A PDO thread brow lift is a minimally invasive alternative to a traditional facelift. With a shorter recovery time and a relatively low incidence of side effects such as swelling and bruising, it’s known fittingly as a “lunchtime facelift.” You really can get a PDO thread brow lift at midday and be back at the office in time for your afternoon meetings.
First-time patients naturally have questions about this surgical facelift alternative, of course. One of the most common is how much a PDO thread brow lift costs.
Final PDO thread brow lift costs depend on patient-specific factors like the size of the treatment area and the amount of lift desired. If the procedure needs to be repeated or other follow-up care is required, the cost is likely to be higher.
Many aesthetic practices offer low- or no-cost financing plans for patients wondering about the price of thread lifts. These plans spread treatment costs over a period of months or years, reducing the upfront impact. Providers may combine brow lifts with other types of treatments in discounted aesthetic packages as well.
In this guide, we’ll go over what PDO thread bow lifts are, what aesthetic professionals should do to prepare for this treatment, and what patients can typically expect to spend. We’ll also explore the price differences between PDO thread bow lifts and alternatives like dermal fillers and plastic surgery.
What is a PDO Thread Bow Lift
A PDO thread brow lift is a minimally invasive aesthetic procedure designed to lift and reposition the brow area using dissolvable sutures made from polydioxanone, or PDO. These threads are carefully inserted beneath the skin to provide lifting support while also stimulating the body’s natural collagen production.
Unlike surgical brow lifts, PDO thread treatments do not require general anesthesia, large incisions, or lots of downtime. The procedure is typically performed in an office setting and can be completed in under an hour. This makes it an appealing option for patients seeking noticeable but subtle improvement without committing to surgery.
Over time, the PDO threads dissolve naturally, but the collagen framework they stimulate can help maintain results beyond the life of the threads. This combination is one reason why PDO thread bow lifts have increased in popularity in recent years.
Training for PDO Thread Bow Lifts
For aesthetic professionals interested in offering PDO thread brow lifts, proper hands-on training is critical for safety and consistent results.
Comprehensive thread lift education covers facial anatomy, thread selection, vector planning, insertion depth, and complication management. Empire Medical Training offers specialized aesthetic workshops for providers seeking advanced procedural experience.
Virtual programs are also available, including PDO thread lift training and combined PDO threads and PRP training for hair restoration.
How Much Does a PDO Thread Brow Lift Cost on Average
The average cost of a thread brow lift ranges from $1,000 to more than $4,000. Very straightforward procedures may cost less than $1,000, though providers who’ve completed comprehensive thread lift training tend to charge a bit more; the higher cost is apparent in the quality of the results. Providers who have completed advanced PDO surgical thread lift training may charge more due to their expertise and experience.
While it’s always important to consider cost, other factors like skill, technique, and experience should carry more weight. Deciding to go with an inexperienced aesthetic provider just because they will perform the procedure for cheaper can lead to negative side effects and unsatisfactory results.
Geographic location also plays a role in pricing. Practices in major metropolitan areas often charge higher fees due to increased overhead and demand.
Thread Lift Prices: Comparing PDO to Other Brow Lift Options
Comparing the price of thread lifts to other treatments helps patients understand not just the upfront cost, but also the long-term value and maintenance requirements associated with each option. Here’s how the cost of a PDO thread brow lift compares to two popular alternatives.
PDO Thread Brow Lift vs. Dermal Fillers
PDO thread brow lifts cost a bit more, on average, than dermal fillers. Depending on the formulation and provider, dermal fillers cost approximately $300 to $1,000 per syringe. Total costs per procedure depend on the size of the treated area, the desired results, and other patient-specific factors.
Dermal fillers are often used to restore volume, while PDO threads are designed to lift and reposition tissue. In some cases, providers may recommend combining the two for more comprehensive rejuvenation, which can affect total cost.
Both PDO threads and dermal fillers stimulate collagen production to reduce the appearance of sagging skin and other signs of aging. However, PDO threads are more durable, typically producing results for 12 months or longer. Dermal filler results can wane in as little as three to six months. This necessitates more frequent follow-up treatments and can increase total costs.
PDO Thread Brow Lift vs. Plastic Surgery
A PDO thread brow lift costs much less than a traditional facelift, which is a more invasive surgical procedure.
Facelift costs include not only the surgeon’s fee but also related expenses like:
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Anesthesia medication
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The anesthesia team’s fee
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Pre-surgical preparation fees
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Operating suite or hospital fees
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Costs associated with overnight hospital care, if needed
The surgeon’s fee alone can run to $10,000 or more, and these additional costs can double or triple that expense. Recovery time is another key distinction. Surgical facelifts require weeks of healing and time away from normal activities, while most PDO thread brow lift patients return to daily routines within just a few days. This can reduce indirect costs such as missing work or paying for childcare.
That said, surgical facelift results are much longer-lasting, to the point that they’re considered permanent. Patients who’d prefer not to repeat brow lifts every year or two may prefer surgical intervention.
What’s Included in the Price of a PDO Eyebrow Lift?
The cost of a PDO thread brow lift typically includes more than just the threads themselves. Most practices bundle several elements into the total price to ensure a safe and effective experience.
Common inclusions are the initial consultation, treatment planning, and the PDO threads used during the procedure.
Some clinics may incorporate numbing agents, aftercare instructions, and minor touch-ups into the overall cost. However, additional treatments or combination procedures may increase the final price of a thread lift.
Is a PDO thread lift brow treatment worth it?
Whether a PDO thread brow lift is worth the cost depends largely on a patient’s individual goals and expectations. For individuals seeking mild-to-moderate brow lifting without surgery, PDO threads can offer a strong balance of results, convenience, and affordability.
This procedure appeals to patients seeking noticeable results with minimal downtime and lower upfront costs. While results aren’t permanent, many find annual or biannual treatments worthwhile due to the lower risk and quick recovery. A consultation with a qualified provider helps determine if a PDO thread brow lift fits both budget and aesthetic goals.

