Among the many treatments in aesthetic medicine, 线雕 (thread lifting)—also referred to as 埋线 (thread embedding)—is considered a classic anti-aging procedure. Its principle lies in inserting protein threads (typically PDO threads) beneath the skin to “lift” sagging facial contours such as the face shape and Nasolabial folds (法令纹).
Thread lifting treatments are also available in the UK. So how do we properly refer to 线雕 in English?
The “线” in 线雕 (Line carve) refers to absorbable, helical protein threads—known as PDO (Polydioxanone) threads. That’s why the treatment is usually called PDO Thread Lift or protein thread lifting. These threads are inserted into the dermis layer of the skin and, depending on their placement and direction, help reposition and tighten facial tissues. The threads also stimulate fibroblasts (纤维亚细胞) in the skin, triggering the production of collagen.
Is It Safe?
A common question is: Is thread lifting safe? The answer is yes. These protein threads are the same type used for cardiac sutures in heart surgery. Once implanted, the threads gradually dissolve and are absorbed by the body over 6–8 months, continuously stimulating collagen regeneration without leaving behind any foreign material. This makes the procedure both safe and effective.
Different Types of Threads
Thread lifts come in different sizes and types. For instance:
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Cogged threads (小线) – These are barbed threads designed to locally stimulate collagen growth. Collagen’s natural contractile properties help tighten both the skin and subcutaneous tissue, creating a firming and lifting effect.
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Smooth threads or Large V threads (大V线) – These are used for deeper lifting, targeting large areas of sagging tissue. They help reposition and firm up the underlying structures, restoring a more youthful contour.
Multi-Layer Targeted Treatment
A professional aesthetic clinic can deliver comprehensive results using protein thread lifting, targeting various skin layers with different effects:
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Epidermis (表皮层) – Enhances brightness and evens out skin tone.
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Dermis (真皮层) – Stimulates collagen regeneration.
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Subcutaneous tissue (皮下组织) – Provides support and volume replenishment.
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SMAS layer (筋膜层) – Enables deep tissue lifting.
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Ligament structures (韧带结构) – Focuses on rebuilding skin elasticity.
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Muscular layer (肌肉层) – Helps with raising and stabilizing facial contours.
Clinical Expertise at AI Beauty Clinic, London
At AI Beauty Clinic in London, the PDO thread lift (蛋白线雕) procedure is backed by extensive clinical experience. Certified by the CQC (Care Quality Commission) in the UK, the clinic offers both safety and professionalism. For optimal results, the treatment can be combined with other popular aesthetic procedures such as hyaluronic acid (玻尿酸)fillers, Ultherapy (超声刀), and Thermage (热玛吉)—all tailored to your personal beauty goals.