What Thermage treats
Thermage works best when the skin has started to loosen but hasn't dropped significantly. It tightens the skin you already have rather than adding volume or changing facial shape, which is why it suits patients who want to look rested, not altered.
- Early to moderate skin laxity
- Soft jawline and jowls
- Drooping cheeks and nasolabial folds
- Upper and lower eyelid crepiness
- Fine lines and uneven texture
- Mild neck sagging
For deeper sagging, your doctor may pair Thermage with Ultherapy, which lifts the deeper SMAS layer, or with a thread lift for mechanical support.
How Thermage works
A treatment tip delivers radiofrequency energy into the dermis while cooling the skin surface. The controlled heat does two things. It contracts existing collagen, so some patients notice slight tightening the same day, and it triggers new collagen production, which continues for months.
Because RF energy heats tissue evenly across a wide area, Thermage is strong on overall skin quality and firmness. Focused ultrasound devices such as HIFU work at fixed depths in small points, which is why the two are often combined.
Your treatment day
- Consultation and skin analysis Your doctor assesses laxity and skin thickness, with Mark-Vu II imaging where useful, and sets the areas and energy plan.
- Cleansing and grid marking A temporary grid guides even coverage so no area is over- or under-treated.
- RF treatment Pulses are delivered with continuous cooling. Expect brief warmth or a snapping sensation. Full face takes about 45–90 minutes.
- Recovery in your private room Mild redness usually settles within hours. You can apply make-up and return to your plans the same day.
Results timeline
Thermage results are gradual by design. Most of the change comes from new collagen, which takes weeks to form.
Is Thermage right for you?
Usually a good fit
- Mild to moderate loosening, late 20s to 60s
- You want firmer skin without injections
- You can't take time off for recovery
- Preventive anti-ageing before sagging deepens
Talk to your doctor first
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
- Active skin infection or open wounds in the area
- Significant sagging that may need surgical lifting
Thermage vs. other lifting treatments
DIORE has sixteen medical-grade devices, so your doctor can choose the energy that fits your skin rather than the one machine on hand.
| Compare | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy Prime | Onda | Sofwave |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | Monopolar RF | Micro-focused ultrasound with real-time imaging | Microwave (DEKA) | Ultrasound to the dermis |
| Main effect | Tightening and skin quality | Deep structural lift | Tightening, fat reduction, body contouring | Elasticity and fine lines |
| Best for | Overall firmness, eyes, crepey skin | Jowls, brow, jawline sagging | Lower face fullness, double chin, body | Fine lines, early laxity |
| Downtime | None | None to minimal | None to minimal | None |
Your doctor
At DIORE every Thermage treatment is planned and performed by a physician, not delegated. Our five doctors trained at Korea University, Yonsei, Seoul National University Hospital and Dankook.
Chief Director · Medical reviewer
Dr. Lee Gwang-ryeol
- Korea University College of Medicine
- Residency, Korea University Medical Center
- Onda Lifting Key Doctor (DEKA)
- Belotero Revive TTT trainer (Merz) · Rejuran VVIP Club
Honest consultations. Meticulous technique. Results that look like you.
Meet the full medical team.
Aftercare
- Avoid saunas, hot baths and intense exercise for 24 hours
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser for a few days
- Apply SPF 30+ daily
- Drink plenty of water
- Make-up is fine the same day
- Message us if redness or swelling lasts beyond 48 hours
To support collagen between sessions, many patients add Rejuran Healer or a skin booster a few weeks later.
Thermage FAQ
Does Thermage hurt?
Most patients feel short bursts of heat or a snapping sensation with each pulse. The device cools the skin throughout, and your doctor adjusts energy to your comfort. A topical numbing cream is usually applied first.
How long do Thermage results last?
Typically 12–18 months. Results continue to improve for about 3 months after treatment as new collagen forms. Age, sun exposure and skin condition affect how long they last.
How many sessions do I need?
One session is usually enough for a visible result. Most patients repeat every 12–18 months for maintenance.
Can I fly home right after Thermage?
Yes. There is no downtime, so Thermage fits a short trip to Seoul. Mild redness typically fades within a few hours. We can schedule your appointment around your travel dates.
Thermage or Ultherapy: which is better?
They treat different layers. Thermage tightens the skin itself through RF heating of the dermis. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to lift deeper tissue. For sagging with crepey skin, many patients combine both.
Can Thermage be combined with Botox or fillers?
Yes. Botox and contouring fillers are often planned alongside Thermage. Your doctor will advise on order and timing.
Is the Thermage at DIORE genuine?
Yes. DIORE uses genuine Thermage FLX equipment and authentic, verified treatment tips. You can ask to see the tip before your treatment starts.
How much does Thermage cost in Gangnam?
Price depends on the area and shot count your doctor recommends. Send your goals and a photo on WhatsApp for a personalised quote in English before you book.
