Target layerL2 · DermisDermis
- Duration
- 40-60 minutes depending on area
- Recommended sessions
- About once a year recommended
- Downtime
- Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing possible
Dr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director · Reviewed by our medical director
Board-certified dermatologist · review date to be posted
For pronounced SMAS-layer sagging, an Ultherapy-type treatment may be more appropriate.
01Overview
Thermage Monopolar RF tightening that rebuilds dermal collagen
Thermage is a skin-tightening treatment that delivers monopolar radiofrequency (RF) energy throughout the dermis to improve skin firmness.
- Duration
- 40-60 minutes depending on area
- Recommended sessions
- About once a year recommended
- Downtime
- Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing possible
- How long it lasts
- Typically around 1 year (individual results vary)
03Device & Technology
Thermage (model designation pending review) Device
Solta Medical (USA) · FDA cleared · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved

05Before / After
Before & After
Thermage firmness improvement over time
Clinical photos. Results vary with skin condition, age and treatment plan. Before-and-after photos are published with the patient's written consent, taken under identical conditions (lighting, angle) and never retouched. Results vary by individual.
07FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How does Thermage work?
Thermage is a tightening treatment that delivers monopolar radiofrequency (RF) heat throughout the dermis to improve skin firmness. The heated collagen first contracts, and new collagen then forms over the following months. It is widely used for fine lines and laxity at the stage before sagging becomes pronounced.
Who is Thermage suited to, and are there cases where it is not suitable?
We consider it for those whose skin feels thinner and looser overall, or who are concerned about fine lines and reduced firmness around the eyes and mouth. If SMAS-layer sagging is pronounced, an Ultherapy-type treatment may be more appropriate. It is not recommended if you have an implanted electronic medical device, have metal implants, infection, or wounds in the treatment area, or are pregnant.
Which Thermage model do you use?
As a rule, we use authentic Solta Medical devices and genuine tips. We show you the model and tip information directly before treatment.
Does Thermage hurt? How is anesthesia handled?
The pain is moderate, with a brief heat sensation, and how much you feel differs by individual. Treatment proceeds after topical numbing cream, and the device's vibration and cooling functions ease the heat sensation. The board-certified dermatologist adjusts the intensity while checking the heat response in each area.
How long does treatment take, and what is the recovery time?
It takes about 40-60 minutes depending on the area, with separate time needed for topical numbing. You can return to daily life right after treatment and wash your face and wear makeup the same day. Temporary redness or swelling may occur but mostly settles within a few hours.
When do results appear, and how often should I have it?
Results generally appear gradually over 2-3 months as new collagen forms, and typically last around 1 year. The recommended cycle is about 1 session per year. Rather than expecting a dramatic change from 1 session, it is a treatment for managing firmness year by year, and the degree of change varies by individual.
How is the number of Thermage shots decided?
It is decided after consultation according to the area, skin thickness, and degree of lost firmness. Shots are allocated by area, such as the cheeks, jawline, and eye area, so even with the same number of shots, the distribution differs from person to person. The configuration also varies with the type of tip used, which we explain at consultation.
Can Thermage be done around the eyes?
Yes, we offer Eye Thermage, performed with a dedicated eye tip, in 225-shot and 450-shot options. Whether to apply it, and which shot option, is decided after checking the skin around your eyes. Details are provided on the Eye Thermage page.
How is it different from Ultherapy, and can I have both?
They act on different layers, so they can be combined. Thermage is relatively better suited to overall dermal firmness and fine lines, and Ultherapy to SMAS-layer sagging. Whether to do them on the same day or space them apart is planned after consultation, along with the order.
I heard Oligio works on the same principle. How do I choose?
Both devices belong to the same family, delivering monopolar RF heat to the dermis. They differ in device, tip configuration, and cost, so we choose by looking at your areas of concern, budget, and maintenance schedule together. We compare the two devices for you at consultation.
Is there anything to be careful about after Thermage?
For a few days after treatment, avoid strong heat such as saunas, jjimjilbang (Korean bathhouses), and heavy drinking, and moisturize more than usual. We recommend applying sunscreen of SPF30 or higher daily for 1-12 weeks while collagen regenerates. If redness or swelling persists or discomfort worsens, please contact the clinic.
How is the cost of Thermage determined, and how do I book?
The cost depends on the number of shots and tip type, so it is confirmed after consultation. Reference prices can be found on the price list on our website. Booking is available via Naver Booking, our KakaoTalk channel, or phone (+82-51-710-1891), and consultations are also available via LINE.
Fees
Pricing depends on the number of shots and tip type, and is confirmed after consultation.
See the fee schedule →References 5
- Approval: Thermage (model designation pending review) · FDA cleared · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved
- Manufacturer: Solta Medical (USA)
- Korea MFDS medical device registry — searchable by approval number
- Korean Dermatological Association — specialist credential lookup
- Reviewed by: Dr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director
Summary & comparison
| Treatment | Target layer | Main change | Duration | How long it lasts | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermage ← | L2 Dermis | Monopolar RF tightening that rebuilds dermal collagen | 40-60 minutes depending on area | Typically around 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing possible |
| Ultherapy PRIME | L4 SMAS | Ultrasound lifting that reaches the SMAS layer | 40-60 minutes depending on area | Typically 6 months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary swelling or tingling possible |
| Tune Face | L3 Fat layer | RF lifting that tunes texture, firmness, and contour together | 30-50 minutes | Maintained over several months (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
| Oligio | — | Monopolar RF tightening with a lighter footprint | 30-50 minutes | Several months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
| InMode | L3 Fat layer | RF lifting that addresses fat pockets and laxity together | 20-40 minutes | Builds over a course of sessions (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing or swelling possible |
Treatments used for the same concern, placed side by side. Which one fits is decided in consultation after the layer is identified.
Reviewed byDr. Kim Tae-hoon, Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · review date to be posted
Related treatments
Next step
Wondering if this treatment fits you?
Leave your main concern and request a consultation. Suitability, schedule and fees are confirmed after review.