What is the difference between HIFU lifting and RF lifting?
HIFU lifting focuses acoustic energy on a single point, while RF lifting delivers energy based on electrical current to the skin.
Comparing Treatments · Q41
Comparing Treatments · Q42
Onda vs Shurink: microwave and ultrasound compared
Question: Onda or Shurink: which lifting treatment suits me?
Short answer
Whether Onda or Shurink suits you depends on your skin condition and concerns and is decided at consultation. Onda is a device that its manufacturer describes as acting on the fat layer and dermis with microwave (Coolwaves) technology, while Shurink Universe is a HIFU device that concentrates ultrasound energy on a single point to create thermal coagulation points. Both approaches can cause temporary side effects, and results vary between individuals.
Key points
- Onda uses microwaves; Shurink Universe uses focused ultrasound
- Onda's maker says energy is absorbed mainly by fat tissue
- Shurink Universe has a fixed focal depth per cartridge
- Studies report different courses, not which is superior
- The choice is made at consultation after checking your skin
How do Onda and Shurink differ in how they work?
The difference is that Onda uses microwave energy, while Shurink Universe uses focused ultrasound (HIFU) energy.
DEKA, the manufacturer of Onda, explains that Coolwaves microwave technology selectively targets subcutaneous fat cells and stimulates contraction of dermal collagen fibers and new collagen production. The manufacturer explains that this energy is absorbed preferentially by fat tissue.
Classys, the manufacturer of Shurink Universe, explains that the curved focus of the transducer concentrates energy at a specific depth to create thermal coagulation points (TCPs), and this heat causes tissue coagulation that promotes collagen regeneration.
| Item | Onda lifting | Shurink Universe |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | Microwave (Coolwaves) | Focused ultrasound (HIFU) |
| Manufacturer | DEKA (Italy) | Classys (Korea) |
| Depth adjustment | Deep, Shallow and Pocket handpieces | Face 1.5-4.5 mm, Booster 1.5-4.5 mm |
| Manufacturer description | Absorbed preferentially by fat tissue; 5°C contact cooling | Thermal coagulation points promote collagen regeneration |
| Points to note | Limited long-term efficacy and safety data | Temporary redness, edema, bruising and tenderness reported |
How are treatment depth and method adjusted?
Onda adjusts the layer the energy reaches by handpiece type, and Shurink Universe by cartridge depth.
The Onda manufacturer explains that the Deep (localized fat over larger areas), Shallow (cellulite, skin laxity, under the chin) and Pocket (facial contouring, tightening) handpieces deliver energy at different depths, and that 5°C contact cooling protects the surface of the skin.
Shurink Universe has Face cartridges of 1.5, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.5 mm and Booster cartridges of 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm. There are two ways of creating thermal coagulation points, MP mode and standard (Dot) mode, and the manufacturer explains that MP mode allows treatment 2 times faster than standard mode.
How did the course of the two approaches differ in studies?
A single-center retrospective study of 171 East Asian patients reported faster early improvement at 1 month with the microwave approach, and greater sustained improvement at 3 months with HIFU.
The same study reported only mild, temporary side effects with both approaches. These results show a difference in the course of improvement and should not be read as a conclusion that one is better.
For microwave approaches such as Onda, an international advisory board recommendation notes that evaluation of long-term efficacy and safety is still limited, so it should be kept in mind that results and how long they last vary between individuals.
What should I know about side effects?
Both approaches can cause temporary reactions such as redness or swelling, and the degree and duration vary between individuals.
In a HIFU meta-analysis, the common adverse reactions were redness, edema, swelling, bruising and tenderness, reported as generally mild to moderate. Device-specific precautions for Shurink Universe are explained at consultation.
For Onda, mild, temporary side effects were reported in the study above, but long-term data are limited, so it is a good idea to check at consultation which reactions to expect after treatment and which symptoms require you to contact the clinic.
How is the right device decided for me?
At CELITA Clinic, after checking your skin with AI skin analysis and ultrasound, the Director suggests a device in a one-on-one consultation.
The face is photographed and analyzed in 3D with EVE V MUSE, and the condition beneath the skin is checked with Sono Finder. The device and number of shots are decided by considering skin firmness, the size of the area and the results you hope for.
Choosing 2-3 concerns and telling us your priorities makes the plan more accurate. The consultation explains the treatment, recovery period and cost including VAT.
FAQ
Can I have Onda and Shurink together?
The combination and order of treatments differ for each procedure, so the plan is reviewed during consultation. Whether it is possible depends on your skin condition and schedule.
Can people under 19 have these treatments?
Anyone under 19 (international age) needs a guardian's consent, and lifting treatments such as Onda lifting are possible. Minors cannot receive filler or thread lifts.
How long does the treatment take?
At CELITA Clinic, consultation, numbing and treatment together usually take 1-2 hours. This may vary with the treatments and that day's schedule.
Important
This article is general medical information, not a diagnosis or treatment. Results, recovery time and side effects vary with each person's skin, and whether a treatment suits you is decided after consultation with a doctor. If you notice unusual symptoms, contact the clinic that treated you right away.
Sources
All questions in Comparing Treatments
- Q40. What is the difference between Ultherapy and Thermage?
- Q41. What is the difference between HIFU lifting and RF lifting?
- Q42. Onda or Shurink: which lifting treatment suits me?
- Q43. Should I get lifting or a skin booster first?
- Q44. How should I choose a lifting treatment for my age?
- Q45. How is the order decided when having several skin treatments together?