ONDA uses microwave energy rather than ultrasound or radiofrequency to target lower-face fullness and loose skin. This guide explains the technology, who it suits and how to plan it during a trip to Seoul.
ONDA Lifting uses Coolwaves microwave technology from DEKA to heat fat and the deeper layers of the skin while a cooled handpiece protects the surface. It is mainly used for lower-face fullness, a heavy jawline, under-chin fat and loose skin, as well as small body areas. Downtime is usually none to mild swelling, and results build over four to eight weeks, with many people choosing two or three sessions. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong in Seoul, ONDA starts from ₩199,000 for 30,000 J and ₩349,000 for a 60,000 J lower-face plan (KRW, excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is ONDA Lifting?
ONDA is an energy-based device made by DEKA, an Italian medical laser company. Instead of ultrasound or radiofrequency, it uses a patented microwave technology called Coolwaves. In Korea, ONDA has become popular for contouring the lower face — softening a heavy jawline, reducing under-chin fullness and firming skin at the same time.
Treatment is delivered with a handpiece that moves continuously over the skin while its surface is actively cooled. Energy is measured in joules (J), and plans are priced by the total energy delivered. Learn more on our ONDA Lifting treatment page.
How does microwave skin tightening work?
Microwaves heat tissue by making water molecules vibrate. ONDA's Coolwaves are tuned so that much of the energy passes through the skin and is absorbed in the fat layer and deeper connective tissue beneath it.
- Fat reduction: fat cells in the target area are heated enough to be damaged and gradually cleared by the body over the following weeks.
- Tightening: heat in the fibrous septa — the connective tissue bands within fat — and the deep dermis stimulates collagen contraction and renewal.
- Surface protection: the handpiece cools the skin surface throughout, so the epidermis is protected while heat builds deeper down.
This combination is why ONDA is often chosen when the lower face looks full or heavy rather than simply loose. If fullness is mainly from skin laxity, an ultrasound or RF device may be more suitable. Our Korean lifting treatments guide explains how each technology fits.
What can ONDA treat?
| Area or concern | How ONDA may help |
|---|---|
| Double chin | Reduces localized fat under the chin and firms skin |
| Jowls and heavy jawline | Slims fullness along the lower face for a cleaner contour |
| Lower cheeks | Softens fullness in the lower cheek area |
| Loose skin on the lower face | Supports tightening through collagen remodeling |
| Small body areas | Upper arms or small pockets on the abdomen |
See our pages on double chin and jawline and V-line treatments for all options.
ONDA vs other Korean contouring treatments
Lower-face fullness can be treated in several ways in Seoul, and each targets a slightly different cause. Knowing the difference helps you ask the right questions at consultation.
- ONDA vs fat-dissolving injections: both reduce small fat pockets. Injections are precise and inexpensive per session but often cause several days of swelling and usually need multiple sessions. ONDA treats a wider area in one pass and also supports skin tightening.
- ONDA vs InMode Mini FX: Mini FX is designed for small, precise pockets. ONDA is generally chosen for broader lower-face fullness.
- ONDA vs HIFU: ultrasound devices such as Ulthera and Shurink lift the deeper SMAS layer. They are better for sagging than for fullness, and the two are sometimes combined.
- ONDA vs jaw Botox: if a square jaw is caused by a large chewing muscle rather than fat, jaw Botox is usually the more effective option.
A doctor will check whether your fullness comes from fat, muscle, loose skin or bone structure before recommending a plan. Our guide to Korean lifting treatments compares the main devices in plain language.
Can ONDA be combined with other treatments?
Yes. ONDA is often paired with an ultrasound or RF lift for skin firmness, or with jaw Botox for a slimmer lower face. Combining treatments in a single trip is common, but the order and spacing matter, so your doctor will plan the sequence.
Who is a good candidate for ONDA?
Usually a good fit
- Adults with lower-face fullness or a soft, heavy jawline
- Mild to moderate under-chin fat
- Mild skin laxity alongside some fullness
- People who prefer a non-injectable option
Talk to the doctor first
- Very slim faces with little fat (risk of hollowing)
- Pacemakers, metal implants or electronic devices near the area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Significant sagging, where surgery may be more effective
- Active skin infection or recent fillers in the area
What happens on ONDA treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor assesses fat distribution and skin laxity, then agrees an energy plan in joules and a price.
- Marking. Treatment zones are marked, avoiding areas where fat loss would be unwanted.
- Treatment. The cooled handpiece glides over each zone. You feel warmth building gradually; most people find it tolerable without numbing.
- Soothing. The skin is cleaned and calmed. Mild redness usually fades within hours.
ONDA results: what to expect and when
Fat reduction and collagen remodeling both take time, so ONDA is a gradual treatment.
- Day 0: mild redness and warmth; slight swelling in treated areas.
- Days 1–7: swelling and tenderness settle. The area may feel firm or numb in places.
- Weeks 4–8: visible slimming and firming as treated fat is cleared and collagen renews.
- After a second or third session: further refinement for those who need it.
Results vary with your starting point, weight stability and the energy delivered. Read the ONDA results guide for a fuller timeline.
Is ONDA safe? Side effects and risks
ONDA is generally well tolerated when planned and delivered by trained medical staff. Common, temporary effects include redness, swelling, tenderness and a feeling of firmness under the skin for one to two weeks. Some people notice temporary numbness or tingling.
Less common risks include bruising, small firm nodules that soften over time and, rarely, burns or blisters if heat builds excessively. Overtreating a slim face can cause hollowing, which is difficult to reverse, so a conservative plan is important for first-time patients. Our guide to side effects and when to contact us explains what is normal.
Flying home? ONDA has no injections or open wounds, so most people can fly the next day. Mild swelling may linger for a few days. Read our aftercare guide for travel tips.
How much does ONDA Lifting cost in Seoul (2026)?
| Plan | Typical coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| 30,000 J | Under the chin or the jawline | ₩199,000 |
| 60,000 J | Lower face, jawline and under the chin | ₩349,000 |
| 90,000 J | Lower face with extra passes on jowls and chin | ₩490,000 |
| 150,000 J | One small body area, such as the upper arms | ₩690,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026 — see payment and tax. Full details on the ONDA price page.
When comparing quotes, check the total joules, the areas included and whether the device is genuine ONDA. Unsure between devices? Read ONDA vs InMode.
Planning ONDA around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your dates and photos through our consultation form so the doctor can suggest a plan before you arrive.
- Avoid your arrival day. Schedule treatment from day two so you are rested.
- Getting here. Dernia is in Myeongdong, a short walk from Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Expect gradual change. Your best result will usually appear after you are home, so take photos before treatment and again at six to eight weeks.
- Stay consistent. Stable weight helps maintain the result; significant weight gain can reduce it.
Frequently asked questions
Is ONDA the same as HIFU or RF?
No. ONDA uses microwave energy (Coolwaves), which is mainly absorbed in fat and deeper connective tissue. HIFU uses focused ultrasound and RF uses electrical energy.
Does ONDA Lifting hurt?
Most people feel gradually building warmth that is tolerable without numbing. The cooled handpiece keeps the surface comfortable, and energy can be adjusted.
How many ONDA sessions do I need?
Some people are happy after one session, while others choose two or three sessions a few weeks apart. Your doctor recommends a plan based on your starting point.
Can ONDA make my face look hollow?
If too much fat is reduced on a slim face, it can look hollow. A doctor-led, conservative energy plan helps avoid this.
How long do ONDA results last?
Fat cells that are cleared do not usually return, but aging and weight changes continue. Skin tightening effects gradually fade and may need maintenance.
Can I fly after ONDA?
Yes. Most people fly the next day. Mild swelling or firmness may last a few days but does not usually affect travel.
Thinking about ONDA Lifting in Seoul?
Tell us your concerns and travel dates. A doctor examines you in person, explains options in English and confirms your energy plan and price before treatment.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.