Doublo HIFU in Korea: Complete Guide to Prices, Effects & Gold Lifting 2025

Doublo HIFU has become one of Korea's most popular non-surgical face lifting treatments, offering an affordable alternative to premium devices like Ulthera while delivering effective skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. As Korea's first domestically-made HIFU device, Doublo has democratized access to advanced lifting technology for patients seeking results without the premium price tag.

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What is Doublo HIFU?

Doublo is a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) lifting device manufactured by Korean company Hironic. Launched as Korea's pioneering domestic HIFU technology, Doublo delivers focused ultrasound energy to the deep skin layers, stimulating collagen production and providing immediate tightening effects.

The latest generation, Doublo Gold, represents significant technological improvements with faster treatment speeds, enhanced precision, and additional cartridge options for customized treatments.

How Doublo HIFU Works

Three-Layer Targeting:

1. Deep Dermis (3.0mm depth): Stimulates collagen remodeling for wrinkle reduction
2. SMAS Layer (4.5mm depth): Targets the superficial muscular aponeurotic system—the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts—for true lifting effects
3. Subcutaneous Fat (6.0mm, 9.0mm depths): Optional body cartridges for deeper tissue tightening

Mechanism:

• Focused ultrasound creates thermal coagulation points at precise depths
• Heat triggers immediate collagen contraction (instant tightening)
• Controlled injury initiates neocollagenesis (new collagen formation)
• Results continue improving over 2-3 months as collagen remodeling progresses

Doublo vs. Doublo Gold

Most Korean clinics now offer Doublo Gold as the standard option, with improved technology at comparable pricing to older Doublo versions.

Doublo Prices in Korea (2025)

One of Doublo's biggest advantages is its cost-effectiveness—offering HIFU lifting at 30-60% less than premium alternatives.

Seoul Average Prices

Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD (approximate)

Package Deals

Korean clinics frequently offer discounted packages:

• 3-session package: 20-30% discount
• Full face + additional treatments: Combo pricing with laser toning, skin boosters
• First-time customer discounts: ₩88,000-99,000 for 300 shots (promotional pricing)

HIFU Device Price Comparison

Doublo's value proposition: 40-70% cheaper than Ulthera with similar HIFU mechanism and Korean FDA (MFDS) approval.

Doublo vs. Ulthera vs. Shrink: Which to Choose?

Device Comparison

Who Should Choose Doublo?

Doublo is ideal if:

• ✅ You want effective HIFU at a budget-friendly price
• ✅ You're willing to wait 2-4 weeks for visible results (gradual improvement)
• ✅ You're in your 30s-40s with mild to moderate skin laxity
• ✅ You prioritize long-term collagen building over instant results
• ✅ You want preventative anti-aging rather than correction of severe sagging

Consider alternatives if:

• ❌ You need immediate visible results (choose Shrink)
• ❌ You have severe skin laxity requiring maximum power (choose Ulthera)
• ❌ You want real-time ultrasound imaging during treatment (only Ulthera offers this)

Treatment Process & What to Expect

Before Your Doublo Session

Preparation:

• No special preparation required
• Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin
• Avoid alcohol 24 hours before
• Well-rested (better skin response)

During Treatment

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Consultation (10 minutes)

   • Doctor assesses skin laxity and concerns
   • Recommends treatment areas and shot count
   • Discusses expected results

2. Cleansing & Marking (5-10 minutes)

   • Face thoroughly cleansed
   • Treatment zones marked with grid lines
   • Ultrasound gel applied

3. HIFU Treatment (20-40 minutes)

   • Handpiece delivers focused ultrasound shots along marked lines
   • Sensation: Deep heating, occasional sharp warmth (tolerable)
   • No anesthesia typically needed (some clinics offer numbing cream)
   • Bone areas (jawline, forehead) more sensitive

4. Post-Treatment Care (5 minutes)

   • Gel removed
   • Soothing serum/mask applied
   • Aftercare instructions provided

Total clinic time: 45-60 minutes

Pain Level

Discomfort rating: 5-6/10

Patient experiences:

• "Tolerable warm pulses with occasional sharp pinches"
• "Bone areas (jaw, brow) are most uncomfortable"
• "Less painful than I expected, no numbing needed"
• "Brief sharp sensation that passes immediately"

Doublo Gold's improved technology has slightly reduced discomfort compared to earlier Doublo versions.

Immediate Effects & Downtime

Right After Treatment:

• Mild redness (like mild sunburn)
• Slight swelling, especially around jawline
• Subtle tightening visible immediately
• Skin may feel tender to touch

Downtime: ZERO to MINIMAL

• Redness fades within 2-4 hours
• No bruising or visible treatment marks
• Can apply makeup immediately
• Resume all normal activities right away

Recovery Timeline:

• Day 1-3: Mild tenderness, continued subtle tightening
• Week 1-2: Initial collagen contraction effects visible
• Week 2-4: Gradual improvement as collagen remodeling begins
• Week 4-8: Optimal results as new collagen forms
• Month 3-6: Maximum effect with continued collagen production

Results & Effectiveness

What to Expect

Immediate (Day 1-7):

• Subtle lifting effect (77% of patients report effects immediately)
• Skin feels firmer
• Slight reduction in fine lines

Short-Term (Week 2-4):

• More noticeable tightening (23% first notice effects at 1 week)
• Jawline definition improves
• Nasolabial folds soften
• Skin texture refined

Peak Results (2-4 months):

• Maximum lifting effect achieved
• Collagen remodeling complete
• 20-30% improvement in skin laxity
• Natural, gradual enhancement

Longevity:

• Results last 6-12 months on average
• Some patients report effects lasting up to 18 months
• Collagen continues developing for 3-6 months post-treatment

Clinical Effectiveness

Based on Korean dermatology clinic data:

• 77% of patients see immediate subtle effects
• 23% of patients notice results within one week
• Optimal results at 2-4 weeks for most patients
• Long-term collagen building continues for 3-6 months
• Maintenance recommended every 6-12 months

Treatment Frequency

Recommended Protocol:

• Single session: Noticeable improvement for mild concerns
• 2-3 sessions: Optimal results (spaced 2-3 months apart)
• Maintenance: 1-2 times per year to preserve results

Important: Unlike some treatments requiring multiple sessions upfront, Doublo often provides satisfactory results with just one well-executed session.

Real Patient Results from Korean Clinics

Patient A - 30s Female, Early Prevention:

"I got Doublo Gold for preventative anti-aging in my early 30s. I paid ₩250,000 for full face at a clinic in Gangnam. Results weren't dramatic immediately, but after 3 weeks, my face looked more lifted and defined. My jawline is sharper, and my skin texture improved. For the price, it's amazing value."

Patient B - 40s Male, Jowl Reduction:

"I had developing jowls that made me look older. After one Doublo session (₩300,000), the jowls reduced noticeably over 4 weeks. The treatment was uncomfortable but bearable—no numbing cream needed. Results lasted about 10 months before I went for a maintenance session."

Patient C - 40s Female, Budget-Conscious Choice:

"I couldn't afford Ulthera (₩1,200,000+ in my area), so I tried Doublo Gold instead (₩280,000). I was skeptical because of the price difference, but honestly, I'm very happy with the results. It's not as strong as Ulthera, but for someone with moderate sagging like me, it worked great."

Doublo Side Effects & Safety

Common (Expected) Effects

Normal responses (resolve within hours to days):

• Temporary redness (2-4 hours)
• Mild swelling (1-2 days)
• Tenderness in treated areas (2-3 days)
• Tingling or numbness (temporary, resolves within days)

Uncommon Side Effects

Occurring in <5% of patients:

• Prolonged swelling (>1 week)
• Temporary nerve irritation (tingling lasting weeks)
• Minor burns (rare, from improper technique)
• Asymmetry (usually correctable with touch-up)

Contraindications

Do NOT undergo Doublo if you have:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active facial infections or open wounds
• Metal implants in treatment area
• Severe medical conditions (uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders)
• Unrealistic expectations

Safety Profile

• Korean MFDS (FDA) approved
• Over 10 years of safe use in Korea
• Non-invasive with no incisions or injections
• Minimal risk when performed by trained professionals

Maximizing Your Doublo Results

Post-Treatment Care

First Week:

• Use gentle, hydrating skincare
• Avoid retinoids, acids, or harsh exfoliants for 3-5 days
• Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
• Stay well-hydrated (helps collagen production)
• Avoid excessive heat (saunas, hot yoga) for 1 week

Ongoing (Months 1-6):

• Maintain consistent skincare routine
• Consider collagen-boosting supplements (vitamin C, amino acids)
• Protect from sun exposure
• Healthy diet rich in protein for collagen synthesis
• Adequate sleep (skin regeneration occurs during sleep)

Lifestyle Factors

DO:

• ✅ Maintain stable weight
• ✅ Stay hydrated (2+ liters water daily)
• ✅ Get 7-8 hours quality sleep
• ✅ Eat protein-rich, antioxidant-rich diet
• ✅ Manage stress

DON'T:

• ❌ Smoke (severely impairs collagen production)
• ❌ Excessive alcohol consumption
• ❌ Rapid weight fluctuations
• ❌ Neglect sun protection

Combining Doublo with Other Treatments

Korean clinics often combine Doublo with complementary procedures for enhanced results.

Popular Combinations

1. Doublo + Laser Toning

• HIFU lifting + pigmentation/pore treatment
• Cost: ₩300,000-500,000 combined
• Comprehensive skin rejuvenation

2. Doublo + Skin Boosters (Rejuran, Juvelook)

• HIFU tightening + hydration/collagen stimulation
• Cost: ₩400,000-650,000 combined
• Enhanced collagen building

3. Doublo + Botox

• HIFU for lower face + Botox for upper face/wrinkles
• Cost: ₩350,000-550,000 combined
• Complete facial rejuvenation

4. Doublo + Thread Lift

• HIFU + threads for maximum lifting (severe cases)
• Cost: ₩800,000-1,500,000 combined
• Dramatic lifting for advanced laxity

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How does Doublo compare to Ulthera? A: Doublo uses the same HIFU mechanism as Ulthera but costs 40-70% less. Ulthera has real-time ultrasound imaging (DeepSee) for more precise targeting and may provide slightly stronger effects, but Doublo offers excellent value for mild-to-moderate laxity.

Q: Does Doublo hurt? A: Most patients rate pain at 5-6/10—tolerable without anesthesia. You'll feel deep heating and occasional sharp warmth, especially over bony areas. Doublo Gold is slightly more comfortable than older versions.

Q: When will I see results? A: 77% of patients notice subtle tightening immediately. More visible results appear at 2-4 weeks, with peak effects at 2-3 months as collagen remodeling completes.

Q: How long do Doublo results last? A: Results typically last 6-12 months, with some patients reporting up to 18 months. Maintenance sessions 1-2 times yearly help preserve effects.

Q: Is Doublo safe? A: Yes, Doublo is Korean FDA (MFDS) approved with over 10 years of safe use. When performed by qualified practitioners, it has an excellent safety profile.

Q: Can I get Doublo in my 20s? A: Yes, many Koreans in their late 20s-early 30s get Doublo for preventative anti-aging. It's most effective for mild laxity and prevention rather than correction of severe sagging.

Q: What's the difference between Doublo and Shrink? A: Both are Korean HIFU devices. Shrink provides stronger immediate effects, while Doublo excels at gradual, long-term collagen building. Doublo is generally more budget-friendly.

Q: Can Doublo replace a facelift? A: No, Doublo provides moderate lifting suitable for mild-to-moderate laxity. Severe skin sagging requires surgical facelift. Doublo is best for prevention and early intervention.

Q: Is there downtime with Doublo? A: Minimal to none. Redness fades within 2-4 hours, and you can resume all activities immediately. No visible treatment marks or bruising.

Q: Can men get Doublo? A: Absolutely! Doublo is effective for both men and women. Men commonly treat jowls, neck laxity, and overall facial tightening.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Doublo HIFU treatment should only be performed by qualified, licensed practitioners in properly equipped facilities.

Individual results vary based on age, skin condition, lifestyle factors, and treatment adherence. Always consult a qualified dermatologist or aesthetic practitioner for personalized assessment.

Conclusion: Is Doublo HIFU Worth It?

Doublo HIFU offers an exceptional value proposition—proven HIFU lifting technology at a fraction of premium device costs. For patients seeking effective, non-surgical facial tightening without breaking the bank, Doublo represents Korea's democratization of advanced aesthetic treatments.

Consider Doublo if:

• ✅ You want effective HIFU at budget-friendly pricing
• ✅ You're in your 30s-40s with mild-to-moderate skin laxity
• ✅ You're willing to wait 2-4 weeks for visible results
• ✅ You prioritize long-term collagen building
• ✅ You want preventative anti-aging treatments

Doublo may not be ideal if:

• ❌ You need immediate, dramatic results (consider Shrink or threads)
• ❌ You have severe skin laxity (may need Ulthera or surgery)
• ❌ You want real-time ultrasound imaging (only Ulthera offers this)
• ❌ You can't wait for gradual improvement

With Korea's competitive pricing (₩250,000-350,000 vs. international equivalents), experienced practitioners, and the latest Doublo Gold technology, Seoul is an excellent destination for affordable, effective HIFU lifting.

Ready to try Korea's budget-friendly HIFU solution? Consult a reputable Korean dermatology clinic, discuss whether Doublo or alternative devices suit your needs, and experience non-surgical facial lifting at exceptional value.

Have you tried Doublo HIFU in Korea? Share your experience and help other readers decide if this budget-friendly HIFU is right for them!