Cosmetic procedures in Korea have become a must-try experience for many visitors, with lifting treatments being especially popular. Among them, HIFU Ultherapy is known as one of the most affordable options for improving fine lines and sagging facial contours. But how does it actually differ from regular Ultherapy or Thermage, and does it hurt? Here’s a quick overview of what you need to know, along with our recommendations!
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What is HIFU?
HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. This non-invasive treatment uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen regeneration deep within the skin, helping lift and tighten the face without surgery. Since it doesn’t involve any scary incisions and requires little to no downtime, the procedure is quick, usually finished in under 30 minutes. You can feel a tightening effect right after the session, with results becoming more noticeable over the next month and lasting anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on the individual.
Differences Between HIFU and Other Lifting Treatments
Although HIFU machines are made in Korea, the technology isn’t patented by just one company, which is why many Korean manufacturers produce their own ultrasound lifting devices. Only machines that pass strict approval standards by the Korean government and multiple international FDAs are allowed to be sold.
Because there are so many brands competing in Korea, the prices are very competitive, and HIFU has become one of the most commonly used lifting machines. What makes Korean HIFU popular is its precision and lower pain level compared to traditional lifting treatments. With different cartridges available, it can also target specific areas more accurately for customized lifting results.
Each clinic in Korea offers its own version of HIFU as a signature treatment, so options may differ slightly. But as long as you choose a reputable clinic with good reviews, you’ll generally be in safe hands. Before proceeding, make sure to consult with the clinic to find the most suitable procedure for your needs, confirm how the number of shots will be calculated, and double-check which areas will be treated.
Other Lifting Treatments
Liftera, radiofrequency lifting, Infinite RF, and Phoenix RF are all types of lifting treatments. They differ by brand, technology, and country of origin, each with its own unique benefits and features.
Thermage, also a well-known treatment, actually comes from the United States. It’s the most expensive and tends to be the most painful, but its results can last about six months longer than Ultherapy.
That said, HIFU Ultherapy isn’t inferior. Being more affordable and much less painful, it’s a cost-effective option for yearly maintenance treatments.
Many people wonder if cosmetic procedures are painful. In response, HIFU is known as one of the less painful lifting treatments available. Starting with the popular third-generation devices, the procedure is faster, letting you complete the treatment quickly while effectively tightening your face.
What is the “Universe Version” of HIFU?
If you see Korean skin clinics offering the 'Shurink Universe Ultrasound (슈링크 유니버스)', it's actually an enhanced version of the third-generation Shurink Ultrasound, featuring lower pain and faster treatment time.
How can you tell the difference? Usually, the less expensive one is the regular third-generation HIFU Ultherapy, while the slightly pricier one is likely the HIFU Ultherapy Cosmos Edition.
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Recommended Korean Skin Clinics to get HIFU
We strongly recommend that if you’re okay with some pain and want a standard Thermage treatment, it doesn’t matter whether you get it in the US or Korea. But if you’re set on Ultherapy, Korea is definitely the place to go.
Since most HIFU machines in Korea are third-generation or the “Universe Version,” the treatments are generally more affordable than getting them overseas. We’ve put together a list of recommended HIFU clinics around Seoul, so if you’re interested, be sure to check them out!
ID Clinic
| Location | Gangnam |
| Treatment | Cosmic Edition HIFU Ultrasound 600 Shots |
| Price | 220,000 KRW (220000) |
Ppeum Clinic
[Spot] LE FAN JU PPEUM Aesthetic Clinic Cash Discount Coupon (Gangnam Branch)
[Spot] REFENJUPPEUM Aesthetic Cash Discount Coupon (Busan Branch)
[스팟] 麗芬聚PPEUM醫美現金折扣券（濟州店）
| Location | Myeongdong, Gangnam, Busan, Jeju |
| Treatment | Universe Edition HIFU Ultra 100 shots |
| Price | 39,000 KRW (39000) |
Medicube Clinic
| Location | Gangnam |
| Treatment | Ultraformer HIFU 300 shots * Includes HIFU Booster, Regenerative Repair Light |
| Price | 490,000 KRW (490000) |
Beauty Blossom Clinic
[스팟] 優惠活動中🎉弘大BEAUTY BLOSSOM CLINIC（非流水線皮膚管理）
| Location | Hongdae |
| Treatment | Cosmic Edition HIFU Ultrasound 300 Shots |
| Price | 108,900 KRW (108900) |
| Location | Hongdae |
| Treatment | Cosmic Edition HIFU Ultrasound 300 Shots * Includes whitening ampoule |
| Price | 174,900 KRW (174900) |
Here’s a wrap-up of Ultherapy in Korea, along with a price comparison across different clinics. Take a look at the reviews, and pick a treatment that’s not only effective; but even more affordable than U.S! Time to get that firmer, more defined facial line during your Korea trip!
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