ONDA Lifting in Seoul: What It Does, Who It's For, and What to Expect at Lalian Cheongdam Clinic

Q: How is ONDA different from Ultherapy or Thermage FLX?

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound targeting the SMAS layer, Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency across the dermis, and ONDA uses microwave energy reaching fat and connective tissue — each has a distinct mechanism.

Q: How many sessions does ONDA Lifting typically take?

This depends on skin condition and goals, determined during consultation; some clients see results from a single session, others benefit from a short series.

Jiyoun Kang
22 hours ago
4 min read

✓ Medically reviewed by Dr. Jiyoun Kang · Last updated: July 29, 2026 · Reading time: 7 min

ONDA microwave lifting device at Lalian Cheongdam Clinic Seoul

If you're researching non-surgical skin tightening in Seoul — whether you live here or are planning a trip to Gangnam — you may have come across ONDA Lifting alongside more familiar names like Ultherapy or Thermage. At Lalian Cheongdam Clinic in Cheongdam, Gangnam District, ONDA works on a different principle from either of those, and understanding that difference matters before you book.

Quick Answer: ONDA Lifting uses microwave energy (Coolwaves) to heat both the deeper fat layer and the connective tissue that supports skin structure, working through a cooled applicator that protects the skin surface. Performed at Lalian Cheongdam Clinic under Dr. Jiyoun Kang's 1:1 Single Responsibility System, results build gradually over the following months and typically last several months to a year. Individual results may vary.

What Is ONDA Lifting, Exactly?

ONDA Lifting is a microwave-based energy device, often referred to by its "Coolwaves" technology, that delivers energy simultaneously to the subdermal fat layer and the connective septae that anchor skin to deeper tissue. Unlike focused ultrasound (Ultherapy) or monopolar radiofrequency (Thermage FLX), ONDA's microwave energy is absorbed differently by fat and water-rich tissue, which is why it's often positioned for combined skin tightening and localized fat reduction rather than SMAS-layer lifting alone. The handpiece includes a cooling mechanism designed to protect the skin surface while energy is delivered to deeper layers.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Good candidates for ONDA Lifting:

Clients with mild to moderate skin laxity who also want some improvement in localized fullness under the chin or along the jawline.
Clients looking for a non-surgical option with minimal downtime before an event or trip.
Clients who have already had energy-based treatments and want to understand how a microwave-based option compares.

Not ideal for:

Clients seeking dramatic, surgical-level lifting — ONDA is a gradual, non-surgical technology.
Clients with active skin infections or inflammatory conditions in the treatment area.
Clients expecting fat reduction as the primary goal rather than a secondary effect alongside tightening.

What Does the Procedure Feel Like?

Most clients describe a warming sensation as the microwave energy is delivered, with the cooling applicator moderating comfort throughout the session. A typical ONDA session at Lalian runs within a standard consultation-day visit, and most clients return to normal activities immediately afterward.

Wondering whether ONDA or a different lifting technology fits your skin? Book a private consultation with Dr. Kang →

What Results Can You Expect — and When?

Results from ONDA Lifting build gradually as the body's own collagen and connective tissue respond to the treatment, rather than appearing immediately. Peer-reviewed research on selective microwave and radiofrequency devices has documented longer-term tissue remodeling effects, and histological studies have specifically examined how microwave energy interacts with fat tissue at a cellular level. Most clients see initial changes within the first few weeks, with fuller results developing over the following months. For a closer look at how recovery unfolds after energy-based lifting treatments, see our combined recovery guide covering Ultherapy and Thermage FLX.

Factor	Detail
Mechanism	Microwave energy (Coolwaves) — fat layer + connective tissue
Depth of action	Subdermal fat layer and connective septae
Session duration	Standard clinic visit, no extended downtime
Results appear	Gradually, over the following weeks to months
Longevity	Several months to around a year (varies by individual)
Ideal skin type	Mild to moderate laxity, Fitzpatrick I–IV

The Lalian Approach

At Lalian Cheongdam Clinic, every ONDA consultation and treatment follows the clinic's 1:1 Single Responsibility System — Dr. Jiyoun Kang personally manages every stage, from initial assessment of your skin and underlying tissue to the treatment itself. Because ONDA, Ultherapy, and Thermage FLX all work through different mechanisms, your treatment plan is built around what your specific skin and goals call for, not a single default protocol.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is ONDA different from Ultherapy or Thermage FLX?

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to target the deeper SMAS layer, Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency across the dermis, and ONDA uses microwave energy that reaches both fat and connective tissue — each has a distinct mechanism and ideal use case.

Can ONDA be combined with other lifting treatments?

Combination protocols are sometimes appropriate depending on your skin and goals, and this is assessed individually during your consultation with Dr. Kang.

Is there any downtime after ONDA Lifting?

Most clients return to normal activities the same day; any mild warmth or sensitivity typically resolves quickly.

How many sessions does ONDA Lifting typically take?

This depends on your skin condition and goals, and is determined during consultation — some clients see meaningful results from a single session, others benefit from a short series.

Is ONDA suitable for all skin tones?

ONDA is generally suitable across a range of skin types, though your specific candidacy is confirmed during an in-person consultation.

Ready to Book?

If you're deciding between ONDA and other lifting technologies, the clearest next step is an in-person assessment with Dr. Kang.

About Dr. Jiyoun Kang: Dr. Jiyoun Kang is the Representative Director of Lalian Cheongdam Clinic and a Family Medicine specialist trained at Sinchon Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System. She serves as Clinical Professor at Yongin Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System) and Preliminary Director of the Korea Academy of Obesity & Aesthetic Treatment. All consultations and treatments at Lalian follow a 1:1 Single Responsibility System — Dr. Kang personally manages every stage from anatomical analysis to the final procedure. More about Dr. Kang →

📍 2F, Dosan-daero 59-gil, 9, Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea (Cheongdam)

📞 +82-2-517-3335

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🌐 Website: https://www.lalian-clinic.com/

International visitors welcome. English, Chinese, and Japanese consultation supported.

Medical Disclaimer: All procedures described are medical treatments. Individual results may vary based on skin type and condition. A private consultation with Dr. Jiyoun Kang is required to determine the most suitable protocol for your unique needs. All information provided is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.