HIFU vs Ultherapy Cost in Korea
How Much You Can Expect to Pay for Non-Surgical Lifting Treatments
When considering skin tightening treatments in Korea, HIFU and Ultherapy are two of the most popular non-surgical options. Both use ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen and lift sagging skin, but they differ in technology, precision, and price — and that shows up in cost comparisons too.
What’s the Difference Between HIFU and Ultherapy?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
HIFU is a broad term for ultrasound-based skin tightening devices, including many Korean and imported systems. These are often used for
surface-to-deep tightening, with variable focal depths depending on the device. HIFU is generally
more affordable but can vary in precision depending on the machine and clinic.
Ultherapy
Ultherapy is an
FDA-cleared brand of micro-focused ultrasound with real-time imaging, targeting the SMAS layer (the same layer used in surgical facelifts). It’s typically considered
more precise and deeper penetrating than many standard HIFU devices, which often leads to higher pricing.
Typical Cost of HIFU in Korea
- Many clinics in Seoul and Korea price HIFU per session relatively affordably compared with Ultherapy and premium devices.
- Reported prices for HIFU sessions in Korea can be around ₩300,000 to ₩900,000 per session, depending on:
- Treatment area
- Machine brand
- Clinic reputation and location (Gangnam clinics tend to be higher)
- These sessions are often best for skin tightening and lifting, particularly on the lower face and midface. Ever Skin Clinic
💡 Note: Some clinics may list specific HIFU brand names like Shurink, Ultraformer, or Tensura, which can influence price slightly, but most fall within this ~₩300,000–₩900,000 range per session.
Typical Cost of Ultherapy in Korea
Ultherapy in Korea is usually pricier than typical HIFU systems because of the branded technology and precise imaging system. Typical pricing includes:
- Small area (e.g., brow, jawline): ~₩700,000–₩1,200,000
- Lower face / midface: ~₩1,000,000–₩2,000,000
- Full face: ~₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000
- Full face + neck (or high-shot packages): ₩2,500,000–₩5,500,000+ in some premium clinics
Some clinics use shot-based pricing where you pay per number of ultrasound lines delivered — more lines mean deeper and more extensive lifting and a higher total cost.
Cost Comparison (General Snapshot)
- HIFU (standard ultrasound devices) in Korea: ~₩300,000–₩900,000 per session (can vary by machine and area)
- Ultherapy (branded micro-focused ultrasound): ~₩700,000–₩5,500,000 depending on area and shot count
In simple terms:
- HIFU is generally more affordable and suitable for those who want skin tightening with less investment.
- Ultherapy costs more because of its imaging capability and precision, and tends to be preferred for deeper, longer-lasting lifting.
Why the Prices Differ
Technology and Certification
Ultherapy machines use
focused micro-ultrasound with imaging, often recognized by international regulatory bodies like the FDA, so clinics charge more for this premium technology. HIFU devices vary in energy depth and brand recognition, which usually makes them cheaper.
Number of Shots / Treatment Area
Both treatments are usually priced by how many ultrasound “shots” are delivered and which areas of the face or neck are treated. Larger areas (full face + neck) command higher prices.
Clinic Reputation and Location
Clinics in premium districts like Gangnam or Cheongdam often charge more than neighborhood clinics due to higher overhead and perceived quality.
Things to Consider Before Booking
- Ask for a treatment quote in advance, including the number of shots and areas covered.
- Confirm the device brand — real Ultherapy vs general HIFU.
- Check language support and aftercare options if you’re an international patient.
- Ultherapy is typically recommended for deeper lifting (e.g., jawline, neck), while HIFU can be great for moderate tightening and maintenance.
