"Aren't Ulthera and Shurink basically the same?" It is the question we hear most often in the consultation room. Both are lifting procedures that use high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), but there are clear differences in how the ultrasound is delivered, the layer it targets, and the pain and duration. If you are considering lifting in Gangnam, it helps to understand these differences first.

A comparison at a glance

The key is the 'SMAS layer'

The real cause of facial sagging is not the skin surface but the laxity of the fascia (SMAS) beneath it. Because Ulthera sees this layer directly with real-time ultrasound imaging and delivers thermal energy point by point, its greatest strength is that it can act precisely at the desired depth. At Forte Clinic, we always confirm the layers before treatment and design the number of shots and depth to your face shape and skin thickness.

If you are worried about pain

It is true that Ulthera can feel more intense than Shurink. That said, with numbing cream, a pain-reducing protocol and split energy delivery, most people can receive it comfortably. If you are anxious, let us know during consultation and we will adjust to your pain sensitivity.

Who needs Ulthera?

Ulthera is not the answer for every kind of sagging. If the sagging appearance comes from lost volume, filler may be more suitable; if only dermal firmness has declined, radiofrequency may fit better. Ulthera shows its strength especially when the fascia (SMAS) has loosened and the lower facial line has collapsed. It is a good choice for those with sagging in the lower face, neck and brows together. Conversely, for those in their early-to-mid twenties without pronounced sagging yet, we sometimes recommend starting with light firmness care rather than a strong procedure.

How the procedure works

Consultation and confirmation of the facial layers → cleansing and numbing cream (about 30–40 minutes) → viewing the layers on ultrasound imaging and designing shots by area → delivery → soothing. The actual delivery takes around 15–30 minutes depending on the area. At Forte Clinic, we design the number of shots and depth (3.0/4.5mm, etc.) individually according to face shape, skin thickness and fat volume. Even the same 300 shots produce different results depending on where and how they are placed.

Aftercare and when results appear

You can cleanse and apply basic makeup from the day of treatment, and any temporary redness or slight swelling settles within a few hours to 2–3 days. What matters is when you assess the result. Because Ulthera builds firmness gradually over 8–12 weeks as collagen regenerates, it shows its best result at around three months rather than immediately after treatment. We recommend sun protection and plenty of hydration for two weeks, and refraining from saunas and heavy drinking for one week.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How often should I have Ulthera?
  Since results usually last 8–12 months, once a year is a baseline, adjusted according to your firmness.
• Can I return to daily life right after treatment?
  Yes. Cleansing and makeup are fine the same day, and any temporary redness or swelling settles within a few hours to 2–3 days.
• Can I have it together with Shurink?
  When the purposes differ, combining is possible. But we always plan after consultation so that excessive energy does not overlap on the same layer.

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