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Written By: Jeffrey Atlas, PA-C, Health Content Writer
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Gopal Grandhige, MD, FACS, Board-Certified Surgeon
Last Reviewed: March 31, 2026
Feeling PDO threads under your skin is uncommon, but it can happen in certain situations. Most patients never notice their threads because they’re extremely thin and placed beneath the skin’s surface at a precise depth. However, individuals with thinner or more sensitive skin may detect them when pressing firmly on treated areas.
This sensation is typically not a concern. PDO threads are absorbable, meaning they gradually break down and dissolve within 4 to 6 months. As the threads absorb, any noticeable feeling fades completely. The real warning signs to watch for are visible threads, thread exposure through the skin, persistent dimpling, or inflammation lasting beyond 48 hours.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it may indicate improper thread placement or a complication that requires professional evaluation. At Formation in Tampa, Dr. Gopal Grandhige performs PDO thread lifts with careful attention to depth and positioning, ensuring the threads remain effective and undetectable throughout the treatment process.
PDO threads are very rarely felt under the skin during or after the procedure. While PDO threads come in various types and sizes, they’re extremely thin. PDO threads generally won’t feel uncomfortable or painful beneath your skin.
In some rare cases, a person with extremely thin and sensitive skin may feel the PDO threads underneath their skin. Even then, they typically have to press firmly onto the skin to reveal or notice the PDO threads. According to research published in the National Library of Medicine, PDO threads have a strong safety profile when administered by trained professionals.
Since PDO threads are absorbable, any noticeable threads that may peek through the skin dissolve on their own after a few weeks to months. The sensation of PDO threads under the skin can take a little time to get used to, but the threads will no longer be felt afterward.
Most people won’t have this issue. But if you’re concerned about feeling or seeing the threads through the skin, you should seek medical attention from your doctor. This could be a sign of improperly performed procedures that may lead to complications. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons emphasizes the importance of choosing qualified providers for any aesthetic procedure.
Your doctor will begin by thoroughly cleaning the skin using antiseptic solutions. A topical anesthetic is typically applied to help you manage any minor discomfort during the treatment. Based on your desired skin lift improvements, your doctor will mark the areas where the PDO threads will be inserted.
Dr. Grandhige, a board-certified surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery, will determine and recommend the appropriate size, gauge, and type of PDO thread for your specific case. Symmetry and balance between both sides of the face are carefully measured to ensure natural-looking results. The PDO threads are then inserted into your skin using a cannula needle through the subdermal skin tissues. At Formation, threads are administered with proper and precise depth into your skin so they remain effective yet invisible.
Once positioned, the threads are anchored onto strong points and the needles are removed. Your doctor will twist and adjust the threads to create the desired lifting effect. Finally, the threads are trimmed and antiseptic cream is applied to the exit points to support healing. The FDA’s General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel provides oversight on devices used in procedures like these.
PDO thread lifts for men and women are recognized for their minimal downtime. Most patients can return to their regular activities without much adjustment. That said, you may notice some mild swelling, redness, or irritation around the treatment sites.
To prevent accidental thread breakage, refrain from scratching the treated areas during the first week following your procedure. You should also avoid sleeping directly on these areas to minimize unnecessary pressure on the PDO threads. Keep your exercise routine limited to light or moderate intensity for about one to two weeks after treatment to prevent stretching or irritating the area. Hopkins Medicine notes that following aftercare instructions is essential for optimal healing.
When threads become visible beneath the skin, this could indicate a procedure that didn’t go as planned. The threads may not have been placed at the correct depth or positioned properly within the skin layers. While these threads will eventually absorb and break down naturally, you should consult with a qualified provider at Formation to assess any additional risks. Our team, including board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ahmad Saad, can perform touch-up treatments to address any problem areas.
Exposed threads require immediate attention. This situation suggests thread breakage has occurred and the skin surface has been compromised, leaving the thread open to air contact.
This can lead to multiple complications, beginning with infection at the opening site. Contact us right away for medical care. The team will remove the existing threads and allow your skin to heal completely before placing new ones.
Following PDO thread insertion, dimpling can develop as the skin heals around the threads. You might notice small depressions or indentations on the treated skin that weren’t there before. This happens in uncommon cases. Generally, these dimples resolve on their own within 2 to 3 weeks as the PDO threads absorb into the skin.
If the dimpling concerns you, schedule a consultation with a provider at Formation for professional guidance. In certain situations, threads can shift and may require manual repositioning by the doctor. Understanding your body image goals can help your provider deliver the best possible outcome.
Inflammation that persists beyond 24 to 48 hours, or continues getting worse, could signal an infection. Your skin may not be healing correctly, or your body might be reacting to the material beneath the surface.
For immediate relief, place a cold compress on the affected areas to ease any discomfort. Reach out to Formation and the team will advise you on the appropriate next steps. They may recommend removing the threads and replacing them with newer options that better suit your needs. Cleveland Clinic provides helpful resources on what to expect during recovery from aesthetic procedures.
If you want a procedure that can help improve your skin by giving it a refreshed look and moderate lift without undergoing plastic surgery, PDO thread lifts may be a solid option for you. They’re considered a safe and minimally invasive treatment that delivers immediate results along with long-term benefits. For those interested in non-invasive neck and jawline contouring, PDO threads offer an effective alternative.
PDO thread lifts are an excellent choice for enhancing your skin’s texture and volume. For skin that looks dull or tired, PDO threads are known to stimulate collagen production, which plays a key role in regenerating damaged skin cells. Your skin will also naturally shed old tissue to make room for new, healthier tissue to develop. Research from Frontiers in Psychology highlights how aesthetic procedures can positively impact self-perception.
If you’re dealing with sagging skin, PDO cog or screw threads can be an effective solution to physically lift the problem areas. At our Tampa plastic surgery clinic, Dr. Grandhige will insert them through tiny entry points and anchor the threads onto stronger points of the skin, pulling it upward to create a tighter appearance. Some patients combine thread lifts with facial injectables or Botox treatments for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
PDO thread lifts work best for healthy individuals who don’t have underlying skin conditions or autoimmune disorders. If you’re looking to improve your skin’s appearance and you’re typically over the age of 25, you may be a suitable candidate for this treatment. Speaking with a qualified medical professional at Formation can help you determine whether thread lifts align with your goals. The Mayo Clinic Health System emphasizes the importance of proper patient selection for any contouring procedure.
These innovative threads offer an effective way to address visible signs of aging and restore a more youthful, lifted appearance to the face and neck. Patients interested in men’s aesthetic surgery often find PDO threads complement other treatments like FaceTite or body contouring procedures.
PDO thread lifts offer a minimally invasive and highly effective solution for various skin concerns. These threads typically remain undetectable beneath the skin’s surface. In rare instances, individuals with thinner skin may notice them when applying pressure to treated areas. This generally isn’t a cause for alarm unless accompanied by signs of infection, skin dimpling, or thread exposure. Skilled medical professionals know how to perform the procedure correctly to prevent these complications. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery provides guidelines on selecting qualified aesthetic providers.
At Formation in Tampa, our team brings the expertise needed to deliver outstanding results. We use advanced technology to support every procedure we perform for our patients. PDO threading is one of many services we provide, and our professionals are ready to help you achieve all your aesthetic goals. You can also view our patient gallery to see results from previous treatments. Schedule your consultation today.
PDO thread lifts provide a reliable way to lift and tighten skin without the need for surgical intervention. The procedure works well for most patients, and the threads themselves are designed to remain undetectable beneath the skin’s surface.
While rare, some individuals with thinner skin may feel the threads when pressing on treated areas. This sensation is temporary since PDO threads naturally dissolve over time. If you notice visible threads, skin dimpling, exposure, or prolonged inflammation, reach out to a qualified provider right away. WebMD offers additional health resources for patients considering aesthetic treatments.
Proper aftercare plays a significant role in your results. Avoid scratching or putting pressure on treated areas during the first week. Stick to light exercise and follow your provider’s instructions to support healing.
At Formation in Tampa, Dr. Grandhige and our team specialize in PDO thread lifts that deliver natural-looking outcomes. We also offer complementary procedures such as liposuction and tummy tuck surgery for patients seeking more comprehensive body improvements. For those wanting enhanced definition, high-definition liposuction is another popular option. If you’re ready to rejuvenate your appearance without surgery, contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Most people cannot feel PDO threads after the procedure. In rare cases, individuals with very thin skin may notice them when pressing firmly on treated areas, but this sensation fades as the threads dissolve.
PDO threads typically dissolve within 4 to 6 months. However, results can last 12 to 18 months because the threads stimulate collagen production that continues to support your skin.
The procedure causes minimal discomfort. A topical anesthetic is applied beforehand to numb the treatment area, making the process tolerable for most patients.
Avoid scratching treated areas, sleeping face-down, and intense exercise for one to two weeks. These precautions help prevent thread breakage and support proper healing.
Individuals with active skin infections, autoimmune disorders, or certain underlying health conditions may not be suitable candidates. A consultation with a qualified provider can determine if PDO threads are right for you.
The next step after losing 100 pounds.
After significant weight loss, the skin doesn’t always shrink back to match the body’s new shape. And no amount of exercise can remove that excess skin.
In this surgery, Dr. Gopal performs a 360° circumferential body lift to remove excess skin and reshape the patient’s waistline, abdomen, and lower back.
The approach involves lifting the skin on the back and pulling it downward on the front to create a smoother, flatter contour while positioning the incision low enough to be concealed by underwear.
This patient lost over 100 pounds. During surgery, Dr. Gopal explains how approximately 3 pounds of skin were removed from the back, with another 5 pounds planned for removal from the front.
It’s not just about removing skin. It’s about reshaping the body after a significant weight-loss journey.
📍 Dr. Gopal Grandhige | Formation, South Tampa
Interested in body contouring after major weight loss? Schedule a consultation to explore your options.
#BodyLift #CircumferentialBodyLift #ExcessSkinRemoval #WeightLoss #BodyContouring
There’s lean. Then there’s sculpted.
High-definition liposuction goes beyond traditional fat removal. It’s about strategically sculpting around the underlying muscles to create more visible definition in the chest, abdomen, and waist.
For this patient, the goal was a leaner, more defined, athletic appearance without an exaggerated look.
Dr. Gopal Grandhige specializes in male HD liposuction, customizing each procedure to the patient’s anatomy, muscle structure, and desired level of definition.
The result? A more sculpted physique that complements his natural build.
Interested in HD liposuction? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gopal at Formation Tampa. Link in bio.
Actual patient photos. Individual results vary.
#HDLiposuction #MaleLiposuction #HighDefinitionLiposuction #BodySculpting #Tampa
“That responsibility means everything to me.”
When a patient chooses a plastic surgeon, they’re placing an extraordinary amount of trust in someone else’s hands.
And that responsibility goes far beyond what happens in the operating room.
For Dr. Gopal, it means taking the time to understand each patient’s goals, carefully planning their procedure, making thoughtful decisions throughout surgery, and being there for them during recovery.
Every detail matters because there’s a real person behind every procedure, with hopes, concerns, and expectations.
And that person deserves to feel cared for every step of the way.
#Tampa #CosmeticSurgery #PatientCare #bodycountouring #hdliposuction
Every body needs a different plan.
An HD liposuction consultation with Dr. Gopal is much more than discussing which areas to treat.
He takes the time to evaluate each patient’s anatomy, explain what he’s seeing, and walk through exactly how he would approach the procedure.
Where should fat be removed? Where should it be preserved? How can the waist be sculpted while maintaining natural curves? And when might additional skin tightening be needed?
These are just some of the decisions Dr. Gopal walks patients through, explaining not only what he recommends, but why.
This Reel is a small glimpse into a consultation that typically involves a much more detailed conversation, with time for patients to ask questions and understand their options.
📍 Formation | South Tampa
Considering high-definition liposuction? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gopal to discuss your goals and explore what’s possible.
#HDLipo #HighDefinitionLiposuction #BodyContouring #Tampa
There’s lean. Then there’s sculpted.
For some men, even years of consistent training and cutting cycles don’t produce the abdominal definition they’re working toward.
Here’s what one patient shared in his Google review of Formation:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Waited a few months to write this because I wanted to make sure the results held up.
The HD technique did what years of cutting cycles couldn’t. Abs actually show now, even relaxed, even in bad lighting. If you’ve chased a six pack for years you know what that means. Recovery was more involved than I expected and the bruising was wild for a bit. But the result looks like me, just leaner and more defined. Doesn’t look surgical, which was my biggest fear going in. Would recommend, but only if you’re already putting in the work.”
Dr. Gopal Grandhige specializes in male high-definition liposuction, an advanced body-contouring technique that goes beyond traditional fat removal.
By strategically removing fat around the underlying muscles, HD liposuction can enhance natural muscle definition and create a leaner, more sculpted, athletic appearance.
The goal isn’t to create artificial abs. It’s to reveal and enhance the muscle contours already there, with the level of definition customized to each patient’s anatomy and goals.
📍 Formation, South Tampa
Interested in male HD liposuction? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gopal to explore your options.
Google patient review.
#HDLiposuction #MaleLiposuction #BodyContouring #Tampa
Crunches can only do so much.
You can spend hours strengthening your abdominal muscles, but that doesn’t guarantee visible definition.
A layer of fat sits between the muscles and the skin, and crunches can’t specifically target that fat.
For many people, exercise and reducing overall body fat can help reveal their abs. But even people who are already lean and fit can have stubborn fat that hides their natural muscle definition.
That’s where high-definition liposuction may help.
Dr. Gopal uses HD lipo to selectively remove fat around the natural contours of the abdominal muscles, helping reveal the definition that’s already there.
📍 Formation | South Tampa
Interested in HD lipo? Schedule a consultation to learn more.
#HDLipo #HighDefinitionLiposuction #AbdominalSculpting #BodyContouring
Which one had surgery 1 or 2? 👀
High-definition liposuction goes beyond traditional fat removal. Instead of simply reducing fat evenly, the surgeon strategically removes fat around the underlying muscles to make their natural contours more visible.
But here’s what makes it interesting: HD lipo doesn’t create the same six-pack on everyone. Each person’s anatomy, muscle development, and desired level of definition influence the final result.
Now take another look at these two patients.
Which one do you think had HD liposuction, 1 or 2?
Drop your guess below, then check the pinned comment for the answer!
#HDLiposuction #MaleLiposuction #BodyContouring #Tampa
There’s a story behind every decision.
Cosmetic surgery is a personal decision. Yet people who choose it often find themselves having to explain or defend that choice to others.
Some want to restore changes after pregnancy or weight loss. Others have worked hard to get in shape but still have areas they’d like to improve. And some simply want to feel more comfortable with their appearance.
The reasons are different for everyone. And they don’t have to make sense to anyone else.
At Formation, Dr. Gopal believes the decision to pursue cosmetic surgery should be guided by a patient’s personal goals, realistic expectations, and what’s medically appropriate for them.
Because ultimately, the person making that decision is the one who will live with it.
#Tampa #CosmeticSurgery #BodyContouring #Liposuction
Our first four-legged patient. 🐾
Dr. Gopal takes his liposuction and body contouring very seriously.
Even when his patients have four legs.
From loose skin and neck liposuction to a jawline that deserves its own before-and-after reveal, this might be his most dramatic transformation yet.
And yes, he even got the patient’s permission to share the results. 😂
A little Halloween fun from Dr. Gopal and his two very patient pups! 🎃🐶
No dogs underwent surgery. Just two willing participants and one very committed surgeon.
#SurgeonLife #tampa #necklipo
What weight loss can’t fix.
After losing over 100 pounds, this patient had achieved significant weight loss, but was left with excess skin around his abdomen and back that weight loss alone couldn’t address.
During an 8-hour surgery, Dr. Gopal performed a circumferential body lift, a procedure that removes excess skin around the entire midsection to improve body contour.
In this video, Dr. Gopal walks through the procedure, explaining how he removed approximately 3 pounds of skin from the back and estimated another 4–5 pounds would be removed from the abdomen.
He’s also using a small amount of fat collected during the procedure to add volume to the upper chest, improving its contour without performing a separate chest lift.
For patients who have experienced major weight loss, body contouring can help address the excess skin that remains after the weight is gone.
Considering surgery after weight loss? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Gopal at Formation in Tampa to explore your options.
Actual patient footage. Individual results vary.
#BodyContouring #BodyLift #ExcessSkinRemoval
