Want to improve sagging but afraid of pain or long recovery? Ultherapy uses non‑invasive energy that reaches the SMAS layer with virtually no impact on the epidermis. With topical anaesthetic, most people find the sensation of deep warmth far outweighs any discomfort, and you can return to daily life immediately after treatment. Results are not instantaneous, but you’ll see noticeable lifting at 2‑3 months, with a single session lasting over a year. In Gangnam, prices are flexible based on areas and lines, from brows to full face and neck – the following clarifies suitable conditions and price details for a confident comparison.
Ultherapy uses High‑Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology, delivering energy precisely to deep skin layers via Microfocused Ultrasound (MFU). Its unique DeepSEE™ real‑time ultrasound imaging allows the physician to “see” the SMAS layer – the deep tissue addressed in surgical facelifts. Energy creates Thermal Coagulation Points (TCPs) at target depths, reaching 60℃–70℃, causing immediate contraction of collagen and elastin and initiating long‑term neogenesis. This non‑invasive treatment leaves the epidermis intact and achieves natural lifting and tightening through the body’s own healing response.
Suitable candidates: Ultherapy may be right for you if you have –
Optimal results are typically seen in those aged 30‑60, but can be adjusted based on individual skin ageing.
Absolute contraindications: Active infection or open wounds in the treatment area; pregnancy or breastfeeding; metallic implants or silicone implants in the face (require physician evaluation); severe keloid tendency; recent (within 1 month) chemical peel or sunburn.
Ultherapy is FDA‑cleared for lifting the face, neck, brows, and décolletage. Depending on the area, physicians select different transducers – 1.5mm (dermis), 3.0mm (subcutaneous fat), and 4.5mm (SMAS) – for layered lifting. Below are the main treatment areas and prices at Gangnam clinics in 2026:
| Treatment Area | Recommended Lines | Common Transducer Depths | Main Improvements | Reference Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brow / Upper Eyelid | 100‑150 lines | 1.5mm + 3.0mm | Brow droop, upper eyelid laxity, periorbital fine lines | ₩350,000 – 450,000 |
| Jawline / Submental (double chin) | 200‑300 lines | 3.0mm + 4.5mm | Loss of jawline definition, submental fullness, neck laxity | ₩800,000 – 1,400,000 |
| Full Face | 300‑400 lines | 1.5mm + 3.0mm + 4.5mm | Overall facial laxity, nasolabial folds, marionette lines | ₩990,000 – 2,000,000 |
| Full Face + Neck | 600 lines | All three depths | Combined face + neck laxity, turkey neck | ₩2,090,000 – 2,700,000 |
| Décolletage (Chest) | 900 lines | 4.5mm | Wrinkles and thinning skin on the chest | ₩3,190,000 – 3,330,000 |
Area selection advice: If your main concern is brow droop, the brow area alone may suffice. If jawline definition is the core issue, choose the jawline + submental plan. For overall facial ageing, the full‑face package is most comprehensive. Combining with other procedures (e.g., Thermage FLX or fillers) can enhance results, and package prices are usually more favourable.
Step 1 – Consultation: The physician uses DeepSEE™ real‑time imaging to assess your skin thickness, SMAS position, and laxity, customising a plan based on your goals.
Step 2 – Preparation: Cleanse the treatment area and apply topical anaesthetic cream for about 30‑45 minutes to enhance comfort.
Step 3 – Precision procedure: After applying ultrasound gel, the physician delivers energy at pre‑set depths and lines under real‑time imaging. Depending on the area, treatment takes about 20‑60 minutes. Sensation is deep warmth and mild tingling; most find it within their pain tolerance.
Step 4 – Post‑care: You can wash your face and apply makeup immediately. The doctor will give aftercare instructions: use lukewarm water for 3 days, and avoid sauna, alcohol, and exfoliation for 1 week.
Immediate effect: You may feel mild tightening right after treatment; some experience mild redness or swelling, which usually resolves within hours to 1‑2 days.
Progressive effect: The unique aspect of Ultherapy is its progressive results – because collagen neogenesis takes time. Noticeable lifting begins at 1‑2 months, peaks at 2‑3 months, and continues to improve for up to 6 months.
Duration: A single session typically lasts 12‑24 months, depending on individual age, collagen metabolism, and lifestyle. Maintenance every 6‑12 months is recommended.
Q1: Is Ultherapy suitable for my skin type?
A: Ultherapy is safe and effective for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I‑VI), as ultrasound energy does not depend on pigment absorption and is not affected by skin colour.
Q2: Is the treatment painful? Do I need anaesthesia?
A: Most people experience deep warmth and mild pinpricks. Gangnam clinics routinely use topical anaesthetic, and some offer nitrous oxide or oral pain relief for extra comfort. Pain is typically rated 3‑4 out of 10 and is well tolerated.
Q3: How soon will I see results?
A: Results are progressive – changes start at 1 month, peak at 2‑3 months, and continue to improve up to 6 months.
Q4: How much does Ultherapy cost in Korea?
A: In 2026 Gangnam, Brow (100 lines) ~₩350,000‑450,000; Full Face (300‑400 lines) ~₩990,000‑2,000,000; Full Face + Neck (600 lines) ~₩2,090,000‑2,700,000; Décolletage (900 lines) ~₩3,190,000‑3,330,000. Packages and combination treatments often have discounts.
Q5: Which is better – Ultherapy or a surgical facelift?
A: Ultherapy is non‑invasive lifting for mild‑to‑moderate laxity, with no downtime; surgical facelifts are for severe laxity, offering more permanent results but with a longer recovery. Ultherapy can serve as preventive maintenance before surgery.
Common side effects: Temporary erythema, mild oedema, tingling, or tenderness may occur. In very rare cases, white line marks may appear and resolve within hours; rare facial indentation or fat atrophy is extremely uncommon and usually related to improper technique.
Rational advice: Ultherapy is an FDA‑cleared device, but results are highly dependent on the operator’s experience and genuine equipment. When choosing a clinic in Korea, ensure they use authentic Ultherapy Prime devices and original cartridges, performed by a board‑certified dermatologist. Discuss your expectations clearly – Ultherapy delivers natural, progressive improvement, not a “miracle cure.” Combined with a healthy diet, sun protection, and skincare, it maximises long‑term benefits. Beauty is worth investing in, but Safety always comes first.
All content translated from the original Chinese article. No alterations have been made to the content.