What is HIFU lifting?
HIFU stands for high-intensity focused ultrasound. A handpiece focuses ultrasound energy into tiny points at fixed depths beneath the skin — typically around 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm. At the deepest setting it reaches the SMAS, the fibrous layer that surgeons tighten during a facelift. The heat contracts tissue at each point and triggers new collagen over the following months.
Because the energy passes through the skin surface without breaking it, there are no wounds and usually no real downtime. HIFU does not remove skin and will not match a surgical lift, but it can give a firmer, more defined look for mild to moderate laxity and help slow visible ageing.
People usually ask about HIFU for:
- A softer, less defined jawline or early jowls
- A fuller-looking double chin area
- Cheeks that have started to descend
- Loose skin on the neck and around the eyes (with eye-safe settings)
Shurink Universe or Ultherapy?
Both devices are HIFU, but they suit different budgets and goals. Ultherapy is micro-focused ultrasound with real-time imaging, so the doctor can see the tissue layers while treating. Shurink Universe is a HIFU device often used for regular maintenance and contouring at a lower cost per session.
| Option | Shots | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shurink Universe | 100 / 300 / 600 / 1000 | ₩65,000 / ₩150,000 / ₩250,000 / ₩400,000 |
| Shurink Universe (first visit) | 600 | ₩189,000 |
| Ultherapy Prime | 100 / 300 / 600 (full face) | ₩500,000 / ₩1,300,000 / ₩2,400,000 |
| Ulthera | 300 / 600 / 800 | ₩1,450,000 / ₩2,750,000 / ₩3,200,000 |
Prices in KRW, 10% VAT not included, updated September 2026. See the Shurink price page and Ultherapy price page.
HIFU and radiofrequency
HIFU works on deep, focal points. Radiofrequency devices such as Thermage heat a broader layer of the skin and are often used for overall skin tightness and texture. Some patients combine the two; the doctor will advise which order and interval are appropriate.
What changes in your face
Some people notice a slight tightening right away, but the main change develops gradually over 1–3 months as new collagen forms. The effect is subtle and natural, and typically lasts several months to about a year. For more visible sagging, the doctor may suggest combining HIFU with thread lifting.
How a HIFU session works
- Doctor consultation We assess laxity, fat and skin thickness, then choose a device, depths and shot count.
- Numbing Numbing cream for about 30–40 minutes; the face is marked for even coverage.
- Ultrasound passes 20–60 minutes depending on area and shots. You feel deep warmth and brief tingling.
- Cool-down Soothing care and aftercare advice; you can usually return to normal plans the same day.
HIFU suits short trips well, because there is usually no visible downtime. Many visitors pair it with a skin booster on the same visit for hydration on the surface while the lift develops underneath.
Downtime, side effects and aftercare
HIFU is non-invasive, but focused heat at depth can still cause side effects, and correct depth over bone and nerves matters. What to expect:
- Common: deep warmth or zapping during treatment, mild redness, and tenderness or a sore feeling along the jaw for a few days.
- Less common: swelling, small bruises, temporary numbness or tingling, and faint lines or welts that fade within days.
- Rare: burns, temporary nerve weakness affecting the smile, or fat loss leading to hollowing if the face is over-treated.
Tell the doctor first if you
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have a pacemaker, metal implants or open wounds in the area
- Had fillers, threads or other lifting treatments in the past few months
- Have very thin or hollow cheeks, active acne cysts or skin infection
Aftercare
Use gentle skincare and SPF, avoid saunas and very hot baths for a couple of days, and take paracetamol if the jaw feels tender. If anything looks unusual, send us a photo on WhatsApp and a doctor will review it.
Dr. Jimin Kang, Medical Director
Every HIFU lifting plan at Bailor starts with a face-to-face skin assessment by a doctor — not a sales counsellor. Dr. Kang's approach is "tailored, not templated": she chooses the product, dose and depth for your skin, and treats you herself or works alongside the other doctors on our in-house medical team.
HIFU lifting FAQ
How much does HIFU lifting cost in Gangnam?
At Bailor Clinic in Sinsa, Shurink Universe starts at ₩65,000 for 100 shots, with 600 shots at ₩189,000 on a first visit. Ultherapy Prime starts at ₩500,000 for 100 shots, VAT excluded. See the Shurink price list.
How many HIFU sessions do I need?
Usually one session, then maintenance every 6–12 months. Shurink is sometimes repeated more often at lower shot counts for contour maintenance.
Does HIFU hurt?
You feel deep heat and brief zapping, especially over the jawline and bony areas. Numbing cream helps, and the doctor can adjust energy if it feels too strong.
Is HIFU the same as Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is one HIFU device, with built-in imaging so the doctor can see tissue layers while treating. Shurink Universe is another HIFU device. Both use focused ultrasound.
Can HIFU make my face look thinner?
HIFU can tighten and slightly reduce fullness along the jaw and chin. In already slim or hollow faces, high energy can worsen hollowing, so the doctor adjusts settings or suggests another option.
Can I have HIFU with fillers or Botox?
Often yes, but timing matters. HIFU is usually done before or a couple of weeks apart from fillers. Tell the doctor about any previous injections.
