Both are absorbable lifting threads. One lasts longer, costs more, and grabs tissue better. Here's the breakdown.
The materials
PDO (polydioxanone) — synthetic absorbable suture material used in surgery for decades. Dissolves in 4 to 6 months. Collagen-stimulating effect persists 9 to 12 months.
Aptos — caprolactone and L-lactic acid copolymer. Dissolves slower (6 to 8 months) with longer collagen effect (12 to 18 months). More sophisticated barb engineering.
Lift duration
PDO threads provide mechanical lift for ~6 months before fully dissolving. Aptos threads provide mechanical lift for 8 to 12 months. The collagen-stimulating effect both leave behind extends total visible result by an additional 6 to 9 months.
Barb design
PDO threads use simpler unidirectional or bidirectional barb patterns. Aptos uses complex multi-vector barb engineering — better tissue grab, more sustained lift, less migration risk. For patients with significant skin laxity, the Aptos design genuinely outperforms.
Cost
PDO threads are typically less expensive per thread. Aptos threads cost more but require fewer threads per area in many cases — total cost can be similar for moderate cases.
Best fit for each
PDO — early-stage laxity, patients in 30s wanting maintenance lift, budget-conscious patients, brow-lift work.
Aptos — moderate to significant laxity, patients in 40s+ wanting longest-lasting non-surgical lift, jawline definition, mid-face cheek lift.
Combined with other treatments
Threads work best alongside Botox (relax muscles that pull tissue down) and skin tightening like Morpheus 8 or Aerolase. The threads provide structural lift; the other treatments handle muscle and skin quality.
Book your free consultation
Speak with a licensed Bar Beauty injector or laser tech. We’ll review your goals, walk through options, and give you a clear plan — zero pressure.
46 Fort York Blvd, Toronto · 416-923-1200 · Open 7 days
Written by the Bar Beauty Medical clinical team. We’re a medical aesthetics clinic at 46 Fort York Blvd, Toronto. All treatments are performed by licensed nurses, doctors, or laser technicians. Information here is general; for advice specific to your skin and goals, book a free consultation.