When Do Lifting Results Start to Show?
When lifting results begin to appear depends on the method. Ulthera focuses heat energy on the fascia (SMAS) layer with ultrasound, InMode delivers RF (radiofrequency) energy to the same depth, and ONDA stimulates the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer together with microwaves. Each method renews collagen at a different pace, so the time at which results are noticed differs from a few weeks to a few months.
Comparison Table of When Results Appear by Procedure
| Item | Ulthera lifting | InMode lifting | ONDA lifting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy used | Focused ultrasound (HIFU) | RF (radiofrequency) | Microwave |
| Main layer of action | Fascia (SMAS) layer | Fascia (SMAS) layer | Dermis + subcutaneous fat layer |
| Results begin to be noticed | 4 to 8 weeks | 2 to 4 weeks | 4 to 8 weeks |
| Results reach their peak | 3 to 6 months | 2 to 3 months | 3 to 6 months |
| FDA approval | Approved | Approved | Not applicable (needs separate confirmation) |
| Main areas addressed | Jawline, cheeks, cheekbone area | Double chin, jawline, cheeks | Fat layer, overall skin firmness |
| Pricing | Explained at consultation | Explained at consultation | Explained at consultation |
※ The timing of results in the table above is a generally reported range and may differ depending on an individual's skin condition, age and lifestyle.
Why Results Do Not Appear Immediately
All three procedures deliver heat energy to internal tissue without any incision. Temporary redness or swelling may appear right after treatment, and this usually resolves naturally within hours to days. The real lifting effect is noticed only after the time it takes stimulated fibroblasts to synthesize new collagen, that is, the collagen remodeling period. For this reason, gradual changes are generally observed over about 4 to 12 weeks after treatment.
Timing of Results by Procedure
Ulthera lifting focuses energy while checking the depth of the fascia layer with DeepSee™ real-time imaging. The deeper the layer of action, the slower the collagen renewal response tends to start, so people generally begin to notice contour changes after 4 to 8 weeks, with the effect building up over 3 to 6 months. Repic Clinic in Gangnam offers precise treatment based on DeepSee™.
InMode lifting delivers RF energy down to the fascia layer, aiming to reduce fat and generate collagen at the same time. It uses an FDA-cleared device, and among the three procedures, changes in the double chin and jawline are reported to be noticed relatively early, from 2 to 4 weeks. Its starting price is relatively low, so it is an option often considered when thinking about early lifting.
ONDA lifting stimulates the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer together with Coolwave™ microwave technology while minimizing damage to the epidermis. Because fat reduction and collagen renewal proceed in parallel, it is considered when approaching both body contour and skin firmness. Its results are reported to appear gradually from 4 to 8 weeks, similar to Ulthera.
Precautions Before and After Lifting
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol and excessive exercise for a week before treatment. If you are taking photosensitizing medication, tell the clinic beforehand, and people with implanted medical devices such as a pacemaker, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding, need a separate consultation about suitability. On the day of treatment, avoid saunas, hot baths and vigorous exercise, and sunscreen is recommended during the recovery period (1 to 2 weeks).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If I do not see results after lifting, do I need to repeat the treatment?
It is generally advised to wait at least 4 to 12 weeks after treatment for results to appear. Collagen renewal proceeds gradually, so it is hard to say whether it worked before that period. If the change feels short of your expectations, the first step is to find out the cause through a follow-up consultation. Results may vary from person to person depending on the method, energy and area.
Which of Ulthera, InMode and ONDA lasts the longest?
For all three, duration varies with an individual's skin condition and aging rate. In general, Ulthera and InMode, which act at the depth of the fascia layer, are reported to last about 6 months to 1 year, and ONDA is reported to fall in a similar range depending on its combined action. Rather than the simple length of duration, it is more appropriate to first check which method suits your main area of concern (jawline, fat, firmness and so on) and your purpose. At Repic Clinic in Gangnam, you can be advised on a suitable method after a consultation.
From what age can I get lifting?
Because the point at which people notice sagging or loss of firmness differs from person to person, it is common to judge by skin condition rather than a specific age. Some people in their 30s consider a relatively gentle procedure such as InMode for prevention, while others in their 40s and 50s choose Ulthera or ONDA after sagging becomes clearer. It is advisable to confirm suitability through a consultation.
Official Information
You can find more details on the official website.
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※ This content is for general information only and does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before any procedure. Results, downtime and side effects vary from person to person.