Ultherapy vs INMODE: Lifting vs Remodeling Differences

When people talk about non-surgical face rejuvenation in Korea (or elsewhere), two popular options often come up: Ultherapy (focused ultrasound lifting) and INMODE (radiofrequency-based skin remodeling and tightening). While both aim to make skin look younger and firmer, they address very different layers and causes of aging — so results, downtime, and ideal clients differ substantially.

This guide walks you through how each works and when to pick one over the other — lifting vs remodeling.

What They Are & How They Work

Ultherapy — Deep Lifting via Ultrasound

• Uses focused ultrasound energy to target deep tissue layers under the skin, especially the SMAS layer — the same layer addressed by surgical facelifts.
• Ultrasound pulses create controlled micro-thermal injury zones in deep tissue → triggers collagen contraction and regeneration, causing tissue lift over time.
• Because it works at a deep structural level, Ultherapy is considered a “non-surgical facelift” tool.

INMODE — Skin Remodeling via Radiofrequency (RF)

• INMODE is a radiofrequency-based device system designed to remodel skin texture and quality, tighten dermis/subdermis, and stimulate collagen/elastin production.
• RF heats the dermal layers to promote remodeling — improving skin laxity, elasticity, fine lines, and surface texture rather than repositioning deep tissue.
• INMODE and similar RF devices are often used for face, neck, and body skin tightening and rejuvenation rather than structural lift.

What Each Does Best: Effects & Ideal Use Cases

Ultherapy — Best For Lifting & Structural Improvement

• Lifts sagging cheeks, jawline, lower face, and neck
• Defines jawline and restores facial contours
• Effective for moderate facial sagging or early jowls
• Results build over months as collagen remodels, offering a subtle but noticeable “non-surgical facelift”

Best For: People with sagging or drooping tissue, early jowls, soft jawline, or those wanting structural re-lift without surgery.

INMODE — Best For Skin Quality, Tightening & Remodeling

• Improves skin elasticity and firmness
• Smooths fine wrinkles and surface crepey skin
• Enhances skin texture, pore size, and overall skin glow
• Good for early signs of aging: mild laxity, loss of elasticity, dull or thin skin

Best For: People whose major concern is skin quality — wrinkles, loose texture, fine lines — not major sagging or volume loss.

When You Should Use Which — or Both

Choose Ultherapy If:

• Your primary issue is sagging skin, jowls, loss of contour
• You want a lift and reshaping effect, especially around jawline or chin
• Skin still retains enough elasticity and volume

Choose INMODE If:

• You have loose or thinning skin, fine wrinkles, poor texture, or crepey skin
• Sagging is minimal; you mainly want skin firming and rejuvenation
• You prefer a gentle treatment with minimal downtime

Consider Combining Both (Lift + Remodel):

Many clinics recommend combining Ultherapy + INMODE (or RF-based treatments) — Ultherapy provides deep lift, while INMODE remodels surface skin quality. This layered treatment often gives the most balanced and natural-looking results.

Expected Results & Timeline

Ultherapy

• Results develop slowly over 2–3 months as collagen rebuilds and tissue tightens
• Lift and contour improvements can last 9–18 months depending on age, skin condition, and maintenance

INMODE (RF Remodeling)

• Some tightening and firmness visible soon after treatment
• Skin texture, elasticity, and fine-line improvement accumulate over several weeks to months
• Maintenance treatments every 6–12 months recommended

Risks & Side Effects — What to Know

Ultherapy

• Mild to moderate discomfort during procedure (tightening or prickling sensation)
• Temporary redness or swelling
• Not ideal for overly thin skin or extremely lax, heavy tissue

INMODE (RF)

• Slight warmth or tingling during treatment
• Mild redness or temporary flush
• Generally safe for most skin types and minimal downtime

Which Is “Better”? — Depends on What You Want to Achieve

• For deep lift and reshaped contour → Ultherapy
• For smoother, firmer skin and fine-line reduction → INMODE (RF Remodeling)
• For a balanced anti-aging result (lift + skin quality) → Combine both

The “better” choice isn’t universal — it depends on your skin condition, aging signs, and cosmetic goals.