Laxity in the face and neck is never only a skin problem. With age the skin produces less collagen and elastin, the fat pads beneath it descend and diminish, the facial muscles lose tone, and even the bone that supports every layer above it gradually resorbs — all of it accelerated by sun exposure, pollution, poor sleep and repeated weight fluctuation. What shows on the surface is lines, deepening folds, and a contour that no longer looks defined.
Where surgery was once the only answer, energy-based devices can now reach the specific layer responsible with precision — no incisions, and in most cases no downtime. This article covers the 9 lifting and tightening technologies available at DR. SUPRANEE CLINIC Thonglor, what makes each one different, and which concerns each is best suited to.
How lifting technologies actually work
The energy types differ, but the underlying biology is shared. Each device aims to trigger three sequential processes:
- Collagen shrinkage — existing, degraded collagen fibres contract, which accounts for the early tightening effect
- New collagen production — the body responds by laying down fresh collagen over the following weeks to months
- Collagen remodeling — the new fibres reorganise, so the skin looks firmer and smoother in a natural way
What separates one device from another is the type of energy and the depth it reaches — and that is what determines which concern it addresses best.
Ultrasound
1. Ultherapy Prime
Uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization to deliver focused thermal coagulation points at three depths: 1.5 mm for superficial lines, 3.0 mm for the fat layer, and 4.5 mm down to the SMAS — the same layer a surgeon addresses in a facelift. Its distinguishing feature is real-time ultrasound imaging, which lets the physician see the tissue layers while treating and place energy accurately. Topical anaesthetic is applied beforehand, as the treatment can feel uncomfortable.
Best for visible jawline and under-chin laxity — Learn more about Ultherapy Prime
2. SOFWAVE
Delivers 12 MHz ultrasound through a synchronous parallel-beam array — seven beams fire at once, running parallel to the skin surface at the mid-dermis, the layer densest in collagen and elastin. That covers a wide area in a short session. The built-in Sofcool system cools the surface throughout to keep discomfort low.
Best for fine to moderate wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and moderate acne scarring — Learn more about Sofwave
3. HIFU Sygmalift
Delivers HIFU 3D ultrasound with interchangeable depths: 2 mm for superficial tightening around the eyes and neck, and 5 mm reaching the fat layer to sharpen the facial contour toward a V-shape. It is noticeably more comfortable than earlier-generation HIFU systems.
Best for those seeking a more defined contour with minimal discomfort — Learn more about HIFU Sygmalift
Radiofrequency (RF)
4. THERMAGE FLX
Monopolar RF distributes heat broadly from the skin surface down into the fat layer, contracting existing collagen and stimulating new collagen formation for firmer skin and a tighter contour. It carries USFDA clearance for treating the eyelid area directly — a region many other technologies must avoid.
Best for generalised laxity over larger areas, and upper-eyelid heaviness — Learn more about Thermage FLX
5. Volnewmer
Monopolar RF at 6.78 MHz, delivering energy evenly with tightly controlled temperature. It comes with a dedicated eye-area handpiece, so the delicate periorbital skin can be treated rather than avoided.
Best for fine lines and laxity around the eyes, as well as overall face and neck tightening — Learn more about Volnewmer
6. EXION
The newest addition, combining RF with targeted ultrasound to stimulate collagen and encourage the skin's own hyaluronic acid production. The clinic offers three EXION procedures: EXION Face for lifting and hydration, EXION Fractional RF for texture and acne scarring, and EXION Clear RF for acne and sebaceous concerns.
Best for those who want firmness and overall skin quality addressed together — Learn more about EXION
Microwave
7. ONDA Pro
Uses 2.45 GHz microwave energy — marketed as Coolwaves — which is preferentially absorbed by fat cells. That lets it address stubborn fat under the chin and in the cheeks that makes the face look fuller, while tightening the overlying skin in the same session. Surface cooling runs throughout the treatment.
Best for fullness caused by localised fat, and a double chin — Learn more about ONDA Pro
Laser
8. Titanium Lifting
A triple-wavelength diode laser from ALMA — 755, 810 and 1064 nm firing simultaneously, so heat is distributed across several skin depths in a continuous, even way. The sensation is a comfortable warmth, and there is no downtime, which makes it a practical entry point for early laxity.
Best for early-stage laxity and anyone who wants a comfortable session with an immediate return to daily life — Learn more about Titanium Lifting
HIFES + Synchronized RF
9. EMFACE
Works on two structures at once: HIFES (High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation) restores tone to the facial muscles, while Synchronized RF treats the skin layer. The result is a naturally lifted appearance, softened nasolabial and under-eye folds, and restored facial volume without injectables. The treatment is close to painless.
Best for a flattened facial appearance where volume and nasolabial folds are the main concern — Learn more about EMFACE
How to choose the right technology
- Visible sagging, loss of jawline definition — start with devices reaching the SMAS or fat layer: Ultherapy Prime, HIFU Sygmalift
- Generalised laxity, skin that lacks firmness — RF devices: Thermage FLX, Volnewmer
- Fullness from localised fat, double chin — ONDA Pro
- Deep nasolabial folds, flattened contour — EMFACE
- Fine lines around the eyes, thin skin — Volnewmer, Thermage FLX
- Just starting out, no downtime acceptable — Titanium Lifting, Sofwave, EXION
In practice, facial laxity rarely has a single cause. Results are usually better when two or more technologies are combined into a programme, and the physician assesses facial structure, fat thickness, and skin condition before recommending an approach.
For a full side-by-side comparison, see Lifting & Tightening technologies, or read about treatment approaches by concern on the Face & Neck Lifting programme page.
Frequently asked questions
How soon are results visible?
Most people notice an early tightening effect from the contraction of existing collagen. The more meaningful change appears once new collagen has formed, which typically takes around two to three months.
How often does treatment need repeating?
It depends on the technology and on individual skin condition. Ultrasound and RF treatments are commonly repeated about once a year, while muscle- and skin-quality treatments are usually done as a course followed by periodic maintenance.
Is it painful? Is there downtime?
Sensation varies by device and by individual tolerance. Some feel only warmth; others can be uncomfortable, which is why topical anaesthetic is applied first. Downtime is generally not required — makeup and normal activity can resume the same day.
At what age should someone start?
There is no fixed number; skin condition matters more than age. Many people begin when firmness first starts to decline, which tends to give better results than waiting until laxity is advanced.
Consult a physician at DR. SUPRANEE CLINIC Thonglor
DR. SUPRANEE CLINIC has all nine of these lifting technologies in house, so treatment can be selected and combined around each individual's actual concerns, backed by more than 20 years of experience in skin and aesthetic care.
Individual results vary depending on skin condition, facial structure, and post-treatment care. A physician assessment is recommended before deciding on any treatment.
For enquiries, call 098-829-0922