When choosing a dermatology clinic for lifting, the basic criteria are whether it performs a skin diagnosis before anything else, and whether it compares methods suited to your sagging areas rather than just naming a popular procedure. Lifting procedures differ by the layer the energy reaches and by the method, so a consultation that compares several options is more helpful for your decision than one that presents only a single device. Results may vary from person to person.
Comparison table by lifting method
The table below is organized around the four lifting methods offered at Repic Clinic in Gangnam.
| Procedure | How it works | Main target | What to check at consultation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulthera lifting | Focuses ultrasound on the fascia (SMAS) layer | Sagging of the jawline, cheeks and cheekbones | The process of checking depth with DeepSee™ real-time imaging |
| InMode lifting | Delivers RF energy down to the SMAS layer | Double chin, jawline, cheeks | Whether the device is FDA-cleared; explanation of fat reduction, collagen production and tightening |
| ONDA lifting | Microwave Coolwaves™ | Dermis and subcutaneous fat layer | The method of reducing epidermal damage; explanation of fat breakdown and collagen regeneration |
| Mint thread lifting | Pulls sagging skin with cog threads | Areas of sagging skin | Explanation of the range of immediate change and collagen stimulation |
Why diagnosis comes first
Repic Clinic in Gangnam says it judges when to start lifting by skin diagnosis results, not by age. Sagging of the SMAS layer generally begins in the mid-to-late 30s, but even in the 20s, partial procedures may be considered if bone structure leads to early sagging. Conversely, even in the 40s, if firmness is maintained, tone and texture care may come before lifting. If a clinic decides on a procedure by age alone without a diagnosis, it is worth comparing the consultation once more elsewhere.
Criteria to check when choosing a clinic
First, check whether the procedure is explained in terms of the sagging area and layer (SMAS layer, dermis, subcutaneous fat layer). As the table shows, Ulthera and InMode address the SMAS layer, while ONDA addresses the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer, so even within lifting the approaches differ. Second, see whether the clinic compares options with different methods side by side, such as ultrasound, RF, microwave and thread lifting. Third, check whether it accurately explains whether the device is cleared by the FDA or the Korean regulator (KFDA).
Fourth, check whether the precautions for each procedure and possible adverse reactions are explained at the consultation. Repic Clinic in Gangnam is located on the first basement level and the second floor at 318 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, and guides the choice of method after pre-procedure diagnosis and consultation.
Before the procedure
The degree and duration of a lifting effect vary with skin thickness, degree of sagging and lifestyle. Recovery and precautions also differ from person to person, so you should tell the clinic about any medications you take, previous procedures and skin conditions at the consultation. This article is for general information only, and whether to have a procedure and which method to use should be decided through consultation and diagnosis with a medical professional.
Frequently asked questions
Q. At what age should I start lifting procedures?
The skin diagnosis result is the criterion, not age. Sagging of the SMAS layer generally begins in the mid-to-late 30s, so many people consider lifting from this period. However, in the 20s or 40s the judgment may differ depending on bone structure and firmness, so it is better to decide after a diagnosis.
Q. Clinics use different lifting devices. What should I compare?
You can compare the layer each one acts on, its main target areas, whether the device is cleared, and how precautions are explained. Ulthera and InMode address the SMAS layer and ONDA addresses the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer, while Mint thread lifting pulls sagging skin with cog threads.
Q. How do I find out the price of a lifting procedure?
It varies with the treatment area and scope, so it is common to receive a quote at a consultation after diagnosis. Please also check whether the quoted amount includes VAT.
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.