Treatment Overview
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), also known as Ultherapy or Shurink in Korea, is a revolutionary non-surgical facelift treatment. It delivers focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin layers, particularly the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, which is typically tightened in surgical facelifts. By stimulating controlled heat injury at precise depths, HIFU triggers collagen remodeling and tissue contraction, lifting sagging skin and refining contours without incisions.
Korean dermatology clinics are global leaders in HIFU technology, offering a variety of devices (Shurink, Doublo, Ultherapy, Liftera) that ensure safe, effective, and natural lifting tailored to each patient’s skin type.
Purpose & Benefits
- Skin Lifting: Tightens cheeks, jawline, and brow area.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Smooths fine lines on forehead, eyes, and mouth.
- Collagen Boost: Stimulates long-term elasticity and firmness.
- V-Line Sculpting: Defines jawline and reduces early jowls.
- Neck & Décolleté Care: Firms sagging in delicate areas.
- Non-Surgical & Safe: No incisions, anesthesia, or long recovery.
- Durable Results: Lasts longer than basic skin tightening devices.
Ideal Candidates
HIFU in Korea is recommended for:
- Adults in their 30s–60s with mild to moderate sagging.
- Patients with early jowls, jawline laxity, or drooping eyelids.
- Men and women who want non-surgical lifting alternatives.
- Individuals with fine wrinkles or early aging signs.
- Patients who previously tried Botox/fillers but want structural tightening.
- Those looking for preventive collagen stimulation.
Possible Risks & Complications
HIFU is considered very safe, but some side effects may occur:
- Redness or Warmth: Temporary, resolves in hours.
- Mild Swelling or Tingling: Fades within days.
- Tenderness: Common for 1–2 weeks as collagen regenerates.
- Rare Risks: Nerve irritation, burns, or uneven lifting (extremely rare with expert handling).
Surgical Techniques Used
While HIFU is a non-surgical treatment, it is often described in Korea as a “surgical-grade lifting method without incisions.” The following advanced procedural techniques are applied to mimic surgical facelift results:
- SMAS-Targeted Ultrasound: Energy penetrates 3.0–4.5 mm to contract and lift the SMAS layer (the same layer tightened in facelift surgery).
- Multi-Layer Ultrasound Delivery: Treats multiple depths (dermis + SMAS) for stronger tightening.
- Fractional Ultrasound Mapping: Precise energy distribution for natural lifting.
- Full-Face & Neck Protocols: Customized energy lines for jawline, midface, and brow lift.
- Combination Care: Often paired with RF microneedling, PDO threads, or fillers for complete facial rejuvenation.
- Customized Intensity Control: Adjusted to patient’s skin laxity, ensuring natural results without over-lifting.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately After: Mild redness or tingling.
- 1–2 Days: Early tightening and glow visible.
- 2–4 Weeks: Wrinkles soften; lifting effect develops.
- 3–6 Months: Collagen regeneration peaks; maximum lift achieved.
Aftercare Tips:
- Use SPF daily to protect regenerating skin.
- Avoid sauna, alcohol, or strenuous workouts for 1–2 days.
- Apply hydrating serums and soothing creams.
- Maintenance recommended every 12–18 months.
Results & Longevity
- Immediate: Subtle lift and firmer skin feel.
- Short-Term (2–4 Weeks): Noticeable tightening and contour definition.
- Medium-Term (3–6 Months): Peak collagen regeneration and wrinkle reduction.
- Long-Term: Results last 12–18 months, extendable with yearly sessions.
Treatment Process in Korea
- Consultation & Skin Mapping – Doctor analyzes sagging, wrinkles, and facial proportions.
- Preparation – Cleansing; numbing cream or cooling gel applied.
- HIFU Session – Ultrasound energy delivered to SMAS and dermis.
- Post-Care – Cooling masks or boosters applied for comfort.
- Follow-Up – Annual or biannual sessions planned for maintenance.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Global leaders in HIFU innovation and advanced lifting protocols.
- Wide availability of next-generation devices (Shurink, Liftera, Doublo, Ultherapy).
- Expertise in multi-layer tightening techniques for natural results.
- Affordable compared to Western clinics with superior quality.
- Seoul’s reputation as a hub for non-surgical facelift technology.
Cost Range
The cost of HIFU in Korea depends on device, session area, and clinic expertise:
- Partial Face (eyes, jawline, or brow): USD 250 – 500
- Full Face: USD 500 – 1,200
- Full Face + Neck: USD 800 – 1,500
- Full Anti-Aging Package (HIFU + RF/Threads/Boosters): USD 2,000 – 4,500
Additional Costs in Korea:
- Consultation: USD 30 – 80
- Add-ons (exosomes, PRP, skin boosters): USD 200 – 800
💡 Many patients describe Korean HIFU as a “lunchtime facelift”—delivering surgical-like lifting power without incisions or downtime.
Popular Clinics
- Oracle Dermatology (Seoul): Leaders in HIFU + RF hybrid programs.
- Banobagi Plastic & Dermatology (Seoul): Specialists in advanced Shurink and Ultherapy lifts.
- Renewme Skin Clinic (Seoul): Known for scar + wrinkle improvement with HIFU.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Experts in combining HIFU with fillers and threads for V-line contouring.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center (Seoul): Luxury multi-energy facelift packages.
