First published: 2026-05-17 / Last reviewed: 2026-05-17
This is a guide to InMode compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).
In the field of lifting, we often hear people say, "InMode is affordable, so it's easy to get." While it's true that price accessibility is a strong point, if you receive treatment without knowing which mode is right for which patient for each mode, the results may not be as clear as expected. Here's how we differentiate between modes in the consultation room.
1. Why InMode has multiple modes in one device
InMode is a multi-platform RF device from InMode, Israel. It operates by dividing modes based on bipolar RF + vacuum suction technology.
- Forma — Dermal heating of the entire face, restoration of skin texture and elasticity
- Fix — Simultaneous application of vacuum suction + RF to tighten sagging skin
- MiniFix — Concentrated RF for small areas
- Regular (Forma + Fix full package) — Both modes in one treatment session
Although it's the same RF, the output method and tip structure are different, so the applicable patients vary.
2. Forma Mode — Overall facial texture and elasticity
InMode Forma is a mode that heats the dermis of the entire face to refine skin texture and elasticity.
Recommended in the consultation room for:
- Those whose biggest concern in the mirror is skin texture and dullness
- Those who are more concerned about makeup creasing and fine wrinkles than sagging
- Those who find strong treatments burdensome and want gentle, regular treatments
- Those who want to enhance results with a combo of Tuneface or Tuneliner
There is almost no recovery downtime and the pain is mild, so it is often recommended in the consultation room a few days before a wedding or an important event.
3. Fix Mode — Tightening sagging skin
InMode Fix uses vacuum suction and RF simultaneously. Since RF is applied while the skin is slightly lifted by suction, its strong point is the effect of tightening sagging skin area by area.
Recommended in the consultation room for:
- Those whose skin has sagged all at once after childbirth or dieting
- Those whose side profile has collapsed due to sagging skin below the cheekbones
- Those who are concerned about both skin texture and elasticity but find other treatments' downtime burdensome
- Those who want to see results in a short time with a Tune combo package
4. MiniFix Mode — Targeted areas
InMode MiniFix is concentrated RF for small areas. It's a version that applies Fix's suction technology to a smaller tip.
Recommended in the consultation room for:
- Those who want to tighten only specific small areas like around the eyes, mouth, or jawline
- Those who are concerned about pinpoint sagging, such as below the cheekbones or above the nasolabial folds
- Those who find a full Fix treatment burdensome and want to treat only a partial area
MiniFix can be performed alone, but it is also often used as an enhancement after Forma or Fix.
5. Regular (Forma + Fix Full Package) — Two modes in one treatment
InMode Regular is a full package that performs Forma and Fix within one treatment session.
Recommended in the consultation room for:
- Those who are concerned about both skin texture and sagging
- Those who want comprehensive tightening in one session
- Those who want to accumulate results step by step with regular care
The biggest advantages of InMode are its affordable price range and recovery process that allow for frequent, cumulative treatments. Rather than being a tool that creates big changes all at once, it is better to think of it as a tool that builds up results step by step to align expectations with actual outcomes.
6. At-a-glance comparison
| Mode | Main Action | Suitable Patient | Recommended Cycle | Pain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forma | Dermal heating, texture & elasticity | Main concern: texture & dullness | Once every 1-2 months | Mild warmth |
| Fix | Suction + RF, area tightening | Main concern: sagging skin | Once every 1-2 months | Suction sensation |
| MiniFix | Concentrated on small areas | Pinpoint areas | Once every 1-2 months | Mild |
| Regular (Full) | Forma + Fix comprehensive | Simultaneous texture + sagging | Once every 1-2 months | Moderate |
The recommended cycle is gentle, making it suitable for cumulative treatments.
7. InMode + Tune Combo
At SHINE U Clinic Konkuk, the InMode + Tuneliner combo is frequently performed. When InMode's RF and suction are combined with Tuneliner's line-by-line RF, both skin texture and facial contour lines can be refined in one treatment session.
This combo is well-suited for:
- Those who are concerned about both side facial lines and changes in skin texture
- Those who want comprehensive tightening in one clinic visit
- Those who want to establish a regular care routine
However, a combo is not always better. Recommending a line treatment to someone who is only concerned about skin texture would be an excessive procedure.
Consult about modes via chat now
8. Common confusions brought up in the consultation room
Q1. "How is InMode different from Ultherapy and Thermage?"
- InMode — Bipolar RF, frequent cumulative treatments with less intense stimulation
- Ultherapy PRIME — HIFU point-by-point, deep stimulation of the SMAS layer, once a year
- Thermage FLX — Monopolar RF area-by-area, deep dermal stimulation, once a year
Since the depths and stimulation intensities are different, they are complementary rather than substitutable. A natural approach is to receive regular InMode care and add Ultherapy or Thermage once a year.
Q2. "Which is more effective, Forma or Fix?" It depends on what the patient is most concerned about. If it's skin texture and dullness, Forma; if it's sagging skin, Fix will produce clearer results. If both are concerns, then the Regular (full package) is recommended.
Q3. "Can I receive treatment once a month?" The recommended cycle is once every 1-2 months. Too short an interval is not recommended as stimulation can accumulate before the skin has fully recovered.
9. Post-procedure care
Common to all modes:
- On the evening of the procedure, cleanse gently and avoid rubbing.
- Temporary warmth and redness will gradually improve.
- Avoid makeup on the day of the procedure if possible, and you can resume your usual routine the next day.
- Please ensure proper moisturizing and use of sunscreen.
- Avoid alcohol, saunas, and strenuous exercise for one week.
The Fix mode may cause minor bruising due to the suction action, which will naturally subside within 3-7 days.
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Q. If I'm receiving treatment for the first time, which mode should I start with? The starting point is based on what changes you are most concerned about in the mirror. If it's skin texture and dullness, start with Forma; if it's sagging skin, Fix; if you're only concerned about a partial area, MiniFix.
Q. When do the effects become visible? Mild elasticity restoration is reported immediately after the procedure. As treatments accumulate, changes become clearer in the mirror.
Q. Can I receive it with other treatments? It is often performed in conjunction with Tune series, Thermage FLX, filler, Botox, etc. Two strong treatments are not performed on the same area on the same day; an interval of 1-2 weeks is maintained.
InMode is a "tool for frequent, cumulative treatments without burden." If you approach it as a process of building up results step by step rather than expecting a big change all at once, your expectations will align with the actual outcomes. We will determine the most suitable mode for you together in front of the mirror. You can inquire directly via Chat for non-face-to-face consultation.
Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of the Korean Academy of Laser Dermatology and Hair, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Laser Medicine) Last reviewed: 2026-05-17
This article provides general information about procedures and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of procedures may vary by individual.
