PDO Thread Types Explained: Smooth, Barbed, and Screw Threads for Orangevale Patients

Smooth PDO threads — also called mono threads — are the simplest thread type. They are single, smooth filaments without barbs or texturing. Placed in a mesh or cross-hatch pattern beneath the skin, they stimulate collagen production throughout the treatment area. Smooth threads do not provide mechanical lifting — they cannot reposition sagging tissue. Instead, they create a collagen-stimulating effect that tightens, firms, and improves the quality of the skin. Think of them as a collagen induction treatment rather than a lifting procedure. Common applications for smooth threads include forehead fine line reduction, under-eye skin tightening, neck skin quality improvement, lip line reduction, and general skin rejuvenation in areas not suitable for barbed threads.

Barbed threads — also called cog threads — feature small hooks or barbs along their length. These barbs grip tissue when the thread is inserted, allowing the injector to physically reposition sagging skin by tensioning the thread. Barbed threads are the workhorse of the thread lift procedure. They provide the actual lifting effect that makes thread lifts a viable alternative to surgery for mild-moderate sagging. The barbs anchor into tissue, and when pulled, they create upward repositioning of the treatment area. Common applications for barbed threads include mid-face lifting (cheek repositioning), jawline definition (jowl lifting), brow lifting, and nasolabial fold reduction through cheek elevation. The direction, depth, and tension of barbed thread placement require significant training and experience.

Screw threads are wound or twisted around the insertion needle, creating a coiled structure. When placed, they provide a volumizing effect — the coiled shape occupies more space than a smooth thread, plumping the area without injectable filler. Screw threads are particularly useful for areas needing subtle volume enhancement combined with collagen stimulation: hollow under-eyes, marionette line areas, nasolabial folds, and areas of mild facial hollowing. Your treatment at A Touch Above MedSpa (55 minutes from Orangevale) may use a combination of thread types. A typical comprehensive treatment might use barbed threads for mid-face lift, smooth threads for neck tightening, and screw threads for volume enhancement in specific areas. The combination is customized to address all your concerns optimally.