Skin Elasticity Treatments: How Long Do They Last?
The duration and effects of skin elasticity treatments vary with the principle of each treatment and the depth it targets. Ulthera, which directly stimulates the fascia layer with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), is generally reported to last 12 to 18 months, while InMode lifting, which uses RF (radiofrequency) energy, typically lasts about 6 to 12 months. Injectable options such as the salmon injection (PDRN) and exosomes serve as recovery support and elasticity reinforcement, and are often repeated at 3 to 6 month intervals. Results vary from person to person depending on skin condition, age and lifestyle.
Scenario 1: Early 30s, Starting Elasticity Care for the First Time
The cheeks have just begun to settle slightly, but overall skin elasticity is still good. At this stage, stimulating collagen in the dermis and managing cell regeneration are often considered before deep lifting.
At Repic Clinic in Gangnam, an approach that manages cell regeneration, hydration and elasticity together through the salmon injection or ASCE+ exosomes is offered at this stage. The PDRN ingredient acts on cell regeneration and fine lines, while highly concentrated exosomes act on collagen generation and evening out skin tone. The duration depends on the type and number of treatments, and it is recommended to confirm a repeat-care plan at 3 to 4 month intervals through a consultation.
Scenario 2: Late 30s to Early 40s, Concerned about Jawline and Cheek Sagging
Among the durations and effects of skin elasticity treatments, the one mentioned most often at this age is Ulthera lifting. High-intensity focused ultrasound delivers energy in sequence to the SMAS layer (4.5 mm), the dermal layer (3.0 mm) and the superficial layer (1.5 mm), and DeepSee™ real-time imaging technology allows treatment at the correct depth.
When the sagging is complex or fat-layer stimulation is also wanted, combining with InMode lifting is also discussed at the consultation. InMode is an FDA-cleared device that delivers RF energy to the SMAS layer and aims at fat breakdown, collagen generation and tightening at the same time, and it is used for improving the double chin and jawline. Whether to combine the two is generally decided after diagnosing skin thickness and the location of sagging.
Scenario 3: Mid 40s and Older, Needing Fat and Body Care Besides Elasticity
If you want to address reduced elasticity in body areas such as the abdomen, thighs and upper arms together with facial lifting, Body InMode can be considered. It uses RF to improve skin elasticity and stimulate the fat layer at the same time, and is described as having quick recovery. For facial and body treatments, it is recommended to decide the priority area and the order of treatments through separate consultations.
If you want to focus more on skin regeneration and anti-aging, stem cell treatment is also one of the options. It is a skin regeneration approach that uses stem cells, and whether it is suitable for your individual skin condition should be confirmed through a consultation.
Summary of Duration by Treatment
| Treatment | How it works | Typical duration | Main suitable areas | Cost information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ulthera lifting | HIFU, focused on the SMAS layer | 12 to 18 months (as reported) | Jawline, cheeks, cheekbones | Provided at consultation |
| InMode lifting | RF, delivered down to the SMAS layer | 6 to 12 months (as reported) | Double chin, jawline, cheeks | Provided at consultation |
| ONDA lifting | Microwave Cool Wave™ | Varies by person (confirm at consultation) | Dermis, subcutaneous fat layer | Provided at consultation |
| Body InMode | RF, fat layer + elasticity | Varies by person (confirm at consultation) | Abdomen, thighs, upper arms | Provided at consultation |
| Salmon injection (PDRN) | PDRN, cell regeneration | Repeat care every 3 to 6 months | Face overall | Provided at consultation |
| ASCE+ exosomes | Highly concentrated exosomes, collagen generation | Repeat care every 3 to 6 months | Face overall | Provided at consultation |
| Lilied M | PDRN + HA + amino acid complex | Varies by person (confirm at consultation) | Face overall | Provided at consultation |
| Stem cell treatment | Stem cells, skin regeneration | Varies by person (confirm at consultation) | Face overall | Provided at consultation |
※ The durations above are ranges generally reported in clinical practice and may vary with each person's skin condition, lifestyle and number of treatments.
If This Sounds Like You: Three Things to Check Before Treatment
- Location and depth of sagging: The suitable treatment differs depending on whether elasticity has declined at the surface or sagging has progressed to the SMAS layer. Deciding without a diagnosis may focus energy on an area other than the one you want.
- Current medications, pregnancy and implanted medical devices: If you take photosensitizing medications or have an implanted medical device such as a pacemaker, a prior consultation on treatment suitability is needed.
- Recovery schedule: Temporary redness, swelling and tingling are reported right after lifting treatment. Leaving 1 to 2 weeks before an important event is generally recommended. The effects are reported to appear gradually over 4 to 12 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How do the durations of Ulthera and InMode lifting differ?
A. Ulthera directly stimulates the SMAS layer with high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and a duration of 12 to 18 months is generally reported. InMode lifting acts on the same layer with RF energy, but its duration is typically about 6 to 12 months. The two differ in depth of action and type of energy, so they are sometimes combined to complement each other; because this varies with individual skin condition, confirming through a consultation is recommended.
Q. Can the salmon injection (PDRN) or exosomes replace lifting treatment?
A. The salmon injection (PDRN) and ASCE+ exosomes act on cell regeneration, elasticity reinforcement and soothing inflammation, but their purpose differs from lifting treatments that directly correct SMAS-layer sagging. When sagging is deep, they are often used together as supporting care to help skin recovery after lifting. Which combination suits you is generally decided after a skin diagnosis.
Q. What precautions apply after skin elasticity treatment?
A. Avoiding saunas, steam rooms and strenuous exercise on the day of lifting treatment is recommended. Limiting alcohol and excessive exercise for a week before treatment is also common. Using sunscreen during recovery is recommended, and the effects are reported to appear gradually over 4 to 12 weeks. The recovery course may vary with your skin condition and medical history.
Q. How does ONDA lifting differ from other lifting treatments?
A. ONDA lifting uses Cool Wave™ microwave technology to target the dermis and subcutaneous fat layers at the same time while minimizing damage to the epidermis. It is characterized by aiming at fat reduction and collagen regeneration together.
Related Official Information
You can find more details 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.
