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The Difference Between ONDA Lift and Other Treatments | Comparing HIFU and Oligio

オンダリフトと他の施術の違い|ハイフやオリジオとの違いを解説!

Sagging facial skin and a blurred facial contour are concerns that many people begin to notice with age. ONDA Lift is attracting attention as an advanced aesthetic medical technology that can effectively address these concerns.

However, aesthetic clinics offer many treatments that claim similar effects, such as InMode and Volnewmer, making it difficult for many people to decide which one to choose. While Dr. Sakata of LIVELY CLINIC also takes an interest in this treatment, those considering it may still wonder how it differs from other options.

This article provides a detailed explanation of ONDA Lift’s features and mechanism. We will also compare it with similar treatments. Use this information as a guide when choosing the treatment that is right for you.

Contents

Dr. Sakata explains the differences between ONDA Lift and other treatments in this video!

【What’s the Difference Between ONDA Lift and Other Treatments⁉️】A Thorough Explanation of the Differences from HIFU and Oligio!

What Is ONDA Lift?

What Is ONDA Lift?

ONDA Lift (ONDA PRO) is a medical body-contouring device developed by DEKA of Italy that uses a special patented microwave technology, Coolwaves®. It has attracted attention as the first medical device to apply 2.45 GHz microwaves to aesthetic medicine.

The Principle Behind ONDA Lift

The principle behind ONDA Lift is highly unique. The 2.45 GHz microwaves (Coolwaves) used in the treatment have the following characteristics.

1. Targeting different fat layers: Because the epidermis and dermis have a low absorption rate (high conductivity and low permittivity), while the fat layer has a high absorption rate (low conductivity and high permittivity), the fat layer can be selectively heated. This raises the temperature of the fat layer to 55–65°C. As the heat spreads, the dermis reaches 40–42°C, making it possible to expect both fat reduction and skin tightening.

2. Epidermal cooling system: The device also has a cooling system that protects the skin’s surface, helping to minimize the risk of burns.

3. Efficient action on triglycerides: Microwaves most efficiently vibrate the triglyceride molecules contained in fat cells. As the electromagnetic field changes their direction, heat is generated, and the cell membrane ruptures through apoptosis (cell death), reducing fat cells.

4. Promoting collagen production: Since the dermis is heated to a level comparable to that achieved with RF, increased collagen production has been confirmed pathologically.

Because of these characteristics, ONDA Lift has attracted attention as a treatment that can address both fat reduction and skin tightening at the same time.

Customized Treatment for Both the Face and Body Using Three Handpieces with Different Effects

ONDA Lift Handpieces

ONDA Lift treatment uses three handpieces with different effects. These handpieces differ according to the depth at which the microwaves (Coolwaves) are applied.

【3 mm handpiece】This handpiece primarily delivers energy to the dermal layer of the skin. It applies heat to the collagen in the dermis, promoting contraction of collagen fibers and collagen production to improve the skin’s firmness and elasticity.

【7 mm handpiece】This handpiece primarily delivers energy to the fat layer (subcutaneous tissue) of the skin. It uses heat to destroy fat cells in the fat layer and induce apoptosis (cell death). It also promotes fibroblast activation through thermal denaturation of collagen fibers, producing new collagen. Thus, the 7 mm handpiece is used to target effects involving fat reduction.

【12 mm handpiece】
This handpiece reaches the deepest fat layers of the body.It efficiently delivers energy across a wide area and is highly effective for reducing thicker fat, improving cellulite, and slimming specific areas.
It is used to treat areas with a larger amount of fat, such as the abdomen, waist, thighs, and upper arms.

At our clinic, experienced nurses provide customized treatments based on reliable knowledge and techniques. They finely adjust the type of handpiece, application method, and angle according to each person’s facial features and fat distribution.

ONDA Lift Before-and-After Photos

ONDA Lift Before-and-After Photos
ONDA Lift Before-and-After Photos

Differences Between ONDA Lift and Other Lifting and Body-Contouring Treatments

Let’s take a detailed look at the differences between ONDA Lift and other major treatments. The following treatments will be compared.

  • InMode
  • Titanium Lift
  • HIFU
  • Ultherapy
  • Oligio
  • Tune Liner
  • Volnewmer

Understanding the differences in each treatment’s features and mechanism can help you choose the treatment that suits you. Let’s take a closer look.

Differences Between ONDA Lift and Other Lifting Treatments

Difference from InMode

InMode combines radiofrequency (RF) and microneedles. The main differences from ONDA Lift are as follows.

【Difference in principle】

  • ONDA Lift: Uses special microwaves (Coolwaves) to act selectively on the fat layer
  • InMode: Uses RF and passes electrical current directly into the subcutaneous tissue through microneedles

【Difference in pain and downtime】

  • ONDA Lift: The surface cooling function helps minimize pain; anesthesia is unnecessary, and there is almost no downtime
  • InMode: Because microneedles are inserted, anesthetic cream is required, and redness, swelling, or other downtime may occur

【Difference in approach】

  • ONDA Lift: Specialized in fat reduction, with a tightening effect also expected as a result
  • InMode: Specialized in collagen production and skin tightening

InMode is characterized by “greater immediate effects despite involving pain,” while ONDA Lift differs in offering “less pain and a strong fat-reduction effect.” Choose according to your concerns and your tolerance for pain.

Difference from Titanium Lift

Titanium Lift is a lifting treatment using laser technology originating in Korea. It differs from ONDA Lift in the following ways.

【Difference in technology used】

  • ONDA Lift: A thermal approach to the fat layer using microwaves (Coolwaves)
  • Titanium Lift: Uses three laser wavelengths to target the skin in a combined manner

【Difference in characteristic effects】

  • ONDA Lift: Strong fat-reduction effects and lifting as a result
  • Titanium Lift: In addition to a lifting effect, whitening and tone-enhancing effects may be expected

【Treatment suitability】

  • ONDA Lift: Particularly effective for areas with more fat
  • Titanium Lift: Effective when improvement of skin texture and evening of skin tone are prioritized

Although they are different treatments, a treatment combining ONDA Lift and Titanium Lift, called “Ondanium,” is also popular. It has attracted attention as a combination treatment that can target fat reduction, lifting, and improved skin quality at the same time.

Difference from HIFU

HIFU uses high-intensity focused ultrasound, and representative devices include Ultherapy. The differences from ONDA Lift are as follows.

【Difference in energy used】

  • ONDA Lift: Uses microwaves (Coolwaves)
  • HIFU: Uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

【Difference in treatment depth and areas】

  • ONDA Lift: Targets the fat layer and can be performed across the entire face
  • HIFU: Targets the SMAS layer, but because blood vessels and nerves must be avoided, it is difficult to treat areas around the eyes and mouth

【Difference in pain level】

  • ONDA Lift: The surface cooling function helps minimize pain
  • HIFU: Because it reaches deep tissue, it can be painful; areas close to bone, such as the facial contour, may feel especially painful

HIFU is characterized by powerful lifting from the fascial layer, while ONDA Lift is characterized by fat-reduction effects and a less painful treatment. Choose between them according to the condition of your sagging and the effects you seek.

Difference from Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a representative HIFU device and a treatment whose lifting effect has been recognized by the U.S. FDA. The differences from ONDA Lift are as follows.

【Difference in principle and target】

  • ONDA Lift: Targets the fat layer with microwaves
  • Ultherapy: Targets the SMAS layer with high-intensity focused ultrasound

【Difference in characteristic effects】

  • ONDA Lift: Effective at reducing fat, resulting in a more defined facial contour
  • Ultherapy: Strong lifting and tightening effects

【Difference in monitoring functions】

  • ONDA Lift: Safety management using a temperature-sensing system
  • Ultherapy: Applies energy while visualizing the target layer using ultrasound imaging

Ultherapy has stronger output among HIFU devices and is characterized by both pain and strong effects. ONDA Lift, on the other hand, aims to improve the facial contour through fat reduction, with less pain.

Difference from Oligio

Oligio is a Korean radiofrequency (RF) lifting treatment. The main differences from ONDA Lift are as follows.

【Difference in energy used】

  • ONDA Lift: Uses microwaves (Coolwaves)
  • Oligio: Uses radiofrequency (RF) energy

【Difference in target tissue】

  • ONDA Lift: Primarily targets the fat layer, with fat reduction as its main effect
  • Oligio: Targets the dermal layer, with collagen production and skin tightening as its main effects

【Difference in suitable concerns】

  • ONDA Lift: Suitable for people concerned about excess fat
  • Oligio: Suitable for people with pronounced sagging who prioritize skin tightening

While Oligio is intended to “powerfully tighten sagging,” ONDA Lift focuses on “reducing excess fat.” Oligio X excels at efficiently delivering RF, while Oligio KISS is a further evolved version.

Difference from Tune Liner

Like ONDA Lift, Tune Liner targets the fat layer, but it uses a different method.

【Difference in energy used】

  • ONDA Lift: Uses microwaves (Coolwaves)
  • Tune Liner: Uses ultrasound

【Difference in characteristic effects】

  • ONDA Lift: Reduction through heating fat cells, with a secondary tightening effect
  • Tune Liner: Destruction of fat cells through ultrasound (cavitation effect)

【Difference in treatment sensation】

  • ONDA Lift: You generally feel warmth
  • Tune Liner: You may feel vibration

Tune Liner is considered particularly effective for fat cells containing water, while ONDA Lift may be expected to act on a broader range of fat layers. Another characteristic of ONDA Lift is that, unlike Tune Liner, it may provide a skin-tightening effect at the same time as fat reduction.

Difference from Volnewmer

Volnewmer is also a popular lifting treatment, but its approach differs significantly from that of ONDA Lift.

【Difference in technical approach】

  • ONDA Lift: Targets the fat layer with microwaves
  • Volnewmer: Mechanical stimulation using air pressure (Volum) and vibration (Newma)

【Difference in main effects】

  • ONDA Lift: Tightening effect together with fat reduction
  • Volnewmer: Promotes lymphatic flow and has a strong de-puffing effect

【Difference in treatment characteristics】

  • ONDA Lift: A medical device using thermal energy
  • Volnewmer: A massage-like treatment using physical stimulation

Volnewmer is suitable for people concerned about puffiness or sagging, while ONDA Lift is more effective when the goal is to reduce fat itself. Another difference is that Volnewmer often requires ongoing maintenance, whereas effects may be expected from a single ONDA Lift treatment.

Concerns and Effects for Which ONDA Lift Is Recommended

Effects of ONDA Lift

What concerns can ONDA Lift be expected to address? Let’s take a detailed look at the concerns for which it is particularly recommended and the effects that may be expected.

Improving a Double Chin and Sagging Cheeks for a More Defined Appearance

ONDA Lift is particularly effective for the following concerns.

  • Double chin (sagging beneath the facial contour): Reducing excess fat beneath the chin can help restore a sharper facial contour
  • Sagging cheeks: Targets excess cheek fat and sagging skin to tighten the facial contour
  • Nasolabial folds: As cheek fat decreases and the area tightens, the nasolabial folds may become less noticeable indirectly in some cases
  • Blurred facial contour: The facial outline becomes more defined, creating a more youthful impression

These concerns tend to increase with age, particularly due to age-related changes in the fat layer and sagging skin. Because ONDA Lift can target both, improvement may be expected.

A Natural, More Defined Facial Contour Through Fat Reduction

The greatest feature of ONDA Lift is its ability to directly target and reduce the fat layer. This may lead to the following results.

  • Natural-looking lifting: Rather than pulling the skin, reducing excess fat creates a natural-looking result
  • A sharper contour: The facial contour becomes more defined, creating a more youthful impression
  • Long-lasting effects: Fat cells that have decreased generally do not regenerate, making the effects more likely to last

Another major benefit is that, unlike surgical procedures, ONDA Lift can produce a natural-looking result without using a scalpel. Rather than creating the impression of having had cosmetic surgery, it may produce a natural change that looks like weight loss.

Restoring Firmness and Elasticity Through Collagen Production

ONDA Lift may also have a secondary effect of promoting collagen production as the thermal energy from the microwaves is appropriately transmitted from the fat layer to the dermis. Specifically, the following effects may be expected.

  • Improved skin firmness: Newly produced collagen restores firmness to the skin
  • Restored elasticity: Skin elasticity improves, helping restore a youthful appearance
  • Improvement in fine lines: Increased collagen production may improve fine wrinkles in some cases

In this way, ONDA Lift is characterized by its ability to target both fat reduction and improved skin quality at the same time. By improving not only the amount of fat but also the quality of the skin itself, more comprehensive rejuvenating effects may be expected.

ONDA Lift Treatment Process

Let’s look at the treatment process when receiving ONDA Lift. Understanding the overall process can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your treatment.

Examination and Consultation

First, you will have a consultation with a doctor or specialized staff member.

  • Checking your current condition: The areas of concern and their severity are assessed in detail
  • Discussing your desired results: Sharing the type of changes you would like to achieve
  • Treatment explanation: An explanation of how ONDA Lift works, the effects that may be expected, and points to note
  • Determining suitability: The doctor determines whether ONDA Lift is appropriate

It is important to resolve any questions or concerns thoroughly during this step.

Cleansing and Treatment Preparation

The following steps are performed as preparation before treatment.

  • Removing makeup: Makeup is removed when treating the face
  • Cleansing: The skin is cleansed
  • Confirming the treatment area: The specific areas to be treated are confirmed one final time, using a mirror if needed

Once these preparations are complete, the treatment begins.

Microwave Application with ONDA Lift

The treatment itself now begins. It proceeds as follows.

  • Device setup: Output level, irradiation time, and other settings are adjusted according to the treatment area and the individual’s condition
  • Applying cooling gel: Cooling gel may be applied to help prevent burns
  • Selecting the handpiece: A handpiece for the face or body is selected
  • Applying microwaves: The handpiece is placed against the skin and microwaves are applied. You will generally feel warmth, without significant pain
  • Monitoring: The condition and temperature of the skin are monitored during treatment

Treatment time varies by area, but treatment of the entire face generally takes approximately 15–30 minutes, while each body area generally takes approximately 15–30 minutes.

Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up

Post-treatment care is also important. The following four points are particularly important.

  • Cooling: Cool the treated area as needed
  • Moisturizing: Moisturize the skin to prevent dryness
  • Advice: Receive guidance on post-treatment precautions and daily activities
  • Booking your next session: Book your next treatment as needed

In many cases, you can apply makeup and return to your normal daily activities immediately after treatment, but it is important to follow the clinic’s instructions.

Recommended ONDA Lift Treatment Intervals and Number of Sessions

To maximize the effects of ONDA Lift, it is important to follow an appropriate treatment interval and number of sessions. Clinical experience has shown that four treatments at two-week intervals, constituting one course, targeting the middle and lower face can be effective.

Let’s take a closer look at each point.

Recommended Treatment Intervals

ONDA Lift treatment intervals are generally as follows.

  • Initial intensive phase: Approximately four treatments at a frequency of once every two weeks
  • Maintenance phase: Approximately once every 3–6 months after results appear

However, these are only general guidelines and vary depending on individual characteristics, the severity of concerns, and the desired effects. Follow your doctor’s guidance to determine the optimal interval.

Effective Number of Sessions

The effective number of sessions also varies from person to person, but the following tendencies are generally observed.

  • Mild concerns: Many people can notice effects after approximately 1–3 treatments
  • Moderate concerns: Approximately four treatments are recommended
  • Severe concerns: Five or more treatments may be necessary

In many cases, you can feel some type of change after the first treatment, but multiple treatments are recommended to achieve the maximum effect.

Important Considerations for ONDA Lift

Important Considerations for ONDA Lift

ONDA Lift is a highly safe treatment, but there are several points to note. Carefully check the following before considering treatment.

People Who May Not Be Able to Receive Treatment

The following people may not be able to receive ONDA Lift treatment.

  • People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • People using medical devices such as pacemakers
  • People with a metal implant near the treatment area
  • People with severe diabetes or blood-clotting disorders
  • People with skin inflammation or an infection
  • People with a tendency to develop keloids
  • People whose epidermis or dermis is clearly thin
  • Others whom the attending doctor determines to be unsuitable

If you have any concerns, we recommend consulting the clinic in advance.

Treatment Pain and Downtime

ONDA Lift is a relatively low-pain treatment, but sensations vary from person to person.

  • Pain level: You generally feel warmth, with little to no significant pain, and anesthesia is usually unnecessary
  • Downtime: In most cases, you can return to your normal activities immediately after treatment. Temporary redness or mild swelling may occur, but it generally subsides within several hours to one day.
  • Makeup and cleansing: In many cases, makeup and cleansing are possible from the day of treatment

Compared with other lifting treatments, the limited downtime is a major benefit of ONDA Lift.

Treatment Side Effects and Risks

All medical treatments involve possible side effects and risks. The main possible side effects of ONDA Lift include the following.

  • Temporary redness
  • Mild swelling
  • Burns or hyperpigmentation

To receive treatment safely, we recommend choosing an established medical institution and receiving treatment from an experienced doctor.

A Safe, High-Precision Treatment System Incorporating the Latest Knowledge from KOLs in the Country of Origin

A Safe, High-Precision Treatment System Incorporating the Latest Knowledge from KOLs in the Country of Origin

LIVELY CLINIC invited Dr. Federica, an international KOL doctor for this device, from Italy, the country of origin of ONDA Lift (PRO). Our doctors and staff received direct lectures and practical training from her.From the theoretical background of the treatment to optimizing energy settings and application techniques for each area, we have acquired the details necessary for clinical practice.

During the hands-on seminar, we deepened our practical knowledge directly applicable to daily practice, including differences in approach for each case and key points for ensuring safety.Through this ongoing training, we have established a system that enables us to provide everyone with more precise ONDA Lift treatment.

Reliable ONDA Lift Treatment Provided by Doctors Who Present at Academic Conferences

Reliable ONDA Lift Treatment Provided by Doctors Who Present at Academic Conferences

LIVELY CLINIC has doctors who have presented on the effects of ONDA Lift at an academic conference of the Japanese Society of Aesthetic Dermatology. We were among the first in Japan to introduce ONDA Lift (PRO), and have been chosen by many clients based on extensive experience involving more than 7,500 cases (November 2024–October 2025) and accumulated knowledge.

The results of ONDA Lift treatment can vary greatly depending on the practitioner’s skills and understanding. For this reason, it is important to receive treatment at a clinic with reliable skills and experience.

ONDA Lift (ONDA Pro) Price list

ONDA Lift

Both cheeks
17,500 JPY
Under chin
17,500 JPY
[First session] Both cheeks + Under chin
32,500 JPY
[Second session onwards] Both cheeks + Under chin
34,500 JPY
Both cheeks + Under chin – 3-session course
32,500 JPY / session
Both cheeks + Under chin – 5-session course
30,500 JPY / session
ONDA Premium – Both cheeks + Under chin
52,500 JPY
ONDA Premium – Both cheeks + Under chin (5-session course)
50,500 JPY / session

ONDA Lift Body

Upper arms / Abdomen / Waist / Thighs etc. (1 area)
44,000 JPY
Same area – 3-session course
38,000 JPY / session
Same area – 5-session course
35,000 JPY / session
Same area – 10-session course
32,000 JPY / session

Onnewmer (Ondalift + Volnewmer) Campaign Price

Ondalift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volunuma (both cheeks, 200 shots)
88,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Hamamatsucho Clinic

Onnewmer (Ondalift + Volnewmer)

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (both cheeks, 200 shots)
98,500 JPY
Ondalift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (both cheeks, 200 shots) 3 times
82,500 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (full face + under the chin 300 shots)
120,000 JPY
Ondalift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (full face + under the chin 300 shots) 3 times
92,500 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (full face + under the chin + neck 400 shots)
142,500 JPY
Ondalift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Volnewmer (full face + under the chin + neck 400 shots) 3 times
112,500 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Hamamatsucho Clinic

Onxerf Ondalift + XERF (Campaign)

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + XERF (both cheeks + under the chin 300 shots)
88,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, 札幌院

Onxerf Ondalift + XERF

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + XERF (both cheeks + under the chin 300 shots)
97,500 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + XERF (both cheeks + under the chin 300 shots) 3-session course
86,500 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + XERF (full face + under the chin 500 shots)
124,500 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + XERF (full face + under the chin 500 shots) 3-session course
109,500 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, 札幌院

Onwave (Onda Lift + SOFWAVE)

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (both cheeks + under the chin 150 shots)
164,800 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (both cheeks + under the chin 150 shots) 3-session course
148,000 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (full face + under the chin 200 shots)
189,800 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (full face + under the chin 200 shots) 3-session course
168,000 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (full face + under the chin + neck 250 shots)
227,800 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + SOFWAVE (full face + under the chin + neck 250 shots) 3-session course
200,000 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic

Olionda Onda Lift + Oligio KISS (Campaign)

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Oligio Kiss (both cheeks, 200 shots)
88,000 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Funabashi Clinic

Olionda Onda Lift + Oligio KISS

Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Oligio Kiss (both cheeks, 300 shots)
94,500 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Oligio Kiss (both cheeks, 300 shots) 3-session course
92,500 JPY / session
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Oligio Kiss (full face, 500 shots)
133,500 JPY
Onda Lift (both cheeks + under the chin) + Oligio KISS (full face, 500 shots) 3-session course
131,500 JPY / session

※Implementation Clinics: Funabashi Clinic

Ontite Ondalift+Alltite

Ondalift (both cheeks or under the chin) + Alltite (both cheeks)
47,500 JPY
Ondalift (both cheeks or under the chin) + Alltite (both cheeks) 3-session course
45,000 JPY / session

OndaHIFU (Onda lift + Medical HIFU)

ONDA (Both Cheeks + Under the Chin) + Medical HIFU (Both Cheeks)
53,500 JPY
ONDA (Both Cheeks + Under the Chin) + Medical HIFU (Both Cheeks) 3-Session Course
52,500 JPY / session

EmOnda EMFACE + ONDA Lift (Monitor Campaign Price)

[First-time treatment] EMFACE(choose one area from forehead, cheeks, eye area, or chin) + Ondalift (both cheeks or chin)
59,300 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, 札幌院

EmOnda EMFACE + ONDA Lift

EMFACE(choose one area from forehead, cheeks, eye area, or chin) + Ondalift (both cheeks or chin)
75,500 JPY

※Implementation Clinics: Osaka Clinic, 札幌院

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Medically reviewed by

Masaaki Sakata

Masaaki Sakata

Career

  • 2019 Graduated from Teikyo University, Faculty of Medicine
  • 2019 Joined Keio University Hospital
  • 2021 Joined a major aesthetic surgery clinic, serving as branch director
  • 2024 LIVELY CLINIC