Ulthera (Ultherapy) in Korea: Complete Guide, Prices & Best Clinics 2025

Ulthera, also known as Ultherapy, has become the gold standard for non-surgical facelifts in Korea. This FDA-cleared HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment delivers remarkable lifting and tightening results without surgery, incisions, or significant downtime. If you're considering Ulthera in Seoul, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What is Ulthera?

Ulthera (울쎄라 in Korean) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive ultrasound treatment that lifts and tightens facial skin. Unlike other lifting devices that work on superficial skin layers, Ulthera uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to reach deep into the skin at the same foundational layer addressed in surgical facelifts—the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer.

The technology delivers precise ultrasound energy at multiple depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm), heating tissue to 60-70°C to trigger the body's natural healing response and stimulate robust collagen production. The result is gradual, natural-looking lifting and tightening that develops over 2-6 months.

FDA Clearances:

• Lifting of eyebrows
• Lifting of chin and neck
• Smoothing décolletage lines and wrinkles
• Improving overall facial appearance

How Ulthera HIFU Works

The Science Behind HIFU

Step 1: Ultrasound Energy Delivery Focused ultrasound beams bypass the skin's surface and concentrate energy at precise depths beneath the skin, creating thermal coagulation points.

Step 2: Thermal Heating The focused energy heats tissue to 60-70°C at targeted depths, creating controlled micro-injuries that trigger the body's natural wound-healing process.

Step 3: Collagen Production Over the following months, the body produces fresh collagen and elastin to repair the micro-injuries, resulting in tighter, lifted skin.

Step 4: Natural Lifting As new collagen forms and existing collagen contracts, skin naturally lifts and tightens, with results continuing to improve for up to 6 months.

DeepSEE Imaging Technology

Ulthera's unique advantage is its proprietary DeepSEE ultrasound imaging system, which allows practitioners to visualize the layers of tissue being treated in real-time. This ensures:

• Precise energy placement: Targeting the optimal depth for maximum effect
• Safety: Avoiding blood vessels, nerves, and bone
• Customization: Adjusting treatment based on individual facial anatomy
• Verification: Confirming energy delivery at the correct depth

No other HIFU device offers this level of visualization, making Ulthera the most precise and controlled lifting treatment available.

Treatment Depths Explained

Ulthera uses different transducer depths for specific concerns:

The 4.5mm depth is particularly significant as it reaches the SMAS layer—the same foundational plane surgeons target during traditional facelifts.

Ulthera Treatment Areas

Face

• Forehead and brow: Lifting drooping brows
• Under-eye area: Tightening (specialist only)
• Cheeks: Lifting and contouring
• Nasolabial folds: Reducing depth
• Jawline: Defining and lifting
• Jowls: Reducing sagging

Neck and Body

• Neck: Tightening turkey neck
• Under chin: Improving double chin appearance
• Décolletage: Smoothing chest wrinkles and lines

Common Treatment Packages

Mini Treatment (200-300 lines):

• Targeted areas (forehead, eyes, or chin only)
• Price: ₩500,000-₩900,000 ($385-$695)

Mid-Face Treatment (400-500 lines):

• Cheeks, jawline, and under-chin
• Price: ₩1,000,000-₩1,500,000 ($770-$1,155)

Full Face Treatment (600-800 lines):

• Entire face including forehead, eyes, cheeks, jawline
• Price: ₩1,500,000-₩2,500,000 ($1,155-$1,925)

Full Face + Neck (800-1000+ lines):

• Comprehensive treatment of face and neck
• Price: ₩2,000,000-₩3,500,000 ($1,540-$2,695)

Lines = individual ultrasound energy pulses delivered

Ulthera Prices in Korea (2025)

Price by Number of Shots/Lines

Per 100-Shot Pricing

• Budget Clinics: ₩200,000-₩280,000 ($155-$215) per 100 shots
• Mid-Range: ₩285,000-₩350,000 ($220-$270) per 100 shots
• Premium Gangnam: ₩350,000-₩440,000 ($270-$340) per 100 shots

Prices as of November 2025. Exchange rate: ₩1,300 = $1 USD. Actual costs vary by clinic, practitioner experience, and number of lines delivered.

What Affects Ulthera Pricing?

1. Number of Lines: More lines = higher cost
2. Treatment Area: Full face + neck costs most
3. Clinic Location: Gangnam charges 30-50% premium
4. Authentic Tips: Genuine single-use tips vs. questionable reused tips
5. Doctor Experience: Renowned specialists charge more
6. DeepSEE Imaging: Some clinics charge extra for real-time imaging
7. Combination Treatments: Package deals may offer savings

Ulthera Procedure: What to Expect

Before Treatment (30-45 minutes)

1. Consultation: Discussion of concerns and goals
2. Skin Assessment: Evaluation of skin laxity and anatomy
3. Photography: Before photos for comparison
4. Cleansing: Face thoroughly cleaned
5. Ultrasound Gel: Applied to treatment areas
6. Optional Numbing: Cream or oral pain medication (varies by clinic)
7. Marking: Treatment zones mapped on face

During Treatment (45-90 minutes)

1. DeepSEE Imaging: Practitioner visualizes tissue layers
2. Energy Delivery: Ultrasound energy delivered line by line
3. Multiple Passes: Different depths targeted in each area
4. Sensation: Tingling, prickling, or heat during energy delivery
5. Adjustments: Intensity adjusted based on comfort and response

Pain Level: Moderate (4-6 out of 10). Most patients describe it as tolerable discomfort with occasional sharp sensations, especially over bony areas.

After Treatment (Immediate)

• No downtime required
• Possible mild redness (resolves within hours)
• Slight swelling (1-3 days)
• Can apply makeup immediately
• Return to normal activities right away

Expected Results and Timeline

Immediate (Day 1-7)

• Mild swelling and redness
• Possible tenderness
• Slight tightening sensation
• No visible lifting yet

Early Stage (2-4 Weeks)

• Initial collagen production begins
• Subtle improvements may appear
• Swelling completely resolved

Progressive Improvement (1-3 Months)

• Noticeable lifting and tightening
• Skin texture improves
• Jawline becomes more defined
• Natural-looking enhancement develops

Peak Results (3-6 Months)

• Maximum collagen production achieved
• Optimal lifting and tightening visible
• Skin appears firmer and more youthful
• 25-30% improvement in skin elasticity

Duration

• Results Last: 12-18 months on average
• Some patients: Up to 2 years
• Maintenance: Annual or biannual treatments recommended
• Cumulative Effect: Results may improve with repeated treatments

Ulthera vs Other Lifting Treatments

Ulthera Advantages

• FDA-cleared with extensive clinical data
• DeepSEE imaging for precise treatment
• Reaches SMAS layer like surgery
• No incisions or needles
• Natural, gradual results
• Proven efficacy backed by research

Ulthera Disadvantages

• More expensive than other HIFU devices
• More uncomfortable than RF treatments
• Results take months to develop
• Single treatment may not satisfy severe laxity
• Requires authentic tips (counterfeit risk)

Ulthera vs Shurink: Key Differences

Both are HIFU devices, but there are important distinctions:

Bottom Line: Ulthera offers superior precision and proven results but at a higher cost and discomfort level. Shurink provides good results at a more accessible price point.

Side Effects and Risks

Common (Temporary)

• Mild to moderate discomfort during treatment
• Redness (few hours)
• Swelling (1-3 days)
• Tenderness (few days)
• Tingling or numbness (temporary)

Uncommon

• Bruising (rare, resolves in 1 week)
• Temporary nerve effects (numbness, usually resolves)
• Welts or bumps under skin (resolve within weeks)
• Asymmetry (usually due to natural facial asymmetry)

Rare but Serious

• Burns or blisters (with improper technique)
• Nerve damage (extremely rare with experienced practitioners)
• Fat loss causing hollow appearance (over-treatment)
• Skin irregularities or depressions

Important: Most side effects are mild and temporary. Choosing an experienced, properly trained practitioner minimizes risks significantly.

Authentic Tips vs Counterfeit: Critical Warning

The Problem: Some clinics use counterfeit, refurbished, or reused Ulthera tips to cut costs. This can lead to:

• Reduced effectiveness (weak or inconsistent energy)
• Burns and skin damage
• Infection risk
• Uneven results
• Fat atrophy or hollowing

How to Ensure Authentic Treatment:

1. ✅ Ask to see unopened, sealed cartridge before treatment
2. ✅ Verify serial numbers on cartridge packaging
3. ✅ Check expiration dates
4. ✅ Request authentic tip guarantee in writing
5. ✅ Choose reputable clinics with verified reviews
6. ✅ Be suspicious of prices significantly below market rate

Red Flags:

• Prices 40-50% below average
• Clinic refuses to show unopened cartridge
• No serial number verification
• Vague answers about tip authenticity
• High pressure to book immediately

Aftercare Guidelines

Immediately After (24-48 Hours)

• ✅ Apply ice packs for swelling
• ✅ Take recommended pain relievers
• ✅ Sleep with head elevated
• ✅ Keep face clean and moisturized
• ❌ Avoid hot showers, saunas, steam
• ❌ No intense exercise
• ❌ Skip alcohol

First Week

• ✅ Apply sunscreen daily (SPF 50+)
• ✅ Use gentle skincare products
• ✅ Stay well-hydrated
• ❌ Avoid direct sun exposure
• ❌ No other facial treatments
• ❌ Skip exfoliating products

Ongoing (For Best Results)

• ✅ Maintain healthy lifestyle
• ✅ Continue diligent sun protection
• ✅ Follow recommended follow-up schedule
• ✅ Consider complementary treatments (fillers, Botox) after 2 weeks
• ❌ Avoid dramatic weight fluctuations
• ❌ Don't smoke (impairs collagen production)

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal Candidates:

• Age 30-65 with mild to moderate skin laxity
• Good skin quality with some elasticity
• Realistic expectations for gradual results
• Not ready for surgical facelift
• Seeking natural-looking improvement
• Can tolerate moderate discomfort

Not Suitable For:

• Severe skin laxity (surgery recommended)
• Very thin skin with little subcutaneous tissue
• Active skin infections or inflammation
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Open wounds or severe acne in treatment area
• Unrealistic expectations for dramatic immediate change
• Very low pain tolerance (consider alternatives)

Best Seoul Areas for Ulthera

Gangnam District (강남구)

Average Price: ₩2,000,000-₩3,500,000 full face Best For: Premium care, experienced specialists, authentic tips guaranteed Popular Areas: Apgujeong, Cheongdam, Gangnam Station Pros: Latest technology, English support, proven track record Cons: Highest prices, competitive booking

Myeongdong/Jung-gu (명동)

Average Price: ₩1,500,000-₩2,500,000 full face Best For: International patients, central location, tourist-friendly Popular Areas: Near Myeongdong and Euljiro stations Pros: Convenient, English support, competitive rates Cons: Can be busy, variable quality

Hongdae/Sinchon (홍대/신촌)

Average Price: ₩1,200,000-₩2,000,000 full face Best For: Budget-conscious, younger demographic Popular Areas: University districts Pros: More affordable, good value Cons: Less luxury experience, verify tip authenticity carefully

Tips for International Patients

Before Your Trip

1. Research Extensively: Check multiple sources (Gangnam Unni, Naver, international forums)
2. Book Consultations: Schedule 2-3 clinics for comparison
3. Verify Authenticity: Confirm clinic uses genuine Ulthera device and tips
4. Check Credentials: Ensure treatment by qualified doctor, not technician
5. Plan Recovery Time: Allow 2-3 days for initial swelling

During Consultation

1. Ask About Experience: How many Ulthera treatments has doctor performed?
2. Request Portfolio: View before/after photos of actual patients
3. Discuss Pain Management: Understand available options
4. Clarify Pricing: Get exact cost in writing, including all fees
5. Verify Tips: Ask to see unopened, authentic cartridge before treatment
6. Understand Realistic Results: Discuss expected outcome timeline

Maximizing Results

1. Choose Quality Over Price: Don't sacrifice authenticity for savings
2. Be Honest About Tolerance: Request pain management if needed
3. Follow Aftercare Strictly: Essential for optimal collagen production
4. Be Patient: Results develop over months, not days
5. Consider Combination: Discuss complementary treatments (fillers, Botox)
6. Plan Follow-Up: Prepare for maintenance treatments in 12-18 months

FAQ

Q: How painful is Ulthera? A: Most patients rate it 4-6 out of 10. Discomfort is temporary during energy delivery (few seconds per pulse). Pain management options include numbing cream, oral medication, or nerve blocks.

Q: How long does Ulthera last? A: Typically 12-18 months, with some patients seeing results up to 2 years. Annual maintenance treatments help sustain results.

Q: When will I see results? A: Initial improvements at 4-8 weeks, progressive improvement through 3 months, and peak results at 3-6 months as collagen remodeling continues.

Q: How many treatments do I need? A: Most patients achieve desired results with one treatment. Some may benefit from a second treatment after 12-18 months or a touch-up at 6 months for enhancement.

Q: Can I combine Ulthera with other treatments? A: Yes. Wait 2 weeks before adding Botox or fillers. Laser treatments should be spaced 4-6 weeks apart from Ulthera.

Q: Is Ulthera better than a facelift? A: For mild to moderate laxity, Ulthera offers excellent non-surgical results. Severe laxity and excess skin require surgical facelift for optimal correction.

Q: What's the difference between Ulthera and cheaper HIFU devices? A: Ulthera has FDA clearance, DeepSEE imaging for precision, extensive clinical data, and proven efficacy. Budget HIFU devices lack imaging and have less research backing.

Q: Can Ulthera make me look worse? A: When performed correctly by experienced practitioners, this is extremely rare. Over-treatment can cause fat loss and hollowing, which is why proper assessment and conservative treatment are essential.

Conclusion

Ulthera represents the pinnacle of non-surgical facial lifting technology. With its FDA clearance, proprietary imaging system, and ability to target the same tissue layer as surgical facelifts, it delivers results unmatched by other non-invasive treatments.

In Korea, you'll find some of the world's most experienced Ulthera practitioners offering treatments at prices 40-60% lower than Western countries—typically ₩1.5-3.5 million ($1,155-$2,695) for full-face treatment compared to $4,000-$6,000 in the US.

The key to success with Ulthera is choosing a reputable clinic that uses authentic tips, having realistic expectations for gradual improvement, and committing to proper aftercare. While the treatment involves moderate discomfort and requires patience for results, the natural-looking lift and tightening can take years off your appearance without surgery.

Ready to turn back time without going under the knife? Research thoroughly, verify tip authenticity, book consultations with experienced practitioners, and prepare for a 3-6 month journey to tighter, more youthful-looking skin that continues to improve long after treatment.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Ulthera treatments in Korea. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Ulthera is a medical procedure with potential risks and side effects. Individual results vary based on skin condition, age, degree of laxity, adherence to aftercare, and other factors. Always consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine if Ulthera is appropriate for your specific situation and to understand all risks and benefits before undergoing treatment. Ensure treatment is performed with authentic Ulthera equipment and genuine single-use cartridges.

Last Updated: November 10, 2025 Reading Time: 14 minutes