SEOLREIM · JOURNAL
InMode lifting: differences between FX and Forma — should facial fat and firmness be treated alike?
Full translation of the Korean article. Translation checked for completeness, numerical consistency and medical meaning; separate medical review of this translation is pending. Translation updated: 2026-10-28.
InMode lifting is not one uniform procedure: the approach to subcutaneous tissue and skin firmness differs with the handpiece and mode. Treating fatty facial areas and thin, hollow areas at the same intensity risks cheek hollowing or unnecessary irritation, so distinguish the goals of FX and Forma and assess facial structure first.
Key comparison of FX and Forma
| Category | Main goal | Typical recovery and precautions |
|---|---|---|
| FX family | Targets subcutaneous tissue and contours through suction, radiofrequency and related methods | Bruising, tenderness and swelling; caution about excessive fat reduction |
| Forma family | Targets dermal firmness while managing skin surface temperature | Caution about heat, erythema and possible burns |
| Shared features | Induces thermal tissue responses according to energy and contact method | Settings must suit the area, skin thickness and fat volume |
How the procedure works
Radiofrequency generates heat through tissue electrical resistance, affecting collagen structure and healing responses. The device name alone does not determine treatment depth or effects. Handpiece, output, contact, suction, pass count, skin cooling and temperature management are important for safety.
Potential benefits and limitations
The lower face and jawline may look more defined or the skin firmer. However, the procedure does not surgically correct substantial excess skin, deep sagging or asymmetry caused by bone structure and muscles. Excessive subcutaneous fat reduction in a face with little fat may instead make it look older.
Who may be a candidate
Adults with localized fat and mild loss of firmness, or those seeking a short recovery without incisions, may seek consultation. A very thin face, pronounced cheek hollowing, reduced sensation, infection in the area, metal or electronic implants, and nerve or vascular disease require separate assessment.
Procedure and expected recovery period
During consultation, the physician checks fat distribution from front and side views, skin thickness, sagging direction and asymmetry before choosing modes and areas to exclude. Heat and redness from Forma treatments may last several hours to 1–2 days; suction marks, bruising and tenderness from FX treatments may last several days to 1–2 weeks. Variation is substantial, so allow time before photos or events.
Side effects, contraindications and warning signs
Redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness and temporary sensory changes may occur; rarely, burns, blisters, pigment changes, asymmetry or cheek hollowing can develop. Tell the medical provider immediately about intolerable heat or sharp pain during treatment, or blisters or skin color changes afterward. Adjust timing for pregnancy, breastfeeding and active infection.
Differences from Ultherapy, Thermage and Oligio
| Procedure group | Energy and main tissue layer | Key consultation points |
|---|---|---|
| InMode procedures by mode | Radiofrequency, targeting subcutaneous tissue or skin depending on suction and electrode configuration | Check facial fat volume and handpiece |
| Thermage and Oligio | Primarily monopolar radiofrequency | Check skin thickness, heat delivery and treatment-shot planning |
| Ultherapy and Shurink | Focused ultrasound | Check target depth and anatomy around nerves and bone |
| Thread lifting | Mechanical support using threads | Check invasiveness, bruising, infection and thread-related adverse effects |
Medical Q&A
Q. Must there be bruising for the treatment to work?
A. Bruising is not an efficacy indicator. It is a recovery response that can occur depending on suction and vascular fragility.
Q. Must I have FX even with little facial fat?
A. No. When fat is limited or hollowing is prominent, excluding areas or choosing another mode may be more appropriate.
Q. Can I have another lifting treatment on the same day?
A. Order and intervals must reflect skin condition and target layers; routinely combining everything is not always advantageous.
References
For histological and clinical evidence of nonincisional radiofrequency skin tightening, we referred to a PubMed study (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21315951/) and the full text on NIH (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6541915/). Check the individual device and handpiece’s approved scope, contraindications and output in that product’s Korean instructions for use.
SEOLREIM’s principle of consultation directly with the physician
SEOLREIM Clinic does not apply InMode in the same way across the entire face. The physician personally distinguishes areas needing fat from those where it may be reduced, skin firmness and asymmetry, and conducts consultation and treatment. The plan compares Ultherapy Prime, Thermage FLX, Oligio and Benjamin Lifting under the principles of genuine products, correct quantities and attentive care.
Information for international visitors
Clients searching for radiofrequency lifting in Korea or Gangnam dermatology should check the exact device and handpiece, expected bruising and contact arrangements for adverse reactions after returning home. Overseas visitors searching for dermatology care in Korea or Seoul and comparing clinics in Gangnam or near Gangnam Station should check clinicians, interpretation scope, products used and contact arrangements after returning home together. SEOLREIM Clinic is on floor 11 of Gangnam8258 Building, approximately 1 minute from Exit 3 of Gangnam Station. Prepare your passport, allergy and medication details, recent procedure records and return schedule; confirm consultation languages and interpretation scope before booking. During a short trip, same-day treatment may be unavailable depending on the examination.
Author, reviewer, publication date and update date
Written by: SEOLREIM Content Editor / Medical professional review: completed / Review confirmed: 2026-10-23 / Published: 2026-09-23 / Updated: 2026-10-27. General medical information; not a substitute for individual diagnosis or a treatment prescription.
SEOLREIM · GANGNAM, SEOUL
Discuss Skin Treatments in Seoul with Seolreim Clinic.
Seolreim Clinic provides doctor-led consultation and treatment, following its principles of genuine products, accurate quantities and attentive care.
Tell us your treatment interests, skin concerns, dates in Korea and preferred consultation language. Confirm treatment suitability, recovery plans and language support before booking.