How painful is Thermage® FLX, and is anesthesia necessary?

Thermage® FLX is known to be less painful than previous generations because its vibration function and cooling system work together. However, it is not completely free of pain, so topical anesthetic cream is typically applied before the procedure. Additionally, combining it with non-sedation inhalation anesthesia can make the experience more comfortable.

When and how do Thermage® FLX results appear?

Some people may feel a slight tightening immediately after the Thermage® FLX procedure as collagen contracts due to heat. Over the following weeks, new collagen is produced, and improvements in skin elasticity and fine lines become more noticeable over time. The rate of change may vary depending on skin condition.

Can side effects such as swelling, bruising, or a burning sensation occur after Thermage® FLX?

Redness, a burning sensation, and warmth immediately after Thermage® FLX are normal reactions and usually subside over time. In rare cases, slight swelling may occur, but it is not common. Additionally, localized blisters may appear; if they do, please contact the clinic.

How long do Thermage® FLX results last? Why is it said to be “once a year”?

Because Thermage® FLX involves the process of new collagen formation, its effects tend to last relatively long, and it is meant to maintain elasticity with once-yearly management. However, the duration of results varies depending on the rate of aging and sun exposure, so it is advisable to consult with your doctor about the timing of retreatment when you feel a decline in skin condition again.

Does Thermage® FLX work with just one session, or do I need multiple sessions?

Thermage® FLX is designed to produce collagen regeneration effects even with a single session, so the burden of repeated treatments is relatively low. However, since aging continues over time, once-yearly treatment is recommended. If loss of elasticity and sagging are significant, your doctor may combine it with other procedures.

Who is Thermage® FLX recommended for?

Thermage® FLX is recommended for those who are starting to notice loss of elasticity and fine lines on the face and neck, who want natural improvement without significant downtime, and who wish to maintain healthy skin over the long term.

An insurance policy against aging Thermage® FLX

Heal House’s proprietary Custom Layering Protocol takes into account your skin thickness, degree of laxity, and pain sensitivity.

Treatment Time: About 30–40 minutes
Anesthesia: Numbing cream or inhaled anesthesia without sedation
Recovery Time: Minimal downtime
Recommended Interval: 1–2 times per year

Anti-Aging RF Lifting

Thermage FLX

What is Thermage® FLX?

Thermage® FLX is a lifting and tightening device that delivers monopolar radiofrequency (RF) to the dermal layer through a wide tip to stimulate collagen regeneration. It is used to improve loss of elasticity, enlarged pores, and fine lines on the face and around the eyes.

01 Elasticity
02 Lifting
03 Skin Texture

Mechanism

How Thermage® FLX works

Thermage® FLX delivers monopolar radiofrequency (RF) to the dermal layer through a dedicated tip. When heat is applied, loose collagen contracts immediately, resulting in initial tightening (1). Then, new collagen regenerates and gradually fills in. During the procedure, a cooling system protects the epidermis, concentrating energy in the dermis. This combination of contraction and regeneration improves fine lines, pores, and loss of elasticity.

Skin that has sagged and wrinkled due to collagen breakdown and loss
Thermage® FLX induces collagen production & skin tightening
As collagen is produced, wrinkles improve & elasticity increases

Effects

What results can Thermage® FLX provide?

Induces collagen production and skin tightening
Collagen regeneration improves wrinkles and skin elasticity
Improves pores and overall elasticity

Device Specifications

Manufacturer: Solta Medical, Inc. (USA) / Domestic importer: SOLTA MEDICAL KOREA Limited
Official Product Name: Thermage® FLX / Thermage FLX System (approved model name TG-3A)
Energy source and mechanism: 6.78 MHz monopolar radiofrequency (RF). The RF current generates heat through tissue resistance, contracting collagen and stimulating regeneration
Target depth and layer: Dermal layer (epidermis protected by cooling spray)
Proprietary Technologies: AccuREP™ (reads tissue impedance per shot and adjusts output) · Vibration · Cooling spray — three functions operating simultaneously
Consumables and tip specifications: Disposable treatment tip (separate item approval No. 17-4032, Class 2)

Same Thermage® FLX, why are results different?

The key isn't the number of shots, but energy planned for each area

Skin thickness and degree of sagging vary by area.

If the same intensity is applied everywhere, energy may not reach the dermal layer in thicker cheeks and jawline, while thinner areas may require lower intensity due to heat sensation.

As a result, the overall effect is leveled down, and even after using all shots, the expected firmness may not be achieved.

Heal House reads your face first, then designs the Thermage® FLX accordingly.

HEALHOUSE'S THERMAGE FLX

3 standard Thermage® FLX programs to help prevent aging

THERMAGE BASIC

THERMAGE BASIC

The standard of anti-aging that evenly fills the entire dermis Energy is delivered to the entire face, increasing overall skin density to improve fine lines and pores and enhance overall elasticity.
THERMAGE CORE

THERMAGE CORE

Volume and elasticity at the core: focused tightening of the mid-face This treatment focuses on tightening the mid-face (the front cheeks and nasolabial folds), the central area of the face. It strongly contracts sagging-prone tissue to create a smooth facial contour.
THERMAGE RESERVE

THERMAGE RESERVE

Elasticity without boundaries: from the face line to the neckline This treatment extends beyond the face to the neckline, where signs of aging are prominent. It tightens the area from the jawline to the neck, restoring a younger overall silhouette.

Same Thermage® FLX, why are results different?

The key is not the number of shots, but energy tailored to each area

Skin thickness and the degree of sagging vary by area. If the same intensity is applied everywhere, the energy may not reach the dermal layer in thicker areas like the cheeks and jaw, while in thinner areas, the heat may force you to lower the intensity. This results in a downward leveling, where all shots are used but the expected elasticity is not achieved. At Heal House, we read the face first and design the Thermage® FLX accordingly.

HEALHOUSE'S THERMAGE FLX

3 ways to help prevent aging Thermage® FLX Standard Programs

The standard of anti-aging that evenly fills the entire dermis Energy is delivered to the entire face, increasing overall skin density to improve fine lines and pores and enhance overall elasticity.
Volume and elasticity at the core: focused tightening of the mid-face This treatment focuses on tightening the mid-face (the front cheeks and nasolabial folds), the central area of the face. It strongly contracts sagging-prone tissue to create a smooth facial contour.
Elasticity without boundaries: from the face line to the neckline This treatment extends beyond the face to the neckline, where signs of aging are prominent. It tightens the area from the jawline to the neck, restoring a younger overall silhouette.

Who It's For

Are concerned about overall loss of elasticity and fine lines on the face, such as around the eyes, cheeks, and jawline
Want to manage their skin without invasive procedures like incisions or thread lifts
Want results that last relatively long with a single treatment
Want to smooth out not only elasticity but also skin texture

Adverse Effects

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Redness, a burning sensation, and heat immediately after a Thermage® FLX treatment are natural reactions and usually subside over time. This procedure requires no separate downtime, and the degree of reaction may vary by individual.

Common Symptoms

Redness, burning sensation, heat

Rare Symptoms

Swelling, localized blisters, burns, skin indentation

If Symptoms Persist

If abnormal reactions such as blisters occur or persist, please contact the clinic.
Other rare adverse reactions and individual risk factors will be explained in detail during your pre-treatment consultation.

FAQ

Thermage® FLX: Frequently asked questions

Thermage® FLX results tend to last relatively long because the treatment involves the process of new collagen formation. This means that a once-yearly treatment can help maintain elasticity. However, the duration of results varies depending on the rate of aging and sun exposure, so it is advisable to discuss the timing of a repeat treatment with your doctor when you feel a decline in skin condition again.

Aftercare

Post-Treatment Care

On the day of the procedure, avoid high-heat stimulation such as saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths.
When going out, apply sufficient sunscreen to protect your skin.
For about 2 to 3 days after the procedure, avoid stimulating treatments such as strong massage, exfoliation, and laser.
Help your skin recover by drinking more water than usual and using gentle moisturizing care.

COMPARISON

What is the difference between Ultherapy PRIME® and Thermage® FLX?

Energy source Focused ultrasound (MFU-V, image-guided) 6.78 MHz monopolar radiofrequency

Target depth 1.5 mm dermis / 3.0 mm deep dermis and subcutaneous / 4.5 mm SMAS fascia Dermal layer (epidermis protected by cooling spray)

Layer verification Real-time ultrasound imaging (DeepSEE®) Per-shot impedance measurement

Consumables Replaceable transducer Single-use treatment tip (Approval No. 17-4032)

Anesthesia Topical or local anesthesia Topical anesthesia or non-sedation inhalation anesthesia

Recovery Minimal downtime Minimal downtime

Recommended frequency 1–2 times per year 1–2 times per year

Synergy

Treatments that pair well with Thermage® FLX

HEALHOUSE’S Thermage FLX

Thermage® FLX at Heal House is different

HEAL POINT 01

Genuine products Accurate shots Exact dosage

All five Heal House branches use only genuine products, under the same standards. This applies to tips, cartridges, and medications alike. We use the agreed number of shots and dosage as planned, and disposable supplies are never reused. We deliver the exact amount precisely where it is needed.

HEAL POINT 02

Same procedure, different design

Even with the same equipment and medication, results vary depending on who receives the treatment and how it is applied
. This is because skin type, thickness, and degree of sagging differ from person to person. A higher number of shots or larger dosage does not necessarily mean better results.
A different design leads to different outcomes.

A specialist examines the patient's skin condition and designs a customized treatment

HEAL POINT 03

We read your skin first

We recommend only what your skin truly needs at this moment.

3D Skin Analysis

We analyze your current skin condition, including elasticity, sagging, and texture.
Specialist Consultation

A dermatologist directly examines your skin and plans the treatment direction.
Customized Design

We determine the necessary treatments, areas, and dosages.
Pain Management

We prepare measures to reduce discomfort before the procedure.
Performed by a Specialist

The procedure is performed precisely while monitoring your skin's response.
Follow-up Appointment

We consistently manage changes in your skin.

HEAL POINT 04

Both consultation and treatment are performed by board-certified dermatologists

Only 2% of doctors in South Korea are board-certified dermatologists. All procedures at Heal House are performed by a dermatologist with over 1,000 cases of experience. The design, the procedure, and the responsibility all lie with the specialist you meet in the consultation room.

HEALHOUSE’S Thermage® FLX

Heal House
Thermage® FLX treatment branches

Heal House's Promise

While everyone chases the same standard of beauty,
Heal House studies your most radiant, authentic moments.

Design tailored to your facial structure

We consider the balance of your facial features and bone structure to find
the most natural line that suits your face.
Treatments we would recommend to our own family

A dermatologist with over 10 years of experience prioritizes the safest methods and performs each procedure with care.
Beauty that is most true to you

Rather than artificial change, we help you get closer to the moment when your skin was at its most radiant.

References

Columns

From equipment to post-treatment care,
columns written directly by our dermatologists

OTHERS

An insurance policy against aging Thermage® FLX

What is Thermage® FLX?

How Thermage® FLX works

What results can Thermage® FLX provide?

Device Specifications

The key isn't the number of shots, but energy planned for each area

3 standard Thermage® FLX programs to help prevent aging

THERMAGE BASIC

THERMAGE CORE

THERMAGE RESERVE

The key is not the number of shots, but energy tailored to each area

3 ways to help prevent aging Thermage® FLX Standard Programs

THERMAGE BASIC BASIC

THERMAGE CORE CORE

THERMAGE RESERVE RESERVE

Thermage® FLX is recommended for those who

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Common Symptoms

Rare Symptoms

If Symptoms Persist

Thermage® FLX: Frequently asked questions

01 How painful is Thermage® FLX, and is anesthesia necessary?

02 When and how do Thermage® FLX results appear?

03 Can side effects like swelling, bruising, or a burning sensation occur after Thermage® FLX?

04 How long do Thermage® FLX results last? Why is it said to be 'once a year'?

05 Is a single Thermage® FLX treatment effective, or do I need multiple sessions?

06 Who is Thermage® FLX recommended for?

Post-Treatment Care

What is the difference between Ultherapy PRIME® and Thermage® FLX?

Treatments that pair well with Thermage® FLX

Genuine products × Accurate shots × Exact dosage

Same procedure, different design

We read your skin first

3D Skin Analysis

Specialist Consultation

Customized Design

Pain Management

Performed by a Specialist

Follow-up Appointment

Both consultation and treatment are performed by board-certified dermatologists

Gangnam Branch

Suwon Branch

Pangyo Branch

Konkuk University Branch

Daegu Branch

Design tailored to your facial structure

Treatments we would recommend to our own family

Beauty that is most true to you

References

From equipment to post-treatment care, columns written directly by our dermatologists

Genuine products Accurate shots Exact dosage

From equipment to post-treatment care,
columns written directly by our dermatologists