Shurink Lifting in Korea: HIFU Face Lift Guide 2025

Want a non-surgical face lift without downtime? Shurink lifting has become Korea's go-to treatment for tightening sagging skin and achieving a more youthful contour. Using HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) technology, this treatment lifts and firms skin from deep within—no surgery, no needles, no recovery time.

This practical guide covers what Shurink is, how it compares to Ulthera, realistic pricing, expected results, and everything international visitors need to know.

What is Shurink Lifting?

Shurink is a Korean-made HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) device manufactured by Classys that delivers focused ultrasound energy deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production and tighten tissue.

How It Works

The technology:

• HIFU energy: Focused ultrasound waves penetrate 1.5mm to 4.5mm deep
• Target layer: Reaches SMAS layer (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) - the same layer surgeons lift during facelift surgery
• Thermal effect: Creates controlled heat zones (65-70°C) that trigger healing
• Collagen stimulation: Body responds by producing new collagen and elastin
• Natural tightening: Skin gradually lifts and firms over 2-3 months

What makes it special:

• Non-surgical alternative to face lift
• No incisions, needles, or injections
• Treats deeper layers than lasers
• Minimal to no downtime
• Natural-looking gradual results
• Can be combined with other treatments

Shurink vs Ulthera: Key Differences

Both use HIFU technology, but there are important distinctions:

Bottom line: Ulthera is more powerful and longer-lasting but 3-5x more expensive and more painful. Shurink offers good results at a fraction of the cost, ideal for younger patients or those on a budget.

Treatment Areas and Benefits

What Shurink Can Treat

Face:

• ✅ Sagging cheeks
• ✅ Jowls (jawline sagging)
• ✅ Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• ✅ Marionette lines
• ✅ Double chin
• ✅ Loose neck skin

Effects:

• ✅ Skin tightening and lifting
• ✅ Improved facial contour
• ✅ Reduced sagging
• ✅ Firmer jawline definition
• ✅ Wrinkle reduction
• ✅ Collagen regeneration

What Shurink Cannot Fix

Limitations:

• ❌ Severe skin laxity (needs surgery)
• ❌ Volume loss (needs fillers)
• ❌ Dynamic wrinkles (needs Botox)
• ❌ Pigmentation (needs laser/lightening)
• ❌ Acne scars (needs other treatments)
• ❌ Weight loss (not a slimming treatment)

Shurink is best for mild to moderate sagging and prevention rather than correction of severe aging.

The Procedure

Before Treatment

Consultation:

• Skin assessment
• Discussion of concerns and goals
• Customized treatment plan (number of shots, depths)
• Photos for before/after comparison

Preparation:

• Clean face (no makeup)
• Numbing cream applied (20-30 minutes)
• Treatment area marked

During Treatment (20-40 minutes)

The process:

1. Doctor applies ultrasound gel
2. Shurink handpiece glides across treatment zones
3. Each "shot" delivers focused energy pulse
4. Different cartridges used for different depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm)

Standard protocol:

• Full face: 300-400 shots typical
• Specific areas: 100-200 shots
• Treatment time: 20-30 minutes for full face

What it feels like:

• Tingling sensation
• Sharp pinching feeling with each shot
• Heat in deeper layers
• Pain level: 4-6/10 with numbing cream
• More sensitive areas: Jawline, bony areas, thin skin

After Treatment

Immediate effects:

• Redness (1-2 hours)
• Slight swelling (possible)
• Tenderness (1-2 days)
• No visible wounds or marks
• Can apply makeup immediately
• Return to normal activities right away

Results timeline:

• Immediate: Slight tightening from tissue contraction
• 2-4 weeks: Gradual improvement begins
• 1-3 months: Peak results as collagen builds
• 3-6 months: Effects gradually fade

Pricing in Korea (2025)

Shurink is significantly more affordable in Korea than in Western countries.

By Treatment Area

Full Face (300-400 shots):

• Budget clinics: ₩300,000-400,000 ($230-$310)
• Mid-range clinics: ₩400,000-600,000 ($310-$462)
• Premium clinics: ₩600,000-800,000 ($462-$615)
• Average: ₩500,000 ($385)

Targeted Areas (100-200 shots):

• Jawline/Double chin: ₩200,000-350,000 ($154-$269)
• Cheeks: ₩250,000-400,000 ($192-$310)
• Neck: ₩250,000-400,000 ($192-$310)
• Eyes: ₩150,000-250,000 ($115-$192)

Premium Shurink Universe (newer model):

• Full face: ₩700,000-1,000,000 ($540-$770)
• Added features: More precise depth control, less pain

Package Deals

3-Session Package:

• Individual: ₩500,000 × 3 = ₩1,500,000 ($1,155)
• Package: ₩1,200,000-1,400,000 ($923-$1,077)
• Savings: ₩100,000-300,000 ($77-$230)

International Price Comparison

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

Treatment Frequency and Maintenance

Recommended Protocol

Initial treatment:

• 1-2 sessions depending on severity
• If 2 sessions: space 3-4 months apart

Maintenance:

• Every 6-12 months
• More frequent for older patients (every 4-6 months)
• Less frequent for younger patients (yearly)

By Age Group

30s (Prevention):

• 1 session per year
• Focus: Maintain elasticity, prevent sagging

40s (Early Intervention):

• 1 session every 6-9 months
• Focus: Tighten mild sagging, boost collagen

50s+ (Active Treatment):

• 1 session every 4-6 months
• Focus: Address moderate sagging
• Consider: Combining with other treatments

Side Effects and Safety

Common (Temporary)

Expected side effects:

• Redness (1-2 hours)
• Swelling (mild, 1-3 days)
• Tenderness (1-5 days)
• Slight numbness (temporary)
• Tingling sensation (few days)

Rare Side Effects

Uncommon issues:

• Bruising (if blood vessels affected)
• Burns (if too much energy or improper technique)
• Nerve damage (temporary, very rare)
• Fat loss (hollowing in thin areas)
• Asymmetry (usually self-corrects)

Who Should Avoid Shurink

Contraindications:

• ❌ Pregnant or breastfeeding
• ❌ Skin infection in treatment area
• ❌ Metal implants in face
• ❌ Severe cystic acne
• ❌ Keloid scarring tendency
• ❌ Open wounds or lesions
• ❌ Unrealistic expectations

Top Clinics in Seoul

Gangnam Area

1. ToxnFill (톡스앤필)

• Multiple locations
• Price: ₩400,000-600,000 ($310-$462)
• English support available

2. CU Clean Up Dermatology

• Gangnam Station Exit 10
• Seoul National University-trained dermatologists
• Premium service

3. Beautiful Country Dermatology (아름다운나라피부과)

• Gangnam Station Exit 1
• Research-backed approach
• English consultations

What to Verify

Before booking:

• ✅ Licensed dermatologist performs treatment
• ✅ Genuine Classys Shurink device (not counterfeit)
• ✅ Clean, professional facility
• ✅ Clear pricing
• ✅ Consultation included
• ✅ English support if needed

Red flags:

• ❌ Prices below ₩250,000 for full face (suspiciously cheap)
• ❌ Non-doctors operating device
• ❌ No consultation offered
• ❌ Unclear about device brand
• ❌ Pressure to decide immediately

Post-Treatment Care

First 24 Hours

DO:

• ✅ Keep skin clean and moisturized
• ✅ Apply gentle sunscreen if going outside
• ✅ Drink plenty of water
• ✅ Can apply makeup immediately if desired

DON'T:

• ❌ Hot showers, saunas, steam rooms
• ❌ Intense exercise (wait 24 hours)
• ❌ Alcohol consumption (increases swelling)
• ❌ Direct sun exposure without SPF

Following Week

Recommended:

• ✅ SPF 50+ daily (crucial)
• ✅ Hydrating skincare
• ✅ Gentle products
• ✅ Normal activities can resume

Avoid:

• ❌ Other facial treatments for 2 weeks
• ❌ Harsh exfoliants
• ❌ Extreme heat (sauna, hot yoga)

Maximizing Results

Support collagen production:

• Vitamin C supplements/serums
• Adequate protein intake
• 7-8 hours sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol
• Manage stress

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Shurink hurt? A: With numbing cream, most rate it 4-6/10. You'll feel tingling, pinching, and heat sensations. More tolerable than Ulthera but not completely painless. Jawline and bony areas are most sensitive.

Q: When will I see results? A: Immediate slight tightening, noticeable improvement at 2-4 weeks, peak results at 2-3 months as collagen builds. Effects are gradual, not instant.

Q: How long do results last? A: Typically 3-6 months. Ulthera lasts longer (12-18 months) but costs 3-5x more. Regular maintenance every 6-12 months sustains effects.

Q: Is there downtime? A: Minimal to none. Slight redness for 1-2 hours, possible mild swelling for 1-3 days. Can return to work and activities immediately. Makeup can be applied right away.

Q: Shurink or Ulthera? A:

• Choose Shurink if: Budget-conscious, mild-moderate sagging, 30s-40s, lower pain tolerance, preventive treatment
• Choose Ulthera if: Can afford premium, significant sagging, 50s+, want maximum results and longevity

Q: Can I combine with other treatments? A: Yes! Popular combinations:

• Shurink + Botox (lifting + wrinkle relaxation)
• Shurink + Fillers (tightening + volume)
• Shurink + Skin boosters (lifting + hydration)

Wait 2 weeks between treatments.

Q: How many sessions do I need? A: Most see good results from 1 session. Those with more sagging may benefit from 2 sessions spaced 3-4 months apart. Maintenance needed every 6-12 months.

Q: Is it safe? A: Yes, when performed by licensed professionals. HIFU technology is FDA-cleared and widely used globally. Side effects are typically mild and temporary.

Q: Can men get Shurink? A: Absolutely! Popular among male patients for jawline definition and neck tightening.

Q: What if I'm only visiting Seoul briefly? A: One session is fine. Schedule it mid-trip (not last day) to allow any redness/swelling to subside. You won't see full results during your visit (takes 2-3 months), but the treatment is complete in one session.

Conclusion

Shurink lifting offers a practical, affordable alternative to surgical face lifts and premium treatments like Ulthera. While it may not last as long or provide as dramatic results as more expensive options, it delivers noticeable tightening and lifting at a fraction of the cost—especially in Korea.

Is Shurink Right for You?

Choose Shurink if:

• ✅ You have mild to moderate sagging
• ✅ You're in your 30s-40s seeking prevention
• ✅ You want non-surgical lifting
• ✅ Budget is a consideration
• ✅ You prefer minimal downtime
• ✅ You want gradual, natural results

Consider alternatives if:

• ❌ You have severe sagging (surgery may be needed)
• ❌ You want maximum longevity (Ulthera lasts longer)
• ❌ You need immediate results (fillers provide instant volume)
• ❌ You have very thin, fragile skin

Final Verdict

At $230-$615 for full face treatment in Korea (compared to $1,500-$3,000 in Western countries), Shurink provides excellent value for non-surgical facial tightening. The minimal downtime, reasonable pain level, and natural-looking results make it ideal for busy international visitors who want subtle rejuvenation without surgery.

Ready to lift and tighten? Research clinics, verify they use genuine Classys equipment, and experience why Shurink has become one of Korea's most popular aesthetic treatments.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Shurink HIFU lifting treatments. It is not medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult with a licensed dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Results vary based on individual factors including age, skin condition, and lifestyle. All procedures carry potential risks and side effects. The information provided, including pricing and clinic details, is current as of November 2025 and subject to change.

Last Updated: November 6, 2025 Reading Time: 8 minutes