Ultherapy vs Thermage in Korea

What Are Ultherapy & Thermage?

Both Ultherapy and Thermage are popular non-surgical skin-lifting treatments widely used in Korea. They share the goal of tightening sagging skin and stimulating collagen production, but they use different technologies, target different depths, and are suited to somewhat different needs.

• Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound (MFU) energy to penetrate deep into the skin layers, including near the SMAS (Superficial Musculo–Aponeurotic System) that is treated in surgical facelifts.
• Thermage uses radiofrequency (RF) energy that heats the dermis and sub-dermal tissues, tightening collagen and delivering smoothing and firming effects at more superficial to mid-depth layers.

Key Differences to Consider

Depth and Target Layers

• Ultherapy reaches deeper layers — making it effective for lifting areas like the jawline, neck and brows. seoulclinic.com.
• Thermage works best for general tightening and smoothing — great for mild sagging, texture improvement, and broader surface areas.

Lift vs Tighten

• If your goal is a lift (especially in the lower face or neck), Ultherapy tends to be the stronger option.
• If your goal is tightening, improving skin quality, smoothing fine wrinkles, or treating larger/surface areas, Thermage is often preferred.

Recovery & Sensation

• Both are non-surgical with minimal downtime, but Ultherapy may feel more intense during the procedure since it hits deeper tissues.
• Thermage can feel warmer on the skin surface and may offer a slightly more comfortable experience in some cases.

Longevity & Maintenance

• Many sources suggest Ultherapy may offer slightly longer effects due to deeper action.
• Thermage is effective and safe, but may require touch-up treatments sooner or more frequently in some patients.

Cost in Korea

• Pricing varies widely depending on clinic, device model (e.g., Thermage FLX) and treatment area. For example, in Seoul:
• Thermage full face might start around ₩2,800,000–₩3,500,000. Gangnam Skin Clinic
• Ultherapy full face possibly ₩3,500,000–₩4,500,000 or more. Gangnam Skin Clinic

Which Is Better for You?

Choose Ultherapy if you:

• Have visible sagging in the jawline, neck, or brows.
• Want a deeper lift rather than just surface firming.
• Are okay with possibly stronger sensation during treatment.

Choose Thermage if you:

• Want to improve skin firmness, texture and mild sagging.
• Have larger treatment areas including face, body areas, or want albeit broader smoothing.
• Prefer a gentler treatment experience and slightly lower cost.

Things to Ask Your Korean Clinic

• Which device model will be used (e.g., Thermage FLX, Ultherapy latest version)?
• What depth and number of shots will be applied for your condition?
• What downtime and aftercare should you expect?
• What results timeline and how long are results likely to last given your skin condition?
• Is English-speaking staff available (useful if you’re a foreign patient in Seoul)?

Final Thoughts

In Korea’s aesthetic clinics—especially in Seoul’s Gangnam and Apgujeong districts—both Ultherapy and Thermage are offered with high-quality devices and experienced physicians. The best choice depends less on “which is objectively better” and more on which fits your skin-laxity level, goals, treatment area and budget. A personalized consultation will clarify which treatment aligns with your skin and lifestyle.