Ultherapy in Korea 2025: Complete Guide to FDA-Approved HIFU Lifting for Face & Neck
Want a non-surgical facelift with proven, long-lasting results? Ultherapy is the only FDA-approved device for non-invasive lifting of the face, neck, and décolletage. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about getting Ultherapy in Korea – where world-class treatments meet significantly lower prices.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment that lifts and tightens skin by targeting the deep foundational layer (SMAS) that surgeons address during facelifts. Unlike lasers that work on the skin's surface, Ultherapy delivers focused ultrasound energy to depths of 1.5mm, 3mm, and 4.5mm – reaching the same tissue layers addressed in surgical procedures.
What Makes Ultherapy Special
- Only FDA-approved non-invasive lifting device
- Real-time imaging: Ultrasound visualization ensures precise targeting
- Targets SMAS layer: Same layer addressed in surgical facelifts
- Natural collagen stimulation: Results develop over 2-6 months
- Proven track record: Over 3 million treatments worldwide
How Ultherapy Works
- Ultrasound imaging identifies optimal treatment depths
- Focused energy creates thermal coagulation points at precise depths
- Controlled heating (60-70°C) triggers collagen denaturation
- Healing response stimulates new collagen production
- Gradual lifting as collagen remodels over months
Ultherapy Prices in Korea 2025
Korea offers exceptional value for Ultherapy treatments:
By Shot Count
| Shot Count | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 shots | ₩200,000-350,000 | $155-270 | Touch-up, small areas |
| 200 shots | ₩400,000-560,000 | $310-430 | Partial face |
| 300 shots | ₩600,000-840,000 | $460-645 | Standard full face |
| 400 shots | ₩800,000-1,120,000 | $615-860 | Full face + jawline |
| 500 shots | ₩1,000,000-1,400,000 | $770-1,075 | Full face + neck |
| 600 shots | ₩1,200,000-1,680,000 | $925-1,290 | Comprehensive treatment |
Average: ₩280,000 ($215) per 100 shots. Prices as of November 2025.
Korea vs. World Prices
| Country | Ultherapy Full Face | Savings vs Korea |
|---|---|---|
| Korea | $600-1,200 | — |
| USA | $2,000-4,500 | 60-75% |
| UK | $1,500-3,000 | 55-65% |
| Australia | $1,200-2,500 | 50-55% |
By Treatment Area
| Area | Shots Recommended | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Brow lift | 50-100 | $110-270 |
| Lower face & jawline | 200-300 | $430-645 |
| Full face | 300-400 | $645-860 |
| Neck | 150-250 | $325-540 |
| Full face + neck | 500-600 | $1,075-1,290 |
| Décolletage (chest) | 200-300 | $430-645 |
What Ultherapy Treats
Primary Indications (Excellent Results)
| Concern | Effectiveness | Sessions |
|---|---|---|
| Sagging jawline | ★★★★★ | 1-2 |
| Jowls | ★★★★★ | 1-2 |
| Double chin | ★★★★☆ | 1-2 |
| Brow drooping | ★★★★★ | 1 |
| Nasolabial folds | ★★★★☆ | 1-2 |
| Neck laxity | ★★★★☆ | 1-2 |
| Décolletage wrinkles | ★★★★☆ | 1-2 |
Secondary Benefits
| Concern | Effectiveness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall skin tightening | ★★★★☆ | Gradual improvement |
| Skin texture | ★★★☆☆ | Mild improvement |
| Fine lines | ★★★☆☆ | Secondary benefit |
Ultherapy vs. Other Treatments
Ultherapy vs. Shurink (Korean HIFU)
| Factor | Ultherapy | Shurink |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA (Merz) | Korea (Classys) |
| FDA Approval | Yes (lifting claim) | Yes (different indication) |
| Real-time Imaging | Yes | No |
| Energy Delivery | More intense | Gentler |
| Pain Level | Higher (5-7/10) | Lower (3-5/10) |
| Results Duration | 12-18 months | 6-12 months |
| Price (300 shots) | $645-860 | $150-300 |
| Best For | Maximum lifting | Maintenance, sensitive skin |
Choose Ultherapy for: Maximum lifting power, significant sagging, first-time HIFU Choose Shurink for: Maintenance, lower budget, pain sensitivity
Ultherapy vs. Thermage
| Factor | Ultherapy | Thermage |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | HIFU (ultrasound) | RF (radiofrequency) |
| Primary Target | SMAS layer (deep) | Dermis (mid-depth) |
| Main Benefit | Lifting | Tightening |
| Best For | Sagging, jowls | Skin laxity, texture |
| Hollowing Risk | Yes (thin faces) | No |
| Sessions | 1 per year | 1 per year |
Choose Ultherapy for: Lifting, defined jawline, sagging Choose Thermage for: Overall tightening, thin faces, skin texture
Ultherapy vs. Thread Lift
| Factor | Ultherapy | Thread Lift |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Energy-based | Mechanical + stimulation |
| Invasiveness | Non-invasive | Minimally invasive |
| Downtime | None | 3-7 days |
| Immediate Results | No | Yes |
| Duration | 12-18 months | 12-24 months |
| Best For | Mild-moderate sagging | Moderate sagging |
Understanding Shot Counts
What is a "Shot"?
Each Ultherapy shot delivers focused ultrasound energy to create a single thermal coagulation point. Multiple shots create a network of these points, stimulating widespread collagen production.
How Many Shots Do You Need?
| Concern | Minimum Shots | Optimal Shots |
|---|---|---|
| Brow lift only | 50 | 80-100 |
| Lower face | 150 | 200-250 |
| Full face | 250 | 300-400 |
| Full face + neck | 400 | 500-600 |
| Full face + neck + chest | 600 | 800+ |
Shot Count Strategy
- Conservative (200-300): Natural, subtle improvement
- Standard (300-400): Noticeable lifting, most popular
- Aggressive (500-600+): Maximum results, significant sagging
The Ultherapy Experience
Before Treatment
- Avoid blood thinners for 1 week
- No retinoids for 3-5 days
- Come with clean, makeup-free skin
- Eat normally (no fasting required)
During Treatment
Step 1: Consultation (15-20 min) Facial assessment and treatment planning
Step 2: Cleansing (5 min) Thorough skin preparation
Step 3: Mapping (10 min) Grid drawn to guide treatment
Step 4: Imaging (Ongoing) Real-time ultrasound visualization
Step 5: Treatment (60-90 min)
- Multiple transducers used for different depths
- Pulses delivered along treatment lines
- Adjustments made based on imaging
Total time: 90-120 minutes for full face
Pain Level
| Area | Pain Rating | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Forehead | 4-5/10 | Moderate discomfort |
| Cheeks | 5-6/10 | Deeper sensation |
| Jawline | 6-7/10 | Most intense |
| Neck | 5-6/10 | Uncomfortable |
Pain management options:
- Topical numbing cream
- Oral pain medication
- Nerve blocks (some clinics)
- Nitrous oxide (some clinics)
After Treatment
Immediately after:
- Mild redness (resolves in hours)
- Possible slight swelling
- Tingling or tenderness
- Can apply makeup immediately
Days 1-7:
- Minor tenderness when touching
- Possible bruising (rare)
- Normal activities OK
No downtime – return to work same day
Results Timeline
What to Expect
| Timeframe | Changes |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Possible initial tightening (temporary) |
| Week 1-4 | Minimal visible change |
| Month 1-2 | Subtle improvement begins |
| Month 2-3 | Noticeable lifting |
| Month 3-6 | Peak results develop |
| Month 6-18 | Results maintained |
Factors Affecting Results
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Age | Younger patients respond faster |
| Skin laxity | Mild-moderate best results |
| Collagen quality | Healthier = better response |
| Lifestyle | Non-smokers do better |
| Follow-up care | Sun protection extends results |
Who Should Get Ultherapy?
Ideal Candidates
- Age 30-65 with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Some facial volume (not too thin)
- Realistic expectations understanding gradual results
- Non-smokers (better healing response)
- Those avoiding surgery but wanting real lifting
Best Results For
- Early sagging before surgical intervention needed
- Post-weight loss facial laxity
- Genetic predisposition to jowls
- Prevention in 30s-40s
- Maintenance after surgical facelift
Not Recommended For
- Very thin faces – risk of volume loss/hollowing
- Severe sagging – surgery more appropriate
- Active skin conditions in treatment area
- Metal implants in treatment area
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Unrealistic expectations of surgical results
Caution Areas
Ultherapy may cause unwanted volume loss (hollowing) in:
- Very thin cheeks
- Under-eye area
- Temple region in lean individuals
An experienced provider will adjust the protocol accordingly.
Top Seoul Clinics for Ultherapy
1. ID Skin Clinic (아이디피부과)
- Location: Gangnam/Sinsa
- Specialty: Anti-aging and lifting treatments
- Price Range: ₩280,000-350,000 per 100 shots
- Why Choose: Experienced with customized protocols
2. VNM Clinic (브이앤엠제이피부과)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Custom Ultherapy protocols
- Price Range: ₩250,000-300,000 per 100 shots
- Why Choose: Personalized shot distribution
3. Doctors Skin Clinic (닥터스피부과)
- Location: Multiple locations
- Specialty: V-lifting procedures
- Price Range: ₩260,000-320,000 per 100 shots
- Why Choose: Comprehensive consultation
4. Leshine Clinic (르샤인의원)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Premium lifting treatments
- Price Range: ₩280,000-350,000 per 100 shots
- Why Choose: Detailed before/after tracking
5. Mimodream Clinic (미모드림의원)
- Location: Seoul
- Specialty: Combination treatments
- Price Range: ₩250,000-300,000 per 100 shots
- Why Choose: Often combines with Thermage
Maximizing Ultherapy Results
Combination Treatments
| Combo | Benefit | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Ultherapy + Thermage | Lift + tighten | Same session or 2-4 weeks |
| Ultherapy + Filler | Lift + volume | 2-4 weeks after Ultherapy |
| Ultherapy + Sculptra | Lift + collagen boost | Same session OK |
| Ultherapy + Botox | Lift + wrinkle relaxation | Same session OK |
| Ultherapy + Thread Lift | Energy + mechanical lift | 4-6 weeks apart |
Pre-Treatment Optimization
- Hydration: Well-hydrated skin responds better
- Nutrition: Protein and vitamin C support collagen
- No smoking: Quit 2+ weeks before
- Avoid sun damage: Healthy skin = better results
Post-Treatment Care
First 24 hours:
- Gentle cleansing only
- Avoid hot showers/saunas
- Skip intense exercise
First week:
- Continue gentle skincare
- Avoid harsh exfoliants
- Protect from sun
Ongoing:
- Daily SPF 30+
- Antioxidant serums
- Maintain hydration
- Healthy lifestyle
FAQ
Q: How painful is Ultherapy? A: Pain is the most common concern. Most patients rate it 5-7/10 during treatment. The jawline and neck are most uncomfortable. Pain management options include numbing cream, oral medication, or nerve blocks. The discomfort ends immediately when treatment stops.
Q: How long do results last? A: Results typically last 12-18 months. Some patients maintain benefits for 2+ years with good skincare. Annual maintenance treatments are recommended.
Q: How many treatments do I need? A: Most patients need only 1 treatment per year. Those with significant laxity may benefit from 2 sessions spaced 3-6 months apart initially.
Q: When will I see results? A: Initial tightening may be visible immediately but is temporary. True results develop over 2-6 months as new collagen forms. Peak results are typically seen at 3-6 months.
Q: Is Ultherapy better than Shurink? A: Ultherapy delivers more intense energy and has real-time imaging, generally producing stronger results. However, it's more painful and expensive. Shurink is better for maintenance and those with pain sensitivity.
Q: Can Ultherapy cause fat loss? A: In thin individuals, Ultherapy may cause unwanted hollowing, particularly in cheeks and temples. Experienced providers adjust protocols for lean patients.
Q: Is there any downtime? A: No real downtime. You may have mild redness for a few hours and tenderness for a few days, but can return to normal activities immediately.
Q: Can I do Ultherapy with other treatments? A: Yes! It combines well with Thermage (same session), fillers (2-4 weeks later), and Botox (same session). Many Korean clinics offer combination packages.
Conclusion
Ultherapy remains the gold standard for non-surgical lifting, backed by FDA approval and millions of successful treatments worldwide. While it's more intense than alternatives like Shurink, the lifting results are typically superior and longer-lasting.
Korean clinics offer Ultherapy at 50-70% less than Western prices while maintaining the highest standards of care. With experienced providers and customized protocols, you can achieve natural-looking lifting without surgery or downtime.
Ready to lift and tighten without surgery? Book a consultation at a Seoul dermatology clinic and discover why Ultherapy continues to be the world's most trusted non-invasive lifting treatment.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Ultherapy 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: 12 minutes