Doublo HIFU in Korea: Your Complete Guide to Affordable Face Lifting (2025)

If you're searching for an effective, non-surgical face lifting treatment in Korea without the hefty price tag of Ultherapy, Doublo HIFU might be exactly what you need. As Korea's first domestically developed HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) device, Doublo has become one of the most popular anti-aging treatments in Seoul's renowned dermatology clinics.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about getting Doublo treatment in Korea, including prices, how it compares to other HIFU devices, what to expect during your procedure, and the best clinics to visit.

What is Doublo HIFU?

Doublo is a Korean-manufactured HIFU lifting device that uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to tighten skin and stimulate collagen production. Developed in 2011, Doublo was the first HIFU device made in Korea, and since then, over 2,000 units have been installed in clinics worldwide.

The treatment works by delivering focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin layers, reaching depths of 3-4.5mm to target the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer - the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. This thermal energy creates controlled micro-injuries that trigger your body's natural healing response, producing new collagen and elastin over time.

Key Benefits of Doublo:

• Non-surgical and non-invasive
• No downtime required
• FDA (Korea MFDS) and CE approved
• Quick treatment time (typically 30-60 minutes)
• Visible results within 3-4 weeks
• Effects can last 6-12 months

Doublo vs Ultherapy vs Shrink: Which HIFU is Right for You?

Korea offers several HIFU options, with Ultherapy, Shrink, and Doublo being the "big three." Here's how they compare:

Ultherapy

• Origin: United States (US FDA approved)
• Technology: Real-time ultrasound imaging (DeepSee technology)
• Price in Korea: 800,000-2,000,000 KRW ($615-$1,540 USD)
• Duration: Longest lasting (12-18 months)
• Pain Level: Higher (requires numbing cream and pain medication)
• Best For: Ages 50-60+ with significant skin laxity

Doublo / Doublo Gold

• Origin: South Korea (KFDA approved)
• Technology: HIFU with real-time monitoring on newer models
• Price in Korea: 250,000-800,000 KRW ($192-$615 USD)
• Duration: 6-12 months
• Pain Level: Moderate
• Best For: Ages 30-50, budget-conscious patients

Shrink

• Origin: South Korea (KFDA approved)
• Technology: Multiple depth cartridges (1.5mm-4.5mm)
• Price in Korea: 200,000-500,000 KRW ($154-$385 USD)
• Duration: 4-6 months (requires 3+ sessions per year)
• Pain Level: Lower
• Best For: Maintenance treatments, younger patients

Expert Opinion: According to Korean dermatologists, while Ultherapy offers the longest-lasting results, some patients find that even three Shrink or Doublo sessions don't match one Ultherapy treatment. However, Doublo provides an excellent balance of effectiveness and affordability, making it ideal for those seeking quality HIFU treatment on a budget.

Treatment Areas for Doublo

Doublo can effectively treat multiple facial and body areas:

Face:

• Forehead and brow lifting
• Under-eye area (crow's feet)
• Cheeks and midface
• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Jawline and jowls
• Double chin

Body:

• Neck and decolletage
• Arms
• Abdomen
• Thighs

Doublo Prices in Korea (2025)

One of the biggest advantages of getting Doublo in Korea is the significantly lower cost compared to Western countries. Here's the current pricing structure:

Average Price: According to Korean medical platforms like Goodoc and Modoodoc, the average Doublo session costs around 87,857 KRW ($68 USD) for basic treatments, with prices ranging from 49,000 KRW ($38) to 150,000+ KRW ($115+) depending on the clinic and number of shots.

Note: Prices vary significantly based on:

• Clinic location (Gangnam tends to be pricier)
• Number of shots administered
• Whether you're getting Doublo or Doublo Gold
• Package deals and promotions

What to Expect During Your Doublo Treatment

Before the Procedure

1. Consultation: Your doctor will assess your skin condition and discuss your goals
2. Cleansing: All makeup and skincare products will be removed
3. Numbing (Optional): Some clinics apply topical anesthetic cream 30-40 minutes before treatment
4. Marking: The treatment areas may be mapped out on your face

During the Procedure

1. Ultrasound Gel Application: A conductive gel is applied to the treatment area
2. Device Positioning: The Doublo handpiece is placed against your skin
3. Energy Delivery: You'll feel warmth and occasional tingling as energy is delivered in precise lines
4. Duration: Treatment typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on the areas treated

After the Procedure

• Immediate: Mild redness and warmth (subsides within hours)
• Day 1-3: Some patients experience slight swelling or tenderness
• Week 1-2: Initial tightening may be noticeable
• Week 3-4: Optimal results begin to appear as collagen production increases
• Month 2-3: Maximum results achieved

Expected Results and Longevity

Doublo results develop gradually as your body produces new collagen. Most patients report:

• Immediate: Subtle tightening effect
• 1 Month: Noticeable improvement in skin firmness
• 3 Months: Peak results with visible lifting and wrinkle reduction
• 6-12 Months: Results gradually diminish; maintenance treatments recommended

Best Candidates:

• Ages 30-55 with mild to moderate skin laxity
• Those seeking preventative anti-aging treatment
• Patients who want results without surgery or downtime
• Budget-conscious visitors looking for quality HIFU

According to clinic statistics, approximately 53% of Doublo patients are in their 50s, with 96% being female. However, the treatment is increasingly popular among younger patients (30s-40s) for prevention.

Top Seoul Clinics for Doublo Treatment

While many clinics offer Doublo in Seoul, here are some reputable options in the Gangnam area:

1. The 3.0 Dermatology Clinic (더 3.0피부과)

• Location: Apgujeong-ro 28-gil 48, Cham Building 4F, Gangnam-gu
• Features: Real-time monitoring, experienced staff

2. W Clinic Gangnam

• Location: K Tower 5F, Teheran-ro 513, Gangnam-gu (Samsung Station Exit 5)
• Features: Multiple HIFU options including Ultherapy and Shrink

3. Mine Plastic Surgery (마인성형외과)

• Location: Gangnam-gu
• Features: Specializes in combination treatments with Doublo

Booking Tips:

• Use Korean medical tourism platforms like Goodoc or Gangnam Unni for price comparisons
• Book consultations at 2-3 clinics before deciding
• Ask about package deals combining Doublo with other treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Doublo painful? Pain levels are moderate - most describe it as a warm, prickling sensation. Doublo Gold is reportedly less painful than the original due to faster treatment speed. Numbing cream can be applied if you're sensitive.

How many sessions do I need? Most patients see good results with 1-2 sessions per year. For maintenance, treatments every 6-12 months are recommended.

Can I combine Doublo with other treatments? Yes! Many Korean clinics offer combination packages with Botox, fillers, or skin boosters like Rejuran for enhanced results.

Is there any downtime? No significant downtime. You may experience mild redness for a few hours, but you can return to normal activities immediately.

When should I schedule my treatment before a special event? Plan your Doublo session 1-3 months before any important event to allow time for optimal collagen development.

Is Doublo safe for all skin types? Yes, HIFU technology is safe for all skin types and tones, unlike some laser treatments.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. HIFU treatments, including Doublo, carry potential risks such as temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or in rare cases, nerve sensitivity or fat loss in treated areas.

Always consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Individual results may vary based on age, skin condition, lifestyle factors, and treatment protocol. Ensure your chosen clinic is licensed and uses authentic, approved equipment.

Getting Doublo HIFU in Korea offers an excellent opportunity to experience world-class skincare technology at a fraction of Western prices. Whether you're visiting Seoul for medical tourism or adding a treatment to your vacation itinerary, Doublo provides effective, non-surgical face lifting that can take years off your appearance.

Have you tried Doublo or other HIFU treatments in Korea? Share your experience in the comments below!