Three Years In: My Honest Assessment
I'm Dr. Lee Kwang-ryeol, and I've been running DIORE Clinic in Seoul's Gangnam district for over 15 years. When ONDA technology first arrived three years ago, I approached it like I do any new treatment—with healthy skepticism and careful observation.
Today, I want to share what I've genuinely learned, including what works, what doesn't, and where I think this technology fits in modern dermatology. This isn't a sales pitch. It's my professional assessment after thousands of treatments.
It's me!
Why I Was Initially Cautious
Honestly? I've seen too many "revolutionary" technologies come and go. In 15 years, I've watched treatments promise dramatic results only to disappoint patients and damage trust. So when the ONDA representatives first demonstrated their microwave technology, my first thought was: "What makes this different?"
The science seemed sound—2.45 GHz microwaves targeting subcutaneous fat while preserving skin surface. But science on paper and real-world results are often very different things. I needed to see it work consistently, safely, and produce results that justified the cost and time investment.
What I Actually Observe During Treatments
Let me describe what happens during a typical ONDA Lifting session at DIORE Clinic, without the marketing language:
The treatment takes about 30 minutes. Most patients describe the sensation as "warm" rather than painful. I monitor tissue response in real-time, watching for the therapeutic temperature range while ensuring surface cooling remains effective.
What I consistently see:
- Immediate mild tightening (modest, not dramatic)
- Gradual improvement over 2-3 months as collagen remodels
- Best results in patients with mild to moderate laxity
- Variable results depending on individual tissue characteristics
The technology works, but it's not magic. Results depend heavily on patient selection and realistic expectations.
Three Patient Types: Different Outcomes
Through careful observation, I've identified patterns in who responds best to ONDA Lifting:
The Prevention-Minded Patient (Late 20s to 30s)
These patients come in early, often with minimal visible aging. For them, ONDA works well as maintenance therapy. I see consistent, subtle improvements that help maintain facial definition. Results are often natural-looking because we're working with fundamentally healthy tissue.
The Moderate Concern Patient (40s to early 50s)
This group typically has realistic expectations and responds well to treatment. They understand that ONDA won't replicate surgical results but appreciate the gradual improvement without downtime. I see good outcomes here when expectations align with realistic possibilities.
The High Expectation Patient (Any age)
Patients expecting dramatic transformation often leave disappointed, regardless of actual improvement. This is where careful consultation becomes crucial. I sometimes recommend against ONDA if expectations seem unrealistic.
ONDA Lifting Machine
Where ONDA Actually Excels
After three years of use at DIORE Clinic, I can identify specific situations where ONDA consistently delivers good results:
- Double chin reduction: The technology seems particularly effective here. I've measured average reductions of 1.5-2cm in chin circumference after a full treatment course.
- Mild jowling: Patients with early jowl formation often see meaningful improvement, though not elimination.
- Skin texture: An unexpected benefit I've observed is improved skin quality—better hydration and tone, likely from increased circulation.
- Patient comfort: Truly minimal downtime. Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
Where ONDA Falls Short
Professional honesty requires acknowledging limitations:
- Severe laxity: ONDA cannot address significant skin excess. I refer these patients for surgical consultation.
- Unrealistic timeline expectations: Some patients expect dramatic results within weeks. ONDA works gradually—this is both a benefit and limitation.
- Individual variation: Response varies significantly between patients. Some see excellent results, others minimal change despite identical treatment protocols.
- Cost-effectiveness: Multiple sessions add up. Some patients achieve better value with alternative treatments.
My Approach to Treatment Planning
At DIORE Clinic, I've developed a systematic approach to ONDA consultation:
Assessment Phase:
- Detailed facial analysis
- Discussion of realistic outcomes
- Alternative treatment comparison
- Cost-benefit analysis for individual patient
Treatment Phase:
- Conservative approach initially
- Careful monitoring of tissue response
- Adjustment of parameters based on individual reaction
- Regular progress evaluation
Follow-up Phase:
- Honest assessment of results achieved
- Recommendation for additional treatments (if beneficial)
- Alternative suggestions if ONDA proves insufficient
Combination Strategies That Actually Work
I've found certain combinations enhance ONDA results, but I'm selective about recommendations:
- ONDA + HIFU: Works well when both fat reduction and deeper lifting are needed. I space these treatments appropriately to avoid over-treatment. (Especially with Thermage FLX)
- ONDA + Skin Boosters: Logical combination for patients seeking both contouring and skin quality improvement.
- ONDA + Minimal Fillers: Strategic volume replacement after fat reduction can create balanced results.
However, I don't automatically recommend combinations. Each patient's needs determine the approach.
What Patients Actually Tell Me
Real patient feedback is more valuable than testimonials:
"The results were more subtle than I expected, but people say I look rested."
"It took longer to see changes than I thought, but I'm happy with the gradual improvement."
"I wish the results were more dramatic, but I appreciate not looking 'done.'"
"The treatment was comfortable, but expensive for what I got."
This honest feedback helps me refine patient selection and manage expectations better.
My Current Perspective on ONDA
Three years in, here's my balanced assessment:
- What ONDA does well: Provides modest, natural-looking improvement with minimal risk and downtime. Works consistently for appropriate candidates with realistic expectations.
- What ONDA doesn't do: Create dramatic transformation or replace surgical options for significant aging concerns.
- Where it fits: As one tool in a comprehensive aesthetic practice, not as a universal solution.
I continue using ONDA because it fills a specific niche—patients seeking subtle improvement without surgery or significant downtime. But I'm not evangelical about it. It's simply another effective option in my treatment arsenal.
Why I Work with Creatrip
My partnership with Creatrip developed because I respect their approach to patient education. They don't oversell treatments or make unrealistic promises. When Creatrip refers patients to DIORE Clinic, they typically arrive with appropriate expectations, making consultation more productive.
Creatrip patients tend to be well-informed about treatment limitations, which leads to higher satisfaction rates. This benefits everyone—the patient gets realistic expectations, and I can focus on delivering appropriate care rather than managing unrealistic hopes.
Looking Ahead
Will I still be offering ONDA in five years? Probably, assuming continued good results and patient satisfaction. But I'll also be evaluating newer technologies as they emerge.
What I've learned is that no single treatment is perfect for everyone. My job is to help patients understand their options, make informed decisions, and achieve realistic improvements that enhance their natural features.
ONDA Lifting has earned its place in my practice, but as one option among many, not as a miracle solution.
Final Thoughts
If you're considering ONDA Lifting in Seoul, my advice is simple: come with realistic expectations, understand the limitations, and work with a practitioner who will give you honest assessments rather than sales pitches.
At DIORE Clinic, that's exactly what I aim to provide—professional expertise, honest evaluation, and appropriate treatment recommendations based on your individual needs, not marketing promises.
Contact Information:
- Creatrip Consultation: Available daily 13:00-22:00 KST
- WhatsApp: +82 10-8818-2915
- LINE: @creatrip (Be sure to add "@")
- Online Booking: DIORE Clinic via Creatrip
📍 DIORE Clinic Location: Seoul Gangnam District, 5 minutes from Gangnam Station (Line 2)
