Ultherapy vs ONDA — Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

Sagging or fullness?

A heavy lower face and a blurred jawline look similar in a photograph, but they come from different causes. In some people, the support structures have loosened and tissue has slid downward, forming jowls. In others, the support is reasonably intact but there is more subcutaneous fat along the jaw and under the chin, which softens the outline. Many people have a mixture.

This distinction matters because Ultherapy and ONDA work on different layers. Treating fat when the true problem is descent can leave the face looking deflated yet still saggy; tightening the SMAS when the problem is fat volume may bring only a modest change. Dr. Byun Jeik's first task is therefore diagnostic: palpation, observation in different positions and, where useful, Mark-View 3D analysis.

How each works

Ultherapy Prime

Real-time imaging lets the operator see the tissue before placing lines of micro-focused ultrasound at the depth of the SMAS and dermis. The heat contracts tissue and stimulates collagen over the following months. Dr. Byun was the Ultherapy Transducers winner at the 2024 Merz Golden Record Award, and he plans lines along the vectors of descent.

ONDA

ONDA delivers microwave energy that is absorbed mainly in the fat layer, which is why it is used for localised fullness on the face and for body contouring. Because heating also affects the fibrous network around fat, a degree of tightening often accompanies the reduction in fullness. Results typically develop gradually over weeks.

Side-by-side comparison

When Doje combines them

In the Jawline Program, the core is a lower-face thread lift and, where needed, double-chin liposuction; Ultherapy Prime and ONDA are options added only where they serve a defined purpose. When a face shows both descent and excess fat, ONDA can reduce fullness while Ultherapy tightens the support layer. When the face is lean, ONDA is usually not appropriate at all, because removing fat from a face that is already losing volume can age it. That is the kind of judgement that sits behind Doje's refusal to apply devices as a package.

Which should you choose?

• Ultherapy — jowls and laxity with normal or low fat.
• ONDA — fullness along the jaw or under the chin with reasonably good support.
• Both — a heavy lower face where assessment confirms descent and excess fat.
• Liposuction or threads instead — when fat is more pronounced or sagging is marked; see double-chin liposuction vs ONDA.

Recovery and aftercare

Most people return to work the same or next day. Mild swelling and tenderness can occur, especially after ONDA. Avoid saunas and intense heat for a few days and follow your written aftercare.

Cost

Fees are quoted after a 1:1 consultation because area, energy and any combination depend on your assessment. Ask for a written quote; Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan.

Frequently asked questions

Does ONDA lift the face like Ultherapy?

ONDA mainly reduces fullness in the fat layer with some tightening; Ultherapy targets the deeper support layer. They solve different problems.

Which is better for a double chin?

If the double chin is mainly fat, ONDA or liposuction is usually more relevant. If it is mainly laxity, Ultherapy or threads may be considered.

Can ONDA make my face look gaunt?

It can if used on a face that is already lean, which is why Doje assesses fat and volume before recommending it.

Can Ultherapy and ONDA be combined?

Yes, when assessment shows both descent and excess fat. Doje adds each only where it has a clear purpose.

How long until results show?

Both develop gradually, typically over weeks to a few months, and results vary between individuals.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Ultherapy Prime
• ONDA lifting
• Heavy lower face
• Undefined jawline
• Double chin
• ONDA vs Thermage

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.