Treatment Overview
Ultherapy, also known as Ulthera, is the original FDA-approved HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) system designed for non-surgical lifting and tightening. It delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy to the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) and deep dermal layers, stimulating collagen contraction and new collagen production.
In Korea, Ultherapy is widely offered in dermatology and anti-aging clinics. It is often considered the premium gold-standard HIFU treatment, known for its real-time ultrasound imaging, which ensures precise targeting and safe energy delivery.
Purpose & Benefits
- Skin Lifting: Elevates sagging cheeks, jawline, brows, and neck.
- Collagen Stimulation: Promotes long-term collagen and elastin regeneration.
- Wrinkle Reduction: Softens fine lines and deeper folds.
- Brow & Eye Lift: Improves drooping eyelids and sagging under-eye areas.
- Safety & Precision: Real-time ultrasound imaging provides accuracy and minimizes risks.
- Non-Surgical: Offers facelift-like benefits without downtime.
Ideal Candidates
Ultherapy in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with mild to moderate laxity on face, neck, or brow.
- Individuals with sagging cheeks, early jowls, or double chin.
- Men and women in their 30s–60s seeking natural rejuvenation.
- Those looking for a clinically proven, globally recognized lifting treatment.
- Patients who prefer one premium session instead of multiple lower-intensity treatments.
Possible Risks & Complications
Ultherapy is safe, but mild effects may occur:
- Temporary redness, swelling, or tingling.
- Mild tenderness along jawline or cheekbones.
- Rare bruising in treated areas.
- Very rare temporary nerve sensitivity causing mild numbness or asymmetry.
Treatment Techniques Used
- Technology: Micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V).
- Depths Targeted: 1.5 mm (fine lines), 3.0 mm (dermis), 4.5 mm (SMAS).
- Protocol: Typically one session; results last 12–18 months.
- Combination Therapy: In Korea, Ultherapy is often paired with Thermage, lasers, or boosters for comprehensive anti-aging.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediately: Mild redness or warmth that resolves quickly.
- 1–2 Days: Tenderness or sensitivity may persist.
- 1–3 Months: Progressive lifting and tightening as collagen remodels.
Aftercare Tips:
- Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
- Hydrate skin with calming creams.
- Avoid saunas, alcohol, and strenuous workouts for 1–2 days.
- Avoid exfoliants and retinoids for about a week.
Results & Longevity
- After 1 Session: Subtle firmness and contour definition.
- After 2–3 Months: Significant tightening, wrinkle reduction, and youthful lift.
- Longevity: Results last 12–18 months; annual maintenance is recommended.
Treatment Process in Korea
Consultation & Skin Mapping
Dermatologist evaluates sagging areas, wrinkle severity, and treatment goals.
Preparation
Cleansing; topical numbing cream or pain management applied.
Ultherapy Session
- Step 1: Ultrasound gel applied.
- Step 2: Real-time ultrasound imaging used to identify target layers.
- Step 3: Focused ultrasound delivered at selected depths.
- Step 4: Soothing or hydrating care post-treatment.
Duration: 40–60 minutes.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Highly skilled dermatologists experienced in Ultherapy + combination protocols.
- Customized treatment settings for Asian facial structures and skin sensitivity.
- Affordable compared to Western clinics despite use of the same FDA-approved device.
- Emphasis on natural, refreshed results rather than artificial overcorrection.
- Widely available in Seoul’s leading dermatology and anti-aging centers.
Cost Range (Estimated)
- Single Full-Face Ultherapy Session: USD 1,200 – 2,000
- Eye/Brow Ultherapy: USD 600 – 1,000
- Full Face + Neck Package: USD 1,800 – 2,800
Popular Clinics in Seoul
- Oracle Dermatology: Provides Ultherapy as a premium non-surgical facelift.
- Banobagi Dermatology: Specializes in advanced Ultherapy lifting protocols.
- Renewme Skin Clinic: Uses Ultherapy for facial and neck rejuvenation.
- View Dermatology: Offers Ultherapy for contouring and wrinkle care.
- Chaum Anti-Aging Center: Premium Ultherapy programs with multi-step anti-aging care.
