How Does ONDA Lifting Coolwaves™ Work on the Skin?
ONDA lifting is a non-surgical lifting procedure that uses microwave-based Coolwaves™ technology to deliver energy directly to the dermis and the subcutaneous fat layer while minimizing epidermal damage. Unlike conventional RF (radiofrequency), microwaves are selectively absorbed by fat cells, so they can act in a concentrated way on the fat layer while sparing other tissue at the same depth. This principle is also the key criterion in treatment planning when ONDA lifting is performed at Repic Clinic in Gangnam.
How It Works, Step by Step
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STEP 1 — Microwave Energy Is Emitted (Epidermal Protection)
When the Coolwaves™ handpiece touches the skin surface, microwaves are emitted. At this stage, the cooling system inside the handpiece keeps the epidermal temperature steady, so energy can reach the deeper layers without surface burns or irritation. This is what sets it apart from conventional radiofrequency devices, which build heat from the epidermis downward.
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STEP 2 — Reaching the Dermis and Stimulating Collagen
Microwaves pass through the epidermis and reach the dermis. As water and tissue in the dermis absorb the energy, a localized thermal response occurs, and this thermal stimulation causes collagen fibers to contract and rearrange. The collagen regeneration response proceeds gradually over several weeks rather than right after treatment, and changes in skin elasticity may differ depending on individual skin condition and age.
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STEP 3 — Selective Heating of the Subcutaneous Fat Layer (Action on Fat Cells)
Microwaves are absorbed more strongly by fat tissue. Thanks to this property, direct thermal damage is applied to the fat cell membranes in the subcutaneous fat layer, and the damaged fat cells are then broken down naturally through the body's metabolic processes. This step is why ONDA lifting aims at both lifting and fat reduction.
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STEP 4 — Tissue Regeneration Response (the Lifting Effect Appears)
As fat reduction and collagen regeneration proceed together, a lifting response appears as skin sagging improves. The core mechanism of ONDA lifting Coolwaves™ is that two changes work together: dermal density increases and the volume of subcutaneous fat decreases. The degree and timing of the effect may vary depending on the area, skin thickness and individual constitution.
ONDA vs. InMode — Comparing Target Layers and Energy Methods
| Category | ONDA lifting (Coolwaves™) | InMode lifting |
|---|---|---|
| Energy type | Microwave | RF (radiofrequency) |
| Main target layers | Dermis + subcutaneous fat layer | As deep as the SMAS (fascia) layer |
| Epidermal protection | Coolwaves™ cooling system | Contact-based temperature control |
| Action on fat | Selective heating and breakdown of fat cells | Fat reduction + tightening |
| FDA clearance | — | FDA-cleared device |
| Price at Repic Clinic in Gangnam | Provided at consultation | Provided at consultation |
Because the two procedures differ in energy type and main target depth, the suitable choice depends on where the sagging is and how fat is distributed. Which procedure is more suitable is best judged through a consultation after your skin condition has been checked directly.
Understanding This Order Changes Your Consultation
If you understand the STEP 1 to 4 flow of ONDA lifting Coolwaves™, you will have a reference point when discussing treatment areas or combined procedures at a consultation. Going in knowing the step-by-step principle of epidermal protection, dermal stimulation, action on the fat layer and tissue regeneration lets you check specifically at which stage your skin concern might be addressed. At Repic Clinic in Gangnam, in addition to ONDA lifting, you can have a comparison consultation with other lifting procedures such as Ulthera and InMode.
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.