InMode Lifting in Korea: FX, Forma & Morpheus8 Complete Guide
InMode lifting has rapidly become one of Korea's most popular non-surgical skin tightening treatments, offering impressive results without the downtime of surgery. Using advanced radiofrequency (RF) technology, InMode treatments can address everything from stubborn facial fat to sagging skin and wrinkles. If you're considering InMode lifting in Korea, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the different treatment modes, prices, effects, and where to get treated.
What is InMode Lifting?
InMode is a cutting-edge, non-invasive aesthetic technology platform that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to tighten skin, reduce fat, and stimulate collagen production. Developed with FDA-cleared technology, InMode has become a go-to treatment in Korean dermatology clinics for patients seeking facial contouring and anti-aging results without surgery.
The InMode system offers multiple treatment modes, each designed to target specific skin concerns:
- InMode FX: Focuses on fat reduction and deep tissue contouring
- InMode Forma: Targets skin tightening and collagen stimulation
- Morpheus8: Combines microneedling with RF energy for deep skin remodeling
How InMode Technology Works
InMode uses bipolar radiofrequency energy that penetrates different layers of the skin:
- Epidermis (outer layer): Surface skin treatment
- Dermis (middle layer): Collagen and elastin stimulation
- SMAS layer (deep layer): Structural tightening and lifting
This multi-layered approach creates comprehensive anti-aging effects, addressing both superficial and deep tissue concerns in a single treatment platform.
InMode Treatment Modes Explained
InMode FX (Mini FX): Fat Reduction & Contouring
InMode FX, often called Mini FX, is specifically designed to reduce localized fat deposits while simultaneously tightening the skin.
How FX Works:
- Uses controlled vacuum suction to target fat-rich areas
- Delivers high-voltage RF energy and electrical stimulation to destroy fat cells
- Particularly effective for double chin, jowls, and jawline definition
Best For:
- Patients with excess facial fat
- Double chin reduction
- Jawline contouring
- Cheek and jowl fat reduction
Treatment Duration: 15-30 minutes per session
InMode Forma: Skin Tightening & Collagen Boost
Forma is the gentlest InMode treatment, focusing on overall skin tightening and texture improvement through controlled heating.
How Forma Works:
- Delivers RF energy to heat the dermis to optimal temperatures (40-42°C)
- Stimulates collagen production and elastin regeneration
- Creates an immediate tightening effect with progressive improvements
Best For:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Overall skin laxity
- Skin texture improvement
- Maintenance treatments
- Patients with minimal fat concerns
Treatment Duration: 20-40 minutes per session
Morpheus8: Advanced RF Microneedling
Morpheus8 is the most advanced InMode treatment, combining fractional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to remodel skin at deeper levels than traditional treatments.
How Morpheus8 Works:
- Uses ultra-fine needles (up to 4mm depth) to create micro-channels in the skin
- Delivers RF energy directly to the deeper dermis and subdermal fat
- Triggers intensive collagen remodeling and tissue tightening
- Can treat both face and body
Best For:
- Acne scars and textural irregularities
- Deep wrinkles and severe skin laxity
- Stretch marks (body treatment)
- More dramatic lifting and tightening results
- Patients seeking comprehensive skin rejuvenation
Treatment Duration: 30-60 minutes per session
Comparing the Three InMode Modes
| Feature | InMode FX | InMode Forma | Morpheus8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Fat reduction & contouring | Skin tightening | Deep remodeling & texture |
| Technology | RF + vacuum suction | RF thermal heating | RF + microneedling |
| Treatment Depth | Deep tissue & fat | Superficial to mid-dermis | Deep dermis (up to 4mm) |
| Pain Level | Moderate (suction sensation) | Minimal | Moderate (numbing recommended) |
| Downtime | Minimal (possible bruising) | None | 1-2 days (mild redness) |
| Best Results | Fat loss & definition | Overall tightening | Scar improvement & lifting |
| Sessions Needed | 3-5 sessions | 4-6 sessions | 3 sessions |
InMode Lifting Effects and Benefits
Immediate and Progressive Results
One of InMode's most appealing features is the combination of immediate and long-term results:
- 82% of patients see visible effects immediately after treatment
- 16% notice results within one week
- 2% see changes within one month
- Progressive improvement continues for 1-3 months as collagen production increases
Key Benefits
For Facial Contouring:
- Reduces double chin and jowl fat
- Sharpens jawline definition
- Slims the face naturally
- Eliminates stubborn fat pockets
For Skin Tightening:
- Lifts sagging skin without surgery
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves nasolabial folds (smile lines)
- Tightens neck skin
For Skin Quality:
- Enhances skin texture and tone
- Stimulates collagen and elastin production
- Creates a natural, youthful glow
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
Additional Advantages:
- No surgery or general anesthesia required
- Minimal to no downtime
- Natural-looking results
- Safe for all skin types
- Can be combined with other treatments
InMode Lifting Prices in Korea (2026)
Korean dermatology clinics offer some of the most competitive InMode pricing in the world. Here's what you can expect to pay:
Average InMode Prices (Per Session)
InMode FX or Forma (Single Mode):
- Average: ₩106,000 ($82 USD)
- Price Range: ₩62,000-₩152,000 ($48-$117 USD)
InMode FX + Forma (Full Face Combination):
- Average: ₩150,000 ($115 USD)
- Price Range: ₩60,000-₩300,000 ($46-$231 USD)
Morpheus8:
- Average: ₩200,000-₩400,000 ($154-$308 USD) per session
- Pricing varies by treatment area and depth
Sample Clinic Pricing (2026)
| Clinic Area | Treatment | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hongdae | InMode FX (3 min, 5KJ) | ₩6,900 | $5 |
| General Clinic | InMode FX (1 session) | ₩35,000 | $27 |
| Gangnam Clinic | InMode FX (1 session) | ₩59,000 | $45 |
| Yeonsinnae | InMode FX (8 min) | ₩108,900 | $84 |
| Full Face Treatment | FX + Forma | ₩150,000-₩250,000 | $115-$192 |
Prices as of January 2026. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs may vary by clinic, treatment area, and session duration. Always consult clinics directly for current pricing.
Package Deals
Many Korean clinics offer discounted package deals:
- 3-session package: 10-20% discount
- 5-session package: 20-30% discount
- Combination treatments: Additional savings when booking FX + Forma together
Treatment Process: What to Expect
Before Your InMode Treatment
Consultation:
- Discuss your concerns and goals with the dermatologist
- Skin assessment to determine the best InMode mode(s)
- Review medical history and contraindications
- Set realistic expectations for results
Preparation:
- Remove all makeup and cleanse the face
- Photos may be taken for before/after comparison
- Numbing cream applied (for Morpheus8)
During the Treatment
InMode FX:
- Vacuum handpiece gently suctions the treatment area
- RF energy and electrical pulses delivered to targeted fat
- Slight warmth and pulling sensation
- Treatment moved systematically across the face
- 15-30 minutes total
InMode Forma:
- Warm handpiece glides smoothly over the skin
- Comfortable heating sensation (like a hot stone massage)
- Continuous temperature monitoring for safety
- Relaxing treatment experience
- 20-40 minutes total
Morpheus8:
- Numbing cream takes effect (20-30 minutes)
- Microneedles create tiny channels while delivering RF
- Moderate prickling sensation despite numbing
- Multiple passes over treatment area
- 30-60 minutes total
After Your InMode Treatment
Immediate Post-Treatment:
- Mild redness (similar to light sunburn)
- Possible slight swelling
- Temporary warmth in treated area
- Makeup can typically be applied the same day (FX/Forma) or next day (Morpheus8)
Recovery Timeline:
Day 1-2:
- Redness subsides
- Any bruising from FX becomes visible (rare, resolves in 5-7 days)
- Morpheus8: Small pinpoint marks visible
Day 3-7:
- Skin appears normal
- Collagen production begins
- Morpheus8: Complete healing
Weeks 2-4:
- Progressive tightening becomes visible
- Optimal time for next treatment session
Months 1-3:
- Continued improvement as collagen remodels
- Maximum results typically visible at 3 months
Recommended Treatment Protocol
For Optimal Results
InMode FX or Forma:
- Sessions: 3-5 treatments recommended
- Interval: Every 2-4 weeks
- Maintenance: Every 3-6 months after completing initial series
Morpheus8:
- Sessions: 3 treatments recommended
- Interval: Every 4-6 weeks (minimum 1 month)
- Maintenance: Annually for sustained results
Combination Treatment Strategies
Many Korean dermatologists recommend combining InMode modes for comprehensive results:
Anti-Aging Protocol:
- Forma (skin tightening) + FX (fat reduction)
- Alternating sessions every 2 weeks
- 4-6 total treatments
Maximum Lifting Protocol:
- Start with Morpheus8 (deep remodeling)
- Follow with FX + Forma (contouring + tightening)
- 6-8 total treatments over 3-4 months
InMode vs. Other Lifting Treatments
InMode vs. Ulthera (HIFU)
| Feature | InMode | Ulthera |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radiofrequency | High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound |
| Treatment Depth | Superficial to deep | Very deep (4.5mm SMAS layer) |
| Pain Level | Low to moderate | Moderate to high |
| Results Timeline | Immediate + progressive | Gradual (3-6 months) |
| Best For | Fat reduction + tightening | Severe sagging, deep lifting |
| Price in Korea | ₩100,000-₩300,000/session | ₩800,000-₩2,000,000/session |
| Downtime | Minimal | Minimal |
When to Choose InMode: If you have excess facial fat, want more affordable treatments, prefer immediate visible results, or have moderate skin laxity.
When to Choose Ulthera: If you have severe sagging, no excess fat concerns, can invest in a single expensive treatment, or need maximum lifting power.
InMode vs. Thermage
| Feature | InMode | Thermage |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Bipolar RF | Monopolar RF |
| Treatment Precision | Targeted (handpiece dependent) | Broad area coverage |
| Sessions Needed | 3-5 | 1-2 |
| Fat Reduction | Yes (with FX) | Minimal |
| Price in Korea | ₩100,000-₩300,000/session | ₩1,500,000-₩3,000,000 |
| Pain Level | Low to moderate | Moderate |
When to Choose InMode: If you want multiple affordable sessions, need fat reduction, prefer gradual improvements, or want flexibility with different treatment modes.
When to Choose Thermage: If you prefer single-session convenience, want long-lasting results from one treatment, or are willing to invest more upfront.
InMode vs. Shurink
| Feature | InMode | Shurink |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radiofrequency | High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound |
| Affordability | Moderate | Moderate |
| Sessions | 3-5 | 3-4 |
| Fat Reduction | Excellent (FX) | Minimal |
| Pain Level | Low to moderate | Low to moderate |
| Price in Korea | ₩100,000-₩300,000/session | ₩500,000-₩800,000/session |
When to Choose InMode: If fat reduction is a priority, you want more treatment customization options, or prefer lower cost per session.
When to Choose Shurink: If lifting is your primary goal, you don't have excess fat, or prefer ultrasound over RF technology.
Who is a Good Candidate for InMode?
Ideal Candidates
InMode lifting works best for:
- Age range: 30s-50s (though all ages can benefit)
- Facial fat concerns: Those with double chin, jowls, or chubby cheeks
- Mild to moderate skin laxity: Early signs of aging and sagging
- Preventative treatment seekers: Those wanting to maintain youthful skin
- Non-surgical preference: Patients avoiding invasive procedures
- All skin types: Safe for Asian skin and all Fitzpatrick skin types
Patient Demographics in Korea
According to Korean dermatology clinic data:
- 94% female, 6% male patients
- 35% of patients are in their 30s
- 45% are in their 40s
- 15% are in their 50s
- 5% are under 30 or over 60
When InMode May Not Be Suitable
Not Recommended For:
- Severe skin sagging (surgical lift may be better)
- Active skin infections or open wounds
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Pacemaker or metal implants in treatment area
- Unrealistic expectations for surgical-level results
- Keloid scarring tendency (especially for Morpheus8)
Side Effects and Safety
Common Temporary Side Effects
Immediately After Treatment:
- Redness (lasts 1-2 hours to 1 day)
- Warmth in treated area (1-2 hours)
- Mild swelling (1-2 days)
- Tenderness to touch (2-3 days)
With InMode FX:
- Temporary bruising from vacuum suction (5-7 days)
- Slight numbness (rarely, resolves quickly)
With Morpheus8:
- Pinpoint bleeding spots (resolve in 1-2 days)
- Scabbing at needle sites (peels off in 3-5 days)
- Temporary skin texture changes (resolves in 1 week)
Rare Side Effects
- Hyperpigmentation (very rare, more common in darker skin tones without proper post-care)
- Burns (extremely rare with properly calibrated equipment)
- Irregular texture (rare, usually with Morpheus8 if too aggressive)
Safety Profile
InMode has an excellent safety record when performed by qualified professionals:
- FDA-cleared technology
- Minimal pain - most treatments require no anesthesia
- No surgery - non-invasive or minimally invasive
- Proven efficacy - extensive clinical studies
- Quick recovery - resume normal activities immediately or within 1-2 days
Top Clinics for InMode in Korea
While InMode is widely available across Seoul, here are some areas and tips for finding quality clinics:
Gangnam District
Why Choose Gangnam:
- Highest concentration of advanced aesthetic clinics
- English-speaking staff at most locations
- Latest InMode technology and equipment
- Competitive pricing due to high competition
Popular Gangnam Locations:
- Apgujeong area (premium clinics)
- Gangnam Station area (accessible, mid-range pricing)
- Cheongdam area (luxury aesthetic centers)
Hongdae & Sinchon
Why Choose This Area:
- More affordable pricing
- Younger, trendier clinic atmosphere
- Good for first-time patients
- Less intimidating than Gangnam premium clinics
What to Look For in a Clinic
Quality Indicators:
- ✅ Board-certified dermatologist on staff
- ✅ Original InMode equipment (not counterfeit devices)
- ✅ Clean, professional facility
- ✅ English-speaking staff (for international patients)
- ✅ Transparent pricing with written quotes
- ✅ Before/after photos of actual patients
- ✅ Detailed consultation before treatment
- ✅ Post-treatment care instructions
Red Flags:
- ❌ Extremely low prices (may indicate inexperienced staff or counterfeit equipment)
- ❌ Pushy sales tactics or pressure to buy packages
- ❌ No consultation with actual doctor
- ❌ Lack of before/after documentation
- ❌ Unclear pricing or hidden fees
Booking Your InMode Treatment in Korea
How to Book
For International Patients:
- Research clinics - Read reviews on Naver, KakaoMap, or medical tourism platforms
- Contact via messaging - Many clinics have KakaoTalk, WhatsApp, or email
- Request English consultation - Confirm English-speaking staff availability
- Get price quotes - Ask for detailed pricing breakdown
- Book appointment - Provide passport information if required
- Confirm details - Get written confirmation with date, time, and price
Useful Platforms:
- Naver blog reviews (네이버 블로그)
- Gangnam Unni (강남언니) - Korean medical tourism app
- Medical Korea (official medical tourism portal)
What to Bring
- Passport or ID
- Payment - Cash (KRW) or credit card (some clinics charge extra for cards)
- Medical history - List of medications, allergies, previous treatments
- Reference photos (optional) - Examples of desired results
Payment Methods
- Cash: Most widely accepted, sometimes discounted
- Credit cards: Accepted at most clinics, may have 3-5% surcharge
- Korean payment apps: Naver Pay, KakaoPay (requires Korean bank account)
- Medical tourism packages: Some agencies offer bundled payment options
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How painful is InMode treatment? A: Pain levels vary by mode. Forma feels like a warm massage (1-2/10 pain). FX has a pulling sensation from the vacuum (3-4/10). Morpheus8 is the most uncomfortable (5-6/10) but numbing cream significantly reduces discomfort. Most patients tolerate all treatments well without anesthesia.
Q: When will I see results from InMode? A: 82% of patients see immediate tightening after their first session. Results continue improving as collagen production increases over 1-3 months. Maximum results are typically visible 3 months after completing your treatment series.
Q: How long do InMode results last? A: Results typically last 6-12 months, depending on age, lifestyle, and skin condition. Collagen continues remodeling for several months after treatment. Maintenance sessions every 3-6 months help sustain results long-term.
Q: Can I combine InMode with other treatments? A: Yes! InMode is often combined with:
- Botox (wait 2 weeks after InMode)
- Fillers (wait 2 weeks after InMode)
- Laser treatments (consult with your doctor for timing)
- Skin boosters like Rejuran (can be done together)
Q: Is InMode safe for Asian skin? A: Absolutely. InMode is very safe for Asian and darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III-VI). The RF technology doesn't target melanin like lasers do, reducing the risk of hyperpigmentation. Korean clinics have extensive experience treating Asian skin.
Q: How is InMode different from Thermage? A: InMode uses bipolar RF for more targeted treatment and includes fat reduction capabilities (FX mode). Thermage uses monopolar RF for broad-area tightening in fewer sessions. InMode is generally more affordable per session but requires multiple treatments.
Q: Can men get InMode treatments? A: Yes! While 94% of patients are female, InMode is increasingly popular among men, especially for:
- Jawline definition
- Double chin reduction
- Overall facial contouring
- Neck tightening
Q: What's the minimum age for InMode? A: While there's no strict minimum, most clinics recommend starting in your late 20s to early 30s when early signs of aging appear. Younger patients often use InMode preventatively. Always consult with a dermatologist first.
Q: Do I need time off work after InMode? A: For FX and Forma, no time off is needed - you can return to work immediately. For Morpheus8, you may prefer to take 1-2 days off due to visible pinpoint marks and redness, though it's not medically necessary.
Q: How do I maintain my InMode results? A: To maximize and maintain results:
- Use sunscreen daily (SPF 50+)
- Maintain a stable weight
- Stay hydrated
- Use quality skincare products
- Consider maintenance sessions every 3-6 months
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
Conclusion
InMode lifting offers an excellent non-surgical solution for those seeking facial contouring, skin tightening, and anti-aging results in Korea. With three distinct treatment modes - FX for fat reduction, Forma for skin tightening, and Morpheus8 for deep remodeling - you can customize your treatment to address your specific concerns.
Korea's competitive pricing makes InMode treatments highly accessible, with costs ranging from $46-$231 per session depending on the clinic and treatment mode. The combination of minimal downtime, immediate visible results, and progressive improvements over several months makes InMode one of the most popular aesthetic treatments among both Korean and international patients.
Ready to experience InMode lifting in Korea? Start by researching reputable clinics in Gangnam or other major Seoul districts, book a consultation with an English-speaking dermatologist, and take the first step toward a more contoured, youthful appearance.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about InMode lifting treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified, board-certified dermatologist or healthcare professional before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure. Individual results may vary, and all treatments carry potential risks and side effects that should be discussed with your doctor.
Last Updated: January 5, 2026 Reading Time: 15 minutes
