Is Ulthera Lifting Worth 3 Million Won?

From the principles of Ulthera to comparisons with other lifting procedures, pain levels, and a timeline of post-procedure changes. An editor with 3 treatment experiences has honestly summarized it.
Editor Jiyoon
DIA Beauty Editor · Combination skin · Experienced 3 lifting procedures
Ulthera Lifting
Is it worth 3 million won?
An editor who tried it firsthand will give you an honest opinion
3-Line Summary for Busy People
1. Ultherapy is the only non-surgical lifting procedure that stimulates the deep layer of the skin (SMAS) using ultrasound.
2. The effects peak after 2 to 3 months and last for about 1 to 1.5 years.
3. There is pain. But if the anesthesia is administered properly, it is bearable. Really.
You've heard of Ulthera, right? It's one of the most expensive procedures you'll find at a dermatology clinic.
Its official name is Ultherapy. It is the only non-surgical lifting procedure approved by the U.S. FDA.
The principle is simple. We shoot High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) deep into the skin
and stimulate the creation of new collagen using thermal energy.
The key point is that it reaches the SMAS fascia layer.
SMAS is a fascia located 4.5mm deep beneath the skin,
Originally, surgery (a facelift) was required to access this layer.
Skin depth where Ulthera acts
1.5mm Upper dermis — Improvement of fine lines and skin texture
3.0mm Subdermal layer — Elasticity, Collagen remodeling
4.5mm SMAS fascia layer — Lifting sagging skin (Key!)
Most other lifting lasers only reach up to 1.5~3mm
There are so many types of lifting procedures, aren't there? Ulthera, Thermage, thread lifting, Shurink...
Let's compare the differences at a glance.
The only non-surgical procedure that reaches the SMAS layer using ultrasound.
It is most effective for sagging jawlines, double chins, and sagging cheeks.
Price KRW 2 to 4 million · Effects 1 to 1.5 years · Pain is strong
It heats the dermis layer with radio frequency (RF) to tighten collagen.
Good for skin tightening and pore reduction. Focuses on elasticity rather than lifting.
Price 1~2 million won · Effect 6 months~1 year · Pain relatively mild
Dissolvable threads are inserted under the skin to physically pull up.
The effects are visible immediately after the procedure. However, it will come down a little once the threads dissolve.
Price 500,000~1,500,000 KRW · Effect 6 months~1 year · Stiffness after procedure
It uses the same HIFU principle as Ulthera, but the output is lower.
The effect is about 70% of Ulthera. However, it is cheaper and less painful.
Price 200,000~500,000 won · Effects 3~6 months · Pain mild
Editor's Recommended Combination
These days, dermatologists often recommend the Ulthera + Thermage combo.
Ulthera [deeply] It involves lifting and firming the surface with Thermage.
If the budget is a concern? Getting Shurink consistently every 3 to 4 months is also an option!
I'll be honest. Ulthera hurts.
But it varies greatly depending on the anesthesia method. Let me summarize what I felt after getting it done three times.
Timeline on the Day of Procedure
1 Consultation (15 minutes) — Check facial condition, number of shots Decision
2 Anesthesia (30~40 min) — Topical anesthesia or sedation
3 Procedure (30~60 min) — Ultrasound irradiation, performed by area
4 Wrap-up (10 minutes) — Cooling, Soothing Care
Total Takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Pain Level (Based on My Standard)
Forehead bone-ringing sensation. It's bearable ★★☆☆☆
Cheek stings a bit. It's bearable ★★★☆☆
Jaw This is the highlight... It resonates to the bone ★★★★☆
Neck Similar to the jaw. An area with many nerves ★★★★☆
Timeline of changes after the procedure
On the day Slightly swollen and Redness. It fades by the next day. 2 weeks: Initial tightening effect — "Oh, it feels a bit tighter?" 2~3 months: Peak of collagen remodeling — This is where you really feel the effects! The effect lasts for 6 months to 1.5 years. There are individual differences
Q. Is one Ultherapy treatment enough?
One treatment is effective. However, it is common to have a maintenance treatment once a year. It depends on age and the degree of skin sagging, but if you see results from the first treatment, you can reduce the number of shots thereafter.
Q. At what age is it best to start getting it?
Usually, the mid-30s to 40s is the golden time. If it is too early, it is difficult to feel the effects, and if it is too late, there are limitations to non-surgical treatments. If sagging starts in your late 20s, it is a good idea to manage it with Shurink first before switching to this.
Q. How do I distinguish a genuine Ulthera?
Genuine products show a cartridge authentication screen before the procedure. Also, check for the genuine authentication sticker from Merz. If the price is too low (under 1 million won), there is a possibility that it is a Chinese copy. It's for your face, so you shouldn't skimp on the shots.
Q. Is it better to have more shots?
Not necessarily. What's important is how accurately you shoot at the target area. 300 to 800 shots is typical for the entire face. "2000 Shots Special!" Please be careful, as similar items often just fill in the numbers with low output.
Q. Are there any side effects?
Generally, it is safe. After the procedure, temporary swelling, numbness, and bruising may occur. Although rare, there are cases where sensation becomes dulled due to nerve damage, but most recover within 2 to 4 weeks. It is important to receive treatment from an experienced doctor.
Jawline Sagging — If your jawline has started to sag when you look in the mirror. It is the most powerful indication for Ulthera.
Double Chin — If the double chin is caused by sagging skin rather than fat, it can be improved with Ulthera.
For those who dislike surgery — If you don't want to go as far as facelift surgery but want a definite lifting effect, this is currently the best choice.
If you fall into these categories, please wait a little
• Early 20s — If there is no sagging yet, Shrink is sufficient
• If cheek volume has been lost — Filler comes before lifting
• Severe sagging — Non-surgical options have limitations. Consultation for surgical lifting is recommended
• Recent Filler/Botox Procedures — Please leave a minimum 2-week interval
Is Ulthera right for my face?
Check out verified dermatology lifting reviews on DIA
See lifting reviewsAt first, I also thought, "3 million won? Really?" But when I compared photos two months after getting the treatment, the difference was definitely noticeable. My jawline returned, and my nasolabial folds became shallower. However, the doctor's skill is really important. Even with the same Ultherapy, the results vary completely depending on who administers it. Don't look for a cheap place; get it done by an experienced specialist!
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical treatment.



