Why Seocho-dong Thermage Lifting’s Monopolar RF Differs from Standard RF

Thermage FLX is a monopolar radiofrequency lifting treatment.

There are already several types of equipment on the market that use radiofrequency.

However, even under the same name of radiofrequency, each one operates differently.

Most standard RF devices use a bipolar method, in which both the points where energy exits and enters are located close to the skin’s surface.

In contrast, Thermage FLX uses a monopolar method in which only the energy-emitting point touches the skin, while the receiving point is located outside the body.

This single structural difference completely changes the depth and range reached by the energy.

Powerful skin-tightening effects with Thermage FLX

Shallow heat and deep heat produce different results

It is easy to assume that all radiofrequency treatments produce similar effects. In reality, the depth at which heat remains varies greatly depending on the locations of the energy-emitting and receiving points. With the bipolar method, energy is concentrated only in the narrow area between the two points, so the heat tends to reach a relatively shallow depth. Stimulation is applied only around the upper dermis, and sufficient energy does not reach the deeper layers.

Thermage FLX’s monopolar structure allows energy to spread broadly through the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer. Stimulating only the shallow layers and evenly stimulating the deeper layers can result in a distinctly different level of perceived change. This is why the depth reached by the heat is important when addressing issues in the deeper layers, such as sagging or reduced elasticity. Simply warming the surface makes it difficult to create changes in these underlying structures.

The principle of protecting the epidermis while stimulating the dermis

Thermage FLX is performed by cooling the epidermis while generating heat in the dermal layer at the same time. When the treatment tip is placed on the skin, its cooling function operates first along with vibration to protect the skin’s surface. While the RF thermal energy penetrates deep into the dermal layer, vibration and cooling pulses that help reduce discomfort continue as well.

Because the epidermis is kept cool while only the dermis is selectively heated, the hot stimulation is not transmitted directly to the surface. This thermal stimulation causes existing collagen to contract immediately, producing an initial sense of volume, followed by a response in which new collagen is generated.

Because the cooling system is maintained until the treatment is complete, the recovery burden is generally not substantial. Since it is a non-surgical procedure performed without incisions, the time needed to return to daily activities is also short. As precise temperature control is carried out throughout the process, the sensations experienced during treatment are managed in a relatively detailed manner.

Changes that develop over time after treatment

Immediately after treatment, the skin may first feel firmer and more resilient. This change occurs as collagen contracts immediately in response to the thermal stimulation. This initial change may gradually become less noticeable over time. The main changes begin afterward, when new collagen starts to form. As collagen remodeling gradually progresses over one to two months after treatment, the skin may feel denser and more refined in texture.

In areas where sagging was more noticeable, such as the jawline or cheeks, you may feel the contours becoming more defined during this period. The treatment takes less than 40 minutes, and because a numbing cream is applied in advance for approximately 20–30 minutes, the overall burden is not substantial. Although results vary by individual, they are generally known to last approximately 8–12 months.

Although monopolar and bipolar methods both use the name radiofrequency, they differ starting with the depth they reach. The choice may depend on whether you want to address only surface elasticity or also the deeper layers underlying sagging.

If you want sustained effects, repeat treatment is generally considered once a year, although the exact timing may vary depending on your individual skin condition. Because skin thickness and the degree of sagging differ from person to person, we recommend consulting a professional first to determine whether the method is right for you. Ultimately, what matters is how deeply and precisely the heat is delivered.

Toxnfill Gangnam Main Branch

Interested in Seocho-dong Thermage lifting?

Address	10th and 11th floors, Daedong Building, 415 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Phone number	02-537-4842

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Why Seocho-dong Thermage Lifting’s Monopolar RF Differs from Standard RF

Why Seocho-dong Thermage Lifting’s Monopolar RF Differs from Standard RF

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