Target layerL2 · DermisDermis
- Duration
- 40-60 minutes depending on the number of shots
- Recommended sessions
- About once a year recommended
- Downtime
- Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing possible
Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency to stimulate collagen renewal in the dermis, and any improvement in firmness tends to develop gradually over time. We cannot promise changes to your jawline, and it is not a substitute for surgery or volume-restoring treatments. The tip, treatment areas, settings and cost are tailored to each person after consultation.

- Loss of firmness
- Fine lines and texture
- Facial contour tightening
- Non-surgical maintenance
01Overview
Thermage FLX
Monopolar RF tightening that rebuilds dermal collagen
Thermage FLX is a skin-tightening treatment that delivers monopolar radiofrequency (RF) energy throughout the dermis to improve skin firmness.
- Duration
- 40-60 minutes depending on the number of shots
- 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)
How we approach it
The same device can be run very differently.
We work with a high-output, low-pain Thermage FLX technique: energy is delivered densely while holding the temperature range that is most efficient for collagen formation, with discomfort kept to a minimum.
Dr. Tae Hoon Kim, Medical Director
02What to expect
Changes over time
RF heat immediately contracts lax collagen fibers in the dermis and stimulates new collagen production over the following months.
03Device & Technology
Thermage FLX Device

Monopolar radiofrequency
Radiofrequency heat is delivered across the whole dermis to induce collagen contraction and regeneration.
Vibration and cooling
Vibration and cooling work together to lower the discomfort of heat delivery.
Genuine tips
We use genuine Solta Medical tips, and confirm the system and tip details with you before treatment.
04Procedure
How your visit goes
Every procedure is performed directly by a board-certified dermatologist.
05Aftercare
Recovery & care
- 01
First 1–2 hours
Mild flushing and warmth are possible and usually settle within a few hours. You can wash your face and wear makeup the same day.
- 02
First week
Avoid strong heat — sauna, hot baths, heavy drinking — for a few days, and moisturise more than usual.
- 03
1–12 weeks
This is the collagen remodelling window. Use SPF 30 or higher every day to protect skin that is regenerating.
- 04
Follow-up
Whether to treat again is decided after reviewing your course, not on a fixed schedule.

06FAQ
Frequently asked questions
How does Thermage FLX work?
Thermage FLX 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 FLX 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 PRIME-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 FLX 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 FLX 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 number of shots, 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 FLX 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 FLX 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 PRIME, and can I have both?
They act on different layers, so they can be combined. Thermage FLX is relatively better suited to overall dermal firmness and fine lines, and Ultherapy PRIME 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 FLX?
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 FLX 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 FLX · FDA cleared · MFDS (Korean FDA) approved
- Manufacturer: Solta Medical (USA)
- Korea MFDS medical device registry
- Korean Dermatological Association
- Reviewed by: Dr. Tae Hoon Kim, Medical Director
⚠ Cautions & contraindications
- An implanted electronic medical device such as a pacemaker or defibrillator
- Metal or electronic implants in the treatment area
- Active infection or an open wound in the treatment area
- Pregnancy (not recommended — safety data are insufficient)
Summary & comparison
| Treatment | Target layer | Main change | Duration | How long it lasts | Downtime |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermage FLX | L2 Dermis | Monopolar RF tightening that rebuilds dermal collagen | 40-60 minutes depending on the number of shots | Typically around 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary flushing possible |
| Ultherapy PRIME | L4 SMAS & Muscle | Ultrasound lifting that reaches the SMAS layer | 40-60 minutes depending on the number of shots | Typically 6 months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life; temporary swelling or tingling possible |
| Accent Prime 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 | L2 Dermis | Monopolar RF tightening with a lighter footprint | 30-50 minutes | Several months to 1 year (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
| Liftera II | L4 SMAS & Muscle | Pen-type HIFU lifting for precise, detailed work | 20-40 minutes | Several months (individual results vary) | Immediate return to daily life |
Treatments used for the same concern, placed side by side. Which one fits is decided in consultation after the layer is identified.
Aftercare
Radiofrequency lifting
Heat is built up in the dermis to address firmness. Redness and warmth right after treatment usually settle the same day, and normal life resumes from the next day.
Recovery course
- Day of treatmentWarmth and redness are expected. Cool the skin gently with a cold towel and moisturise well.
- Next dayRedness has mostly faded. Makeup and face washing can continue as usual.
- Week 1The skin may feel drier than usual; focus on moisturising and sun protection.
- Months 1–3Firmness improves gradually. If treatment is split into sessions, the next one is scheduled in this window.
Precautions
- Sauna, hot baths, strenuous exercise and alcohol: for 2–3 days after treatment
- Exfoliating and peeling products: for 1 week
When to contact the clinic
- Redness has not calmed after 3 days
- Blisters or weeping appear
- Pain worsens in one particular area
Next session · next visitDepends on the device and goal, usually every 6–12 months. If areas are treated separately, we will advise at consultation.
Full aftercare guide →Next step
Wondering if this treatment fits you?
Tell us what concerns you, and after your consultation we will explain the suitable treatment, schedule and fees in detail.











