Ellanse in Korea: Complete Guide to Collagen Stimulator, Prices & Long-Lasting Results 2025

Ellanse represents a revolutionary advancement in facial rejuvenation, offering what traditional fillers cannot: both immediate volumizing effects and progressive collagen stimulation that lasts 2-4 years. This FDA-approved and CE-certified polycaprolactone (PCL) based collagen stimulator transforms the approach to facial aging by not just filling lost volume, but actually regenerating your skin's natural collagen infrastructure. Seoul's aesthetic clinics have embraced Ellanse as the gold standard for patients seeking natural, long-lasting results without the need for frequent touch-ups.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Ellanse treatment. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any medical or cosmetic procedure.

What is Ellanse?

Ellanse is an innovative biostimulator and dermal filler that works through a unique dual-action mechanism. Unlike traditional hyaluronic acid fillers that simply occupy space and gradually dissolve, Ellanse combines immediate volumizing microspheres with polycaprolactone (PCL) technology that stimulates your body's natural collagen production over time. The result is both instant correction and progressive, natural improvement that can last from 1 to 4 years depending on the formulation chosen.

Dual-Action Technology

Immediate Effect (Volumizing):

• Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) gel carrier provides instant volume
• Fills wrinkles, folds, and restores facial contours immediately
• Natural-looking results visible right after treatment
• CMC gel gradually absorbs over 1-3 months

Long-Term Effect (Collagen Stimulation):

• Polycaprolactone (PCL) microspheres remain in tissue
• Stimulates fibroblast cells to produce new collagen
• Your own collagen gradually replaces PCL microspheres
• Progressive improvement over 3-6 months
• Natural collagen continues providing structure long-term
• PCL eventually biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide

FDA & CE Certification

Ellanse has earned both:

• FDA Approval: Verified safe and effective by U.S. standards
• CE Mark: European certification for medical devices
• Extensive clinical studies supporting safety and efficacy
• Over a decade of successful clinical use worldwide

Ellanse Formulations: S, M, L, E

Ellanse comes in four different formulations, each offering different durations of effect. Your practitioner will recommend the appropriate version based on your age, skin condition, and desired longevity.

Ellanse-S (Short)

Duration: 12-18 months Best For:

• First-time collagen stimulator users
• Younger patients (20s-30s)
• Mild volume loss
• Those wanting to try Ellanse before committing to longer duration

Ideal Applications:

• Tear troughs (under eyes)
• Minor nasolabial folds
• Lip contouring
• Early preventative treatment

Ellanse-M (Medium)

Duration: 24 months (2 years) Best For:

• Moderate volume loss
• Patients in their 30s-40s
• Most popular formulation
• Balanced duration and effectiveness

Ideal Applications:

• Moderate nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Cheek volumizing
• Jawline contouring
• Temple hollowing

Ellanse-L (Long)

Duration: 36 months (3 years) Best For:

• Significant volume loss
• Patients in their 40s-50s
• Those wanting longer-lasting results
• Structural facial support

Ideal Applications:

• Deep nasolabial folds
• Severe marionette lines
• Significant cheek volume loss
• Facial contouring and lifting
• Jawline definition

Ellanse-E (Extra Long)

Duration: 48 months (4 years) Best For:

• Maximum duration seekers
• Mature patients (50s+)
• Significant facial volume depletion
• Long-term structural correction

Ideal Applications:

• Severe volume loss
• Comprehensive facial rejuvenation
• Deep wrinkles and folds
• Full facial contouring

Treatment Benefits & Effects

Primary Benefits

1. Dual Immediate & Long-Term Results

• Day 1: Instant volume restoration and wrinkle filling
• Months 1-3: CMC gel gradually absorbs
• Months 3-6: Your own collagen replaces gel, progressive improvement
• Years 1-4: Natural collagen maintains results long-term

2. Natural Collagen Regeneration

• Stimulates your body's fibroblasts to produce Type I collagen
• Improves skin elasticity by 18-25% on average (2024 research)
• Creates lasting structural improvement, not just temporary filling
• Progressive enhancement as new collagen forms
• Results feel natural—it's your own tissue

3. Long-Lasting Duration

• 1-4 years depending on formulation
• Significantly longer than hyaluronic acid fillers (6-18 months)
• Reduces frequency of touch-ups
• More cost-effective long-term
• Stable, predictable duration

4. Versatile Applications Ellanse can address multiple facial concerns:

Volume Restoration:

• Hollow cheeks
• Temple depressions
• Under-eye hollowing (tear troughs)
• Sunken facial contours

Wrinkle Correction:

• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Marionette lines (mouth to chin)
• Chin wrinkles
• Forehead lines (when combined with Botox)

Facial Contouring & Lifting:

• Cheekbone enhancement
• Jawline definition
• Chin augmentation
• Non-surgical facelift effect
• Subtle facial reshaping

Skin Quality Improvement:

• Enhanced skin thickness
• Improved elasticity
• Better skin firmness
• Natural glow from healthy collagen

5. Biocompatible & Safe

• PCL is fully biodegradable
• Eventually breaks down into water and CO₂
• No permanent substances remain
• Minimal allergic reaction risk
• No pre-treatment allergy testing needed

6. Immediate Return to Activities

• No downtime required
• Can resume work immediately
• Minimal swelling (resolves in 1-3 days)
• Results visible from day one
• Makeup can be applied next day

Who Benefits Most?

✅ People with moderate to significant volume loss ✅ Those wanting long-lasting results (2-4 years) ✅ Individuals seeking natural-looking facial rejuvenation ✅ Patients tired of frequent filler touch-ups ✅ Those in their 30s-60s with aging concerns ✅ People wanting both immediate and progressive improvement ✅ Individuals seeking comprehensive facial contouring ✅ Those with good overall skin health

Treatment Process

Pre-Treatment Consultation (20-30 minutes)

• Comprehensive facial analysis and assessment
• Discussion of aesthetic goals and concerns
• Evaluation of volume loss areas
• Determination of appropriate Ellanse formulation (S/M/L/E)
• Calculation of required volume (syringes)
• Review of medical history and medications
• Explanation of dual-action mechanism
• Discussion of realistic expectations

Important Questions to Ask:

• Which Ellanse formulation do you recommend and why?
• How many syringes will I need?
• What results can I expect immediately vs. over time?
• Have you performed many Ellanse treatments?
• Can I see before/after photos of your patients?

During Treatment (30-60 minutes)

Step 1: Preparation (10-15 minutes)

• Thorough facial cleansing
• Application of topical numbing cream (optional)
• Face marking for injection points
• Photography for before/after comparison

Step 2: Ellanse Injection (20-30 minutes)

• Strategic injection at calculated depths:
  • Subcutaneous layer: 3-5mm deep
  • Precise placement for natural contours
• Cannula or needle technique (cannula preferred for safety)
• Systematic treatment of marked areas
• Gentle massage to distribute product evenly
• Real-time assessment and adjustment

Treatment Areas:

• Cheeks and mid-face
• Nasolabial folds
• Marionette lines
• Chin and jawline
• Temples
• Tear troughs (with caution)

Sensation During Treatment:

• With numbing: Minimal discomfort (1-2 out of 10)
• Pressure sensation as product is injected
• Possible mild pinching or stinging
• Generally well-tolerated
• Brief procedure minimizes discomfort

Step 3: Post-Treatment Care (5-10 minutes)

• Gentle massage to ensure even distribution
• Ice pack application to reduce swelling
• Final assessment and photography
• Detailed aftercare instructions
• Scheduling of follow-up appointment (optional)

Immediately After Treatment

What to Expect:

• Immediate visible volume improvement
• Mild to moderate swelling (normal)
• Possible minor bruising at injection sites
• Slight tenderness
• Temporary lumpiness (resolves with massage)

Normal Post-Treatment Effects:

• Swelling: Peaks within 24-48 hours, subsides in 2-5 days
• Bruising: If present, fades within 5-7 days
• Firmness: Product feels slightly firm initially (softens over weeks)
• Asymmetry: Minor asymmetry normal, evens out as swelling resolves

You Can:

• ✅ Return to work immediately (with makeup to cover bruising)
• ✅ Resume normal activities
• ✅ Gentle face washing after 6 hours
• ✅ Apply makeup next day
• ✅ Sleep with head slightly elevated

Avoid for 24-48 Hours:

• ❌ Vigorous exercise or heavy sweating
• ❌ Saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga
• ❌ Excessive facial movements
• ❌ Dental work or facial treatments
• ❌ Alcohol consumption (increases bruising)
• ❌ Blood-thinning medications (if medically safe to pause)

Avoid for 2 Weeks:

• ❌ Facial massages or aggressive manipulation
• ❌ Other injectable treatments
• ❌ Laser or RF treatments
• ❌ Chemical peels

Prices in Seoul (2025)

Ellanse pricing varies based on formulation (S/M/L/E), treatment area, and clinic reputation.

Estimated Pricing Range (Per Syringe)

Ellanse-S (1-year duration):

• Budget clinics: ₩400,000-550,000 ($310-$420 USD)
• Mid-range clinics: ₩550,000-750,000 ($420-$575 USD)
• Premium clinics: ₩750,000-900,000 ($575-$690 USD)

Ellanse-M (2-year duration):

• Budget clinics: ₩500,000-650,000 ($385-$500 USD)
• Mid-range clinics: ₩650,000-850,000 ($500-$655 USD)
• Premium clinics: ₩850,000-1,100,000 ($655-$845 USD)

Ellanse-L (3-year duration):

• Budget clinics: ₩600,000-800,000 ($460-$615 USD)
• Mid-range clinics: ₩800,000-1,000,000 ($615-$770 USD)
• Premium clinics: ₩1,000,000-1,300,000 ($770-$1,000 USD)

Ellanse-E (4-year duration):

• Budget clinics: ₩700,000-900,000 ($540-$690 USD)
• Mid-range clinics: ₩900,000-1,200,000 ($690-$920 USD)
• Premium clinics: ₩1,200,000-1,500,000 ($920-$1,155 USD)

Typical Treatment Requirements:

• Minor correction: 1-2 syringes
• Moderate improvement: 2-4 syringes
• Comprehensive rejuvenation: 4-6+ syringes

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD. Actual costs vary by clinic, doctor expertise, and treatment complexity. Contact clinics directly for accurate quotes.

Price Comparison: Seoul vs. International

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

Ellanse-M vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (HA):

• Ellanse-M: $500-$850/syringe, lasts 2 years = ~$250-$425/year
• HA Filler: $300-$600/syringe, lasts 9-12 months = ~$300-$600/year

Over 2 years:

• Ellanse-M: 1 treatment = $500-$850 total
• HA Filler: 2-3 treatments = $600-$1,800 total

Bottom Line: Ellanse offers superior cost-effectiveness for long-term maintenance.

Results Timeline

Immediate (Day of Treatment)

• Instant volume restoration visible
• Wrinkles and folds filled
• Facial contours enhanced
• Swelling present but results still apparent

Days 1-7: Initial Recovery

• Swelling peaks day 2-3, then gradually subsides
• Bruising (if present) begins fading
• Product settles into natural position
• Firmness gradually softens
• Results become more natural-looking

Weeks 2-4: CMC Gel Absorption Begins

• Swelling completely resolved
• CMC gel carrier starts being absorbed
• Slight volume reduction normal (temporary)
• Product continues integrating with tissue
• Natural appearance established

Months 1-3: Collagen Stimulation Activates

• PCL microspheres stimulate fibroblast cells
• Your body begins producing new collagen
• Progressive improvement in skin quality
• Gradual volume enhancement as collagen forms
• Skin elasticity starts improving

Months 3-6: Peak Collagen Production

• Maximum collagen regeneration
• Volume restoration reaches optimal level
• Skin elasticity improvement of 18-25%
• Natural-looking, long-lasting results established
• Your own collagen now provides structure

Months 6-12+: Sustained Results

• Results stabilize and maintain
• Continued collagen support
• Natural aging continues but at slower rate
• No sudden volume loss (unlike HA fillers)
• Gradual, predictable changes

Long-Term (1-4 Years)

• Ellanse-S: Results maintained for 12-18 months

• Ellanse-M: Results maintained for ~24 months

• Ellanse-L: Results maintained for ~36 months

• Ellanse-E: Results maintained for ~48 months

• PCL gradually biodegrades into water and CO₂

• Collagen your body produced continues providing some benefit

• Face returns to baseline gradually, not abruptly

• Retreatment possible once fully metabolized

Ellanse vs. Other Treatments

Ellanse vs. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (HA)

Ellanse vs. Sculptra

Ellanse vs. Radiesse

Bottom Line: Ellanse offers the best of both worlds—immediate results like HA fillers with long-term collagen stimulation like Sculptra, plus the longest duration options available.

Side Effects & Precautions

Common, Temporary Reactions

Injection-Related (Days 1-7):

• Swelling (mild to moderate, peaks day 2-3)
• Bruising (5-10% of patients)
• Tenderness at injection sites
• Redness
• Temporary firmness or lumpiness

Short-Term (Weeks 1-4):

• Slight asymmetry (resolves as swelling subsides)
• Temporary overcorrection appearance
• Minor discomfort when touching treated areas

Rare Side Effects

• Nodules or lumps: Can occur if product placed too superficially or inadequate massage
• Prolonged swelling: More than 2 weeks (rare, usually resolves)
• Infection: Extremely rare with proper sterile technique
• Migration: Minimal risk with proper injection technique
• Allergic reaction: Very rare (PCL is biocompatible)

Important Precautions

Before Treatment:

• Stop blood-thinning medications if approved by doctor (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.)
• Avoid alcohol 24-48 hours before
• Inform doctor of all medications and supplements
• No dental work 2 weeks before/after
• Inform doctor if prone to cold sores (antiviral medication may be prescribed)

After Treatment:

• Avoid touching or massaging excessively first 24 hours
• Sleep with head elevated for 2-3 nights
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
• No heat exposure (saunas, hot yoga) for 1 week
• Avoid other facial treatments for 2 weeks
• Stay hydrated

Who Should Avoid Ellanse?

❌ Pregnant or breastfeeding women ❌ Active skin infections or inflammation at treatment site ❌ Autoimmune disorders (consult doctor first) ❌ Allergy to PCL or CMC (extremely rare) ❌ History of severe allergic reactions to dermal fillers ❌ Unrealistic expectations about results ❌ Those wanting easily reversible treatment (choose HA instead)

Maximizing Your Results

Choosing the Right Formulation

Age-Based Recommendations:

• 20s-30s: Ellanse-S or M (start conservative)
• 40s: Ellanse-M or L (balanced duration)
• 50s+: Ellanse-L or E (maximum longevity)

Volume Loss Severity:

• Mild: Ellanse-S
• Moderate: Ellanse-M
• Significant: Ellanse-L or E

Treatment Philosophy:

• Conservative approach: Start with Ellanse-S, upgrade in future
• Long-term investment: Ellanse-L or E for maximum duration

Post-Treatment Care for Optimal Results

First 48 Hours:

• Ice packs 10 minutes every 2-3 hours
• Sleep with head elevated (2 pillows)
• Avoid strenuous facial movements
• Gentle cleansing only
• Stay well-hydrated

First 2 Weeks:

• Arnica supplements or cream to reduce bruising
• Avoid vigorous exercise
• No facial massages or treatments
• Gentle skincare routine
• SPF 50+ if going outside

Long-Term:

• Maintain healthy lifestyle (supports collagen health)
• Adequate hydration
• Quality skincare routine
• Sun protection (UV damages collagen)
• Healthy diet rich in protein and vitamin C

Combining Ellanse with Other Treatments

Korean aesthetic doctors often recommend strategic combinations.

Ellanse + Botox:

• Benefits: Volume restoration + wrinkle relaxation
• Timing: Can be done same day or 2 weeks apart
• Cost: $700-$1,500 total
• Results: Comprehensive facial rejuvenation

Ellanse + Skin Boosters (Rejuran, Profhilo):

• Benefits: Structure + hydration + skin quality
• Timing: Ellanse first, skin booster 2-4 weeks later
• Cost: $800-$1,600 total
• Results: Volumized, hydrated, glowing skin

Ellanse + Laser Treatments:

• Benefits: Volume + skin texture + pigmentation
• Timing: Laser first, Ellanse 2-4 weeks later
• Cost: $600-$1,400 total
• Results: Comprehensive skin rejuvenation

Ellanse + Thread Lift:

• Benefits: Maximum non-surgical lifting
• Timing: Thread lift first, Ellanse 2-4 weeks later
• Cost: $1,200-$3,000 total
• Results: Dramatic lifting and volumizing

Finding the Best Clinic in Seoul

Top Areas for Ellanse

Gangnam/Sinsa (강남/신사):

• Highest concentration of experienced injectors
• Latest techniques and trends
• English-speaking staff available
• Competitive pricing

Average Price: ₩600,000-900,000 ($460-$690) per syringe

Apgujeong/Cheongdam (압구정/청담):

• Premium aesthetic clinics
• Celebrity-favorite doctors
• High-end service
• Expertise in facial contouring

Average Price: ₩800,000-1,200,000 ($615-$920) per syringe

Myeongdong (명동):

• Tourist-friendly
• Multilingual staff
• Good value
• Convenient location

Average Price: ₩500,000-800,000 ($385-$615) per syringe

What to Look For

✅ Board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist ✅ Extensive Ellanse experience (ask how many treatments performed) ✅ Genuine Ellanse product (verify authenticity) ✅ Before/after portfolio specific to Ellanse ✅ Detailed consultation with facial analysis ✅ Clear pricing (per syringe, all-inclusive) ✅ Realistic expectations setting ✅ English communication if needed

Red Flags to Avoid

❌ Significantly below-market pricing ❌ Non-doctors performing injections ❌ Cannot verify product authenticity ❌ Overpromising results ❌ High-pressure sales tactics ❌ No consultation or assessment ❌ Poor hygiene or unprofessional setting

FAQ

Q: How many syringes of Ellanse will I need? A: Depends on treatment area and goals. Typically: 1-2 syringes for minor correction, 2-4 for moderate improvement, 4-6+ for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Q: Does Ellanse hurt? A: With topical numbing cream, pain is minimal (1-2 out of 10). Brief pressure and mild discomfort, but generally well-tolerated.

Q: Can Ellanse be dissolved if I don't like the results? A: No, Ellanse cannot be dissolved like HA fillers. This is why choosing an experienced injector is critical. However, time will naturally break it down.

Q: When will I see final results? A: Immediate volume visible day 1. Final results appear at 3-6 months as your collagen fully develops.

Q: How long does Ellanse actually last? A: Depends on formulation: S (1-1.5 years), M (~2 years), L (~3 years), E (~4 years). Individual metabolism affects duration.

Q: Is Ellanse safe? A: Yes, FDA-approved and CE-certified with over a decade of safe clinical use. PCL is biocompatible and fully biodegradable.

Q: Can I get Ellanse in my lips? A: Ellanse is NOT recommended for lips due to its firmness and long duration. HA fillers are better for lip augmentation.

Q: What's the difference between Ellanse and Sculptra? A: Ellanse provides immediate volume plus collagen stimulation in single session. Sculptra requires multiple sessions and results are gradual only.

Q: Can men get Ellanse? A: Absolutely! Very popular for masculine facial contouring (jawline, chin, temples).

Q: How often can I retreat with Ellanse? A: Wait until previous treatment is fully metabolized (1-4 years depending on formulation). Retreatment is safe and effective.

Conclusion

Ellanse represents a paradigm shift in facial rejuvenation, bridging the gap between temporary fillers and permanent solutions. By stimulating your body's natural collagen production while providing immediate volumizing effects, Ellanse offers the best of both worlds: instant gratification and long-term, natural-looking improvement that can last up to 4 years.

Key Takeaways:

1. Ideal for: Volume loss, wrinkles, facial contouring, long-term anti-aging
2. Pricing: $310-$1,155 per syringe in Seoul (40-70% cheaper than Western countries)
3. Duration: 1-4 years depending on formulation (S/M/L/E)
4. Mechanism: Dual-action (immediate + collagen stimulation)
5. Downtime: Minimal (2-5 days swelling)
6. Results: Immediate + progressive improvement over 3-6 months

Who Benefits Most:

• Anyone with moderate to significant volume loss
• Those seeking long-lasting, natural results
• People tired of frequent filler touch-ups
• Individuals wanting collagen regeneration, not just filling

Realistic Expectations: Ellanse delivers natural, progressive improvement that feels like your own tissue—because it becomes your own collagen. Expect subtle enhancement, not dramatic transformation. Choosing the right formulation and experienced injector is critical for optimal, long-lasting results.

Ready to experience long-lasting collagen stimulation? Research board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists in Seoul's Gangnam or Apgujeong areas with extensive Ellanse experience, book a comprehensive consultation, and discover why this innovative collagen stimulator has become the preferred choice for patients seeking natural, enduring facial rejuvenation.

Last Updated: November 18, 2025 Reading Time: 12 minutes