Tune Face Lifting in Korea: Complete 2025 Guide to Prices, Technology & Results

If you're looking for non-surgical face lifting that's less painful than Ultherapy but more effective than basic RF treatments, Tune Face has emerged as Korea's middle-ground solution. This advanced handpiece combines 3D ultrasound and high-frequency radiofrequency to rebuild collagen and deliver visible tightening without the intensity (and discomfort) of HIFU treatments.

Part of Alma Lasers' Accent Prime platform, Tune Face uses 40.68MHz radiofrequency paired with volumetric ultrasound technology to target multiple tissue depths simultaneously. The result? Comprehensive skin tightening, facial contouring, and collagen regeneration with significantly less pain than traditional ultrasound lifting.

Korean dermatology clinics have adopted Tune Face as the "comfortable alternative" to Ultherapy, offering treatments from ₩330,000-715,000 ($250-$550) per session. With immediate tightening effects and progressive improvement over 3-6 months, it's becoming the go-to choice for patients who want real results without extreme discomfort.

What is Tune Face?

Tune Face is a premium handpiece from the Accent Prime system manufactured by Alma Lasers (Israel). It represents the latest evolution in non-invasive skin tightening technology, combining two powerful modalities in a single treatment:

1. 3D Volumetric Ultrasound: Delivers focused ultrasound energy to create thermal zones deep in tissue
2. High-Frequency Radiofrequency (40.68MHz): Simultaneously heats tissue at multiple depths for comprehensive collagen remodeling

The Technology Behind Tune Face

Dual-Technology Approach:

Ultrasound Component:

• Creates focused thermal zones in deep tissue layers
• Penetrates to SMAS layer (same depth as Ultherapy)
• Triggers immediate collagen contraction
• Stimulates long-term collagen production
• Unlike Ultherapy: Uses lower peak temperatures for greater comfort

Radiofrequency Component (40.68MHz):

• Simultaneously heats superficial to mid-dermal layers
• Creates uniform volumetric heating
• Enhances collagen remodeling throughout all skin depths
• Tightens skin surface while ultrasound works deep
• Synergistic effect: Better overall results than either technology alone

3D Volumetric Heating:

Traditional devices heat tissue in a 2D plane (linear or grid pattern). Tune Face uses 3D volumetric technology to heat cubic volumes of tissue:

• More uniform heat distribution
• Better coverage with fewer passes
• More comfortable treatment
• More predictable results
• Reduced risk of "hot spots" or uneven heating

How Tune Face Works

The Science of Collagen Regeneration

Immediate Effects (During Treatment):

When tissue is heated to 40-45°C:

1. Collagen Fibers Contract: Existing collagen shrinks, creating instant tightening
2. Denaturation Zones: Controlled "damage" to collagen structure
3. Tissue Remodeling Trigger: Body recognizes need for repair

Progressive Effects (Weeks to Months After):

1. Week 1-4: Inflammatory healing response activates fibroblasts
2. Week 4-12: Fibroblasts produce new collagen (neocollagenesis)
3. Month 3-6: New collagen matures and contracts, progressive tightening
4. Month 6-12: Continued remodeling, peak results

Result: Both instant tightening + gradual improvement over 6 months

Depth of Treatment

Tune Face targets multiple tissue layers simultaneously:

• Superficial Dermis (0.5-2mm): Skin texture, fine lines
• Mid Dermis (2-4mm): Deeper wrinkles, skin quality
• Deep Dermis (4-6mm): Structural support
• Subcutaneous/SMAS (4.5-6mm): Lifting effect, facial contouring

This multi-depth approach ensures comprehensive rejuvenation from skin surface to deep structural layers.

Tune Face vs. Other Lifting Technologies

Tune Face vs. Ultherapy

Verdict: Tune Face offers 80% of Ultherapy's results with 30% of the discomfort, making it ideal for patients who want meaningful lifting without extreme pain.

Tune Face vs. Thermage/InMode

Key Difference: Tune Face uniquely combines ultrasound lifting (like Ultherapy) with RF tightening (like Thermage) for comprehensive results.

Tune Face Prices in Korea (2025)

Korean clinics offer Tune Face at significantly lower prices than Western markets, though it remains a premium treatment.

Seoul Pricing by Energy Level and Duration

Average Price: ₩511,469 (~$395) per session (2025 data)

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

What Determines Price?

Energy Level (Kilojoules):

The most significant price factor is the total energy delivered:

• 10-20kJ: Minimal improvement, targeted areas only
• 20-30kJ: Noticeable tightening, good for maintenance
• 40-50kJ: Significant lifting, optimal results
• 50-60kJ: Maximum effect, best for severe laxity

Important: Don't be fooled by extremely low prices. Budget treatments (₩31,900-100,000) typically deliver only 5-10kJ over 5-10 minutes—enough to feel the treatment but insufficient for meaningful results.

Other Price Factors:

• Treatment Area Size: Full face, face + neck, targeted zones
• Clinic Location: Gangnam/Cheongdam charge 30-50% premium
• Device Model: Newer Accent Prime models cost more
• Practitioner Experience: Celebrity dermatologists charge higher
• Additional Services: LED therapy, masks, serums included

Price by Seoul District

Gangnam/Cheongdam (Premium):

• Full face (40-50kJ): ₩600,000-715,000 ($460-$550)
• Celebrity clinics, English support, VIP service

Myeongdong/Central Seoul (Mid-Range):

• Full face (40-50kJ): ₩450,000-550,000 ($345-$425)
• Tourist-friendly, good quality, moderate pricing

Hongdae/Other Districts (Budget-Friendly):

• Full face (40-50kJ): ₩330,000-450,000 ($250-$345)
• Local pricing, Korean language helpful

Package Deals

Most Seoul clinics recommend a series of 2-3 treatments for optimal results:

2-Session Package:

• Price: ₩650,000-1,200,000 ($500-$925)
• Savings: 15-20% off individual sessions
• Schedule: 6-8 weeks apart

3-Session Package:

• Price: ₩900,000-1,800,000 ($690-$1,385)
• Savings: 20-30% off individual sessions
• Schedule: 6 weeks apart (initial phase), then annual maintenance

International Price Comparison

Savings in Korea: 50-70% cheaper than Western countries

What Can Tune Face Treat?

Primary Indications

Skin Laxity and Sagging:

• Mid-face sagging
• Jowl formation
• Loose neck skin ("turkey neck")
• Forehead and brow dropping
• Under-eye skin laxity

Facial Contouring:

• Loss of jawline definition
• Softening of facial contours
• Cheek volume loss (creates lifting effect)
• Overall facial slimming through tissue remodeling

Wrinkles and Lines:

• Nasolabial folds (smile lines)
• Marionette lines
• Neck bands and horizontal lines
• Forehead lines
• Crow's feet (when combined with eye-safe settings)

Skin Quality:

• Skin texture improvement
• Enlarged pore reduction
• Overall firmness and elasticity
• Radiance and tone

Ideal Candidates

Best Results For:

• Ages 30-60 with mild to moderate laxity
• Early signs of aging (preventative treatment)
• Those wanting lifting without surgery
• Patients who found Ultherapy too painful
• Post-weight loss skin laxity
• Maintenance after surgical facelift (2+ years post-op)

Not Recommended For:

• Severe, advanced skin sagging (may need surgery)
• Very young patients with no laxity (unnecessary)
• Unrealistic expectations of surgical results
• Active skin infections or inflammation
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

The Treatment Process

What to Expect

Before Your Appointment:

1-2 Weeks Prior:

• Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil)
• Stay well-hydrated
• Avoid aggressive facial treatments
• Inform clinic of any medical conditions or medications

Day of Treatment:

• Arrive with clean, makeup-free face
• Eat a light meal (don't come on empty stomach—can increase pain sensitivity)
• Wear comfortable clothing
• Plan for 60-90 minutes total clinic time

Step-by-Step Procedure

Consultation and Preparation (10-15 minutes):

1. Facial Analysis: Assessment of laxity, areas of concern
2. Photography: Before photos for comparison
3. Treatment Plan: Discussion of energy levels, areas to target
4. Medical History: Review of contraindications

Optional Numbing (15-20 minutes):

• Topical numbing cream applied
• Most patients choose light numbing or none at all
• Tune Face is significantly more comfortable than Ultherapy
• Numbing effectiveness: Reduces pain by 30-50%

Treatment (20-40 minutes):

Step 1: Cleansing

• Face thoroughly cleaned and dried
• Conducting gel applied

Step 2: Handpiece Application

• Doctor systematically passes Tune Face handpiece over treatment zones
• Handpiece glides smoothly across skin
• Multiple passes over each area (typically 2-4 passes)

Step 3: Real-Time Adjustment

• Energy levels adjusted based on your feedback
• More energy to areas with severe laxity
• Lower energy around sensitive areas (temples, bony areas)

Sensations During Treatment:

• Warmth: Deep, penetrating heat (comfortable to moderately intense)
• Prickling: Brief sharp sensations as ultrasound targets deep tissue
• Pressure: Handpiece contact with skin
• Intensity Levels: Varies from 2/10 (gentle warmth) to 6/10 (sharp but brief heat) depending on area and settings

Most Painful Areas:

• Jawline and chin (bony areas)
• Forehead (less subcutaneous tissue)
• Temples (sensitive, thin skin)

Most Comfortable Areas:

• Cheeks (more tissue, fewer nerve endings)
• Neck (usually well-tolerated)

Post-Treatment Cooling and Soothing (5-10 minutes):

• Cooling gel or mask applied
• Calming serum or moisturizer
• LED light therapy (optional, additional fee)
• Sunscreen application
• Aftercare instructions

Total Clinic Time: 45-90 minutes

Pain and Comfort Level

Overall Pain Rating: 3-5 out of 10

With Numbing Cream: 2-3/10

• Manageable warmth
• Brief moments of discomfort
• Most patients tolerate easily

Without Numbing: 4-6/10

• Noticeable heat and prickling
• Some moments require "breathing through it"
• Still significantly less painful than Ultherapy (7-9/10)

Pain Comparison:

• Less painful than: Ultherapy, Thermage
• Similar to: InMode FX (with numbing)
• More intense than: FORMA, laser toning, facials

Patient Feedback (Korean clinic surveys):

• 70% rate it as "tolerable, no numbing needed"
• 25% prefer light numbing for comfort
• 5% find it moderately painful even with numbing

Results Timeline

Immediate (Same Day)

Right After Treatment:

• Moderate redness (like moderate sunburn)
• Warmth sensation for 2-6 hours
• Slight swelling (mild, most noticeable around jawline)
• Visible tightening: Skin looks and feels firmer immediately
• Face may appear slightly lifted

Why Immediate Results Occur:

• Heat causes instant collagen contraction
• Tissue dehydration creates temporary tightening
• Initial tightening accounts for ~30-40% of final results

First Week

Days 1-3:

• Redness completely resolved
• Swelling subsides
• Skin feels tight and slightly dry
• Immediate tightening effect maintained
• May feel tenderness when touching treated areas

Days 4-7:

• Skin texture appears smoother
• Pores look slightly refined
• Overall "glow" to complexion
• Colleagues may comment that you look "refreshed" or "rested"

What's Happening Internally:

• Healing response initiates
• Fibroblasts activated
• Early collagen remodeling begins

Weeks 2-4

Visible Changes:

• Initial tightening stabilizes
• Fine lines appear softer
• Skin tone more even
• Jawline definition slightly improved
• Natural, subtle enhancement

What's Happening Internally:

• Neocollagenesis (new collagen production) accelerates
• Damaged collagen removed, replaced with new fibers
• Elastin fibers regenerate

Weeks 6-12 (Peak Results)

Maximum Improvement Visible:

• 30-50% improvement in skin laxity
• Visibly lifted mid-face and jowls
• Smoother nasolabial folds
• More defined jawline and facial contours
• Firmer, more youthful skin texture
• Overall rejuvenated appearance

What's Happening Internally:

• New collagen reaches peak production
• Collagen fibers mature and organize
• Tissue remodeling maximizes

Expected Improvement:

• Mild laxity: 40-60% improvement
• Moderate laxity: 30-50% improvement
• Significant laxity: 20-40% improvement

Months 6-12 (Sustained Results)

What to Expect:

• Results remain stable for 6-9 months
• Gradual decline as natural aging continues
• Most patients maintain 50-70% of peak improvement at 12 months

Duration of Results:

• Single session: 6-9 months
• Series of 2-3 sessions: 9-12 months
• With annual maintenance: Indefinite

Recommended Treatment Protocol

Korean Dermatologist Standard Recommendations

For Mild Laxity / Preventative (Ages 30-45):

• Initial: 1-2 sessions, 6-8 weeks apart
• Maintenance: 1 session every 12-18 months
• Energy: 30-40kJ per session

For Moderate Laxity (Ages 45-55):

• Initial: 2-3 sessions, 6 weeks apart
• Maintenance: 1 session every 8-12 months
• Energy: 40-50kJ per session

For Significant Laxity (Ages 55+):

• Initial: 3 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart
• Maintenance: 1 session every 6-9 months
• Energy: 50-60kJ per session
• Consider: Combination with thread lift or surgical consultation

Optimal Scheduling

Spacing Between Sessions:

• Minimum: 4 weeks (allows initial collagen remodeling)
• Ideal: 6-8 weeks (optimal collagen production window)
• Maximum: 12 weeks (beyond this, treated as new series)

Why Spacing Matters:

• Collagen remodeling takes 6-12 weeks to peak
• Additional treatments before peak = cumulative enhancement
• Too frequent treatments = diminishing returns, unnecessary expense

Aftercare and Recovery

Immediately After (Same Day)

Expected Downtime: Minimal to none

What You Can Do:

• Resume normal activities immediately
• Light makeup can be applied after 6-12 hours
• Gentle skincare routine
• Return to work same day (redness usually subtle)

What to Avoid:

• Intense exercise for 24 hours
• Hot showers, saunas, steam rooms for 48 hours
• Excessive facial touching or massage
• Alcohol consumption for 24 hours (can increase swelling)

First 48 Hours

DO:

• ✅ Stay well-hydrated (8+ glasses water daily)
• ✅ Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer
• ✅ Use SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours if outdoors)
• ✅ Sleep with head slightly elevated
• ✅ Apply cold compress if swelling persists

DON'T:

• ❌ Use harsh exfoliants or active ingredients (retinol, AHA/BHA)
• ❌ Get other facial treatments (lasers, peels, microneedling)
• ❌ Expose skin to extreme temperatures
• ❌ Undergo dental procedures (can affect treated areas)
• ❌ Drink alcohol or take blood thinners

First 2 Weeks

Optimize Collagen Production:

• Maintain excellent hydration
• Eat protein-rich diet (collagen building blocks)
• Take vitamin C supplement (supports collagen synthesis)
• Get adequate sleep (repair happens during sleep)
• Avoid smoking (impairs collagen production)

Skincare Recommendations:

• Use gentle, hydrating products
• Peptide serums can enhance results
• Avoid aggressive treatments
• Continue sun protection religiously

Long-Term Care

Sustain Results:

• Schedule maintenance sessions as recommended
• Daily SPF 50+ (UV exposure breaks down collagen)
• Retinol use (after 2 weeks post-treatment)
• Healthy lifestyle (sleep, hydration, nutrition)
• Avoid significant weight fluctuations

Side Effects and Risks

Common (Expected, Temporary)

Redness (90-95% of patients)

• Duration: 2-6 hours
• Severity: Moderate, like sunburn
• Resolution: Spontaneous

Swelling (50-70%)

• Duration: 1-3 days
• Severity: Mild to moderate
• Most common: Jawline, under chin
• Management: Ice packs, head elevation

Tenderness (40-60%)

• Duration: 3-7 days
• Mild discomfort when touching treated areas
• Management: Gentle touch, avoid pressure

Warmth Sensation (100%)

• Duration: 2-6 hours
• Normal response to treatment
• Indicates energy delivery working

Uncommon (Manageable)

Bruising (5-10%)

• Duration: 5-10 days
• More common in patients on blood thinners
• Management: Arnica cream, vitamin K

Prolonged Swelling (3-5%)

• Duration: Up to 7 days
• More common with high energy settings
• Management: Anti-inflammatory measures

Temporary Numbness (2-5%)

• Duration: Days to weeks
• Usually resolves completely
• Rare with experienced practitioners

Hyperpigmentation (1-3%)

• Temporary darkening
• More common in darker skin tones
• Prevention: Strict sun protection

Rare (Seek Medical Attention)

Burns (< 1%)

• Cause: Device malfunction or excessive energy
• Prevention: Experienced practitioners, proper settings

Nerve Injury (< 0.5%)

• Temporary weakness or numbness
• Usually temporary
• Prevention: Proper technique, avoid over-treatment

Fat Atrophy (< 0.5%)

• Hollowing from excessive fat reduction
• Can be permanent
• Prevention: Conservative energy settings

Contraindications

❌ Absolute Contraindications:

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active infections in treatment area
• Metal implants in face (except dental implants—consult)
• Pacemaker or defibrillator
• Recent filler injections (< 2 weeks)
• Recent Botox (< 2 weeks)
• History of keloid scarring

❌ Relative Contraindications (Discuss with doctor):

• Severe chronic illness
• Autoimmune conditions
• Diabetes (impaired healing)
• Blood clotting disorders
• Extreme skin laxity (surgery may be better)

Combining Tune Face with Other Treatments

Popular Seoul Combination Protocols

Tune Face + Thread Lift:

• Sequence: Thread lift first → Wait 4-6 weeks → Tune Face
• Why: Threads provide immediate mechanical lift; Tune Face enhances with thermal tightening
• Total Cost: ₩800,000-2,000,000 ($615-$1,540)
• Results: Maximum non-surgical lifting

Tune Face + Skin Boosters (Rejuran, Profhilo):

• Sequence: Tune Face → Wait 2 weeks → Skin booster injection
• Why: Tune Face tightens structure; skin boosters improve quality and hydration
• Total Cost: ₩550,000-1,200,000 ($425-$925)
• Results: Comprehensive skin rejuvenation

Tune Face + Laser Toning:

• Sequence: Same session or alternate weeks
• Why: Laser addresses pigmentation; Tune Face handles laxity
• Total Cost: ₩400,000-800,000 ($310-$615)
• Results: Bright, tight, even-toned skin

Tune Face + InMode FX:

• Sequence: Alternate sessions, 4-6 weeks apart
• Why: InMode reduces fat; Tune Face lifts and tightens
• Total Cost: ₩450,000-900,000 ($345-$690)
• Results: Facial contouring + lifting

Finding the Right Clinic in Seoul

What to Look For

Qualified Practitioners:

• Board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon
• Certified in Accent Prime / Tune Face operation
• Portfolio of before/after photos
• Conservative approach to energy settings

Authentic Equipment:

• Genuine Alma Lasers Accent Prime device
• Well-maintained, regularly serviced
• Multiple handpiece options available

Transparent Pricing:

• Clear breakdown of energy levels and duration
• No hidden fees
• Realistic about expected results
• Package deals with fair pricing

Safety Standards:

• Medical-grade facility
• Proper protocols for comfort (numbing cream available)
• Emergency equipment on-site
• Clear aftercare instructions

Questions to Ask

1. "Is this the Accent Prime device with Tune Face handpiece?" (Verify specific device)
2. "How many kilojoules of energy will be delivered?" (Determines effectiveness)
3. "What is the treatment duration?" (Should be 20-40 minutes for full face)
4. "Do you offer numbing cream?" (Assess pain management options)
5. "Can I see before/after photos of previous patients?" (Verify results)
6. "What's your protocol if I'm not satisfied with results?" (Understand policies)

Red Flags to Avoid

🚩 Extremely low prices (< ₩200,000 for "full face" may mean low energy) 🚩 Non-medical staff performing treatment 🚩 Cannot specify exact device brand/model 🚩 Promises of "permanent" results 🚩 Pressure to buy large packages upfront 🚩 No consultation or skin assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How painful is Tune Face compared to Ultherapy?

A: Significantly less painful. Most rate Tune Face at 3-5/10 vs. Ultherapy at 7-9/10. The RF component creates more uniform heating, reducing the sharp, intense pain characteristic of HIFU-only treatments.

Q: How many sessions do I need?

A: Most patients achieve good results with 1-2 sessions. For moderate to significant laxity, 2-3 sessions spaced 6 weeks apart provide optimal improvement. Single sessions offer visible but more modest results.

Q: Can Tune Face replace a facelift?

A: For mild to moderate aging, yes—it can delay or avoid surgery. For severe sagging, surgical facelift provides more dramatic, longer-lasting results. Tune Face works best as preventative care and for moderate concerns.

Q: When will I see results?

A: Immediate tightening visible same day (30-40% of final result). Progressive improvement over 6-12 weeks as new collagen forms. Peak results at 8-12 weeks.

Q: How long do results last?

A: 6-12 months depending on age, lifestyle, and number of sessions. Annual or bi-annual maintenance sustains results indefinitely.

Q: Can I do Tune Face if I have fillers?

A: Yes, but wait 2-4 weeks after filler injections. Heat from Tune Face can potentially affect filler distribution if done too soon. Inform your practitioner about all recent procedures.

Q: Is there any downtime?

A: Minimal. Redness for 2-6 hours, possible mild swelling for 1-3 days. Most resume normal activities immediately and return to work same day.

Q: Can I combine Tune Face with Ultherapy?

A: Generally not recommended in the same area, as both target similar depths and the effects are redundant. However, some practitioners use Ultherapy for deep lifting and Tune Face for skin quality enhancement in different facial zones.

Conclusion: Is Tune Face Worth It?

For those seeking significant non-surgical face lifting without extreme discomfort, Tune Face offers compelling advantages:

Why Tune Face is Worth It:

✅ Dual Technology: Combines ultrasound lifting + RF tightening in one device ✅ Superior Comfort: 50-70% less painful than Ultherapy ✅ Immediate + Progressive: Visible tightening same day + continued improvement ✅ Multi-Depth Treatment: Addresses all skin layers for comprehensive results ✅ Proven Technology: Alma Lasers' established reputation ✅ Affordable in Korea: 50-70% cheaper than Western countries ✅ Minimal Downtime: Resume life immediately

Best For:

• Mild to moderate skin laxity
• Patients who found Ultherapy too painful
• Preventative anti-aging (30s-40s)
• Post-weight loss skin tightening
• Those wanting lifting without surgery or threads
• Maintenance after surgical procedures

Consider Alternatives If:

• You have severe, advanced sagging (may need surgery or threads)
• Budget is very limited (InMode or laser toning are more affordable)
• You want maximum lifting power regardless of discomfort (Ultherapy stronger)
• You need fat reduction (InMode FX is better)

Final Verdict:

Tune Face occupies a unique "sweet spot" in Korea's non-surgical lifting landscape—delivering robust results similar to Ultherapy but with significantly better tolerability. The dual ultrasound + RF technology provides comprehensive skin rejuvenation from surface to SMAS layer.

At Korean prices ($250-$550 per session), Tune Face offers exceptional value for meaningful facial rejuvenation. When performed by experienced Seoul dermatologists with proper energy levels (40-50kJ for full face), results rival surgical procedures in the right candidates.

Ready to lift and tighten without the pain? Book a consultation at a reputable Seoul clinic offering genuine Accent Prime, ask specifically about energy levels and treatment duration, and prepare to discover comfortable, effective non-surgical facial rejuvenation.

Your lifted, sculpted, youthful face awaits—no surgery, no extreme pain required.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Tune Face (Accent Prime) treatments and is not intended as medical advice. Results vary significantly based on individual factors including age, skin quality, degree of laxity, lifestyle, and treatment parameters. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Discuss your complete medical history, medications, previous procedures, allergies, and realistic expectations during consultation. Verify clinic credentials, practitioner licensing, and device authenticity independently. Tune Face is a medical device that should only be operated by qualified medical professionals in appropriate clinical settings with proper safety protocols.

Last Updated: November 14, 2025 Reading Time: 16 minutes