The marionette line refers to vertical wrinkles that extend from the corners of the mouth down toward the jawline. It’s a key factor that significantly affects one’s overall facial impression.

 

As these lines deepen, they can make you appear more tired or older than your actual age. This is why many people visit clinics asking, “Which lifting treatment is the most effective?”

 

In this article, we’ll compare three popular lifting devices — Ultherapy, Oligio, and Onda — to help you understand which treatment might best suit marionette lines.

 

■ What Are Marionette Lines?

Marionette lines are vertical creases that run from the mouth corners down toward the jawline. They can create a sad or tired appearance and cause the jawline to lose its definition.

 

The main causes are skin laxity, fat accumulation, and collagen loss. Because of this, surface-level skincare alone is not enough — treatments that lift and firm the skin from within are necessary.

 

 

■ Main Lifting Devices Used for Marionette Lines

 

Ultherapy
Ultherapy is one of the most well-known lifting devices that uses HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound).

It delivers energy directly to the SMAS layer (superficial muscular aponeurotic system), tightening the skin and stimulating collagen regeneration.

 

Because it works on deeper layers, it is effective for improving deep wrinkles such as those along the jawline and marionette lines.
However, one downside is that the procedure can be somewhat painful and relatively costly.

 

Oligio
Oligio delivers RF (radiofrequency) energy into the dermis layer to promote collagen regeneration and improve skin elasticity.

It works on the middle to superficial layers of the skin, making it effective for improving skin texture and fine wrinkles.

 

With a gentle warming sensation, the treatment is relatively painless and offers immediate improvements in skin texture, elasticity, and firmness.

 

However, since the energy does not reach the SMAS layer, its lifting effect on deeper layers is limited.

 

Onda
Onda uses microwave (very high-frequency electromagnetic waves) technology to deliver energy directly to fat cells in the deep layers of the skin, promoting collagen production.

 

It is particularly effective in areas with excess fat, improving the marionette lines by tightening the jawline and reducing fat volume.

 

For marionette lines caused by fat accumulation, this treatment is highly effective, with minimal discomfort and little to no downtime.

However, since it focuses more on fat reduction than lifting, it may take some time before results become visible.

▼ Device Comparison Table

Item	Ulthera	Oligio	Onda
Mechanism	Ultrasound (HIFU)	Radiofrequency (RF)	Microwave (Very High Frequency)
Target Layer	SMAS layer (deep)	Dermis layer (mid)	Fat layer (deep)
Main Effects	Lifting, elasticity improvement	Skin texture improvement, fine wrinkle reduction	Fat reduction, elasticity improvement
Strengths	Deep and long-lasting lifting	Minimal pain, improves skin texture	Fat reduction + skin tightening
Weaknesses	Higher cost, more painful	Limited deep-layer effects	Weaker lifting effect

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■ Combination Treatments Also Recommended

Marionette lines can be caused by a variety of factors, such as sagging, fat accumulation, or depth of the fold.
Because of this, it’s common to combine multiple treatment devices.

 

• Ulthera + Onda:
  Simultaneously targets deep SMAS layer lifting and fat reduction,
  making it suitable even for severe sagging.

• Oligio + Ulthera:
  Combines superficial skin texture improvement with deep-layer lifting.

• Onda + Oligio:
  If fat accumulation is the main cause, this combo can help define the jawline and enhance elasticity.

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■ How Long Do the Effects Last?

• Ulthera: 6 months to 1 year

• Oligio: 3 to 6 months

• Onda: 6 months to 1 year (varies by individual)

 

To maintain results for a longer period, proper moisturizing after the procedure, UV protection, and healthy lifestyle habits are crucial.

Note: Effect duration may vary depending on individual skin thickness, condition, and physical constitution.

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■ General Precautions

• UV Protection Before Treatment
  To minimize irritation, apply sunscreen thoroughly before and after the procedure.

• Check Skin Condition
  Avoid treatment if you have inflammation or open wounds. Always consult with a doctor beforehand.

• Post-Treatment Moisturization
  Skin may become dry after treatment, so be sure to hydrate well to calm and soothe the skin.

• Hydrate generously: Provide your skin with plenty of moisture to calm and soothe it.

• Avoid heat exposure: Refrain from using saunas or taking hot baths for one week after the treatment.

• Gentle cleansing: As your skin will be more sensitive, use a mild cleanser and wash your face gently.

 

Proper post-treatment care like this can enhance the effectiveness of the procedure and reduce the risk of side effects.

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■ Choose the Right Lifting Treatment for You

Marionette lines vary depending on each person’s skin condition and underlying causes.
That’s why the most suitable treatment differs for everyone.

 

• Ulthera is ideal for deep lifting and improving skin elasticity.

• Oligio is great for enhancing skin texture and targeting fine wrinkles.

• Onda is effective for reducing fat accumulation and refining the jawline.

 

We highly recommend receiving a 1-on-1 consultation with a qualified physician

to choose the most appropriate device and treatment plan for your skin condition. : )

 

📍 Primi Clinic
3F, 52 Seongsuil-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea (Primi Clinic)

 

📍 Primi Clinic
서울특별시 성동구 성수일로 52 3F (Primi Clinic)