When seeking lifting consultations, you will often hear both "ONDA" and "InMode" mentioned together, with questions like, "How is ONDA compared to InMode?" Although they are both grouped under the same non-invasive lifting category, they operate with completely different types of energy, making them suitable for very different skin types and concerns.

To get straight to the point, ONDA is a deep-acting treatment that heats down to the dermis and subcutaneous fat layers all at once using 2.45GHz microwaves. On the other hand, InMode is a surface-enhancing treatment that uses RF (radiofrequency) to heat the center of the dermis, while also refining pores and skin texture. Rather than competing with each other, they are simply different options depending on which layer of your skin you want to address first.

> This content is a compilation of treatment information provided by Beautystone Clinic.

ONDA vs. InMode — They start with different types of energy

ONDA is a treatment that simultaneously delivers 2.45GHz microwaves to the dermis*: the second layer of skin right beneath the epidermis, where collagen and elastin are concentrated. and subcutaneous fat. It stimulates collagen contraction and the generation of new collagen through that heat. Its key feature is that it concentrates energy in the deeper layers while protecting the epidermis with cooling technology. In actual clinical studies, it has been reported that microwave devices work on the dermis and subcutaneous fibrous collagen to induce contraction of superficial collagen fibers, improving double chin sagging scores from an average of 3.6 to 2.3 at the 12-week mark.

InMode is an RF*: Radiofrequency. An energy method that generates heat by utilizing the resistance of skin tissue. family device that heats the dermis* through bipolar/unipolar RF* handpieces (such as Forma and Morpheus8). Because it stimulates collagen while refining pores, texture, and superficial sagging, it shares a similar approach with other RF devices like Thermage and Oligio.

To summarize the key differences in two lines:

• ONDA — Microwaves, heating deep layers (fat and lower dermis) all at once

• InMode — RF, heating the center of the dermis + refining pores and skin texture

Though they are grouped under the same "non-invasive lifting" category, their different types of energy mean they suit different skin profiles.

Where ONDA Shines — Deep Sagging and Volume Loss

Since microwaves reach down to the lower dermis and fat layers simultaneously, ONDA naturally suits those with the following concerns:

• Those with prominent deep-layer sagging, such as under the chin, double chin, or sagging cheeks

• Those whose facial contours have lost definition due to post-diet sagging or body changes

• Those who want to target deep layers all at once in a single treatment session

• Those in their 40s and beyond, whose collagen levels are starting to thin out

• Those whose primary concern is sagging itself, rather than surface texture or pores

In particular, if you have both submental fat and sagging, ONDA—which concentrates heat in the deeper layers—tends to be more effective at defining your jawline than surface RF treatments. However, because the results are not immediate, they develop gradually over 4 to 12 weeks. It is generally recommended to evaluate the outcomes at the 8 to 12-week mark.

Treatments are usually performed as a single session or as a package of 2 to 3 sessions. It is safest to consult with a medical professional to determine the number of sessions and intervals based on your starting skin condition.

Where InMode Shines — Surface Texture, Pores, and Superficial Sagging

Since InMode RF focuses on heating the center of the dermis, it is naturally a great match for the following concerns:

• Those concerned with both surface texture and pores

• Those with noticeable superficial sagging around the cheekbones, front cheeks, or forehead

• Those in their early-to-mid 30s to early 40s, who still have relatively thick collagen

• Those who want a treatment with minimal downtime

• Those who want to refine multiple layers of their skin in one treatment by combining different handpieces (such as Forma and Morpheus8)

InMode belongs to the non-invasive RF lifting category. According to clinical data, general non-invasive RF treatments show the most defined results at the 6-month mark due to natural collagen production. InMode also follows a pattern of showing some immediate changes, with cumulative results visible 4 to 6 weeks later.

However, because its focus is on heating the superficial layers, if your sole concern is deep-layer sagging like under-chin fat or a double chin, ONDA would be a better fit. InMode is a natural choice for those dealing with both surface texture and mild sagging.

Combining Both Treatments — A Complementary Synergy

Because ONDA and InMode target different depths of the skin, they can be combined complementarily if you have concerns with both deep sagging and surface texture. However, receiving both on the exact same day is generally not recommended. The standard practice is to allow one treatment area to fully recover before using the other as a reinforcing treatment.

The order of the combination is decided based on whether your primary concern is deep-layer sagging or surface texture. It is safest to have a medical professional assess your skin thickness, fat layers, and surface texture to determine the proper order and interval. Since both are non-invasive procedures, there is no significant downtime, but giving your skin a recovery period ultimately helps stabilize the results.

Which Treatment is Right for You?

Even though both are non-invasive lifting options, your choice should depend on your specific skin concerns. Use these signs to help guide your decision:

ONDA is a more natural choice if:

• Your primary concern is deep-layer sagging, such as under-chin fat, a double chin, or sagging cheeks

• Your facial contours have lost definition after weight loss

• You care more about sagging itself than surface texture or pores

• You are in your 40s or beyond, and your skin's collagen has begun to thin

InMode is a more natural choice if:

• You are concerned with pores, surface texture, and superficial sagging together

• You want to improve your skin tone and surface texture at the same time

• You are in your early-to-mid 30s to early 40s, and your collagen is still relatively thick

• Your main concern is sagging around the cheekbones, cheeks, or forehead

Cases that require prior consultation with a medical professional:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• If you have a pacemaker or implanted medical device (generally contraindicated for RF and microwave treatments)

• If you have active inflammation, acne, or herpes in the treatment area

• If you are prone to keloid scarring

• If you have had other deep invasive procedures in the last 3 months

• If you are taking photosensitizing medications

This choice naturally depends on whether your main concern lies in the deep layers or the surface of your skin. Rather than deciding based on a price comparison alone, it is ultimately much safer and more reliable to assess your skin thickness, fat layer, and surface texture together with your medical provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which treatment has longer-lasting results?

A. It varies from person to person, but generally, ONDA keeps the skin looking lifted for about 6 to 12 months due to deep collagen accumulation. InMode results typically last about 4 to 9 months as it focuses on heating the dermis. However, individual results vary greatly depending on your skin's natural collagen regeneration capacity, daily sun care, and weight fluctuations. Since results become more stable with multiple sessions, it is best to re-evaluate at the 6 to 12-month mark rather than comparing after just a single session.

Q. Which treatment is less painful?

A. Both treatments utilize topical topical anesthetics or cooling systems. However, InMode targets the center of the dermis, often causing a stinging sensation, while ONDA heats the deeper layers, resulting in a deep, heavy warmth. Pain tolerance varies from person to person, so if you are highly sensitive to pain, please let us know during your consultation, and we can adjust the energy levels to make the experience more comfortable for you.

Q. This is my first time getting either treatment. Which should I start with?

A. Your starting point naturally depends on whether your primary concern is deep sagging or surface texture. If under-chin sagging or a double chin is your main worry, it is common to start with ONDA. If pores, texture, and superficial sagging are your main concerns, beginning with InMode is recommended. If it is your first time, it is safest to evaluate the results of a single treatment and decide on the next step (adding more sessions or combining with another treatment) at the 8 to 12-week mark. Please decide after assessing your skin thickness and fat layers with a medical professional.

This article is for general informational purposes. Please consult with a medical professional to determine your suitability, session count, and potential treatment combinations.

Further Reading

• Why are the reviews for Potenza RF so different even though it's the same device?

• How does Oligio X deliver its lifting effects?

• ONDA Lifting: The signs that tell you whether to go for 1 session or a 3-session package

• Post-treatment care: The 72-hour golden window to double the effects of Oligio X