Shurink vs Ulthera in Korea: Complete HIFU Lifting Guide 2025

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) has revolutionized non-surgical face lifting, and Korea offers two leading options: Shurink and Ulthera. Both use ultrasound energy to lift and tighten skin without surgery, but they differ significantly in technology, price, and results. With Shurink costing $385-$615 and Ulthera $770-$1,150 per session, understanding which treatment fits your needs and budget is crucial.

This comprehensive guide explains the science, compares both treatments, and helps you make an informed decision for your face lifting goals in Korea.

What is HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)?

HIFU is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses focused ultrasound energy to heat tissue deep beneath the skin's surface, triggering collagen production and tissue tightening without damaging the outer skin layer.

How HIFU Works:

1. Ultrasound Energy: High-intensity ultrasound waves penetrate skin surface
2. Precise Targeting: Energy focused at specific depths (1.5mm, 3mm, 4.5mm)
3. Heat Generation: Targeted tissue heated to 60-70°C (140-158°F)
4. Thermal Coagulation: Heat creates controlled micro-injuries
5. Collagen Response: Body produces new collagen to repair tissue
6. Lifting Effect: Immediate tightening + gradual lifting over 2-3 months
7. Long-Term Results: Continued collagen production for 6-12 months

What Makes HIFU Unique:

Unlike RF (radiofrequency) treatments that heat from surface downward, HIFU bypasses the skin surface and delivers energy precisely to deeper layers including the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) - the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts.

HIFU vs Surgical Facelift:

Shurink: Korea's HIFU Innovation

What is Shurink?

Shurink is a Korean-manufactured HIFU device developed by Classys, a leading Korean medical device company. Launched as a cost-effective alternative to Ulthera, Shurink has become widely popular in Korea and across Asia.

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Classys (Korea)
• Approval: KFDA (Korean FDA) approved
• Technology: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
• Cartridges: Multiple depth options (1.5mm, 3mm, 4.5mm)
• Treatment Areas: Face, neck, body
• Energy Type: Focused ultrasound

Shurink Models

1. Shurink Universe (Latest Generation)

• Released: 2020+
• Modes: 2 treatment modes (lifting + tightening)
• Cartridges: 7 different types for various depths and areas
• Features: Enhanced energy delivery, improved comfort
• Best For: Comprehensive facial and body treatments
• Price Premium: 10-20% higher than standard Shurink

2. Standard Shurink

• The Original: Earlier generation models
• Cartridges: 3-5 cartridge options
• Features: Proven effectiveness, widely available
• Best For: Standard face lifting procedures
• Price: Most affordable HIFU option

How Shurink Works

Treatment Depths:

• 1.5mm: Superficial dermis (fine lines, texture)
• 3.0mm: Mid-dermis (moderate wrinkles, elasticity)
• 4.5mm: Deep SMAS layer (significant lifting)

Typical Shot Count:

• Face (300 shots): Minimal coverage, quick treatment - ₩300,000-₩500,000 ($230-$385)
• Face (600 shots): Standard full-face treatment - ₩500,000-₩800,000 ($385-$615)
• Face (900+ shots): Comprehensive treatment - ₩700,000-₩1,000,000 ($538-$770)

Shurink Benefits

✅ Immediate Effects:

• Instant skin tightening from thermal coagulation
• Visible lifting within 24-48 hours
• Immediate facial contour improvement

✅ Progressive Improvement:

• Continued collagen production for 2-3 months
• Peak results at 3 months post-treatment
• Gradual natural-looking enhancement

✅ Specific Benefits:

• Lifts sagging jowls and jawline
• Tightens neck bands and turkey neck
• Reduces nasolabial folds
• Lifts eyebrows and opens eye area
• Improves overall facial contours
• Reduces facial fat through lipolysis
• Refines facial shape

Shurink Results Duration

• Immediate: Visible tightening day 1-2
• Short-term: Progressive improvement weeks 1-12
• Peak: Maximum results at 3 months
• Duration: 3-6 months maintenance needed
• Frequency: 3-4 treatments per year recommended
• Cumulative: Results improve with repeated treatments

Shurink Advantages

✅ Affordability: 50-70% cheaper than Ulthera ✅ Accessibility: Widely available in Korean clinics ✅ No Downtime: Return to activities immediately ✅ Quick Treatment: 30-60 minutes depending on shot count ✅ Proven Track Record: Years of use in Korea with good safety ✅ Versatility: Multiple cartridges for different areas

Shurink Limitations

❌ No Real-Time Imaging: Doctor relies on experience (no ultrasound visualization) ❌ Operator Dependent: Results vary based on technician skill ❌ Shorter Duration: Requires more frequent treatments (3-4x/year) ❌ Less Powerful: Lower energy intensity compared to Ulthera ❌ Variable Quality: Counterfeit or old machines possible

Ulthera: The Gold Standard HIFU

What is Ulthera?

Ulthera is the original HIFU device, developed in the USA by Ulthera Inc. (now Merz Aesthetics). It was the first FDA-approved HIFU device for cosmetic lifting and remains the gold standard worldwide.

Key Features:

• Manufacturer: Merz Aesthetics (USA/Germany)
• Approval: FDA approved (2009), KFDA approved
• Technology: Micro-focused ultrasound with imaging (MFU-V)
• Unique Feature: Real-time ultrasound imaging
• Cartridges: 3 depths (1.5mm, 3mm, 4.5mm)
• Treatment Areas: Face, neck, décolletage
• Energy Type: Precise micro-focused ultrasound

Ulthera's Unique Technology

DeepSEE Ultrasound Imaging:

Ulthera's defining feature is its integrated ultrasound imaging system that allows the practitioner to:

• Visualize tissue layers in real-time before treatment
• Identify optimal treatment depth for each facial area
• Ensure precise energy delivery to target SMAS layer
• Avoid critical structures (nerves, blood vessels)
• Customize treatment to individual anatomy

This imaging capability means treatment is guided by what the doctor actually sees, not just experience or guesswork.

How Ulthera Works

Treatment Depths:

• 1.5mm: Superficial skin (texture, fine lines)
• 3.0mm: Mid-dermis (wrinkles, skin quality)
• 4.5mm: SMAS layer (deep structural lifting)

Typical Shot Count:

• 300 lines: Quick lift, targeted areas - ₩1,000,000-₩1,300,000 ($770-$1,000)
• 600 lines: Full face standard treatment - ₩1,500,000-₩2,000,000 ($1,150-$1,540)
• 900+ lines: Comprehensive face + neck - ₩2,000,000-₩2,500,000 ($1,540-$1,923)

Ulthera Benefits

✅ Superior Precision:

• Real-time imaging ensures accurate depth
• Customized to individual facial anatomy
• Safer treatment near sensitive areas

✅ Powerful Energy:

• Higher intensity ultrasound
• More effective tissue heating
• Stronger collagen response

✅ Longer-Lasting Results:

• 12-18 month duration typical
• 1-2 treatments per year sufficient
• More stable, predictable outcomes

✅ FDA Approval:

• Extensive clinical studies
• Proven safety and efficacy
• Gold standard recognition

Ulthera Results Duration

• Immediate: Moderate tightening day 1-3
• Progressive: Gradual lifting over 2-3 months
• Peak: Maximum results at 3-6 months
• Duration: 12-18 months
• Frequency: 1-2 treatments per year
• Stable: More consistent long-term results

Ulthera Advantages

✅ Real-Time Imaging: See exactly what's being treated ✅ Precision: Accurate depth targeting ✅ Power: Higher energy for better results ✅ Longevity: 12-18 months vs 3-6 months (Shurink) ✅ FDA Approved: Extensive safety data ✅ Global Standard: Most researched HIFU device ✅ Fewer Treatments: 1-2x per year vs 3-4x

Ulthera Limitations

❌ Cost: 2-3x more expensive than Shurink ❌ Pain: Generally more uncomfortable during treatment ❌ Availability: Fewer clinics due to higher equipment cost ❌ Treatment Time: Longer sessions (60-90 minutes)

Shurink vs Ulthera: Direct Comparison

Technology Comparison

Results Comparison

Price Comparison (Korea 2025)

Key Insight: While Ulthera costs 2-3x more per session, you need 3-4 Shurink treatments annually vs 1-2 Ulthera treatments. The annual cost difference is minimal or favors Ulthera!

Pain Level Comparison

Patient Consensus: Ulthera is generally more painful due to higher energy, but pain is temporary and manageable.

Suitability Comparison

Choose Shurink If:

• ✅ Budget is primary concern
• ✅ Want to try HIFU before investing in premium
• ✅ Mild skin laxity
• ✅ Prefer more frequent, gentler treatments
• ✅ Young (30s-early 40s) with early signs
• ✅ Maintenance after other treatments

Choose Ulthera If:

• ✅ Want gold standard, FDA-approved treatment
• ✅ Moderate to significant skin laxity
• ✅ Prefer fewer treatments annually
• ✅ Value precision and imaging technology
• ✅ Age 45+ with noticeable sagging
• ✅ Maximum longevity desired
• ✅ Can afford premium pricing

Treatment Areas and Applications

Face Lifting

Effective For Both Shurink & Ulthera:

1. Jowl Reduction

• Lifts sagging lower face
• Defines jawline
• Reduces jowl prominence
• Best results with 4.5mm depth

2. Nasolabial Folds

• Softens deep smile lines
• Lifts mid-face
• Improves cheek sagging
• Combination of depths

3. Brow Lift

• Opens eye area
• Lifts drooping brows
• Reduces hooded eyes
• Targets forehead area

4. Neck Tightening

• Reduces turkey neck
• Tightens neck bands
• Improves neck contour
• Smooths neck wrinkles

5. Cheek Lifting

• Restores volume appearance
• Lifts sagging cheeks
• Improves mid-face contours
• Reduces under-eye bags

Body Applications (Primarily Shurink)

Shurink Universe offers body cartridges:

• Arms: Bat wing reduction
• Abdomen: Mild skin tightening
• Thighs: Inner thigh tightening
• Buttocks: Subtle lifting

Note: Ulthera primarily focused on face/neck; less commonly used for body.

What to Expect: HIFU Treatment Process

Consultation (20-30 minutes)

Assessment:

• Evaluate skin laxity and elasticity
• Assess facial anatomy
• Determine suitable treatment (Shurink vs Ulthera)
• Recommend shot count and areas
• Set realistic expectations
• Review medical history
• Before photos

Before Treatment

1 Week Before:

• Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen)
• Stop fish oil, vitamin E supplements
• No retinol or strong acids 2-3 days before
• Stay well-hydrated

Day Of:

• Clean face, no makeup
• Light meal (not empty stomach)
• Pain tolerance varies - discuss numbing options

During Treatment (30-90 minutes)

Shurink Procedure:

1. Preparation (10 min):

   • Face cleansed and marked
   • Ultrasound gel applied
   • Treatment areas mapped

2. Treatment (30-60 min):

   • Handpiece moved systematically across face
   • Energy delivered in lines/grids
   • Doctor adjusts depth with cartridge changes
   • 300-900 shots depending on plan
   • Feels like prickling, heat, tingling

3. Completion:

   • Gel removed
   • Soothing mask may be applied
   • Ice pack if needed

Ulthera Procedure:

1. Imaging (10-15 min):

   • Ultrasound imaging of each facial area
   • Identify optimal treatment depths
   • Customize treatment plan in real-time

2. Treatment (45-90 min):

   • Precise energy delivery guided by imaging
   • More methodical, slower process
   • Deeper energy penetration
   • Feels like sharp zaps, deep heat

3. Post-Treatment:

   • Cooling, soothing measures
   • Assessment of results

Pain Management:

• Numbing Cream: Applied 30-60 minutes before
• Pain Medication: Pre-treatment paracetamol
• Cooling: Ice packs during and after
• Communication: Tell doctor about discomfort

Immediately After Treatment

Common Experiences:

✓ Redness: Mild to moderate, fades in 2-24 hours ✓ Swelling: Slight puffiness, resolves in 1-3 days ✓ Tenderness: Skin sensitive to touch for 1-3 days ✓ Tingling: Nerve sensations for few hours ✓ Tightness: Feeling of skin tightening (good sign!)

Rare But Possible:

• Bruising (5-10% of patients)
• Temporary numbness
• White wheals (temporary marks)
• More significant swelling (ice helps)

Recovery Timeline

Day 1:

• Redness and slight swelling
• Can apply makeup after few hours
• Resume normal activities
• Avoid strenuous exercise

Days 2-3:

• Most visible effects resolved
• Skin may feel tight
• Continue gentle skincare

Week 1:

• All visible side effects gone
• May notice initial tightening
• Normal skincare routine resumed

Weeks 2-4:

• Early results becoming apparent
• Subtle lifting visible
• Skin texture improving

Months 1-3:

• Progressive collagen production
• Gradual lifting effect
• Peak results at 3 months
• Maximum improvement visible

Months 3-6 (Shurink):

• Maintenance of results
• Gradual fading begins
• Schedule next treatment at 4-6 months

Months 3-12+ (Ulthera):

• Stable, maintained results
• Gradual natural aging continues
• Next treatment typically at 12-18 months

Expected Results and Effectiveness

Realistic Outcomes

After 1 HIFU Treatment:

Immediate (Days 1-7):

• 10-20% visible tightening
• Slight facial contour improvement
• Smoother skin appearance

Progressive (Months 1-3):

• 30-50% improvement in targeted sagging
• Noticeable jawline definition
• Lifted mid-face and cheeks
• Reduced jowls
• Softer nasolabial folds
• More youthful overall appearance

What HIFU Can Do:

✅ Lift mild to moderate skin sagging ✅ Define jawline and reduce jowls ✅ Tighten neck skin and bands ✅ Lift sagging cheeks ✅ Open eye area with brow lift ✅ Soften nasolabial folds ✅ Improve overall facial contours ✅ Stimulate long-term collagen production

What HIFU Cannot Do:

❌ Replace surgical facelift results ❌ Remove excess skin (only tightens existing) ❌ Fill volume loss (use fillers instead) ❌ Treat severe, advanced sagging ❌ Work miracles on very aged skin ❌ Provide permanent results

Success Rates

Korean Clinic Data:

• Patient Satisfaction: 75-85%
• Visible Improvement: 80-90% of patients
• Would Repeat: 70-80%
• Recommend to Others: 75-85%

Factors Affecting Results:

• Age and skin condition
• Degree of sagging (mild = best results)
• Skin elasticity and quality
• Lifestyle (smoking, sun, stress)
• Number of shots/energy delivered
• Practitioner skill (especially Shurink)
• Post-treatment care

Real Patient Reviews from Korea

Ulthera Success Stories

Review 1 - Jawline Definition (600 Lines):

"Got Ulthera 600 lines at Gangnam clinic (₩1,800,000 / $1,385). Yes, it hurt during treatment, especially jawline. BUT - 3 months later, my jowls are significantly lifted, jawline is defined again. Friends think I lost weight. Worth the money and pain. Next treatment in 15 months." - Min-ji, 47

Review 2 - Comprehensive Face Lift (900 Lines):

"Invested in 900-line Ulthera (₩2,300,000 / $1,770). The imaging technology is impressive - doctor showed me exactly what layers being treated. Results are natural and gradual. At 4 months, I look 5 years younger. One treatment per year is manageable cost-wise." - Sarah, 52

Shurink Success Stories

Review 3 - Budget-Friendly Option (600 Shots):

"Can't afford Ulthera, so tried Shurink at Myeongdong clinic (₩650,000 / $500). Results are good! Jawline tighter, face lifted. Only lasted 5 months though, need to go 3x per year. Still cheaper than Ulthera annually and works well for me." - Jessica, 39

Review 4 - Preventive Care (300 Shots):

"I'm 35, started Shurink as preventive measure. Do 300 shots every 4 months (₩400,000 each / $308). Maintains my skin tightness, prevents sagging. Good value for my age and goals. Might upgrade to Ulthera when I'm older." - Lisa, 35

Realistic Mixed Reviews

Review 5 - Pain Reality Check:

"Ulthera HURTS. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Jawline and bony areas were genuinely painful even with numbing cream. But I'd do it again because results are undeniable. Just mentally prepare for discomfort." - Michelle, 43

Review 6 - Shurink Variability:

"Had Shurink at 3 different clinics. Results varied wildly! First clinic: barely noticeable. Second clinic: good results. Third clinic: excellent. Lesson: doctor skill matters enormously with Shurink. Choose experienced practitioner." - Emma, 41

Review 7 - Managing Expectations:

"Expected surgical facelift results from Ulthera. Didn't happen. It's a subtle lift, not dramatic transformation. Once I adjusted expectations, I was happy with the natural improvement. It's preventive/maintenance, not miracle cure." - Jennifer, 50

Combination Treatments

HIFU works excellently combined with other treatments for comprehensive rejuvenation.

Popular Korean Combinations

1. HIFU + Botox

• HIFU lifts structure
• Botox relaxes muscles pulling face down
• Synergistic anti-aging effect
• Wait 2 weeks between treatments

2. HIFU + Fillers

• HIFU tightens and lifts
• Fillers restore lost volume
• Addresses different aging mechanisms
• Complete facial rejuvenation
• Wait 2-4 weeks between

3. HIFU + Thread Lift

• Threads for immediate mechanical lift
• HIFU for collagen building and tightening
• Combination yields stronger, longer results
• Space 1-2 months apart

4. HIFU + Laser/RF

• HIFU for deep lifting
• Laser for surface texture, pigmentation
• Comprehensive skin improvement
• Can alternate treatments every few months

5. HIFU + Rejuran

• HIFU lifts sagging
• Rejuran improves skin quality
• Addresses both structure and texture
• Excellent for overall facial rejuvenation

Side Effects and Safety

Common Side Effects (Temporary)

Expected (80-90% of patients):

• Redness (2-24 hours)
• Swelling (1-3 days)
• Tenderness (2-5 days)
• Tingling sensations (hours to days)
• Skin sensitivity (1 week)

Occasional (10-30%):

• Bruising (5-7 days)
• Temporary numbness (days to weeks)
• White wheals/stripes (few hours)
• Dry skin (1-2 weeks)

Rare Complications (<5%)

• Prolonged swelling (weeks)
• Temporary nerve effects (numbness, weakness)
• Burns or blisters (improper technique)
• Fat loss/indentation (excessive energy)
• Paradoxical sagging (extremely rare)
• Asymmetry

Important: Serious complications almost always result from:

• Inexperienced practitioners
• Counterfeit or damaged equipment
• Excessive energy settings
• Poor technique

Who Should Avoid HIFU

❌ Absolute Contraindications:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active skin infection/inflammation
• Open wounds in treatment area
• Severe cystic acne
• Electrical implants (pacemaker, etc.)
• Metal implants in treatment area

❌ Relative Contraindications (Consult Doctor):

• Very thin skin
• Severe skin laxity (surgery better option)
• Autoimmune skin conditions
• History of keloid scarring
• Recent facial surgery (<6 months)
• Unrealistic expectations

Maximizing HIFU Results

Before Treatment

4 Weeks Before:

• Maintain good skincare routine
• Use retinol if tolerated (builds collagen)
• Stay well-hydrated
• Avoid excessive sun damage

1 Week Before:

• Stop blood thinners
• Avoid alcohol
• Discontinue harsh actives (retinol, acids)
• Get adequate sleep

Day Of:

• Clean face
• No makeup
• Light meal
• Hydrate well

After Treatment

First 24 Hours:

• Gentle cleansing only
• Apply soothing products
• Ice packs if swollen
• Avoid makeup 6-12 hours
• Sleep with head elevated

First Week:

• Gentle skincare routine
• SPF 30+ essential
• Avoid other facial treatments
• No saunas, hot yoga
• Limit alcohol
• Stay hydrated

Long-Term Optimization:

✅ Skincare:

• Quality moisturizers
• Retinol (after 1 week)
• Vitamin C serums
• Daily SPF without exception
• Peptide products

✅ Lifestyle:

• Don't smoke (destroys collagen)
• Sun protection always
• 8 glasses water daily
• Antioxidant-rich diet
• Adequate sleep
• Stress management
• Regular exercise

✅ Maintenance:

• Shurink: Every 3-6 months
• Ulthera: Every 12-18 months
• Combine with complementary treatments
• Don't wait until results completely fade

Best Areas in Seoul for HIFU

Top Neighborhoods

1. Gangnam (강남)

• Shurink: ₩500,000-₩900,000 ($385-$692)
• Ulthera: ₩1,500,000-₩2,200,000 ($1,150-$1,692)
• Best For: Experienced practitioners, both treatments
• Subway: Line 2, Gangnam Station

2. Apgujeong (압구정)

• Premium Pricing: 10-20% higher than Gangnam
• Best For: Celebrity doctors, VIP service
• Subway: Line 3, Apgujeong Station

3. Sinsa (신사)

• Shurink: ₩450,000-₩800,000 ($346-$615)
• Ulthera: ₩1,400,000-₩2,000,000 ($1,077-$1,540)
• Best For: Quality-to-price balance
• Subway: Line 3, Sinsa Station

4. Myeongdong (명동)

• Shurink: ₩400,000-₩700,000 ($308-$538)
• Ulthera: ₩1,200,000-₩1,800,000 ($923-$1,385)
• Best For: Budget-conscious, tourist-friendly
• Subway: Line 4, Myeongdong Station

Tips for International Visitors

Choosing Between Shurink and Ulthera

Budget < $700: Shurink Budget $700+: Consider Ulthera Age 30s-early 40s: Shurink sufficient Age 45+: Ulthera recommended Mild laxity: Shurink works well Moderate-significant: Ulthera better Short trip: Ulthera (longer-lasting, fewer treatments) Living in Korea: Shurink (can do regular sessions)

Verifying Equipment

For Ulthera:

• Ask to see FDA certification
• Check serial number on machine
• Genuine Ulthera has specific branding
• Should have imaging screen

For Shurink:

• Verify it's genuine Classys Shurink
• Check cartridge packaging
• Ask about maintenance records
• Newer Universe model preferred

Korean Phrases

• "슈링크 받고 싶어요" (Shu-ringk-eu bat-go ship-eo-yo) = "I want Shurink"
• "울쎄라 받고 싶어요" (Ul-sse-la bat-go ship-eo-yo) = "I want Ulthera"
• "몇 샷이에요?" (Myeot syat-i-ye-yo?) = "How many shots?"
• "정품이에요?" (Jeong-pum-i-ye-yo?) = "Is this genuine?"
• "가격이 얼마예요?" (Ga-gyeok-i eol-ma-ye-yo?) = "How much?"

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is better - Shurink or Ulthera? A: Depends on priorities. Ulthera offers superior technology (imaging), longer results (12-18 months), and is FDA-approved, but costs 2-3x more per session. Shurink is budget-friendly and effective but requires 3-4 treatments annually vs 1-2 for Ulthera. Annual cost is similar.

Q: Does HIFU hurt? A: Yes, moderate discomfort. Shurink: 4-6/10 pain. Ulthera: 5-7/10 (higher energy). Bony areas (jawline, forehead) hurt most. Numbing cream helps. Pain is temporary during treatment only.

Q: How long do results last? A: Shurink: 3-6 months. Ulthera: 12-18 months. Individual variation based on age, skin quality, lifestyle. Results fade gradually, not suddenly.

Q: Can HIFU replace facelift surgery? A: No. HIFU addresses mild-moderate sagging with subtle-moderate lifting. Surgery addresses severe sagging with dramatic results and lasts 5-10+ years. HIFU is preventive/maintenance, not surgical replacement.

Q: When will I see results? A: Immediate slight tightening (days 1-3). Progressive improvement over 2-3 months as collagen builds. Peak results at 3-6 months.

Q: Is HIFU safe? A: Very safe when performed by qualified practitioners with genuine equipment. Over 10 years of use, millions of treatments worldwide. Serious complications extremely rare (<1%).

Q: Can I combine HIFU with Botox or fillers? A: Yes! HIFU + Botox + fillers is popular comprehensive anti-aging strategy. Wait 2 weeks between HIFU and injectables. HIFU lifts, Botox prevents wrinkles, fillers restore volume.

Q: How many shots do I need? A: 300 shots: Quick lift, targeted. 600 shots: Standard full face. 900+ shots: Comprehensive treatment. More shots = more coverage but longer treatment and higher cost.

Q: Why is Ulthera so much more expensive? A: Proprietary imaging technology, FDA approval process costs, higher R&D investment, premium brand positioning. You're paying for precision, consistency, and proven results.

Q: Can I get HIFU if I've had fillers? A: Yes, but wait 2 weeks between treatments. HIFU won't damage fillers. Some believe HIFU may accelerate filler breakdown, but research is mixed. Inform doctor about all previous treatments.

Conclusion

Both Shurink and Ulthera offer effective non-surgical face lifting through HIFU technology, but they serve different patient needs and budgets. Shurink provides accessible, affordable lifting with good results requiring more frequent maintenance, while Ulthera delivers premium precision, longer-lasting results, and gold-standard technology at higher cost.

Key Takeaways:

• Technology: Both use HIFU, but Ulthera adds real-time imaging
• Effectiveness: Both work, Ulthera more consistent/longer-lasting
• Price: Shurink $385-$615, Ulthera $1,150-$1,540 per session
• Annual Cost: Similar (Shurink 3-4x/year vs Ulthera 1-2x/year)
• Duration: Shurink 3-6 months, Ulthera 12-18 months
• Best For: Shurink (budget, preventive) / Ulthera (premium, significant laxity)
• Safety: Both very safe with qualified practitioners

Whether you choose budget-friendly Shurink or gold-standard Ulthera, Korea offers exceptional value with prices 50-70% lower than Western countries while maintaining the highest quality standards and practitioner expertise.

Ready to experience non-surgical face lifting? Consult with reputable Seoul clinics to determine whether Shurink or Ulthera best fits your facial rejuvenation goals, budget, and lifestyle.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about HIFU treatments and should not be considered medical advice. HIFU procedures have potential risks and side effects. Individual results vary based on age, skin condition, facial anatomy, and lifestyle factors, and cannot be guaranteed. Always consult with a qualified, board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. The information provided is based on general practices in Korean aesthetic medicine and may not reflect specific protocols or the most current medical guidelines. This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical consultation.

Last Updated: November 1, 2025 Reading Time: 25 minutes