Both use bipolar RF, but MINI FX addresses fat with vacuum and high-voltage pulses while FORMA tightens the skin — and when not to combine them.
Hello. This is Dr. Lee Yumin of MeSOnBom Clinic.
One of the things people most want to know about InMode is the difference between MINI FX and FORMA.
Even within the same treatment, the way energy is delivered and the purpose differ according to the mode applied.
Fat distribution and skin firmness differ from person to person, so the mode needed differs too.
In this column I want to look closely at the characteristics of the two modes and how they are applied by face shape.
InMode delivers bipolar radiofrequency energy to the skin and subcutaneous tissue to manage facial contour and skin firmness.
Thermal energy delivered to the tissue induces contraction and remodelling of collagen, helping with firmness and tightening.
Unlike Ulthera or Shurink, which use focused ultrasound, InMode delivers thermal energy through radiofrequency — and its distinctive feature is that the two modes, MINI FX and FORMA, manage facial fat and skin firmness in different ways.
Both are based on bipolar RF, but the way energy is delivered and the purpose differ clearly.
The two work on different principles but complement one another, allowing facial fat and skin firmness to be considered together.
The mode and area depend on the amount of fat, skin thickness and the distribution of volume.
If subcutaneous fat is heavy and the lower face looks weighed down, MINI FX can address unwanted volume around the double chin and jawline; where firmness has also declined, FORMA can be combined to firm the skin.
Conversely, where there is little facial fat, or the front cheek and area below the cheekbone are already hollow, care is needed not to apply MINI FX excessively.
Treating areas that need volume repeatedly can make existing hollowing more pronounced.
So rather than always using both modes together, it matters to plan by distinguishing the volume that should be reduced from the volume that should be kept.
Because MINI FX draws skin and subcutaneous tissue with a vacuum, red marks, bruising or purpura can appear, and these can be more pronounced in those with thin skin or who bruise easily. FORMA is performed with a warm sensation and can leave temporary redness immediately afterwards.
The degree of discomfort and skin response varies with the area treated, the energy intensity and individual skin condition.
Afterwards, avoid rubbing or irritating the skin, and pay attention to moisturising and sun protection.
While redness and warmth remain, avoid saunas, steam rooms, alcohol and strenuous exercise, which raise skin temperature.
Q1. How often should InMode be repeated?
A. Generally we recommend at least three sessions at intervals of three to four weeks. With three sessions, collagen remodelling is maximised and the result lasts longer.
Q2. How long does it last?
A. It varies by individual, but based on completing three sessions the effect lasts roughly six months to a year.
Q3. How painful is it?
A. FORMA feels like a warm massage with almost no discomfort. MINI FX can produce a sharp warmth and a pinching sensation as the vacuum draws the tissue and the high-voltage current passes, but it is tolerable without anaesthetic cream.
InMode is a radiofrequency treatment that can address unwanted facial fat and skin firmness together.
The mode and area needed differ with fat distribution, skin thickness and the cause of the sagging.
Please check your current condition through full consultation beforehand and plan the energy and treatment range carefully for you.
Written by Dr. Lee Yumin, MeSOnBom Clinic
Our medical team will advise you based on your skin condition.
