In a nutshell: For those trying it out for the first time, the Korean version of Oligio for a full face treatment costs around ¥500,000 to ¥900,000 at EY in Myeongdong; while the American version of FLX, which offers longer-lasting results, ranges from ¥15,000,000 to ¥2,000,000 at the same clinic. Those with limited budgets can consider HeyDay (starting at ¥9.69 million), while those seeking higher quality services should opt for REBERRY (treated personally by the clinic director for ¥19.99 million).
What exactly are Oligio and FLX? Let me explain it to you in simple terms.
Many friends who come to Myeongdong for Thermage treatment for the first time are often asked, “Do you want the Korean version or the American version?”
The Korean version refers to Oligio, which was developed and licensed by South Korea’s INTROmedic company. Its energy parameters have been specifically adjusted to suit the skin characteristics of Asians. The American version is Thermage FLX (the fifth generation), manufactured by Solta Medical in the United States, and it is currently recognized internationally as a leading anti-aging device.
In simple terms, Oligio is the “South Korea-localized optimized version,” while FLX is the “international standard version.” Both are legitimate products, but there are significant differences in their technical approaches and prices.
Comparison of technical differences: Understand it all in one table
| Comparative items | Korean version of Oligio | American version of Thermage FLX |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturers | South Korea’s INTROmedic | Solta Medical in the United States |
| Temperature control technology | Basic temperature control | AccuREP + Intelligent Temperature Control |
| Types of probes | Reusable probes | Disposable Total Tip Probe |
| Energy output | Mild and comfortable | More powerful, with longer-lasting effects |
| Treatment time | Approximately 60 to 90 minutes | Approximately 45 to 60 minutes |
| Effect maintenance | Approximately 6 to 12 months | Around 1 to 1.5 years |
| Suitable for | For mild to moderate sagging – perfect for first-time users | Clearly aimed at achieving long-lasting results |
| Price: 600 hairs for the entire face | 500,000 to 900,000 yen | 15 million to 2 million yen |
5 clinics in Myeongdong
Compari
rmage devices
Price comparison of Thermage treatments (updated in 2026)
Below are the quotes for Thermage treatments from 5 clinics that I actually inquired about at Myeongdong for your reference. Prices may vary due to seasonal promotions, so it is recommended to confirm the latest rates before making an appointment.
| clinic | Equipment | Full-face treatment price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| HeyDay | FLX | Starting from ¥6.9 million | The cheapest FLX in Myeongdong: just 300 won per shot. |
| LIJIN | Oligio / FLX | Oligio: ¥750,000 / FLX: ¥1.89 million | Both devices are available; President Huang Ruzhu |
| DAN-A | Oligio | 8.88 million yen | Deputy Dean Pei Zaihe, Cashdoc – a 5-star service indeed! |
| REBERRY | FLX | ¥19.99 million (600 units) | The dean personally posted this review; Naver gave it a score of 4.6. |
| Kleam | FLX + Ultrasound Gun | Please consult a professional. | Combinable hyperthermal joint solutions |
As can be seen from the above table, even for clinics located in the same area of Myeongdong, the price differences can range up to three times. HeyDay’s FLX service costs 690,000 won, while REBERRY’s FLX service costs 1.99 million won. The differences don’t merely lie in the price; they also include whether the treatment is performed by the clinic director in person, whether the equipment is state-of-the-art, and whether the service process is well-established.
How much of a difference is there in effectiveness between Oligio and FLX? To be honest…
Let me get straight to the point: FLX delivers more energy and its effects last longer – that’s a technical fact. However, being “better” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s “more suitable for you”.
If you are between 25 and 35 years old, have only mild skin laxity, have a limited budget, or are considering HIFU for the first time and want to try it out first — Oligio is more than sufficient. With a price range of ¥950,000 to ¥900,000, the effects last for 6 to 12 months, making it very cost-effective. Additionally, Oligio uses a milder form of energy, resulting in less pain compared to FLX, making it more suitable for those who are sensitive to discomfort.
If you are over 35 years old, have noticeably loose skin, have previously undergone Thermage treatments and wish to upgrade your results, or have sufficient budget to pursue the longest-lasting effects, FLX is the better choice for you. FLX’s AccuREP technology allows it to automatically adjust the energy level of each treatment, resulting in more uniform outcomes and a longer duration of effects (1 to 1.5 years).
How to choose? Use the comparison chart based on budget, age, and specific needs.
| Your situation | Recommended equipment | Reference clinics in Myeongdong | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aged 25-30, with mild skin laxity and a limited budget | Oligio 300 units | LIJIN, DAN-A | 500,000 to 800,000 yen |
| Aged 30-35, with moderate skin laxity; interested in trying Thermage treatment. | Oligio 600 units | LIJIN (₩.75 million), DAN-A (₩.88 million) | ₩750,000 to 900,000 |
| For those over 35 years old with noticeable signs of skin laxity and a moderate budget | FLX: 300 to 600 shots per unit | HeyDay (starting from ¥9.69 million) | 6.9 million to 1 million yen |
| Striving for the longest-lasting results with a sufficient budget | FLX 600 shots | LIJIN (₩1.89 million), REBERRY (₩1.99 million) | 1.8 to 2 million yen |
| I want to join the “Hot Super Alliance” group. | FLX + Ultrasonic Gun | Kleam | Please consult a professional. |
A guide to avoiding pitfalls: What should you consider when choosing Thermage?
⚠️ Problem 1: Insufficient hair density results in reduced effectiveness of the treatment
Some clinics use “low prices” to attract customers, but they only provide 100-200 hairs, which is far from enough to cover the entire face. For a full-face treatment, it is recommended to use at least 300 hairs; 600 hairs will achieve the best results. Make sure to clarify whether it’s a full-face treatment or a partial area treatment, and how many hairs will be used.
⚠️ Warning: Be sure to verify the authenticity of the equipment.
In legitimate clinics, the FLX equipment allows for on-site verification of the serial number, and the probes are disposable items that are opened in front of you. If a clinic refuses to let you inspect the equipment or probes, simply find another one.
⚠️ Warning: Be sure to check the after-tax price.
In South Korea, the prices for medical beauty treatments generally do not include a 10% surcharge. When inquiring about prices, be sure to ask whether they are including tax or not, to avoid any surprises at the time of payment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much difference is there in the level of discomfort between Oligio and FLX?
A: The pain associated with FLX is relatively intense (similar to having a rubber band snap against your face), but it is assisted by a vibration-cooling mechanism. Oligio generates a milder form of heat, and most people find it “warm but tolerable.” Those who are sensitive to pain are advised to choose Oligio or request that the clinic provide an anesthetic ointment.
Q: How long does it take for the results to appear after the procedure? And how long do they last?
A: You can immediately feel the tightening effect after the procedure; the optimal results usually become apparent 2 to 4 weeks later, and peak after 3 to 6 months. The effects of Oligio last for approximately 6 to 12 months, while those of FLX last around 1 to 1.5 years.
Q: Can Thermage and HIFU be used simultaneously?
A: Yes, this is exactly what is known as “thermal HIFU combination.” Thermage acts on the dermis layer (to improve sagging and fine lines), while HIFU targets the SMAS fascia layer (for Lifting). Using both together yields more comprehensive results, but it is recommended to wait 2–4 weeks between treatments, or to consult an experienced clinic for a customized treatment plan.
Q: Which place in Myeongdong offers the best value for money?
A: If we simply compare the prices, HeyDay’s FLX package starts at ₩690,000, which is indeed the cheapest option. However, we also need to take into account other factors such as whether the treatment is performed by the clinic director in person, whether the number of treatments provided is sufficient, and the quality of the service. For a comprehensive comparison of the details of these 5 clinics, you can refer to my previous summary.
My conclusion
In the 2026 Myeongdong thermage market, there is indeed a significant price difference between Oligio and FLX: for both treatments involving 600 hairs per side of the face, Oligio costs between ₩500,000 and ₩900,000, while FLX ranges from ₩1.5 million to ₩2 million. However, this price gap reflects real differences in energy intensity, duration of effects, and comfort levels.
My advice is: first, determine your budget and the desired results, then choose the equipment, and finally select the clinic. Don’t just focus on the price; the director’s experience and the authenticity of the equipment are equally important.
If you want to read the complete reviews and price comparisons of 5 clinics in one go, I recommend starting with my comprehensive summary of recommendations for Thermage treatments in Myeongdong. Once you have decided on the equipment and the clinic, don’t forget to make an appointment in advance – the best times with the top doctors are usually reserved 1-2 weeks in advance.
📚 For further reading
If you’re still hesitating, you might want to take a look at these articles below:
- Which clinic in Myeongdong is recommended for Thermage treatments? I compared the prices, facilities, and reviews of 5 different clinics.
- Price Comparison for Dermatology Services at HeyDay in Myeongdong
- What are the reviews for the Dermatology department at LIJIN in Myeongdong?
- Prices at DAN-A Dermatology in Myeongdong | Practical Reviews of the Second Generation HIFU Device
- Price comparison of Ulthrea in Myeongdong | Ultherapy vs Shurink