Thermage and RF lifting

Radiofrequency tightening, no incision

Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat the deep dermis and the fibrous layer beneath it, with cooling and vibration to protect the surface, in a single session of 30–90 minutes. Redness usually fades within about 24 hours and any mild swelling within a few days. Tightening builds gradually over 2–6 months, so the session fits a short trip and the result follows you home.

Downtime
0–1 days
Minimum stay
1 days
Sessions
1
A cross-section of skin with two devices on its surface. On the left, ultrasound beams converge to small points in three rows at three depths. On the right, a broad warm glow spreads through the dermis under a flat tip, with a thin cool band at the surface.
  1. Ulthera: focused points. Ultrasound is focused to tiny points at set depths (1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm), placed in lines while the practitioner watches a live image of the layers.
  2. Thermage: broad heat. Radiofrequency warms a wider zone of the deep dermis and the fibrous strands of the fat beneath.
  3. Surface cooling. Thermage cools the skin surface (and adds vibration) while it heats underneath, which is why it is felt as short bursts of heat.

Schematic, not to scale.

Estimated price range

KRW 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 · face, 600 shots

≈ USD 1,115 – 2,229

Varies by clinic and your condition. The final price is confirmed after consultation.

Converted at a fixed rate as of 2026-09-11

Types and indicative prices

Many operations combine two or more of these. Prices are indicative ranges from Seoul clinics; the surgeon recommends a plan and the clinic quotes it after consultation.

  • Thermage FLX, face (600 shots)

    The standard full-face Thermage FLX session, covering the cheeks, jawline and forehead. Suits a first treatment for mild laxity and loss of firmness.

    Indicative price
    KRW 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 · face, 600 shots≈ USD 1,115 – 2,229
    Downtime
    0–1 days

  • Thermage eye tip

    A dedicated small tip treats the upper and lower eyelids and the skin around the eyes. Suits crepey eyelid skin or mild hooding, alone or added to a face session.

    Indicative price
    KRW 900,000 – 1,900,000 · eye area≈ USD 669 – 1,412
    Downtime
    0–1 days

  • Thermage FLX, 900 shots

    More shots for a denser pass over the face, or to extend the treatment to the neck. Suits more noticeable laxity or anyone who wants the neck treated in the same session.

    Indicative price
    KRW 2,500,000 – 4,000,000 · 900 shots≈ USD 1,857 – 2,972
    Downtime
    0–1 days

  • Korean RF devices: Oligio, Volnewmer or Density

    Korean-made monopolar radiofrequency devices that work on the same principle as Thermage and usually cost less per shot. Suits a lower-budget tightening session or regular maintenance.

    Indicative price
    KRW 300,000 – 1,300,000 · face, 300–600 shots≈ USD 223 – 966
    Downtime
    0–1 days

  • InMode lifting (Forma, FX)

    A radiofrequency handpiece platform popular in Korea for contouring the lower face and tightening, with no downtime. Suits a light refresh or contour work, often combined with other treatments.

    Indicative price
    KRW 80,000 – 300,000 · per session≈ USD 59 – 223
    Downtime
    0–1 days

Good to know

  • Not suitable if you have a pacemaker or any other implanted electronic device; tell the clinic about metal implants too.
  • Avoid saunas, hot baths and intense exercise for 1–2 days after the session.
  • Use sunscreen daily and pause retinol and acid exfoliants for a few days afterwards.
  • Tell your doctor about recent filler, threads or any skin condition in the area; your doctor decides at consultation how many shots suit you.

Questions

How long does the result last?

It typically lasts 1–2 years, depending on age, skin condition and lifestyle. Some people repeat it once a year.

Thermage or Ultherapy?

Thermage uses radiofrequency to tighten the skin itself, while Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound that reaches a deeper support layer. Some people combine them, and your doctor advises which suits your concern.

Thermage or a Korean RF device?

Korean devices such as Oligio, Volnewmer and Density work on the same principle and usually cost less per shot. The device and shot count are agreed at consultation.

Does it hurt?

Each shot gives a brief deep heat, eased by the built-in cooling and numbing cream. Clinics can adjust the energy, and tolerance varies.

Related guides

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