Density, a structure that delivers high-frequency energy to the dermis layer of the skin.
1️⃣ Introduction
I hope the lifting effect is good, but I'm too scared of the pain.
I don't know the criteria for choosing between Ulthera, Thermage, and Dencerty.
This is a common sentiment among those considering lifting procedures. Since radiofrequency-based lifting involves delivering thermal energy deep into the skin, it is inherently designed to raise concerns about a burning sensation or heat. The starting point for making a decision beforehand is to determine how to strike a balance between the fact that pain increases with higher energy levels and the necessity of delivering sufficient energy.
2️⃣ Explanation of Core Structure/Principles
Density is a method that stimulates the elastic structure by delivering thermal energy to the dermis layer, rather than the skin surface.
Denserty is a device that delivers thermal stimulation to the dermis layer of the skin using radio frequency (RF) energy. As radio frequency energy is absorbed by the tissue, it generates heat, and this thermal stimulation leads to collagen regeneration and a response in the elastic structure of the dermis. Just as a microwave heats food from the inside out rather than the surface, this method delivers energy not only to the outer layer of the skin but also to the layer responsible for elasticity.
What is crucial here is the existence of an appropriate energy range. If the thermal energy is too low, the collagen regeneration response will not occur, while if it is too high, tissue damage may result. Determining which layer to deliver energy to and at what intensity is an area that medical professionals must assess based on complex factors, including skin thickness, fat volume, degree of sagging, and past treatment history.
3️⃣ Factors Affecting Results
① Relationship between energy intensity and pain burden
In radiofrequency lifting, energy intensity is directly linked to the amount of thermal stimulation delivered to the dermis. As energy levels increase, the thermal stimulation becomes stronger, which in turn increases the burden of pain. Increased tension during the procedure can lead to muscle contractions, which can also affect the stability of energy delivery. This is why approaches aimed at reducing pain are not merely for the sake of comfort but are also linked to the more stable delivery of energy.
Conversely, minimal pain does not mean sufficient effectiveness. If the energy does not reach the optimal level, a reaction in the dermal layer may not occur. Since pain sensitivity, skin thickness, and the degree of responsiveness vary from person to person, the perceived sensation and tissue response will differ even at the same energy intensity.
② Difference between the two high-frequency methods: monopolar and bipolar
Dencerty allows you to apply two radiofrequency methods—monopolar and bipolar—by selecting the appropriate tip. The monopolar method is characterized by energy delivery to the deep layers of the skin and is primarily used for tightening purposes. The bipolar method concentrates energy within the range between the electrodes and is utilized for improving surface elasticity. Since each method differs in tip design and energy output methods, the stimulation felt during the actual procedure and the application area vary. To determine the appropriate method, you must first assess skin thickness, the degree of sagging, and the extent of elasticity loss.
③ Individual variables that influence the results
Even with the same Dencerty procedure, the energy intensity and treatment direction vary depending on skin thickness, fat volume, and the degree of sagging. Energy settings must be determined by medical professionals based on complex factors such as skin thickness, sensitivity, and past treatment history, and the possibility of side effects always exists due to individual skin reactions. In cases of low facial fat volume, the cheeks may appear more sunken after the lifting procedure, so the fat distribution status must also be included in the pre-treatment evaluation.
4️⃣ Selection Criteria Checklist
Please check the questions below before considering the Dencerty procedure.
□ Has it been determined whether the primary concern is loss of elasticity, fine lines, or skin texture, or if sagging of the SMAS layer is the main cause? □ Has your pain sensitivity to radiofrequency heat and your history of past procedures been shared with the medical team? □ Has a preliminary assessment been conducted regarding the possibility of worsening cheek hollowing after the lift, given that you have a relatively small amount of facial fat?
When SMAS layer sagging is the primary cause, relying solely on Gwangju Dencerty, which focuses on the dermis, has limitations in its scope of treatment. An approach combining deep lifting with surface elasticity improvement may be considered, but this decision is difficult to make without evaluating the skin condition.
5️⃣ Comparison Chart: Ulthera vs. Thermage vs. Dencerty: Differences in Approach
※ This table is not intended for a comparison of superiority or inferiority. The appropriate approach varies depending on skin condition and areas of concern.
| 구분 | Ulthera | 써마지 | 덴서티 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy method | Ultrasonic energy | Monopolar radio frequency (RF) | Monopolar + Bipolar Radio Frequency (RF) |
| Main active layer | SMAS layer (fascia, the main structure through which the lifting effect is delivered) | Dermis layer · Subcutaneous layer of the skin | Dermal layer (varies depending on tip selection) |
| Main purpose | Deep lifting and tightening | Dermal layer tightening | Improves elasticity, tightening, and skin texture |
| Pain sensation | Relatively high | Individual differences | Individual differences |
| Precautions | Caution regarding areas adjacent to nerves and bones | Thermal damage due to excess energy | Energy needs to be adjusted according to skin thickness, fat content, and sensitivity. |
※ Ulthera uses ultrasound, while Thermage and Dencerty use radiofrequency, so their energy delivery mechanisms differ. Even though they are both radiofrequency-based, differences in tip design, energy output methods, and cooling systems mean that the stimulation felt during the actual procedure and the results may differ. ※ Application may vary depending on individual conditions (skin thickness, fat volume, degree of sagging, elasticity, age).
6️⃣ Q&A
Q1. How should I assess the situation if pain occurs during the Gwangju Dencerty procedure?
In radiofrequency lifting, the sensation of heat or warmth is a reaction that occurs as energy is delivered to the tissue. Tolerable levels of heat may occur during the procedure. If you experience concentrated stabbing pain or persistent pain in a specific area, do not attempt to diagnose yourself; you must immediately inform the medical staff during the procedure. Even after the procedure, if pain persists for a certain period or if there are changes in skin color or unevenness, medical verification is required.
Q2. How often do I need to receive treatment to maintain the effects of Dencerty?
The high-frequency lifting effect becomes apparent over several weeks to months as the collagen regeneration response progresses. The duration of the effect varies significantly from person to person depending on skin thickness, the degree of loss of elasticity, lifestyle habits, and exposure to UV rays. In some cases, it is difficult to expect permanent changes with a single treatment, and whether repeated treatments are necessary depends on the individual's skin condition and response. It is advisable to make this determination by monitoring the post-procedure progress with a medical professional.
Q3. How do I decide which device is right for my skin among Ulthera, Thermage, and Dencerty?
Each device differs in its energy method and primary target layer. Ulthera uses ultrasound energy to access the SMAS layer, Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency to tighten the dermis, and Gwangju Dencerty, while based on the same radiofrequency foundation, allows for the selection of either monopolar or bipolar methods depending on the skin condition. Even though they share the same radiofrequency base, results vary depending on the tip design and energy output method. In cases where SMAS sagging and decreased dermal elasticity are present simultaneously, a combined approach of both methods may be considered. Determining which device is suitable requires first assessing the degree of sagging, skin thickness, and fat volume.
7️⃣ Wrapping up
With Density, the outcome is determined not by the equipment itself, but by the setting of energy intensity and direction tailored to skin thickness, fat volume, and the degree of sagging. Minimizing pain does not guarantee sufficient effectiveness, and if the energy falls short of the optimal range, a response in the dermal layer may not occur. If SMAS layer sagging is the primary cause, Density, which focuses on the dermal layer, has limitations in its reach when used alone. It is also important to understand in advance that if facial fat is low, cheek hollowing may worsen after the lift. Confirming your skin thickness, fat volume, and degree of sagging through an evaluation by medical professionals is the starting point for approaching Density.
⚠️ Legal Notice and Side Effects Information
※ This article is for general informational purposes only. ※ This article has been written in compliance with Article 56, Paragraph 1 of the Medical Service Act. ※ Individual results may vary for all procedures/treatments, and side effects (swelling, bruising, heat sensation, pigmentation, pain, skin changes, sensory abnormalities, heat damage, etc.) may occur. ※ Excessive energy may cause heat damage, thin skin may result in pigmentation changes, and low fat content may worsen cheek hollowing. ※ If adverse reactions persist, immediate consultation with a medical professional is required. ※ Results may vary depending on individual conditions (skin thickness, fat volume, elasticity, age, health status, degree of sagging, and history of previous procedures).
