Ulthera vs Shurink vs HIFU in Korea: Complete Comparison Guide 2025
When it comes to non-surgical face lifting in Korea, three names dominate the conversation: Ulthera, Shurink, and Doublo. All use HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) technology, but they differ significantly in price, effectiveness, and experience. This guide helps you understand which treatment is right for your skin.
What Is HIFU Lifting?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive lifting technology that delivers focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin. Unlike traditional lasers that work on the surface, HIFU reaches the SMAS layer (the same layer surgeons manipulate during facelifts) without any incisions.
How it works:
- Ultrasound energy penetrates deep skin layers
- Creates precise thermal coagulation points
- Stimulates collagen production
- Results in gradual skin tightening and lifting
The Big Three: Ulthera, Shurink, and Doublo
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Ulthera | Shurink | Doublo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA (German technology) | Korea | Korea |
| FDA Approved | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (KFDA only) | ❌ No (KFDA only) |
| Price | High | Low | Low |
| Pain Level | High | Low | Low |
| Duration | 1 year+ | 3-6 months | 3-6 months |
| Sessions/Year | 1 | 3+ | 3+ |
Ulthera: The Premium Choice
Ulthera is the original HIFU device, developed with over 10 years of clinical research and the only HIFU device with US FDA approval for lifting.
Pros
- Longest-lasting results - Effects can last 1+ years
- Proven technology - Extensive clinical studies
- Precise energy delivery - Real-time imaging guidance
- One treatment per year - Fewer visits needed
Cons
- Most expensive - Premium pricing
- Most painful - Requires numbing cream and sometimes pain medication
- Risk of volume loss - Can cause facial hollowing if done incorrectly
Ulthera Pricing in Korea
| Treatment Area | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Per 100 shots | ₩500,000-600,000 | $385-460 |
| Full face | ₩2,000,000-3,000,000 | $1,540-2,300 |
| Full face + neck | ₩3,000,000-6,000,000 | $2,300-4,600 |
Prices as of January 2025. Senior doctors may charge premium rates.
Best Candidates for Ulthera
- Ages 50-60+ with significant sagging
- Those who can't visit frequently
- People with adequate facial volume (not too thin)
- Those seeking maximum, long-lasting results
Shurink: The Popular Korean Alternative
Shurink is Korea's answer to Ulthera - using similar HIFU technology at a fraction of the cost. It's become incredibly popular due to its accessibility and lower pain levels.
Pros
- Affordable - Much cheaper than Ulthera
- Less painful - Often no numbing cream needed
- Quick procedure - 20-30 minutes
- Immediate visible results - Noticeable tightening right away
Cons
- Shorter duration - Results last 3-6 months
- More frequent treatments - 3+ sessions per year needed
- Less powerful - May not work for severe sagging
Shurink Pricing in Korea
| Treatment Area | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Per session | ₩50,000-200,000 | $40-155 |
| Full face package | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
Prices as of January 2025. Promotional prices can be even lower.
Best Candidates for Shurink
- Ages 30-50 with mild to moderate sagging
- Those who can visit Korea regularly
- People sensitive to pain
- Budget-conscious patients
- Preventative anti-aging seekers
Doublo Gold: The Middle Ground
Doublo (and its upgraded version Doublo Gold) offers another Korean-made HIFU option, sitting between Ulthera and Shurink in terms of power and results.
Key Features
- Korean-made HIFU device
- Moderate pain level
- Results last 6-12 months
- More affordable than Ulthera
Pricing
Similar to Shurink, typically ₩100,000-300,000 ($77-230) per session.
Pain Comparison: What to Expect
Pain tolerance is a major factor in choosing your HIFU treatment:
| Treatment | Pain Level | Numbing Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ulthera | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Yes + pain meds | Sharp, intense during pulses |
| Doublo | ⭐⭐⭐ | Sometimes | Moderate discomfort |
| Shurink | ⭐⭐ | Usually no | Mild warmth, tolerable |
Most painful areas: Jawline, around eyes, cheekbones
Least painful areas: Forehead, cheeks
Results Timeline
Ulthera
- Immediately: Slight tightening visible
- 1-2 months: Collagen rebuilding, results improving
- 3-6 months: Peak results
- 1 year+: Effects still visible
Shurink/Doublo
- Immediately: Visible tightening
- 2-4 weeks: Optimal results
- 3-6 months: Effects begin to fade
- Maintenance: Every 3-4 months recommended
Side Effects and Risks
Common (All HIFU treatments)
- Redness (hours to 1 day)
- Mild swelling
- Tenderness
- Tingling sensation
Rare but Possible
- Bruising - More common with Ulthera
- Numbness - Usually temporary
- Fat loss/Volume depletion - Risk with Ulthera if overdone
- Burns - Rare, from inexperienced practitioners
Ulthera-Specific Risk: Cheek Hollowing
The most discussed Ulthera side effect is facial hollowing. This occurs when:
- Energy is delivered to wrong layers
- Treatment is too aggressive
- Patient has naturally thin face
Prevention: Choose experienced doctors and discuss your facial structure during consultation.
How to Choose the Right Treatment
Choose Ulthera if:
- ✅ You have significant sagging
- ✅ You're 50+ years old
- ✅ You can't return frequently
- ✅ Budget isn't a concern
- ✅ You have good facial volume
Choose Shurink if:
- ✅ You have mild to moderate sagging
- ✅ You're 30-50 years old
- ✅ You can visit Korea regularly
- ✅ You're pain-sensitive
- ✅ You're on a budget
Choose Doublo if:
- ✅ You want middle-ground results
- ✅ You prefer Korean technology
- ✅ Moderate maintenance is acceptable
Combining with Other Treatments
HIFU treatments are often combined with:
| Combination | Purpose | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Boosters | Improve skin quality | Same day or 2 weeks after |
| Thread Lift | Enhanced lifting | 2-4 weeks after |
| Botox | Refine results | Same day |
| Filler | Restore volume | 2-4 weeks after |
Choosing a Clinic in Korea
Questions to Ask
- Which HIFU device do you use? (Verify authenticity)
- How many shots are included?
- What areas will be treated?
- What is your experience with this treatment?
- What happens if I experience complications?
Red Flags
- Unusually low prices (may indicate fewer shots or non-genuine equipment)
- No consultation before treatment
- Unwillingness to show device/certifications
- Pressure to add unnecessary treatments
FAQ
Q: Which hurts more, Ulthera or Shurink? A: Ulthera is significantly more painful. Most patients require numbing cream and sometimes oral pain medication for Ulthera, while Shurink is often done without any numbing.
Q: Can I do Ulthera if I have a thin face? A: Use caution. Ulthera can cause fat loss, which may lead to a hollowed appearance in thin faces. Discuss with your doctor and consider lower energy settings or Shurink instead.
Q: How often should I repeat treatments? A: Ulthera: once per year. Shurink/Doublo: every 3-4 months for maintenance.
Q: Is there any downtime? A: Minimal. You may have redness for a few hours, but can return to normal activities immediately.
Q: Can men get HIFU treatments? A: Absolutely. HIFU is increasingly popular among men seeking non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Conclusion
Korea offers world-class HIFU treatments at competitive prices. Your choice between Ulthera, Shurink, and Doublo depends on your age, skin condition, budget, and how often you can return for treatments.
Key takeaways:
- Ulthera = Premium, powerful, painful, long-lasting
- Shurink = Affordable, gentle, requires maintenance
- Doublo = Middle ground option
Ready to lift your look? Consult with a reputable Korean dermatologist to determine which HIFU treatment matches your needs and expectations.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about HIFU treatments. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure. Individual results may vary.
Last Updated: January 2025 Reading Time: 9 minutes