The basis for choosing a first lifting procedure in your 30s is your skin diagnosis result rather than your age. The right procedure depends on which area and which layer the sagging has reached, and on whether fat or volume concerns are also present. Repic Clinic in Gangnam, located at 318 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, basement level 1 and 2nd floor, offers Ulthera, InMode, ONDA and Jambeosil lifting. The table below compares these four using the same criteria.

When Should You Start Lifting in Your 30s?
Sagging of the SMAS (fascia) layer is generally known to begin in the mid-to-late 30s. From this point, many people consider preventive lifting such as Ulthera. Still, whether to have a procedure is not decided by age alone. Someone in their 20s with fast skeletal sagging may consider a partial procedure, while someone in their 40s with good firmness may need tone and texture care before lifting. That is why getting a diagnosis before a first procedure is recommended.
Comparison of Four Lifting Procedures
| Procedure | Method | Layer targeted | Concerns mainly addressed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulthera lifting | Focused ultrasound energy, using DeepSee™ real-time imaging | Fascia (SMAS) layer | Sagging of the jawline, cheeks and cheekbone area |
| InMode lifting | RF energy delivery (FDA-approved device) | Up to the fascia (SMAS) layer | Double chin, jawline, cheeks; fat reduction and collagen production |
| ONDA lifting | Microwave Coolwaves™, minimizing epidermal damage | Dermis and subcutaneous fat layer | Fat reduction and collagen regeneration |
| Jambeosil lifting | Insertion of spring-type PDO threads | Explained at consultation | Improving volume, firmness, lifting and wrinkles together |
The first point where the table divides is the layer each one works on. Ulthera and InMode deliver energy up to the fascia layer, while ONDA targets the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer together. A distinguishing feature of Ulthera is that the procedure depth is checked with DeepSee™ imaging as it is performed.
The candidates also narrow depending on whether your concern is sagging, fat such as a double chin, or lack of volume. For example, you might compare Ulthera for sagging, InMode or ONDA when fat and sagging occur together, and Jambeosil lifting when volume and wrinkles are to be addressed as well. The actual choice is made after the doctor examines your face at the consultation.
What to Check at a Consultation Before Your First Procedure
For a first procedure, checking three things at the consultation makes the decision easier. Because these are non-covered procedures, prices are generally given after a consultation.
If you are taking photosensitizing medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have an implanted medical device such as a pacemaker, you should first discuss whether the procedure is suitable.
Precautions Before and After, and the Recovery Period
In the week before the procedure, avoiding alcohol and excessive exercise is generally recommended. Temporary redness, swelling and tingling have been reported right after the procedure, and these usually settle within several hours to several days. On the day itself, it is better to avoid saunas, heated rooms and strenuous exercise.
During the following 1 to 2 weeks of recovery, use sunscreen. Effects vary from person to person and are generally reported to appear gradually over 4 to 12 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions
At what age is it a good idea to start lifting procedures?
The basis is your skin diagnosis result rather than your age. SMAS layer sagging generally begins in the mid-to-late 30s, and from this point preventive lifting such as Ulthera can be meaningful. Because the timing can be earlier or later depending on firmness, it is recommended not to decide by age alone without a diagnosis.
What types of procedures can I consider for a first lifting in my 30s?
Repic Clinic in Gangnam offers Ulthera, InMode, ONDA and Jambeosil lifting. The candidates vary depending on whether sagging, fat or volume is the bigger concern, and the final choice is made through a doctor's examination.
When do the effects appear?
They are generally reported to appear gradually over 4 to 12 weeks. Effects and recovery time vary from person to person depending on skin condition, lifestyle and medical history.
Notice: This article is general information, and procedure effects, side effects and recovery time may differ from person to person. Please confirm the exact suitability and cost of a procedure through a consultation. You can find more details on the official page.
References: Repic Clinic in Gangnam service information; general precautions document for lifting procedures
Related Official Information
You can find more details about the above on the official website.
Repic Clinic official website →
※ This content is for general information only and does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before any procedure. Results, downtime and side effects vary from person to person.