Thermage (써마지, sseomaji) is a brand of radiofrequency device used for skin tightening and wrinkle treatment. It is often compared with Ulthera, but it works differently: it uses radiofrequency energy that heats the skin from the surface rather than focused ultrasound. This guide covers what the manufacturer lists, how to ask good questions, and what to watch after treatment.
At a glance
| Details | |
|---|---|
| What it is | A monopolar radiofrequency device. Energy is delivered through a handpiece tip pressed on the skin. |
| Korean name to say | 써마지 (sseomaji) |
| How clinics usually quote it | Often by the number of shots and the area (face, eyes, body). Ask what the quoted number includes. |
| Who does it | A doctor or a trained staff member under a doctor. Ask who will treat you. |
| Typical after-effects | Mild redness and swelling are common according to the manufacturer. Ask what to expect on your own skin. |
What the manufacturer lists
According to the manufacturer’s important safety information, the radiofrequency-only components are indicated for dermatologic and general surgical procedures involving electrocoagulation and hemostasis, and for the non-invasive treatment of wrinkles, including wrinkles around the eyes and the upper and lower eyelids. Versions that combine radiofrequency with skin vibration list further indications, including a temporary improvement in the appearance of cellulite.
Who should not have it, and who needs extra care
- Do not use if you have a cardiac pacemaker, cardioverter, defibrillator or any other electrical implant. This is the one contraindication the manufacturer lists.
- The manufacturer says use has not been studied over skin fillers in the lips, cheeks, facial wrinkles or folds, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in people with diabetes, autoimmune disease such as lupus, cold sores, genital herpes or epilepsy, over permanent make-up or tattoos, or in children. Tell the clinic if any of these apply.
Side effects the manufacturer lists
- Common during treatment: mild to moderate pain.
- Common after treatment: mild redness, typically gone within 24 hours, and swelling, typically within 5 days but sometimes lasting several weeks.
- Infrequent: burns, blisters and scabs with a possibility of scarring; skin surface irregularities that may appear a month or more after treatment; numbness, tingling or temporary paralysis; lumps or nodules, mainly in the neck; and skin darkening that usually fades over several months.
Questions to ask the clinic
- Is this a genuine Thermage device? Ask for the model name, and whether the tip is a new, single-use tip for each patient.
- How many shots are you quoting, for which areas, and at what price? Put it on the itemised estimate.
- I have had filler or botulinum toxin. Does that change the plan?
- How will pain be managed, and what energy level will you use?
- What are the signs I should call you about?
- Do I need repeat sessions, and what is the cost?
Warning signs after treatment
- Blisters, open skin or a burn-like mark.
- Increasing pain, spreading redness or fever.
- Numbness or weakness that does not settle.
Contact the clinic and read what to do if a skin treatment goes wrong.
Useful Korean words
| Korean | Romanised | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 써마지 | sseomaji | Thermage |
| 고주파 | gojupa | Radiofrequency |
| 탄력 | tanryeok | Skin firmness or elasticity |
| 샷 | syat | Shot |
| 화상 | hwasang | Burn |
| 물집 | muljip | Blister |
| 붓기 | butgi | Swelling |
| 부작용 | bujagyong | Side effects |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Thermage and Ulthera?
Thermage uses radiofrequency to heat the skin. Ulthera uses focused ultrasound. They are different technologies with different listed uses, so ask the doctor which suits your concern.
Can I have it with filler or botulinum toxin?
The manufacturer says use over fillers has not been studied. Tell the doctor about any injections you have had, and let the doctor decide on timing.
General information, not medical advice. Devices, products and rules change; confirm details with a licensed doctor. Before you book, check the clinic on our map, build a visit card to show the doctor, and read how to read a Korean clinic estimate. See the About page for our sources and corrections policy.