Retrospective study of the absorbable braided polydioxanone threads' usefulness in the aged lower eyelids' rejuvenation.

BACKGROUND

Tear trough deformity, hyperpigmentation, and skin laxity of the lower eyelid make individuals appear fatigued and elderly. Many patients prefer less invasive, cosmetic correction of the aged lower eyelid. Polydioxanone (PDO)-barbed threads introduced braided fine threads design, which works as a template for attraction of the regenerative factors and for cells' migration and proliferation. The purpose of this study was to estimate the outcomes of simultaneous additional application of braided type PDO threads (N-scaffold) for aged lower eyelids' rejuvenation in patients, who underwent the midface PDO thread lifting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 30 patients with mildly loose skin in the facial area, who underwent the thread lifting using PDO threads, were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups, 15 patients per group. The first group underwent the midface thread lifting using PDO threads ("non-SCA" group). The second group underwent midface thread lifting in combination with braided PDO threads for tear trough deformity improvement ("N-scaffold" group). The results were evaluated subjectively, based on the patients' satisfaction rates, and objectively, by evaluating photographs.

RESULTS

According to Barton's grading system, 7 months after the treatment, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups: 1.733 ± 0.74 in the non-SCA group and 0.733 ± 0.83 in the N-scaffold group (p < 0.05). Based on patients' self-assessment, there was a significant difference at 7 months after the treatment: 2.86 ± 0.84 in "non-SCA" group and 3.76 ± 0.90 in "N-scaffold" group, p < 0.05. Complications such as persistent swelling, hematoma, skin irregularity, and infection were not observed during follow-up assessments.

CONCLUSION

The application of braided type PDO threads (N-scaffold) as part of the midface thread lifting, for aged lower eyelids rejuvenation appears to be effective and safe within a period. This study suggests that PDO threads insertion may be a useful, additional, and non-invasive tool for the aged lower eyelids rejuvenation.