Marielaina Perrone DDS
Marielaina Perrone DDS
Dental Education http://drperrone.com/blog
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MPerroneDDS

Understanding the Difference Between PDO Threads and Dermal Fillers

Understanding the Difference Between PDO Threads and Dermal Fillers

6/18/2025 8:26:53 AM   |   Comments: 0   |   Views: 28

With Insights from Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS

Facial aesthetics have become an increasingly integrated component of modern dental practices, particularly for professionals focusing on cosmetic and full-face rejuvenation. Among the commonly used non-surgical tools are PDO (polydioxanone) threads and dermal fillers, offering distinct mechanisms of action and treatment goals.

To provide expert insights into the roles and applications of these treatments, we consulted with Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, a highly experienced dentist with a strong focus on both dental and facial aesthetic treatments in Henderson, NV.

Dermal Fillers: Volume Restoration and Contour Enhancement

Dermal fillers—commonly based on hyaluronic acid—are injectable gels designed to restore facial volume and smooth lines and enhance soft tissue contours. They are widely used in areas such as the nasolabial folds, cheeks, lips, and marionette lines.

“Dermal fillers are particularly effective when volume loss is the primary concern,” assures Dr. Perrone. “They allow for immediate enhancement of facial contours and soft tissue support, providing patients with visible results right after the procedure.”

Depending on the type of filler and location of injection, results typically last 6 to 18 months. Their reversibility with hyaluronidase also adds an element of control and flexibility.

PDO Threads: Subtle Lifting with Collagen Stimulation

PDO threads are absorbable sutures inserted beneath the dermis to reposition sagging tissues and stimulate collagen production. Unlike fillers, threads focus more on tissue lift and dermal remodeling.

“PDO threads are well-suited for patients showing early signs of skin laxity, particularly along the jawline, cheeks, and lower face,” notes Dr. Perrone. “They provide structural support and promote neocollagenesis over time.”

The threads dissolve naturally over several months while collagen production continues, often resulting in sustained aesthetic improvement for up to 12–24 months, giving patients a long-lasting solution to their skin laxity concerns.


Comparing Treatment Modalities

While both tools are minimally invasive, their purposes differ:

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
CharacteristicDermal FillersPDO Threads
Primary FunctionVolume restoration and wrinkle fillingTissue repositioning and collagen induction
Onset of ResultsImmediateGradual (1–3 months)
Duration6–18 monthsUp to 2 years (due to collagen synthesis)
ReversibilityYes (hyaluronidase for HA-based fillers)No (threads dissolve naturally)

“These treatments can be used independently or in combination, depending on the clinical goals and tissue condition,” says Dr. Perrone. “It’s important to assess skin quality, facial anatomy, and the degree of volume loss or laxity.”

Considerations for Integration into Practice

As more dental professionals expand their aesthetic offerings, understanding the strengths and limitations of each treatment is essential. PDO threads may be appropriate in cases where subtle lifting is desired without the bulk of added volume. Fillers, on the other hand, are effective in restoring youthful contours and addressing localized volume deficiencies.

“Treatment planning should be guided by anatomy and individualized patient goals,” Dr. Perrone emphasizes. This approach, which takes into account each patient's unique anatomy and goals, is key to achieving optimal results and fostering a patient-centered practice.

Conclusion

PDO threads and dermal fillers serve complementary roles in facial rejuvenation. Fillers offer volume and contour enhancement, while threads provide a lifting effect with the added benefit of collagen stimulation. For dental professionals, the potential of these treatments to enhance patient care and satisfaction can be a powerful motivator to incorporate facial aesthetics into their practices.

About the Author

Dr. Marielaina Perrone, DDS, is a cosmetic and implant dentist in Henderson, NV, with advanced training in facial aesthetics. Her practice integrates full-face rejuvenation, dental health, and minimally invasive cosmetic treatments, offering patients balanced and natural results.


Category: Cosmetic Dentistry
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