Delivering ultrasound directly to the layer a surgeon would lift
SMAS
Reaches the fascia layer directly
The same layer lifted in surgery
0 ~ 12months
Duration (varies by individual)
0depths
1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5mm tips
0days
No incisions, same-day return to routine
Ulthera is a non-surgical lifting procedure that delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound directly to the SMAS layer. Because it acts at the same depth a surgeon lifts, it is the choice when the cause of sagging lies in the fascia.
It is done without incisions and allows a same-day return to daily life. That said, results are most visible not on the day of treatment but about three months later.
Ulthera is not a procedure that burns the skin. It creates micro thermal coagulation points only at the target site, inducing a wound-healing response.
After confirming the skin layers with ultrasound imaging, focused ultrasound is delivered to the target depth point by point. It passes through the epidermis without damaging it.
Micro thermal coagulation points of about 65 to 70 degrees form at the target site. Surrounding tissue is preserved, and only a point-by-point response occurs.
Existing collagen fibers contract right away. The tightening felt just after treatment is the result of this stage.
Fibroblasts are activated and new collagen forms over 8 to 12 weeks. Results are most visible at around 3 months.
| 4.5mm | The SMAS layer. Acts on the root cause of sagging and is the core of the lifting effect. |
|---|---|
| 3.0mm | The deep dermis. Improves skin thickness and firmness together. |
| 1.5mm | The upper dermis. Used on thin-skinned areas such as around the eyes and forehead. |
※ Using all three tips is not always better. The combination is chosen according to skin thickness and the cause of the sagging.
The histological changes of high-intensity focused ultrasound lifting — increased dermal collagen density and rearrangement of elastic fibers — have been reported in numerous peer-reviewed publications.
※ In actual operation, cite the exact bibliographic details of quotable literature here (author, journal, year, DOI) along with the relevant MFDS approval information. Efficacy claims without a source may breach medical advertising regulations.
We explain why we do not recommend it. When it is not the right indication, we suggest an alternative, or if it is not needed, we do not recommend the procedure at all.
The same procedure yields a different quote depending on the conditions. First, we make clear what drives the cost.
01
The biggest variable. It depends on the facial area and the degree of sagging, and we confirm it together on the device screen before and after treatment.
02
It depends on how the 1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5mm tips are allocated. The cartridge cost differs by layer.
03
Whether it is the whole face or just the lower face, and whether the neck is included, changes the area considerably.
04
It depends on whether numbing cream alone is used or an additional pain-management protocol is applied.
| Day of | Temporary redness and slight swelling. You may feel immediate tightening. Cleansing and basic makeup are fine, and you can return to daily life. |
|---|---|
| 1–3 days | There may be tenderness at the treatment site. Some feel a stiffness when chewing, and this mostly resolves on its own. |
| 1–2 weeks | The immediate contraction effect gradually stabilizes. Some feel as if the effect has faded during this period, but this is a normal course. |
| 8–12 weeks | The point at which results are most visible. New collagen accumulates and changes to the jawline and cheek contour become apparent. We hold the results-review consultation at this point. |
| 8–12 months | The recommended time for the next cycle. As aging continues, we approach it from a maintenance perspective. |
Temporary redness and swelling, tenderness at the treatment site, and rarely bruising or a temporary reduction in sensation, may occur, and most resolve within a few days. Very rarely, temporary nerve-irritation symptoms have been reported. Because results and reactions can differ from person to person, please consult thoroughly with your medical team before treatment.
| Item | Ulthera | Shurink | Oligio | InMode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | Focused ultrasound | Focused ultrasound | Monopolar RF | RF + ultrasound |
| Imaging | Yes | No | No | No |
| Delivery | Point by point | Line by line | Area-based | Area-based |
| Main target layer | SMAS fascia | Dermis to fascia | Full-thickness dermis | Subcutaneous fat + dermis |
| Best for | Sagging jawline | Mild sagging | Loss of firmness | Double chin, volume |
| Perceived pain | Moderate to strong | Mild to moderate | Mild to moderate | Mild |
| Recommended cycle | 8–12 months | 4–6 months | 10–12 months | Once a week × 4–6 |
※ The table above is a general comparison of characteristics, and the right choice differs with each person's skin condition. In practice, rather than choosing just one, two procedures are often combined at different times.
| Chief Director | ○○○ Dermatology Specialist |
|---|---|
| License | Medical License No. 00000 |
| Societies | Korean Dermatological Association, Korean Society for Laser Dermatology and Trichology |
| Full comparison of lifting procedures | 7 types |
| When combining with skin boosters | 6 types |
| Ulthera case studies | Verified patients |
| Non-covered Treatment Fees | By item |
Consultations are free, and you are under no obligation to proceed afterward.
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