 — Almost Back to Normal
Most people feel comfortable returning to their normal routine by now, except for strenuous exercise or deep facial treatments. The threads continue to settle over the next few weeks, and your collagen response will keep improving for months.
Extra UK-Specific Tips
– Avoid direct sun exposure; use a high-SPF sunscreen especially during unpredictable UK weather.
– Don’t book dental appointments until at least 3–4 weeks later.
– Drink plenty of water, especially in colder months when skin dehydrates faster.
– If you notice persistent pain, visible thread exposure, or unevenness that doesn’t improve, contact your practitioner.
Following proper aftercare supports smoother healing, better thread integration, and longer-lasting lift. Treat your skin gently, follow your practitioner’s advice, and give the threads time to do their work — the results are worth it.