Thermage FLX
Radiofrequency tightening, planned shot by shot
Thermage FLX heats the dermis with monopolar radiofrequency while the surface is cooled, prompting collagen to contract and then rebuild. It is the option we reach for when skin has lost firmness rather than volume.
※ The final plan and cost are confirmed by your physician after an in-person examination at the clinic. Results and recovery vary by individual.
What the device actually does
A monopolar radiofrequency current passes through the skin. The surface is cooled at the same moment the current fires, so the epidermis stays protected while heat concentrates in the dermis below.
That heat does two separate things. Existing collagen fibres contract immediately, which is why the outline of the face looks tighter on the day. Over the following months the same heat signals fibroblasts to lay down new collagen — the slower half of the result, and the reason a single session keeps developing.
How the result builds
- 01Energy reaches the dermal layerRadiofrequency is delivered to the depth where laxity begins, not to the surface.
- 02Collagen fibres contractExisting fibres shorten under controlled heat, producing the immediate tightening.
- 03New collagen formsFibroblast activity continues for months, gradually improving firmness and fine lines.
What to expect, and when
Response varies between individuals. The pattern below is what we describe at consultation so you know what is normal.
Third generation and fourth generation
Symphony uses the fourth-generation FLX. The difference is not marketing — the tip, the algorithm and the approval dates are all different.
| Thermage CPT (3rd gen) | Thermage FLX (4th gen) | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Comfort Pulse Technology | AccuREP — energy re-calculated per shot |
| Session length | Around 1 hour | Shorter for the same area |
| Tip | Standard tip | Larger tip, fewer passes over the same area |
| Comfort | Some discomfort reported | Vibration-assisted delivery reduces discomfort |
| Approval | FDA 2009 · KFDA 2011 | FDA 2017 · KFDA 2018 |
Where we treat differently
The same device does not produce the same result in different hands. These are the parts we control.
Comfort during the session
Discomfort is the most common reason people postpone radiofrequency. We offer three levels and discuss which is appropriate.
Questions we are asked most
Can I fly home the same day?
Yes. There is no wound and no dressing. Mild warmth or redness usually settles within a few hours, so same-day or next-day travel is normally fine.
How is this different from Ultherapy?
They work at different depths. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound aimed at the SMAS layer for lift; Thermage uses radiofrequency across the dermis for tightening and skin texture. Many patients are advised to combine them rather than choose.
How many shots will I need?
This is decided at consultation based on face size, degree of laxity and the areas you want prioritised. We tell you the planned count before we begin and the actual count afterwards.
Does it hurt?
The FLX generation delivers energy with vibration, which reduces the sharpness of the sensation compared with earlier models. Most patients are comfortable with topical cream alone; sedation is available if you would prefer it.
When can I have it again?
Usually 6 to 12 months later. Because new collagen keeps forming for months, repeating too early does not add benefit.
※ Thermage FLX is a tightening treatment; it does not remove excess skin. Results, sensation and recovery vary by individual, and no outcome is guaranteed. The suitability of this treatment and the plan are confirmed by your physician at consultation.
What we look at before anything is switched on
You have read this far. Start with one photo.
Free, one-on-one, and nothing is decided until you see the plan in person.
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