ONDA vs. Ultherapy and Radiofrequency: What Is the Difference?
Which to choose among ONDA, Ultherapy, and radiofrequency is often the first question patients ask at consultation. The main difference is where the energy is delivered. RF targets the dermis at around 3–5 mm, focused ultrasound targets a point in the fascial layer at around 4–6 mm, and facial ONDA uses 3 mm and 7 mm handpieces to reach from the dermis down to the fat. The right device depends on where your face has lost support.
How deep do ONDA, RF, and Ultherapy reach?
Their energy sources and treatment depths differ.
| Method | Energy | Depth | Main target layer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiofrequency (RF) | Electrical current in the MHz range | 3–5 mm | Dermal collagen |
| Focused ultrasound (HIFU) | Focused ultrasound | 4–6 mm | A focal point in the SMAS |
| ONDA | 2.45 GHz microwaves | 3 mm and 7 mm for the face | Dermis, fat, and fascia |
ONDA delivers approximately 80% of its energy to fat and 20% to the dermis. This is why we often use it when cheek or lower-face fat contributes to a heavy appearance. Lifting fascia alone may leave that weight in place; microwave treatment addresses the fat component.
What is the difference between Ultherapy and Thermage?
Ultherapy focuses ultrasound into tiny 60–70°C coagulation points, reaching as deep as the SMAS to lift descending contours. Thermage cools the epidermis while heating the dermis broadly to contract and renew collagen, making it suitable for fine lines, firmness, and thin areas around the eyes.
A meta-analysis of 42 microfocused-ultrasound-with-visualization studies found some improvement in 89% of patients by investigator assessment.[1] A review of 121 facial and neck RF studies also found improvements in laxity and firmness, with higher satisfaction among people seeking subtle rather than dramatic change.[2]
More Thermage pulses do not automatically produce a better result. The count needs to fit the face. One patient told us they appreciated this explanation and being recommended a pulse count that suited them.
Is microwave lifting more comfortable?
It continually cools the surface to 5°C while heating deeper tissue to around 55°C. Treatment takes 15–30 minutes after numbing cream, and you can resume normal activities afterward. In the ultrasound meta-analysis, mean pain was moderate at 4.85,[1] while a 2.45 GHz microwave study reported little discomfort during or after treatment.[3]
One patient said it did not hurt, their face looked slimmer immediately, and they valued returning straight to daily life. We often consider it for people who have postponed lifting because of pain or recovery concerns. Settings still need to match the face: repeating the same plan without assessing fat thickness and sagging may produce little change.
Can microwave lifting help a double chin and sagging?
In a study of 10 women with moderate or greater submental laxity, two 2.45 GHz microwave treatments 30 days apart reduced the mean laxity grade from 3.6 to 2.3 at 12 weeks after the final session, with no reported adverse effects.[3] A 2026 review of energy-based devices also reported benefits for submental tightening and facial rejuvenation.[4]
In our practice, patients with both a double chin and submental sagging often respond particularly well. Thick fat and longstanding sagging usually need more than one session; we assess the first response before selecting the next handpiece and interval.
Which treatment fits my concern?
ONDA suits fullness and heaviness in the cheeks, lower face, double chin, or jowls. RF is often the first choice for superficial fine lines and firmness, and ultrasound for lifting from the SMAS. ONDA can also suit loose skin after rapid weight loss.
For a face with very little fat and existing cheek hollows, we avoid relying on the deeper microwave handpiece because further fat reduction could worsen hollowing. Instead, we focus on the shallow 3 mm handpiece or restore volume with HILO WAVE before lifting.
Can ONDA be combined with Ultherapy or Thermage?
Several layers usually age together, so combinations are common. Since 2016, our UlThermage Penta System has combined Ultherapy and Thermage according to the face. We also combine ONDA with Titanium to address fat and skin separately; patients at our clinic have received this combination. Skin boosters may help support the duration of device results, as explained in ONDA and HILO WAVE: Why Combine Them?
How does Dong-An Joongsim Clinic choose between ONDA and Ultherapy?
At Dong-An Joongsim Clinic, your doctor personally conducts the consultation and treatment.
Dr. Soyoun Koo is recognized by El.En and DEKA as Korea's first ONDA LIFTING EXPERT MEMBER. Dr. Chang-Hwan Cho lectured on microwaves as a distinct lifting category at the Korean Aesthetic Surgery and Laser Society's spring meeting. Your doctor assesses skin and fat thickness before choosing how to use ONDA's 3 mm and 7 mm handpieces. We are also a certified Ultherapy clinic and issue a certificate confirming genuine treatment.
For patients preparing for a photo shoot at short notice, we first consider microwave lifting because it has no downtime. Find more information on the ONDA, Ultherapy, and Thermage treatment pages.
What should you know before microwave lifting?
Results vary with age, skin thickness, and fat volume. Microwave lifting is not suitable for people with cardiovascular, liver, or kidney disease or current or past tumor disease, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Implanted electrical devices such as pacemakers also rule out RF lifting. Any redness afterward is minimal and usually settles within hours, and you can wash your face and wear makeup right away.
Microwave lifting: common questions
How should I choose an ONDA clinic in Apgujeong, Gangnam, Seoul?
Check that the doctor who consults with you also performs the treatment and adjusts the handpieces and energy for your face. Dong-An Joongsim Clinic has Korea's first ONDA LIFTING EXPERT MEMBER on its medical team.
Are ONDA results visible immediately?
Firmness and contour changes may be felt first, followed by fat reduction and new collagen over weeks to months.
Can I go straight back to work?
Yes. You can return to work immediately; avoid saunas and heat treatments for about a week.
What determines the price?
Cost depends on the area and extent, the 3 mm and 7 mm handpiece combination, and additional treatments. Your doctor assesses your face and explains the cost.
References
- Amiri M et al., “Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization (MFU-V) Effectiveness and Safety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjae228
- Austin GK et al., “Evaluating the effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency for face and neck rejuvenation: A systematic review”, Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2022. https://doi.org/10.1002/lsm.23506
- Zappia E et al., “An innovative microwave technology for the treatment of submental skin laxity”, Lasers in Medical Science, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-024-04270-1
- Chaudry A et al., “Non-Light-Based Energy Devices in Aesthetics: Current Evidence and Emerging Innovations”, The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, 2026. https://doi.org/10.1097/SCS.0000000000013184