HIFU Lifting in Korea: Ultherapy vs Shurink Complete Guide 2025

Want lifted, tightened skin without surgery or downtime? HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) has revolutionized non-invasive skin tightening, and Korea leads the world in HIFU technology and treatment protocols. From the gold-standard Ultherapy to budget-friendly Korean alternatives like Shurink and Doublo, this comprehensive guide covers everything international visitors need to know about getting HIFU lifting treatments in Seoul.

What is HIFU Lifting?

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to heat deep layers of skin, specifically targeting the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer - the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. The controlled thermal injury triggers the body's natural healing response, stimulating collagen production and tissue contraction for lifting and tightening effects.

How HIFU Works

The Science:

1. Ultrasound Energy Delivery: Focused beams penetrate skin surface without damage
2. Deep Tissue Heating: Energy targets SMAS layer at 3.0-4.5mm depth
3. Thermal Coagulation: Heat creates controlled micro-injuries (65-70°C)
4. Collagen Contraction: Immediate tightening from protein denaturation
5. Neocollagenesis: New collagen production over 2-6 months
6. Gradual Lifting: Progressive improvement as collagen rebuilds

What HIFU Can Achieve:

• ✅ Lift sagging jowls and jawline
• ✅ Tighten neck skin and reduce turkey neck
• ✅ Lift drooping eyebrows
• ✅ Smooth forehead lines
• ✅ Define facial contours
• ✅ Reduce nasolabial folds
• ✅ Improve skin laxity overall
• ✅ Non-surgical facelift alternative
• ✅ Collagen regeneration boost

What It Cannot Fix:

• ❌ Severe skin laxity (surgery better)
• ❌ Significant excess skin
• ❌ Very deep wrinkles
• ❌ Volume loss (filler needed)
• ❌ Acne scars or texture (other treatments better)

HIFU Device Comparison: Ultherapy vs Shurink vs Doublo

Korea offers multiple HIFU devices, each with specific characteristics, pricing, and results.

1. Ultherapy (USA - Gold Standard)

Origin: Merz Aesthetics (USA) FDA Approval: Yes (first and only FDA-cleared for lifting) Clinical History: 10+ years, most extensively studied Price: ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 ($770-$1,538) for full face Best for: Maximum results, proven efficacy, willing to invest

Key Features:

• Ultrasound Imaging: Real-time visualization of tissue layers
• Precise Targeting: Can see exact SMAS depth during treatment
• Consistent Energy: Stable, uniform power delivery
• Proven Results: Extensive clinical data supporting efficacy
• Single Treatment Protocol: Annual treatment typical

Technology:

• Micro-focused ultrasound (MFU)
• Multiple depths: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm
• Precise 1mm thermal coagulation points
• Ultrasound imaging guidance

Advantages:

• Longest-lasting results (12-18 months)
• Most proven safety and efficacy
• Consistent, predictable outcomes
• Precise depth control with imaging
• Gold standard for comparison

Disadvantages:

• Most expensive option (3x cost of Shurink)
• More painful during treatment
• Longer treatment time
• Results develop gradually (2-3 months peak)

Duration: 12-18 months (up to 2 years reported) Recommended Frequency: Once annually

2. Shurink (Korea - Budget-Friendly)

Origin: Korea (클래시스) KFDA Approval: Yes (Korean FDA equivalent) Clinical History: Several years in Korean market Price: ₩50,000-₩500,000 ($38-$385) depending on shots and area Best for: Budget-conscious, maintenance treatments, trying HIFU first time

Key Features:

• No Imaging: Treatment based on practitioner experience
• Immediate Tightening: More noticeable right after treatment
• Lower Cost: Approximately 1/3 price of Ultherapy
• Requires More Frequency: 3-4 times per year

Technology:

• High-intensity focused ultrasound
• Multiple cartridges for different depths
• Larger treatment heads (faster)
• No real-time imaging

Advantages:

• Much more affordable
• Faster treatment time
• Less painful than Ultherapy
• Immediate visible tightening
• Good for maintenance
• Popular in Korea

Disadvantages:

• Shorter duration (3-6 months)
• Less consistent results (practitioner-dependent)
• No imaging guidance
• Requires more frequent treatments
• Less powerful than Ultherapy

Duration: 3-6 months Recommended Frequency: 3-4 times per year (every 3-4 months)

Cost Analysis Over 1 Year:

• Ultherapy: 1 treatment = $770-$1,538
• Shurink: 3-4 treatments = $150-$1,540

Value Consideration: Similar annual cost, but Shurink requires more visits.

3. Doublo/Doublo Gold (Korea)

Origin: Korea (Hironic) KFDA Approval: Yes Price: ₩400,000-₩900,000 ($308-$692) for full face Best for: Middle ground between Shurink and Ultherapy

Key Features:

• HIFU + SRR (Square Regenerative Radiofrequency)
• Dual technology approach
• More comfortable than Ultherapy
• Better than basic Shurink

Technology:

• Linear focused ultrasound
• Square-shaped thermal zones
• Even heat distribution
• Optional SRR mode

Advantages:

• Middle pricing tier
• Less painful than Ultherapy
• More powerful than basic Shurink
• Good balance of cost and results
• Dual technology options

Disadvantages:

• Less proven than Ultherapy
• More expensive than Shurink
• Still requires multiple yearly treatments

Duration: 6-9 months Recommended Frequency: 2-3 times per year

4. Shurink Universe (Advanced Shurink)

Origin: Korea (upgraded Shurink) Price: ₩300,000-₩800,000 ($231-$615) Innovation: Next generation Korean HIFU

Key Features:

• Improved energy delivery
• Multiple cartridge options
• Better consistency than original Shurink
• Still more affordable than Ultherapy

Duration: 6-9 months (better than original Shurink)

Comparison Table

HIFU Prices in Korea (2025)

Korea offers exceptional value for HIFU treatments, especially with domestic devices.

Korean Price Range

Ultherapy:

• 300 Lines: ₩800,000-₩1,200,000 ($615-$923)
• 600 Lines: ₩1,000,000-₩2,000,000 ($770-$1,538)
• Average Full Face: ₩1,300,000 ($1,000)

Doublo/Doublo Gold:

• 300 Shots: ₩300,000-₩500,000 ($231-$385)
• 600 Shots: ₩400,000-₩900,000 ($308-$692)
• Average Full Face: ₩600,000 ($462)

Shurink/Shurink Universe:

• Budget (100-200 shots): ₩50,000-₩150,000 ($38-$115)
• Standard (300-400 shots): ₩200,000-₩400,000 ($154-$308)
• Full Face (500-600 shots): ₩300,000-₩600,000 ($231-$462)
• Promotional: As low as ₩50,000 ($38) for limited areas

By Treatment Area

Full Face:

• Ultherapy: $770-$1,538
• Doublo: $308-$692
• Shurink: $231-$462

Face + Neck:

• Ultherapy: $1,150-$2,300
• Doublo: $462-$1,000
• Shurink: $385-$770

Eyes (Brow Lift):

• Ultherapy: $385-$615
• Doublo: $231-$385
• Shurink: $154-$308

Neck Only:

• Ultherapy: $385-$770
• Doublo: $231-$462
• Shurink: $154-$385

International Price Comparison

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD.

Package Deals

Annual Maintenance Package (Shurink):

• 3-4 sessions over year
• Price: ₩800,000-₩1,500,000 ($615-$1,154)
• Savings: 15-25%

Combination Package:

• HIFU + Skin booster + Botox
• Price: ₩800,000-₩1,800,000 ($615-$1,385)
• Comprehensive anti-aging

The Treatment Process

Consultation (15-20 Minutes)

Assessment:

1. Facial analysis of skin laxity and sagging
2. Discussion of realistic expectations
3. Device recommendation based on goals and budget
4. Treatment plan (areas, number of lines/shots)
5. Before photos
6. Pain management discussion

Questions to Ask:

• Which HIFU device do you use? (Verify it's authentic)
• How many lines/shots do I need?
• What results can I expect and when?
• What's your experience with this device?
• Can I see before/after photos?

Treatment Procedure (30-90 Minutes)

Preparation:

• Face cleansed
• Ultrasound gel applied
• Treatment areas marked
• Numbing (topical cream or nerve block for Ultherapy)

Treatment Process:

Ultherapy:

• Doctor uses imaging to visualize layers
• Systematic coverage with handpiece
• Multiple depths treated (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm)
• 300-600 lines typically
• Each line creates thermal coagulation point
• Time: 60-90 minutes

Shurink/Doublo:

• Treatment based on anatomical landmarks
• Faster application (larger treatment heads)
• Multiple passes over treatment areas
• 300-600 shots typically
• Time: 30-60 minutes

Pain Level:

• Ultherapy: 7-9/10 even with numbing

  • Deep, intense heat pulses
  • Bone areas (jawline, brow) most painful
  • Described as "sharp, deep electric zaps"

• Shurink/Doublo: 4-6/10

  • More tolerable heat sensation
  • Less intense than Ultherapy
  • Described as "warm tingling"

Post-Treatment:

• Gel removed
• Soothing mask applied (optional)
• Ice pack if needed
• Sunscreen applied

Immediate Post-Treatment

Normal Effects:

• Redness: Mild to moderate (1-2 hours)
• Swelling: Mild, especially jawline/brow (1-3 days)
• Tenderness: Bone areas sore (1-5 days)
• Tingling/Numbness: Temporary nerve sensation (hours to days)
• Immediate Tightening: Some see instant lifting (especially Shurink)

First 24-48 Hours:

• Mild swelling peaks
• Face may feel tight
• Possible bruising (10-15% of patients)
• Slight discomfort when touching face

Days 3-7:

• Swelling resolves
• Tenderness decreases
• Can resume normal activities
• Makeup covers any remaining effects

No Significant Downtime:

• Can return to work immediately
• Social activities same day or next day
• Minor redness easily concealed

Results and Duration

When to See Results

Timeline by Phase:

Immediate (Day 1-7):

• Shurink: More noticeable immediate tightening
• Ultherapy: Minimal immediate change
• Some swelling may obscure results

Weeks 2-4:

• Initial collagen contraction
• Subtle improvements beginning
• Mild tightening becoming visible

Month 2-3:

• Peak Results for most patients
• Collagen production in full swing
• Significant lifting and tightening visible
• Facial contours more defined

Month 3-6:

• Continued gradual improvement
• Collagen remodeling ongoing
• Results plateau and stabilize

Beyond 6 Months:

• Ultherapy: Results maintained 12-18 months
• Doublo: Results begin fading around 6-9 months
• Shurink: Results fade around 3-6 months

Expected Improvements

Realistic Results:

• Mild to moderate sagging: 40-60% improvement
• Jawline definition: Noticeable tightening
• Jowl reduction: 30-50% improvement
• Brow lift: 1-3mm elevation
• Neck tightening: Moderate improvement
• Overall: Subtle to moderate rejuvenation

Important: HIFU is NOT equivalent to surgical facelift. Think "non-surgical enhancement" rather than "dramatic transformation."

Duration by Device

Ultherapy:

• Duration: 12-18 months (up to 24 months reported)
• Maintenance: Annual treatment
• Cost per year: $770-$1,538

Doublo Gold:

• Duration: 6-9 months
• Maintenance: 2-3 times per year
• Cost per year: $616-$2,076

Shurink:

• Duration: 3-6 months
• Maintenance: 3-4 times per year
• Cost per year: $462-$1,848

Cost-Effectiveness Consideration: Over 1 year, devices cost similar amounts. Choose based on:

• Convenience (fewer vs more visits)
• Pain tolerance
• Immediate vs gradual results preference

Factors Affecting Results

Better Results:

• Younger age (better collagen response)
• Mild to moderate laxity
• Good skin quality
• Healthy lifestyle (non-smoker)
• Proper device and settings
• Experienced practitioner

Limited Results:

• Advanced age (60+)
• Severe laxity
• Very thin or very thick skin
• Smoking (impairs collagen)
• Poor general health
• Unrealistic expectations

Side Effects and Safety

HIFU is generally safe with minimal side effects when performed correctly.

Common (Expected)

Redness (60-70%):

• Duration: 1-2 hours to 1 day
• Severity: Mild
• Management: Resolves naturally

Swelling (40-50%):

• Duration: 1-3 days
• Severity: Mild to moderate
• Areas: Jawline, under eyes, brow
• Management: Ice packs, sleep elevated

Tenderness (80-90%):

• Duration: 1-7 days
• Areas: Over bone (jawline, brow, forehead)
• Severity: Mild to moderate soreness
• Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers if needed

Tingling/Numbness (20-30%):

• Duration: Hours to few days
• Cause: Temporary nerve irritation
• Normal: Usually resolves completely

Bruising (10-15%):

• Duration: 5-10 days
• Cause: Bone contact, sensitive areas
• Management: Arnica, concealer

Less Common

Welts/Raised Lines (5-10%):

• Duration: Few hours to 1-2 days
• Appearance: Visible treatment lines
• Normal: Thermal injury patterns
• Resolution: Temporary

Prolonged Numbness (2-5%):

• Duration: Weeks to months (rare)
• Cause: Nerve irritation
• Usually resolves: May take time

Asymmetry (Initially common):

• Cause: Uneven swelling
• Resolution: Usually resolves as swelling subsides
• Persistent: Rare, may need touch-up

Rare

Burns (Very Rare, <1%):

• Cause: Improper settings or technique
• Prevention: Experienced practitioner

Nerve Damage (Extremely Rare):

• Symptoms: Persistent weakness or numbness
• Prevention: Proper technique, avoiding nerve paths

Fat Loss (Rare):

• Description: Unintended volume loss in cheeks
• More common: In very thin patients
• Prevention: Conservative settings

Who Should Avoid HIFU?

❌ Absolute Contraindications:

• Severe or cystic acne
• Open wounds or infections
• Metal implants in treatment area
• Pacemaker or defibrillator
• Severe autoimmune disorders
• Keloid tendency in treatment area

⚠️ Relative Contraindications (Consult Doctor):

• Very thin skin or fat layer
• Recent filler in treatment area (wait 6-12 months)
• Recent Botox (wait 2 weeks or treat 2 weeks after)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Unrealistic expectations

Post-Treatment Care

HIFU has minimal aftercare requirements, but optimization helps.

First 24-48 Hours

✅ DO:

• Apply ice packs if swelling (10 min on, 10 off)
• Gentle cleansing
• Moisturize normally
• SPF protection
• Stay hydrated

❌ DON'T:

• Vigorous exercise for 24 hours
• Hot baths, saunas, steam for 24-48 hours
• Excessive facial massage
• Other facial treatments for 1-2 weeks
• Sun exposure without protection

Ongoing (Weeks to Months)

Supporting Collagen Production:

• Vitamin C serum: Boosts collagen synthesis
• Retinoids: Enhance cell turnover
• Peptides: Support collagen
• Hydration: Internal and external
• SPF daily: UV breaks down collagen
• Healthy lifestyle: Sleep, nutrition, no smoking

What to Avoid:

• Smoking (most important - destroys collagen)
• Excessive sun exposure
• Rapid weight fluctuations
• Poor nutrition

Combining Treatments

HIFU pairs well with other treatments:

HIFU + Botox: Lifting + wrinkle relaxation (wait 2 weeks between) HIFU + Filler: Tightening + volume restoration (wait 2-4 weeks) HIFU + Thread Lift: Comprehensive lifting (discuss timing with doctor) HIFU + Skin Booster: Structure + quality (same day or weeks apart)

FAQ

Q: How painful is HIFU? A: Ultherapy: 7-9/10 - genuinely painful even with numbing. Most describe as intense, deep heat zaps. Bone areas (jawline, brow) are worst. Shurink/Doublo: 4-6/10 - more tolerable, warm tingling sensation. If you have low pain tolerance, Shurink may be better choice despite more frequent treatments needed.

Q: Which HIFU device is best? A: Best results: Ultherapy (proven efficacy, longest duration). Best value: Depends on frequency tolerance. Over 1 year, costs are similar. Best for first-timers: Shurink (lower investment, test response). Best middle ground: Doublo Gold (balance of results and cost).

Q: When will I see results? A: Peak results appear at 2-3 months as collagen rebuilds. Some immediate tightening with Shurink, but don't judge results until month 3. Ultherapy is very gradual - patience required!

Q: How long do results last? A: Ultherapy: 12-18 months. Doublo: 6-9 months. Shurink: 3-6 months. Individual variation exists based on age, lifestyle, skin quality.

Q: Is HIFU better than thread lift or surgery? A: Different purposes! HIFU: Non-invasive, collagen boost, moderate tightening, temporary. Thread lift: More lifting power, immediate, still temporary. Surgery: Dramatic lift, long-lasting (10+ years), invasive. HIFU is best for mild-moderate laxity and prevention.

Q: Can I combine Ultherapy and Shurink? A: Some clinics offer "hybrid" approach - Ultherapy for targeted areas (like jowls) + Shurink for maintenance between annual Ultherapy. Discuss with practitioner.

Q: Why are Korean HIFU prices so much lower? A: Korean devices (Shurink, Doublo) are manufactured locally, reducing costs. Ultherapy is still expensive in Korea but cheaper than Western countries due to competition and market volume.

Q: Will HIFU hurt my skin or cause damage? A: When performed correctly, HIFU is safe. The controlled thermal injury is intentional to trigger collagen. Choose experienced practitioners using authentic, well-maintained devices.

Q: Can men get HIFU? A: Absolutely! Increasingly popular for men seeking non-surgical rejuvenation. Same treatments apply. Men may need more energy/shots due to thicker skin.

Q: What if I had filler - can I still get HIFU? A: Wait 6-12 months after filler. HIFU heat can potentially affect filler. Some doctors say 6 months is sufficient; conservative recommendation is 12 months.

Q: Is one Shurink treatment enough? A: You'll see some results, but Shurink is designed for cumulative effects with multiple treatments (3-4 per year). One treatment provides temporary boost but won't give long-term transformation.

Q: Can HIFU replace a facelift? A: No. HIFU is "non-surgical facial tightening," not "non-surgical facelift equivalent." For severe laxity and dramatic results, surgery is still superior. HIFU is excellent for prevention, maintenance, and mild-moderate concerns.

Booking Your HIFU in Seoul

For International Visitors

Timing:

• Single session treatment
• No significant downtime (1-3 days mild effects)
• Can do early, mid, or late in trip
• Won't see final results during visit (develops over months)

Finding Clinics:

• Gangnam: All devices available, premium clinics
• Verify device authenticity (fake Ultherapy exists)
• Check doctor's experience with specific device

Critical Selection Criteria: ✅ Authentic, well-maintained device (ask to see) ✅ Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon ✅ Experience with specific HIFU device (100+ treatments) ✅ Before/after portfolio ✅ English-speaking staff ✅ Clear about device type and pricing ✅ Realistic about results

Red Flags: 🚩 Unclear about which device used 🚩 Prices dramatically below market (fake devices) 🚩 Promises facelift-equivalent results 🚩 Generic before/after photos 🚩 No consultation, immediate treatment

What to Bring:

• Passport/ID
• Payment method
• List of recent facial treatments (filler, etc.)
• Medications and allergies list
• Realistic expectations

Budget Planning

Budget Option (Shurink):

• Single session: $231-$462
• Annual program (3-4 sessions): $692-$1,848
• Choose if: Budget-conscious, don't mind multiple visits

Mid-Range (Doublo Gold):

• Single session: $308-$692
• Annual program (2-3 sessions): $616-$2,076
• Choose if: Want better results than Shurink, balance

Premium (Ultherapy):

• Single session: $770-$1,538
• Annual treatment: $770-$1,538
• Choose if: Want best results, proven technology, once/year convenience

Combination Approach:

• Ultherapy first year: $1,000
• Shurink maintenance years 2-3: $600/year
• Ultherapy again year 4: $1,000
• Total over 4 years: $3,200 ($800/year average)

Conclusion

HIFU lifting in Korea offers exceptional options for non-surgical facial tightening, from the gold-standard Ultherapy to budget-friendly Korean alternatives. At prices 60-80% cheaper than Western countries ($38-$1,538 vs $2,000-$4,500), Seoul provides access to cutting-edge HIFU technology and experienced practitioners.

Key Takeaways

✅ Non-Invasive: No surgery, no incisions, no downtime ✅ Variety: Ultherapy (premium), Doublo (middle), Shurink (budget) ✅ Proven: HIFU technology FDA-cleared for lifting ✅ Natural: Gradual results through collagen stimulation ✅ Flexible: Annual (Ultherapy) or quarterly (Shurink) options ✅ Safe: Minimal side effects, established safety profile ✅ Affordable: 60-80% cheaper in Korea

Realistic Expectations

Choose HIFU if you:

• Have mild to moderate skin laxity
• Want non-surgical tightening
• Accept gradual results (2-3 months)
• Can tolerate moderate pain (especially Ultherapy)
• Understand temporary nature (need maintenance)
• Prefer prevention over correction

Consider surgery if you:

• Have severe sagging
• Want dramatic, long-lasting results
• Significant excess skin
• Can commit to surgical recovery

Which HIFU Device to Choose?

Ultherapy: Best results, longest duration, most painful, highest cost Doublo Gold: Middle ground - decent results, moderate duration/pain/cost Shurink: Budget-friendly, less pain, requires frequent treatments

Annual Cost Comparison:

• Ultherapy: $770-$1,538 (1 treatment)
• Doublo: $616-$2,076 (2-3 treatments)
• Shurink: $462-$1,848 (3-4 treatments)

Value Verdict: Similar annual costs, but Ultherapy offers convenience of single treatment with best results.

Final Verdict

For international visitors seeking effective non-surgical facial tightening, Korea offers world-class HIFU treatments at exceptional value. The combination of proven technology (Ultherapy), innovative Korean alternatives (Shurink, Doublo), and competitive pricing makes Seoul the premier destination.

Success requires choosing the right device for your goals and budget, selecting experienced practitioners using authentic equipment, and maintaining realistic expectations about gradual, moderate improvements. But for those with mild-moderate laxity seeking non-surgical rejuvenation, Korean HIFU delivers impressive, natural-looking results.

Ready to tighten and lift? Research device options, verify equipment authenticity, and prepare to experience why Korean HIFU leads the world in non-invasive skin tightening.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about HIFU treatments. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Results vary significantly by individual based on age, skin quality, degree of laxity, device used, and practitioner skill. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. While HIFU is generally safe, rare complications including burns, nerve damage, and fat loss can occur. Verify device authenticity - counterfeit devices exist and pose safety risks. The information provided is for educational purposes only. Treatment outcomes depend on multiple factors including device quality, proper settings, operator experience, and realistic patient expectations.

Last Updated: November 7, 2025 Reading Time: 17 minutes