Lifting & Tightening · Gangnam, Seoul

Ultherapy in Gangnam, Seoul

Ultherapy is a focused ultrasound lifting treatment that reaches the deep SMAS layer to lift the jawline, cheeks, brows and neck without incisions. We use Ultherapy Prime with real-time DeepSEE imaging, so the physician sees each tissue layer before delivering energy. A full face takes about 60–90 minutes, downtime is minimal and results typically last 12–18 months. Performed by a physician in a private suite near Gangnam Station Exit 11 and Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 6.

Natural, refined beauty with Ultherapy at DIORE Clinic, Gangnam
Ultherapy Prime · Micro-focused ultrasound with DeepSEE imaging

Quick answer

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a non-surgical lifting treatment by Merz that uses micro-focused ultrasound to heat small points in the deep supporting layer of the skin, including the SMAS. The heat tightens tissue and stimulates new collagen, giving a gradual lift to the brows, cheeks, jawline and neck. Built-in DeepSEE imaging lets the doctor see where energy lands.

Treatment time
60–90 min Full face and neck
Downtime
Minimal Possible redness, mild swelling
Results visible
2–3 months Continues to around 6 months
Results last
12–18 months Varies with age and skin
Sessions
Usually 1 Repeat every 12–18 months
Imaging
Real-time DeepSEE Ultherapy Prime platform

What Ultherapy treats

Ultherapy in Seoul for a soft, natural look

Ultherapy works on structural sagging rather than surface texture, so it suits people whose main concern is loss of lift.

  • Sagging jawline and early jowls
  • Lowered brows and upper-face heaviness
  • Loose skin under the chin
  • Descending cheeks and deeper nasolabial folds
  • Neck laxity
  • Loss of definition along the face contour

For skin-level firmness and fine texture many patients pair it with Thermage FLX; see our skin tightening overview to compare devices.

How Ultherapy works

Ultherapy delivers micro-focused ultrasound to set depths, typically 1.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 4.5 mm. At 4.5 mm it reaches the SMAS, the same supporting layer a surgeon tightens in a facelift. Each pulse creates tiny thermal points that contract tissue and trigger a wound-healing response, so new collagen and elastin form over the following months.

With Ultherapy Prime the transducer shows a live ultrasound image of the skin, fat, muscle and bone through DeepSEE visualisation. The physician confirms the correct layer before each line of energy and avoids bone and unsuitable areas. This makes treatment more precise and helps tailor the number of lines to each zone of your face.

Your treatment day

  1. Assessment and planning Your physician assesses sagging, skin thickness and goals, then maps the treatment zones and depths.
  2. Comfort preparation Make-up is removed and numbing cream is applied in your private room; oral pain relief can be discussed.
  3. Imaging-guided treatment Gel is applied and the doctor treats each area under live DeepSEE imaging, adjusting energy to your comfort.
  4. Finish and aftercare Gel is cleaned off and soothing care is applied; you can usually return to normal activities straight away.

Results timeline

Ultherapy results build slowly because they rely on your own collagen production.

Same day Slight tightening; mild redness or swelling
2–4 weeks Any tenderness has settled
2–3 months Visible lift and firmer contour
6 months Peak result, lasting typically 12–18 months

Is Ultherapy right for you?

Usually a good fit

  • Mild to moderate sagging of the face or neck
  • People wanting a lift without surgery
  • Those who can wait a few months for results
  • Adults keeping up results after a previous lift

Talk to your doctor first

  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Open wounds, active acne or infection in the area
  • Very thin skin with little fat, which may need lower energy
  • Heavy skin excess, where surgery may suit better

Ultherapy vs. other lifting options

Each device heats a different depth, so they are often combined.

Your doctor confirms the best option at consultation. Combinations are common.
Compare Ultherapy Thermage FLX HIFU Lifting Onda Lifting
Energy Micro-focused ultrasound with imaging Monopolar radiofrequency High-intensity focused ultrasound Coolwaves microwave
Main depth SMAS and deep dermis Dermis SMAS and dermis Subcutaneous fat and fibrous septa
Best for Structural lift Skin firmness and texture Lift with flexible maintenance Contour and fullness under the jaw
Results last 12–18 months Around 12 months 6–12 months Several months, often in a course

Your doctor

At DIORE every treatment is planned and performed by a physician, not delegated. Our five doctors trained at Korea University, Yonsei, Seoul National University Hospital and Dankook.

Chief Director · Medical reviewer

Dr. Lee Gwang-ryeol

  • Korea University College of Medicine
  • Residency, Korea University Medical Center
  • Onda Lifting Key Doctor (DEKA)
  • Belotero Revive TTT trainer (Merz) · Rejuran VVIP Club
Honest consultations. Meticulous technique. Results that look like you.

Meet the full medical team.

Aftercare

  • Mild redness, swelling or tenderness can last a few days
  • Avoid saunas and intense exercise for 24–48 hours
  • Use a gentle cleanser and moisturiser
  • Apply sunscreen daily
  • Avoid strong massage on the treated area for a week
  • Tell us if numbness or bruising does not settle

To support skin quality while collagen rebuilds, consider Rejuran Healer or skin boosters.

Ultherapy FAQ

Does Ultherapy hurt?

You may feel deep heat and brief aches, mostly over bony areas such as the jaw and temples. Numbing cream is used and the doctor can adjust energy, so most people find it manageable.

How long does Ultherapy last?

Results typically last 12–18 months. Natural ageing continues, so many patients repeat treatment every year or so.

What does DeepSEE imaging add?

DeepSEE shows a live picture of the tissue layers under the transducer. The physician can confirm the correct depth before delivering energy, which improves precision.

Can I fly home after Ultherapy?

Yes. There are no wounds, so most patients fly the same or next day. Mild swelling or tenderness can be present for a few days.

Ultherapy or Thermage, which is better?

They do different jobs. Ultherapy lifts deeper structural layers, while Thermage tightens the skin itself, and many patients combine them.

Can I combine Ultherapy with fillers or Botox?

Yes, they work well together. Energy devices are usually done first, with injectables the same day or later as your doctor advises.

How much does Ultherapy cost?

Cost depends on the areas and number of lines. Send us your goals on WhatsApp for a personalised quote.

Plan your visit

Gangnam DIORE Clinic

A foreigner-friendly, all-private-room skin clinic on the 9th floor, near Gangnam Station Exit 11 and Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 6.

Opening hours

Open 7 days, no lunch break
Weekdays until 8:30 PM
Weekends & holidays until 5 PM

English hotline

+82 10 6463 5532 (WhatsApp)

Languages

English · 日本語 · 中文 · ไทย · 한국어

References
  1. DIORE Clinic treatment protocols, reviewed by Dr. Lee Gwang-ryeol, October 2026.

This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals. Suitability, dosage or settings and expected outcomes are confirmed by a DIORE physician after an in-person assessment.