Real case sharing from Myeongdong RUBY Dermatology: 3 months after Thermage treatment, the appearance of the Apple Zone became truly natural and unartificial.

In the previous article, I described the reservation process for Ruby. Many friends privately asked me, “Is Ruby really worth the effort to visit specifically?” 🤔 In this article, I will answer this question based on my actual experience at the Ruby Dermatology clinic. Thermage FLX was just one of the treatments I received this time; what I really want to share is that the entire experience at this hospital—from consultation to post-treatment follow-up—is truly different from what I have experienced at other Dermatology clinics in Seoul. The appearance of the Apple Zone is just the result; what matters more is the process itself.

Ruby Dermatology: Why did I ultimately choose this clinic?

To be honest, before going to Ruby, I had visited two Dermatology clinics in Seoul. One was located near Gangnam Station; it had a very nice interior design, but the consultation was more like reading out a menu – they asked me about my budget and then recommended package deals without conducting any analysis of my skin condition. The other clinic was in Myeongdong, and the doctor’s consultation was very brief; however, the results were not long-lasting.

Later, a friend recommended Ruby Dermatology, saying that they focused on one-on-one consultations, did not engage in aggressive marketing, and that the director personally evaluated each patient. I decided to give it a try, and I was deeply impressed during my first consultation.

• The dean (or the responsible physician) personally used a mirror to examine my face with me and pointed out that the external support of the Apple Zone had weakened and that the top of the Apple Zone had shifted downward.
• It’s not about directly promoting Magi; instead, it starts with asking me what aspects I would like to improve, what kind of recovery period I am willing to accept, and what my budget range is.
• The recommended solution was “Thermage FLX combined with a small amount of Inmode”, rather than relying on a single treatment to achieve the desired results.
• The prices are clearly stated on the spot, with no hidden fees or misleading sales tactics like “discounts for today’s reservations” 👍

This is exactly what I consider to be “professional medical beauty consultation” – not just a standardized menu-based sales approach.

Ruby Dermatology Thermage FLX: Their approach is different from others.

After choosing Ruby, let me talk about the Thermage FLX treatment I had this time. This is my second experience with Thermage; the first time was at another clinic, and the results were average, lasting less than 8 months.

Before the procedure, Ruby’s doctor explained the logic behind their approach to me, and I thought it was worth noting down:

• Advanced depth settings: The Thermage FLX comes with four different probe depths (1.5mm / 3.0mm / 4.5mm + dedicated for the eye area). The doctor at Ruby will adjust the probe combination according to the thickness of my fascia layers; not everyone uses the same set of probes.
• Energy distribution: Apply higher levels of energy to the Apple Zone area (but ensure the pain remains within an acceptable range), while using medium-to-low energy along the jawline to achieve a tightening effect without causing facial stiffness.
• Camera head replacement: The entire process involves opening the camera head packaging in person and scanning the barcode for verification. I really care about this step (I’m worried about buying fake camera heads).
• Chinese communication: Ruby has a Chinese coordinator on hand, so during the procedure, I can simply say “It hurts too much” or “Should we add more here?” without having to gesture around 🙏

The entire process takes approximately 50 minutes (including 30 minutes for applying the anesthetic), with the actual injection taking around 20 minutes. I would rate the pain level at 3/10 – it was much more comfortable than the first time I had this procedure done elsewhere (back then, the pain was so intense that I almost jumped up off the bed 😅).

Postoperative recovery period: The nursing guidance provided by Ruby Dermatology is extremely detailed.

This point deserves to be mentioned separately. After many Dermatology procedures, patients are simply given a photocopy of a “Precautions” sheet with identical instructions on it. However, Ruby provided me with personalized care recommendations specifically tailored to the area where the treatment was performed.

• In the first 3 days after the procedure: Apply the repair mask twice a day, in the morning and evening. They provided 3 sheets, but said you could get more if needed.
• Within one week after the procedure: Avoid high-temperature environments (temporarily refrain from using saunas and hot yoga).
• Within two weeks after the procedure: Strengthen sun protection. Ruby provided a sample of sunscreen with an SPF50+ PA++++ rating.
• Expression management: Avoid making exaggerated expressions (such as laughing or crying loudly) within 3 days after the procedure to help the fascia layers contract steadily.

On the 5th day after the procedure, I asked them, “Is it normal for the Apple Zone to show no changes at all?” The Chinese coordinator replied to me via voice message that the effects of Thermage are gradual, and it would take about a month before any visible lifting effects could be observed, so I was told not to worry too much. This sense of having someone to take care of me after the procedure really added a lot to the whole experience.

One month after the surgery: The Apple Zone began to show signs of activity.

On the 10th day after the procedure: There is almost no more swelling, and the marks from the needles have also disappeared; I can now apply makeup as usual.

On the 20th day after the procedure: I began to notice that the area of the Apple Zone seemed to have lifted slightly, but I wasn’t sure whether this was just a psychological effect. When looking at myself in the mirror from the side, I could see that the line of my jaw appeared to be tighter.

30 days after the procedure (one full month later): By this time, the changes are already quite noticeable. I took before-and-after photos, and I measured it with a ruler – the top of my Apple Zone is now about 2-3 mm higher than before the surgery 😂. The shadow under my Nasolabial Fold Correction has also faded, and the overall contours of my face appear more defined, no longer scattered or irregular.

When friends met, they said, “Have you lost weight recently? Your face looks tighter.” I haven’t lost weight; it’s just that the effects of Thermage are starting to show.

Three months after the procedure: The Apple Zone is truly visible now, and that’s exactly what I wanted.

Let’s get to the point. Three months after the procedure, the effects of Thermage FLX reached their peak. The changes I observed at this time were as follows:

• The peak of the Apple Zone remains in the Lifting position permanently, not just giving the illusion of being there one month after the procedure, but maintaining that state stably.
• The jawline has tightened, and the loose flesh around the mouth that was noticeable before is no longer visible.
• The most important thing is that the expressions on my face look natural, without any stiffness that suggests they’ve been artificially created. When my parents saw me, they didn’t say “What’s wrong with your face?” Instead, they commented that I looked healthy and good-looking 😂
• Even without makeup, the texture of the skin is improved, and the Pores become finer (an additional effect of Thermage).

I believe that the approach of “no masks” is closely related to Ruby’s methodology. Instead of focusing on achieving “instant visible results” by maximizing the intensity of the treatments, they apply them in a gradual, moderate manner. The outcome is someone who looks better but whose changes are not immediately noticeable—rather than someone who clearly appears to have undergone cosmetic procedures. The latter scenario is what we refer to as the “mask effect.”

Is Ruby Dermatology worth visiting? The reasons why I will return there again

Three months have passed, and overall, my evaluation of Ruby Dermatology is that it’s definitely worth making a special trip to. It’s not because the treatment results are outstanding (good results are, of course, a basic expectation), but rather because the entire experience gave me the feeling that “this clinic is trustworthy”.

• One-on-one service: From consultation to the actual procedure, it is always the same doctor (or the same team) who handles everything – not one doctor provides the consultation today and another performs the treatment tomorrow.
• No pressure to buy: I visited the clinic three times in total (for consultation, treatment, and post-treatment follow-up), and not once was I approached to try other services.
• Stable Chinese service: For someone like me who isn’t very proficient in Korean, smooth communication is of utmost importance.
• Transparent pricing: The price quoted before the procedure is exactly the same as the final amount paid. The prices are the same in both China and Korea, and there is no so-called “foreigner surcharge.”
• Convenient transportation: It’s directly connected to the subway, and you can walk from the station to the destination.

If we have to point out any disadvantages, they are as follows: Appointments must be made in advance, and walk-ins may have to wait for a long time or be refused. It is recommended to use the BeautsGO APP to make an appointment before heading out, and then go at the scheduled time.

How much does Thermage FLX cost? Price reference for Ruby Dermatology in 2026

Finally, I attach the price reference for my Thermage FLX treatment at Ruby (May 2026; the actual price shall be subject to the daily quotation):

• Thermage FLX Full Face Treatment (600 sessions): Approximately 980,000 Korean won
• Thermage FLX for specific areas (eyes or Forehead): approximately 450,000 Korean won
• Inmode local enhancement (optional): approximately 300,000 Korean won
• Post-surgery recovery mask (3 pieces): Included in the package, no additional charge.

Compared with the prices of Thermage in China (usually starting from 15,000 RMB), I think the price of Ruby is reasonable. Moreover, it includes consultation fees and post-operative care guidance, with no additional charges.

Additionally, I really appreciate the fact that Ruby charges the same price for both Chinese and foreign customers. Some clinics tend to charge foreigners more, but Ruby doesn’t have this issue; the price stated at the time of booking is exactly what you’ll end up paying.

For those who are considering visiting Ruby Dermatology: my advice

If you are considering undergoing cosmetic procedures in South Korea, especially anti-aging treatments like Thermage FLX, my advice is:

• Choosing the right clinic is even more important than selecting the right treatment. Even for the same Thermage technology, different application methods can result in significantly different outcomes.
• The prices of one-on-one clinics may be slightly higher than those of chain clinics, but the time and communication savings are well worth it.
• Postoperative care accounts for 30% of the overall results, so it is very important to choose a clinic that is willing to provide follow-up care after the procedure.
• Reservations must be made in advance. During peak periods for Ruby, such as on weekends and holidays, it is usually necessary to book 1-2 weeks in advance.

So far, my overall experience with Ruby Dermatology has been satisfactory. The results have remained stable after three months, and there have been no side effects or regrets at all. If your criteria are the same as mine – natural results, no artificial enhancements, and proper follow-up care after the procedure – then Ruby Dermatology is definitely worth adding to your list of Seoul-based medical beauty options 💕

In the next article, I plan to talk about Ruby’s other products (Rejuran, HIFU), or you might want to see how I compare with other clinics. Just leave a comment to let me know 👇

Recommended related readings

• Comprehensive price list for Ruby Dermatology in South Korea: Thermage FLX starts from 980,000 South Korean won – the same price as in China, without any “foreigner surcharges”.
• How to make an appointment at Ruby Dermatology in South Korea without running into any problems? Just use the BeautsGO APP to register with your real name and you can go straight to the clinic for treatment.
• Is Ruby Dermatology in South Korea a one-on-one service? After a 20-minute personal consultation, the director only served me alone.
• Real Reviews of Ruby Dermatology: Netizens Share 10 Real Experiences of Having Thermage FLX Treatments
• Seoul Mapo District Dermatology Red and Black List: Those highly recommended places are actually just average, while this lesser-known clinic really surprised me.