The Art and Science of Thread Lifts Ft. Giovanna McCarthy of PDO Max
In this episode of Skin Anarchy, Dr. Ekta Yadav sits down with Giovanna McCarthy, founder of PDO Max, to uncover the history, science, and artistry behind one of modern aesthetics’ most transformative tools — PDO threads. With over forty years of experience in medical aesthetics, Giovanna shares how her early exposure to European skincare and her mother’s story of burn recovery shaped a lifelong mission to heal, restore, and innovate.
What began with some of the first U.S. day spas in the 1990s evolved into a pioneering medical aesthetics brand leading the way in regenerative skin lifting. At PDO Max, Giovanna introduced dissolvable polydioxanone threads, designed to stimulate collagen and elastin production for natural structure and rejuvenation — not to replace surgery, but to support it. “Threads aren’t about pulling,” she says. “They’re about rebuilding.”
Giovanna also dives into the cellular science behind this subtle transformation — how PDO threads ignite healing responses that restore turgor, elasticity, and dermal vitality. Her philosophy is one of balance: rebuild, don’t overcorrect. “Too much trauma, too fast, can strip the skin of life,” she warns.
Expanding into regenerative skincare, PDO Max now offers post-procedure formulas powered by PDRN, a DNA compound long used in burn medicine to accelerate repair and recovery.
Tune in to hear how Giovanna McCarthy is bridging medicine, artistry, and innovation — redefining modern aesthetics through education, collaboration, and true cellular regeneration.
Learn more about PDO Max on their website and social media!
CHAPTERS:
0:02 – Introduction & Guest Welcome
0:44 – Giovanna’s Early Inspiration & European Roots
1:45 – The Birth of Medical Aesthetics in the U.S.
3:47 – Evolution of Skin & Surgery Synergy
7:15 – The Role of Estheticians in Surgical Outcomes
7:20 – Understanding PDO Threads & Industry Misconceptions
10:11 – The Art and Precision of Thread Technique
14:27 – Structural Science: Ligaments, Fat Pads & Lift Mechanics
17:23 – Cellular Regeneration & Collagen Stimulation
18:58 – Advancing Skin Quality: PDO Glow, LúmEnvy & PDRN Innovation
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