Shurink Universe HIFU in Korea 2025: Complete Guide to Prices, Effects & Ulthera Comparison
Looking for a non-surgical facelift in Korea? Shurink Universe has become the go-to HIFU treatment for those wanting Ulthera-like results at a fraction of the price. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Korea's most popular lifting treatment.
What is Shurink Universe?
Shurink Universe is the 2nd generation of Korea's beloved Shurink HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) system. It delivers focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production and tighten the SMAS layer (the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts).
What's New in Shurink Universe?
The upgrade from original Shurink includes:
- Micro Pulse (MP) Technology: Line-based energy delivery instead of dots
- More Uniform Heating: Stable temperature rise for better results
- Reduced Pain: Significantly less discomfort than previous version
- Faster Treatment: 2.5-3x faster than original Shurink
- Improved Precision: Better results on curved areas (eyes, jawline)
How HIFU Works
- Focused Ultrasound: Energy penetrates to specific depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm)
- Thermal Coagulation: Precise heating points created in tissue
- Collagen Stimulation: Body's healing response triggers new collagen
- Gradual Tightening: Results develop over 2-3 months
- SMAS Contraction: Deep layer tightening for lifting effect
Shurink Universe Prices in Korea 2025
One of the biggest advantages of getting Shurink in Korea is the exceptional value:
| Treatment | Shots | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 300 shots | ₩110,000-200,000 | $85-155 |
| Standard | 600 shots | ₩130,000-300,000 | $100-230 |
| Full Face | 900+ shots | ₩250,000-450,000 | $190-350 |
| Premium Package | 600 shots x 3 | ₩400,000-600,000 | $310-460 |
Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD. Prices vary significantly by clinic and promotions.
Real Clinic Pricing Examples
| Clinic | Treatment | Regular Price | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| BNP Clinic | 600 MP shots | ₩220,000 | ₩130,000 |
| Shine Beam | 300 shots + Pen 200 + Ampoule (3x) | - | ₩539,000 |
| Moimodream | 300 shots/session | ₩297,000 | ₩198,000 |
Korea vs. Other Countries
| Location | HIFU Treatment (per session) | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Korea (Shurink) | $100-350 | — |
| USA (Ulthera) | $2,000-5,000 | 85-95% |
| Singapore | $800-2,000 | 70-85% |
| Thailand | $500-1,000 | 50-70% |
Shurink Universe vs. Ulthera: The Complete Comparison
| Factor | Shurink Universe | Ulthera |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Korea (Classys) | USA (Merz) |
| Technology | HIFU | HIFU |
| Imaging | No real-time visualization | DeepSee™ real-time imaging |
| Precision | Depends on practitioner skill | More precise targeting |
| Pain Level | Lower (improved with MP tech) | Higher |
| Sessions Needed | 3-4 for comparable results | 1 session |
| Price | 1/3 to 1/5 of Ulthera | Premium pricing |
| Results Duration | 3-6 months per session | 12-18 months |
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Shurink Universe if:
- Budget is a consideration
- You prefer gradual, natural-looking results
- You want less painful treatment
- You're okay with maintenance sessions
- You're in your 20s-40s with mild to moderate laxity
Choose Ulthera if:
- You want maximum results in one session
- Budget is not a concern
- You have significant skin laxity
- You prefer precise, imaging-guided treatment
- You're 40+ with more advanced aging
The Math: Shurink vs. Ulthera Cost-Effectiveness
- Ulthera 1 session: ~$3,000 (lasts 12-18 months)
- Shurink 4 sessions: ~$600-800 total (comparable results)
- Savings: $2,200-2,400 (73-80% less)
Understanding Shot Counts
300 Shots vs. 600 Shots
| Factor | 300 Shots | 600 Shots |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Targeted areas | Full face |
| Best For | Eyes, jawline focus | Overall lifting |
| Results Duration | 2-3 months | 4-6 months |
| Ideal Age | 20s-30s | 30s-50s |
| Price | $85-155 | $100-230 |
Shot Recommendations by Age & Concern
| Age Group | Skin Condition | Recommended Shots |
|---|---|---|
| 20s | Prevention, mild | 300-400 shots |
| 30s | Early sagging | 400-500 shots |
| 40s | Moderate laxity | 500-600 shots |
| 50s+ | Significant sagging | 600+ shots |
Treatment Depths Explained
- 1.5mm: Targets dermis layer → Fine lines, skin texture
- 3.0mm: Targets deep dermis → Wrinkles, elasticity
- 4.5mm: Targets SMAS layer → Lifting, contouring
Most comprehensive treatments use all three depths for optimal results.
What Shurink Universe Treats
Primary Benefits
- Facial Lifting: Overall face lift effect
- Jawline Definition: V-line contouring
- Double Chin Reduction: Fat dissolution + tightening
- Nasolabial Folds: Smile line improvement
- Jowl Reduction: Lower face tightening
Treatment Areas
- Forehead and brow
- Eye area (crow's feet, hooded lids)
- Cheeks and mid-face
- Nasolabial folds
- Jawline and jowls
- Neck and double chin
- Previously difficult areas: glabella, philtrum
The Shurink Universe Experience
Before Treatment
- No specific preparation needed
- Come with clean skin (no makeup)
- Inform doctor of any fillers or implants
- Discuss realistic expectations
During the Procedure
Step 1: Consultation (10 min) Assessment of skin laxity and treatment planning
Step 2: Cleansing & Marking (10 min) Treatment zones marked on face
Step 3: Ultrasound Gel (2 min) Conductive gel applied
Step 4: HIFU Treatment (20-40 min)
- Handpiece delivers focused ultrasound
- Sensation: Warm, prickling, mild discomfort
- Multiple passes at different depths
Step 5: Post-Care (5 min) Soothing cream or mask applied
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Pain Level
With the new MP technology, Shurink Universe is notably more comfortable:
- Pain rating: 4-6 out of 10
- Sensation: Warm, tingling, occasional sharp pricks
- Comparison: Less painful than Ulthera (7-9/10)
Some clinics offer numbing cream for sensitive patients.
After Treatment
Immediately:
- Mild redness
- Slight swelling
- Warm sensation
Day 1-7:
- Possible tenderness
- Temporary tightness
- Minor swelling subsides
No real downtime - most patients return to normal activities immediately.
Results Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Immediately | Subtle tightening |
| Week 1-2 | Initial lifting visible |
| Week 4-8 | Collagen remodeling begins |
| Month 2-3 | Optimal results appear |
| Month 3-6 | Peak lifting effect |
| Month 6+ | Gradual decrease (maintenance needed) |
Results by Depth
- 1.5mm/3.0mm (shallow): Immediate tightening effect
- 4.5mm (deep): Results develop over 2-4 weeks as collagen rebuilds
Recommended Treatment Protocol
For best results, Korean dermatologists recommend:
| Phase | Sessions | Interval | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial | 3 sessions | 4 weeks apart | Build foundation |
| Maintenance | 1-2 sessions | Every 6 months | Sustain results |
Why Multiple Sessions?
Unlike Ulthera's single-session approach, Shurink works best with cumulative treatments:
- Session 1: Initial stimulation
- Session 2: Builds on first treatment
- Session 3: Consolidates results
- 3-4 Shurink sessions ≈ 1 Ulthera session in terms of lifting effect
Who Should Get Shurink Universe?
Ideal Candidates
- Ages 25-60 with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Those wanting non-surgical lifting
- Prevention-focused younger patients
- People who prefer gradual results
- Those seeking value for money
- Asian skin types (very safe)
Not Recommended For
- Severe skin sagging (surgery may be better)
- Active skin infections
- Metal implants in treatment area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Recent facial fillers (wait 2-4 weeks)
- Unrealistic expectations
Potential Side Effects
Common (Temporary)
- Redness (few hours)
- Mild swelling (1-3 days)
- Tenderness to touch
- Tingling sensation
Rare
- Bruising
- Numbness (temporary)
- Uneven results
Serious (Very Rare)
- Nerve damage (with inexperienced providers)
- Fat loss/"cheek hollowing" (if settings too aggressive)
- Burns (extremely rare with proper technique)
Prevention: Choose experienced practitioners at reputable clinics.
Top Seoul Clinics for Shurink Universe
1. BNP Clinic (뷰앤플의원)
- Location: Gangnam
- Specialty: Ulthera and Shurink
- Price Range: ₩130,000-220,000
- Why Choose: Competitive pricing, experienced staff
2. Shine Beam Clinic
- Location: Hongdae, Gangseo
- Specialty: Shurink packages
- Price Range: ₩150,000-300,000
- Why Choose: Good package deals
3. Mimodream Clinic (미모드림의원)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Lifting treatments
- Price Range: ₩198,000-300,000
- Why Choose: Comprehensive lifting programs
4. Xenia Clinic (세니아클리닉)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: HIFU treatments
- Price Range: ₩180,000-350,000
- Why Choose: Advanced protocols
5. Barabom Dermatology (바라봄피부과)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Shurink Universe
- Price Range: ₩150,000-280,000
- Why Choose: Detailed consultations
Maximizing Your Shurink Results
Combination Treatments
| Combo | Benefit | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Shurink + InMode | HIFU + RF for dual lifting | Same day |
| Shurink + Skin Booster | Lifting + hydration | 1-2 weeks apart |
| Shurink + Botox | Lifting + wrinkle prevention | Same day or after |
| Shurink + Thread Lift | Non-surgical + semi-surgical | 4 weeks apart |
| Shurink + Oligio | HIFU + RF at different depths | 2-4 weeks apart |
Post-Treatment Care
- Use hydrating skincare
- Apply sunscreen daily
- Avoid extreme heat (sauna) for 1 week
- Stay well-hydrated
- Consider collagen supplements
FAQ
Q: How many sessions do I need? A: For optimal results, 3 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart, then maintenance every 6 months.
Q: Does Shurink hurt? A: With the new Universe technology, pain is moderate (4-6/10). It's notably less painful than Ulthera.
Q: How long do results last? A: Single session: 3-6 months. With 3-session protocol: 6-12 months.
Q: Is Shurink as effective as Ulthera? A: 3-4 Shurink sessions can achieve similar results to 1 Ulthera session, at a fraction of the cost.
Q: Can I see results immediately? A: Some immediate tightening is visible, but optimal results develop over 2-3 months.
Q: Is there any downtime? A: No real downtime. Mild redness/swelling resolves within hours to days.
Q: How many shots do I need? A: 300 shots for targeted areas, 600+ shots for full face. Your doctor will recommend based on your concerns.
Q: Is Shurink safe for Asian skin? A: Yes! It's particularly popular and proven safe for Asian skin types.
Conclusion
Shurink Universe has democratized non-surgical lifting in Korea, offering impressive results at prices that make regular maintenance actually feasible. While it may not match Ulthera's single-session power, the cumulative results of a Shurink protocol—at 70-85% less cost—make it an incredibly attractive option.
Whether you're in your 20s looking for prevention or your 50s seeking significant lifting, Shurink Universe offers a customizable, comfortable, and cost-effective path to tighter, more youthful skin.
Ready to experience Korea's favorite lifting treatment? Book a consultation at a Seoul dermatology clinic and discover why millions choose Shurink Universe for their non-surgical facelift.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Shurink Universe HIFU treatment. It is not intended as medical advice. Results vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry some risk. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.
Last Updated: November 2025 Reading Time: 11 minutes