ONDA vs. InMode — A Doctor's Guide to Choosing the Right Lifting Procedure
ONDA uses microwave energy to heat deep tissue layers, while InMode uses RF to refine the dermis and surface texture. Here's how to read the signals that tell you which one suits your skin better.
During Lifting consultations, patients often come in having heard both names — ONDA and InMode — mentioned in the same breath. While both fall under the non-ablative lifting category, they actually work quite differently from the ground up. The type of energy each device uses is fundamentally distinct, which means the skin concerns they address best are also different.
The bottom line. ONDA uses 2.45GHz microwave energy to heat the Dermis and fat layer simultaneously — it's a deep-acting procedure. InMode uses Radiofrequency (RF) to target the Dermis while also refining Pores and Skin Texture at the surface. Rather than competing with each other, these two procedures represent different choices based on which layer of your skin needs attention first.
> This article is an informational content summary based on procedures available at Beautystone Clinic.
ONDA vs. InMode — The Energy Types Are Fundamentally Different
ONDA uses 2.45GHz microwave energy directed into the Dermis*: the second layer of skin just beneath the epidermis, where Collagen and elastin are concentrated. and subcutaneous fat simultaneously, using that heat to stimulate Collagen contraction and new Collagen production. A key feature is that the epidermis is protected by active Cooling while energy is concentrated in the deeper layers. In clinical research, microwave devices have been shown to act on dermal and subdermal fibrous Collagen, inducing contraction of superficial Collagen fibers — with one study reporting that submental laxity scores improved from an average of 3.6 to 2.3 at the 12-week mark.
InMode is an RF*: Radiofrequency — an energy modality that generates heat by exploiting the resistance of skin tissue. platform that heats the Dermis* through bipolar/unipolar RF handpieces (such as Forma and Morpheus8). Its approach — stimulating Collagen while refining Pores, Skin Texture, and surface laxity — places it in the same family as other RF-based devices like Thermage and Oligio X.
The core difference in two lines:
- ONDA — Microwave energy, heats deep layers (fat and lower Dermis) in a single pass
- InMode — RF energy, targets the Dermis while simultaneously refining Pores and surface Skin Texture
Even though both are classified as non-ablative Lifting procedures, the different energy types mean they suit different skin concerns.
Where ONDA Excels — Deep Tissue Laxity and Volume Loss
Because microwave energy reaches the lower Dermis and fat layer simultaneously, ONDA is a particularly well-suited option for the following concerns:
- Those with noticeable deep-layer laxity — such as submental sagging, Double Chin, or jowling
- Those whose Facial Contour has softened after weight loss or body composition changes
- Those looking to address deep-layer concerns comprehensively in a single session
- Those in their 40s and beyond, where Collagen density has begun to decline
- Those whose primary concern is sagging itself, rather than surface Skin Texture or Pores
For patients dealing with both submental fat and laxity together, ONDA's ability to concentrate heat in deeper tissue tends to be more efficient than surface-level RF procedures for Lifting and contouring. That said, results are not immediate — improvements develop gradually over 4 to 12 weeks, and it is generally recommended to evaluate outcomes at the 8 to 12-week mark.
Sessions are typically performed as a single treatment or in a package of 2 to 3. The appropriate number of sessions and intervals should be determined in consultation with your physician based on your individual starting point.
Where InMode Excels — Surface Skin Texture, Pores, and Superficial Laxity
Because InMode RF is centered on Dermis-level heating, it tends to be a more natural fit for the following concerns:
- Those dealing with both surface Skin Texture and Pores alongside laxity
- Those with noticeable superficial laxity in areas like the cheekbones, front cheeks, or forehead
- Those in their early-to-mid 30s through early 40s, where Collagen density is still relatively robust
- Those who prefer minimal Downtime
- Those who want to address multiple layers in one session by combining different handpieces (such as Forma and Morpheus8)
InMode falls within the non-ablative RF Lifting category, and according to dermatological association data, non-ablative RF devices generally show their most noticeable results at the 6-month mark as natural Collagen remodeling progresses. With InMode, patients often experience both an immediate sense of improvement and continued cumulative results over 4 to 6 weeks.
However, since the procedure is centered on superficial heating, if your primary concern is deep-layer laxity such as submental fat or a Double Chin, ONDA tends to be the better fit. InMode is the more natural choice for patients whose concerns involve both surface Skin Texture and laxity together.
Combining Both Procedures — A Complementary Approach
Because ONDA and InMode work at different tissue depths, patients dealing with both deep laxity and surface Skin Texture concerns may benefit from a complementary combination approach. That said, receiving both procedures on the same day is generally not recommended. The typical approach is to allow one procedure to fully settle before adding the other as a follow-up.
| Combination Sequence | Recommended Interval | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ONDA (1 session) → InMode (1 session) | 4–6 weeks | Address deep-layer concerns first, then refine surface Skin Texture |
| InMode (1 session) → ONDA (1 session) | 4–6 weeks | Refine surface Skin Texture first, then target deep laxity |
| ONDA (3-session package) → InMode follow-up | 8–12 weeks after completing the package | Accumulate deep-layer results first, then finish with surface refinement |
| Same-day combination | Not recommended | Risk of compounded recovery burden and cumulative Heat sensation |
The order of combination depends on whether your primary concern is deep laxity or surface Skin Texture. Your physician will assess your skin thickness, fat layer, and surface condition together to determine the appropriate sequence and interval. While neither procedure involves significant Downtime, allowing a recovery period between sessions generally leads to more stable, lasting results.
Signals That Tell You Which Procedure Suits You Better
Even within the non-ablative Lifting category, the right choice depends on your individual skin concerns. Here are some signals to help you assess which direction makes more sense for you:
Signs that ONDA may be the better fit:
- Deep-layer laxity — such as submental sagging, Double Chin, or jowling — is your primary concern
- Your Facial Contour has softened following weight loss
- Sagging itself bothers you more than surface Skin Texture or Pores
- You're in your 40s or beyond, and Collagen density has started to decline
Signs that InMode may be the better fit:
- You're concerned about Pores, Skin Texture, and superficial laxity together
- You want to address surface tone and Skin Texture at the same time as Lifting
- You're in your early-to-mid 30s through early 40s, with relatively robust Collagen density
- Sagging in the cheekbones, front cheeks, or forehead is your primary concern
Cases where prior medical consultation is essential:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Use of a pacemaker or implanted medical device (a general contraindication for RF and microwave energy)
- Active Inflammation, Acne, or herpes in the treatment area
- Keloid-prone skin
- History of deep invasive procedures within the past 3 months
- Use of photosensitizing medications
The choice between the two naturally follows from whether your priority concern is in the deep tissue or at the surface. Rather than deciding based on price alone, working with your physician to assess your skin thickness, fat layer, and surface condition together will lead to a more stable and satisfying outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which procedure delivers longer-lasting results?
A. Results vary from person to person, but in general, ONDA is associated with approximately 6 to 12 months of sustained improvement due to deep-layer Collagen accumulation, while InMode — with its Dermis-centered heating — is typically associated with results lasting around 4 to 9 months. That said, individual differences in Collagen regeneration capacity, daily sun protection habits, and weight fluctuation can have a significant impact. Results also tend to become more stable with repeated sessions, so rather than comparing outcomes after a single procedure, it's more accurate to reassess at the 6 to 12-month mark.
Q. Which procedure involves less discomfort?
A. Both procedures use topical anesthesia or active Cooling systems, but the sensations differ: InMode's Dermis-level heating typically feels like a stinging or prickling sensation, while ONDA's deeper tissue heating tends to produce a heavier, more substantial Heat sensation. Pain tolerance varies significantly between individuals, so if you're particularly sensitive to discomfort, please let us know during your consultation — energy output can be adjusted to keep the experience manageable.
Q. I've never had either procedure — where should I start?
A. The right starting point depends on whether your primary concern is deep laxity or surface Skin Texture. If submental sagging or a Double Chin is the priority, starting with ONDA is generally the more natural first step. If Pores, Skin Texture, or superficial laxity are the main concerns, starting with InMode tends to make more sense. For first-time patients, a common and safe approach is to evaluate the results of your initial session at the 8 to 12-week mark before deciding on next steps — whether that means additional sessions or adding a complementary procedure. Please consult directly with your physician, who can assess your skin thickness and fat layer in person. This article is for general informational purposes only. The appropriate procedure, number of sessions, and any combination approach should always be determined through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
