What is Volformer? A closer look at the non-invasive skin-tightening treatment

There are very few things more tempting than the promise of looking a little more rested, a little more lifted, and a little more defined, without having to do much about it. The appeal of non-invasive aesthetic treatments lies somewhere in that territory. They offer the possibility of firmer skin and more defined contours without surgery or the downtime that comes with it. Volformer, a treatment that combines two energy-based technologies, is the latest to make a case for doing more with less.

Developed by Korean aesthetic technology company Classys and introduced in India by Photonence, Volformer combines Ultraformer, a non-invasive medical ultrasound device used for skin lifting, tightening, and body contouring, and Volnewmer, a non-invasive monopolar radiofrequency medical device designed for skin tightening, firming. Dr Geetika Srivastava, dermatologist and Founder of Influennz Clinic, explains the difference between the two modalities. “The monopolar radiofrequency works more superficially, heating the dermis and stimulating collagen remodelling,” she says. “HIFU, or high-intensity focused ultrasound, can work deeper, including at the SMAS [Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System] level.”

Dr Gurjot Marwah, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, who is part of the team that introduced the treatment to India, explains how the combination approaches skin tightening differently. The thinking is that facial ageing rarely follows a single script, so addressing it may require more than one approach. Whether the combination of Ultraformer and Volnewmer is appropriate depends on the concern being treated. According to Dr Marwah, Volformer is best suited to mild to moderate skin laxity, including a less defined jawline, loose skin, and early changes in facial contour. It is not, however, a substitute for surgery

“I would primarily describe Volformer as a skintightening treatment,” says Dr Srivastava. “You can get some improvement in facial contours as the tissues tighten, but I wouldn’t sell it as a dramatic lifting procedure.”

One of the more interesting considerations with energy-based treatments is not simply what they can tighten, but what they might affect along the way. Facial volume, after all, is not something everyone wants to lose. While Volformer is intended to improve firmness rather than restore lost volume, its ultrasound component can reach deeper tissue, making the choice of treatment area particularly important.

“Unwanted fat loss is possible, and this is exactly why knowledge of facial anatomy matters,” urges Dr Srivastava. She advises caution when treating areas that are already hollow, such as the cheeks and temples, where further volume loss could alter facial balance.

For Dr Chirranjiv Chabraa, Founder and Medical Director of Alive Wellness Clinics, the principle extends to energy-based procedures more broadly. “In aesthetic medicine, precision matters much more than simply increasing intensity,” she says. “The objective is controlled treatment of the right tissue at the right depth, not maximum energy.”

The procedure is typically completed in a single session, with little to no downtime. Dr Marwah says a numbing cream is applied beforehand while cooling during the radiofrequency treatment helps improve comfort. “Patients may still experience heat or discomfort during the procedure, followed by temporary redness, warmth, tenderness, or mild swelling,” he adds.

Minimal downtime does not mean an absence of risk. Dr Srivastava notes that excessive heat can cause burns, while nerve-related complications, although rare, have been reported with HIFU. She advises against having such treatments in salons, emphasising the need for medical expertise. “You’re delivering energy into different anatomical layers of the face. The person holding the device needs to understand what lies underneath the skin,” she cautions.

“You can get some improvement in facial contours as the tissues tighten, but I wouldn’t sell it as a dramatic lifting procedure.” —Dr Geetika Srivastava

The limited recovery period is one of the treatment’s practical advantages, but the results are not immediate. While some initial tightening may be visible, the changes associated with collagen remodelling take time to emerge. Improvements in firmness and contour develop over the following weeks and months, with results potentially continuing to evolve for around six months. The extent of change will vary from person to person.

Asked by repeat treatment, Dr Srivastava says the decision should depend on the individual’s age, degree of laxity, and pattern of ageing, rather than an automatic appointment every few months. For some patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, a single session may be sufficient.

The science is promising, but there is a small catch. While research supports monopolar radiofrequency and focused ultrasound for skin tightening, that does not mean every device combining the two will work in exactly the same way. Results can vary depending on the device, settings, and treatment protocol.

Dr Chabraa notes that research into the individual technologies, as well as their combined use, is available, but adds that “the evidence specifically on the Volformer protocol is still developing”.

Volformer can also be used alongside other treatments, such as injectables and lasers, when needed. The key is to choose the right treatment for the concern, rather than adding procedures unnecessarily. “Technology is a tool; the outcome ultimately depends on how thoughtfully it is used,” Dr Chabbra makes a point.

Image: Courtesy Getty Images

This article originally appeared in Harper's Bazaar India's October 2026 print issue.

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