Unlike conventional lifting devices that rely primarily on thermal energy to contract and remodel tissue, EMFACE introduces a different concept—lifting through muscle tone enhancement.
Rather than focusing only on the skin or deeper structural layers, EMFACE improves the functional support system of the face, making it a distinct and innovative approach in the field of non-invasive lifting.
In this guide, we will explore its actual clinical effectiveness, expected results, pricing, and duration.
1. The Effectiveness of EMFACE
The Core Mechanism
EMFACE achieves lifting through a dual-action system, combining electromagnetic stimulation and radiofrequency energy.
(1) HIFES (High-Intensity Facial Electromagnetic Stimulation)
As aging progresses, facial muscle tone naturally declines. When muscles lose tension, they remain in a more elongated and relaxed state, contributing to sagging.
While treatments such as Ultherapy and Thermage primarily target skin layers and connective structures, EMFACE directly focuses on facial muscles.
The facial musculature can be broadly categorized into:
Elevator muscles (responsible for lifting)
Depressor muscles (responsible for downward pull)
EMFACE selectively strengthens the elevator muscles using high-intensity electromagnetic stimulation. The device delivers energy through adhesive patches, inducing supramaximal contractions—far exceeding what can be achieved through voluntary muscle movement.
This results in improved tone in key lifting muscles, including:
Frontalis (forehead)
Zygomaticus major and minor (mid-face)
Risorius (mouth corners)
By enhancing these muscles, EMFACE increases the upward structural support of the face, leading to a more lifted and balanced appearance.
Primary Treatment Areas:
Brow and upper eyelid region
Nasolabial folds
Mid-face volume (cheeks)
Corners of the mouth
Clinical Outcomes
According to published clinical data:
Average lifting improvement:
16.5% after 1 month
22.2% after 3 months
Mid-face volume increase:
Approximately 1.27 ml in the upper cheek area
(2) RF (Radiofrequency) Component
In addition to muscle stimulation, EMFACE incorporates synchronized RF energy.
Operating at approximately 3.2 MHz, this RF penetrates deeper than many conventional RF devices. While treatments like Thermage or Density primarily target dermal tightening, EMFACE aims to influence retaining ligaments and deeper support structures.
Feature | Thermage / Density | EMFACE |
|---|---|---|
Frequency | 6.78 MHz | 3.2 MHz |
Primary Focus | Skin tightening & wrinkle reduction | Lifting & sagging correction |
This combination of muscle strengthening + deep thermal stimulation allows EMFACE to deliver a more comprehensive lifting effect compared to single-mechanism treatments.
Who Is EMFACE Suitable For?
EMFACE may be particularly beneficial for individuals who:
Want to improve nasolabial folds and mid-face volume
Have undergone Ultherapy and seek additional lifting synergy
Prefer a comfortable, non-invasive treatment with no downtime
Need natural-looking results before important events
Who May Need Alternative Treatments?
EMFACE may not be the ideal choice for:
Patients seeking a single-session, high-impact treatment
Individuals primarily concerned with the jawline or V-line contour
In such cases, treatments like Ultherapy may provide more targeted results.
2. Maintenance, Treatment Cycle, and Pricing
Because EMFACE works by repeatedly stimulating muscle contractions to build tone, it should not be approached as a single-session procedure. Consistency is essential to achieve visible lifting.
Recommended Treatment Protocol
Initial course:
Typically 4 to 6 sessions, spaced 7–10 days apartA single session alone is unlikely to produce meaningful or lasting changes, as muscle strengthening requires cumulative stimulation over time.
Duration of Results
After completing a full course (usually 4 sessions), results are generally maintained for approximately 9 to 12 months, although this may vary depending on individual muscle condition and aging rate.
Pricing
Costs can differ by clinic and treatment plan, but on average:
4-session package: approximately 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 KRW
EMFACE is considered a premium treatment, with pricing comparable to a full course of Ultherapy or Thermage.
3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How is EMFACE different from facial exercises?
A. While facial exercises rely on voluntary muscle contraction, EMFACE induces supramaximal contractions that are significantly stronger and more consistent. Additionally, the integrated RF energy simultaneously promotes collagen and elastin production.
Another important distinction is selectivity—manual exercises may unintentionally activate depressor muscles, potentially worsening wrinkles, whereas EMFACE targets only the muscles that contribute to lifting.
Q. When will results become visible?
A. The lifting effect develops progressively. The most noticeable improvement typically appears 2 to 3 months after completing the final session, as muscle tone increases and collagen remodeling continues.
Q. Are there any side effects?
A. Side effects are generally minimal. In rare cases, if a treatment patch becomes partially detached, RF energy may concentrate unevenly, potentially causing mild burns or blistering. However, this is uncommon when performed under proper supervision.
Q. Is the treatment painful? Is there downtime?
A. EMFACE is widely regarded as a comfortable procedure. Patients usually experience rhythmic muscle contractions and a warming sensation, but not significant pain.
There is no downtime—aside from temporary redness immediately after treatment, most individuals can resume normal activities right away.
Final Takeaway
EMFACE represents a shift in lifting treatments—from focusing solely on skin and structural layers to enhancing the muscular foundation of the face.
Rather than delivering an immediate, dramatic change, it offers a progressive, natural lifting effect through repeated sessions and muscle conditioning.
This concludes the overview from
Do-hoon Kim, ODE Clinic
Gangnam Dermatology Clinic, ODE Clinic
8th Floor, 340 Gangnam-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Korea
+82-2-569-0222
Author: Dr. Dohoon Kim, Chief Director of ODE Clinic
Specialty: Anti-aging (Lifting, Volumizing, etc.)
Medical Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. All medical procedures carry risks of side effects such as bruising, swelling, infection, or nodules. Please consult with a qualified medical professional before undergoing any treatment.