PDO Threads Before a Facelift? Here’s What You Need to Know

One question I hear all the time from clients is: “Can I still get a non-surgical PDO thread lift if, in the future, I decide to have a facelift?”

It’s a great question and one that many people wonder about. During a recent MINT training, Dr. Sheila Barbarino, a well-known facial plastic surgeon, confirmed something important: she will still perform facelifts on patients who previously had PDO threads. This is great news because it clears up one of the biggest myths about threads: that they somehow prevent you from having future facial surgery.

So, let’s talk about what that really means in simple terms and why it matters if you’re thinking about getting threads now and exploring other options later on.

What Are PDO Threads?

PDO threads are thin, dissolvable sutures that are placed under the skin to create a lifting and tightening effect. Over time, they naturally dissolve, leaving behind subtle support for smoother, more lifted-looking skin.

They’re often chosen by people who want a refreshed look without committing to surgery. Because threads dissolve over time, they don’t leave anything behind that would stop a surgeon from performing a facelift in the future, according to Dr. Shelia Barbarino.

The important thing to remember is that PDO threads are temporary and non-surgical, which means they work differently from surgical facelifts that involve incisions and longer recovery periods.

Why Surgeons Still Accept Patients Who Had Threads

At the MINT training, Dr. Barbarino explained that she sees many patients who previously had thread lifts and are now ready to explore surgical options. She made it clear that she still welcomes those patients because threads don’t block or cancel out (with her advanced approach threads are not a contraindication) to facial surgery.

For many people, a non-surgical lift is a great first step. It allows them to make small, confidence-boosting changes while keeping the door open for more advanced treatments later on. That’s one of the best things about modern aesthetics. You can create a long-term plan that fits your timeline and comfort level.

What to Keep in Mind if You’re Considering Threads

If you’re planning to have PDO threads but think you may want a facelift one day, here are a few simple things to keep in mind:

1. Be open about your future plans.

When you visit any provider, let them know if you’re thinking about surgery down the road. That helps them design a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.

2. Choose qualified professionals.

Always go to a trusted med spa or provider who is trained, certified, and experienced in the treatment. That makes a big difference in how your experience feels, from your consultation to your comfort during and after.

3. Give yourself time between treatments.

If you do decide to move forward with a facelift in the future, your surgeon may recommend waiting a certain amount of time after threads before scheduling surgery. Every person is different, so it’s all about good communication and planning.

The Beauty of Having Options

The fact that you actually have choices in today's aesthetic world empowers you as the client, especially when provider to teach you about all of your options so you can make an educated decision together.  Before deciding to pursue surgical options, you might begin with non-surgical treatments to get, beautiful and natural results with low downtime.

Threads can be a stepping stone, a way to take care of your skin and confidence now, while keeping all your choices open for the future. And that’s exactly what we encourage at Citrus Aesthetics.

How Citrus Aesthetics Approaches Threads Differently

At Citrus, everything we do starts with education and trust. We don’t just offer treatments, we offer conversations.

We take the time to explain what to expect, how the process works, and the type of realistic result that PDO threads will give you. You won't ever feel hurried or under pressure.

Our goal is to establish a welcoming, accessible, and empowered space where you can confidently and safely consider your alternatives.  We want to make sure you know what's available, whether you have questions about thread lifts, Sculptra, RF microneedling, or other aesthetic services.  So, every decision you make will be aligned with your unique aesthetic goals.

What Makes Citrus Aesthetics Unique

We know there are many med spas in Mission Valley and across San Diego, but what sets Citrus apart is our philosophy:

• We lead with honesty and education, not trends.

• We focus on natural, balanced, and confident beauty.

• We build relationships first because every face tells a story, and we want to honor yours.

• Our team is highly trained and passionate about helping people look and feel their best in a way that feels authentic.

Every experience at Citrus is designed to feel personalized. Whether it’s your first consultation or your tenth visit, we make sure you feel seen, heard, and understood.

The Future of Citrus: Expanding Our Mission

Citrus Aesthetics began in San Diego with one simple goal: to raise the standard in the aesthetics industry through transparency, integrity, and care.

And now, through the Citrus Franchise program, we’re expanding that mission nationwide. Citrus Franchising is currently offering highly qualified Aesthetic providers to open up their own Med spa in California. Our franchise opportunity allows other passionate providers to bring the same standard of honest, empowering aesthetics to their own communities.

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a med spa built on trust, education, and long-term relationships, Citrus Franchising might be the next step for you.

The Bottom Line

So, can you get PDO threads now and still have a facelift later?

Absolutely, advanced and highly qualified facial plastic surgeons are comfortable with this.

PDO threads are a flexible, non-surgical option that fits perfectly into your long-term beauty journey. They give you the freedom to start now while keeping your future open.

And if you’re looking for a place that values integrity, comfort, and education above all, Citrus Aesthetics in Mission Valley is the perfect place to begin.

To see how we're establishing a new kind of beauty experience that prioritizes empowerment and honesty, visit Citrus Aesthetics San Diego or look into Citrus Med Spa Franchise options.