Thermage FLX in Apgujeong, Gangnam Seoul
Board-Certified Dermatologist Top 2% in Korea 13+ Years
Thermage FLX · quick answer
What Thermage FLX does, in one paragraph
Thermage FLX is a monopolar radiofrequency (RF) treatment that heats the deep dermis evenly while cooling the surface. The heat makes existing collagen contract, giving some tightening soon after, and starts a remodelling process that builds new collagen over the following months. It is used for loosening skin on the jawline, cheeks, eyelids and neck and for crepey texture. At Ever Skin Clinic, a board-certified dermatologist plans energy and shot distribution so the face tightens without looking hollow.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jieun Kim, M.D. Founder & Director, board-certified dermatologist. Dermatology residency at Hanyang University Hospital; adjunct professor, Hanyang University College of Medicine. Meet our dermatologists Last reviewed October 2026
- Technology
- Monopolar radiofrequency (Thermage FLX)
- Best for
- Mild laxity of jawline, cheeks, eyelids and neck; crepey skin
- Treatment time
- About 45 to 90 minutes depending on areas
- Downtime
- Usually minimal; mild redness or swelling
- Results
- Some early firmness; main change builds over about 2 to 6 months
The treatment
What is Thermage FLX?
Thermage was one of the first radiofrequency skin-tightening systems, and FLX is its current generation. Its handpiece uses vibration and surface cooling for comfort and measures skin contact with each pulse to deliver energy more evenly. Unlike focused ultrasound, which reaches the deeper SMAS layer, Thermage heats a broad volume of the dermis, so it is especially good at improving skin firmness and texture.
Our dermatologists often pair it with Ultherapy for deeper lift. A more comfortable radiofrequency alternative is Oligio.
Where Thermage is used
- Lower face and jawline for softening contours
- Cheeks for loose, crepey skin
- Eyelids and around the eyes with a dedicated eye tip
- Neck for early laxity and texture
- Body areas such as the abdomen in selected cases
Is it right for you?
Who is a good candidate?
Thermage suits adults with early to moderate skin laxity and good skin quality who want natural tightening without needles or downtime. It works best as prevention and maintenance rather than as a replacement for surgery in heavy sagging.
If you have a very thin face with little fat, your dermatologist may adjust energy carefully or suggest combining it with fillers to avoid a gaunt look.
Thermage may suit you if you
- Notice a less defined jawline or early jowls
- Have crepey skin on the cheeks, neck or eyelids
- Want tightening with little interruption to daily life
- Want to maintain results from other lifting treatments
- Are visiting Seoul and need a same-day return to activities
Your visit
What happens during treatment
A full-face session typically takes about 45 to 90 minutes, including numbing.
- Consultation A board-certified dermatologist assesses laxity and facial volume and agrees areas and energy with you.
- Preparation Numbing cream is applied and a temporary grid is marked on the skin.
- RF treatment The handpiece delivers pulses of heat with cooling and vibration, with energy adjusted to your comfort.
- Aftercare We soothe the skin and explain how firmness develops over the coming months.
Real patient · before & after
An example of non-surgical lifting results
This case shows a combined lifting and skin program, shown as an example of our non-surgical results. It does not include Thermage, so it is not a Thermage result.
Thermage changes are gradual and best compared over several months. Ask us for Thermage-specific cases at consultation.
Photos are shared with the patient's consent and are not retouched apart from privacy blurring. Results differ from person to person and are not guaranteed.
See more before & after photosRecovery & safety
Recovery, side effects and aftercare
Mild redness and swelling are common and usually fade within hours to a day. Less commonly, tenderness, small bumps, temporary numbness or, rarely, burns or surface irregularities can occur. Excessive energy in thin faces can contribute to a hollow look, which is why settings are adjusted individually.
Tell your dermatologist if you have a pacemaker or implanted electronic device, metal implants in the area, active skin infection, or are pregnant. Most patients return to work and sightseeing the same day.
Aftercare tips
- Use a gentle moisturiser and daily sunscreen
- Avoid saunas and very hot baths for 1 to 2 days
- Postpone strong exfoliants or retinoids for a few days
- Stay hydrated to support skin recovery
- Plan maintenance typically once a year
Questions we hear every day
Thermage FLX FAQ
Does Thermage hurt?
You feel brief, intense heat with each pulse, balanced by cooling and vibration. Numbing cream is applied beforehand, and energy is adjusted to your feedback. Most patients find it tolerable, though bony areas can feel stronger.
How long does Thermage last?
Firmness usually develops over about two to six months, and many patients find results last around a year, sometimes longer. Ageing continues, so annual maintenance is common. Results vary between individuals.
Thermage or Ultherapy, which is better?
They work at different depths. Ultherapy reaches the deeper SMAS for lift, while Thermage heats the dermis for skin tightening and texture. Many patients benefit from both; your dermatologist will advise after assessing your face.
Can Thermage make my face look thinner?
In faces with very little fat, high energy can contribute to a slimmer or hollow look. Your dermatologist assesses facial volume first and adjusts energy and shot placement to keep natural fullness.
Can I have Thermage on a short trip?
Yes. Downtime is usually minimal, so most patients return to normal activities, including flying, soon after. Results continue to develop over the months after you return home.
Talk to a board-certified dermatologist in Apgujeong
Send us your skin concern and photos on WhatsApp. An English-speaking team member will reply and arrange your consultation.
Mon & Thu 10:00–19:00 · Tue & Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00 · Closed Wed, Sun & holidays
