Thin Skin and the Fear of Hollow Cheeks | Volume Restoration in Gangnam Seoul, Korea Clinic Guide

"My skin is on the thin side, and I've heard that Oligio can cause cheek hollowing."

This is a common concern for those who come for consultations from the Yeoksam area.

This concern is not unfounded. However, the cause is not the procedure itself.

Take just one minute to read this.

What changes in thin skin

Even with the same irradiation conditions, high-frequency energy reaches different layers depending on skin thickness.

If the output set for thick skin is applied directly to thin skin, it may act deeper than the intended layer.

Below that is the fat layer that creates volume.

The concern about cheek hollowing arises from this.

(※ Effects and reactions may vary depending on individual skin condition, and suitability for the procedure is determined through consultation with medical staff.)

Cases where pre-existing hollowing becomes apparent

There is another pathway.

If the side cheeks are already hollow and only the sagging is addressed, the previously covered, sagging areas lift, making the hollow areas more visible.

This is not the procedure causing hollowing, but rather the pre-existing hollowing becoming apparent.

Therefore, during consultation, sagging and volume hollowing are distinguished, and if necessary, filling procedures are designed to be performed together.

Criteria for thin skin

Simply applying a weaker intensity is not the answer.

If it's too low, it may not reach the desired layer, resulting in no noticeable effect.

• First, check the skin thickness of each area.
• For areas with a thin fat layer, lower the output and adjust the irradiation density.
• Exclude or minimize areas at risk of hollowing, such as the center of the cheek, from distribution.
• Focus on areas with concentrated sagging, such as the jawline and lower face.

The key is not to reduce the intensity, but to change where and how much is applied.

What to check during consultation

"How did you check my skin thickness?"

"How do you plan to distribute the treatment in the center of my cheek?"

"Is my current condition sagging or hollowing?"

If the answers to these three questions are specific, there is a design in place. If only a fixed package is offered, it is possible that a uniform distribution will be applied.

The timing of the procedure was discussed in Why Oligio Should Not Be Repeated Monthly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I not receive Oligio if my skin is thin?

In some cases, the procedure can be performed by adjusting the output and distribution according to the thickness. The problem is applying it uniformly without checking.

Does cheek hollowing really occur?

It can occur due to strong application without considering thickness, or when pre-existing hollowing becomes apparent after addressing sagging. These two pathways should be distinguished.

So, should I just apply it weakly?

If it's too low, it may not reach the target layer, resulting in no noticeable effect. The approach involves adjusting the distribution rather than the intensity.

What if I already have hollowing?

Sagging and hollowing are distinguished, and if necessary, filling procedures may be designed to be performed together.

What are the reactions after the procedure?

Temporary redness, warmth, and swelling may occur. The degree and duration may vary from person to person.

Recovery and Downtime: Course of High-Frequency Procedures

Warmth and redness may persist on the day of the procedure and generally subside within one to two days.

It is advisable to avoid saunas and strong massages for a few days.

Changes in elasticity appear gradually over several weeks thereafter.

How the Cost is Determined

The cost is not determined solely by the number of shots.

It varies depending on the area coverage and distribution, whether genuine tips are used, and whether pre-diagnosis and post-care are included.

For an accurate cost, it is best to provide guidance after a consultation to check skin thickness and sagging distribution.

Visit and Consultation Information

O.N Clinic is conveniently located near Gangnam Station, making it easy to access by subway.

Before your visit, you can easily inquire about any questions you have by chatting with us now, and you can coordinate the distribution plan and appointment schedule through consultation.

It is more accurate to determine the output and areas after checking skin thickness during an in-person consultation.

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Author: Dr. Oh Seung-min (Chief Director, O.N Clinic, graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine, Academic Committee Chairman of the Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Hair). For more details on his background, please refer to Meet Our Medical Team. First published 2026-08-01 / Last reviewed 2026-08-15

This article is for general information purposes only, and appropriate treatment and results may vary depending on individual conditions.