Dermatology

Ultherapy (HIFU Lifting) in Seomyeon, Busan

Ultherapy (HIFU lifting) (울쎄라·하이푸) uses high-intensity focused ultrasound to heat deep skin layers and the SMAS, stimulating collagen to tighten and lift mild sagging around the jawline, cheeks, brows and neck. In Seomyeon, Busan, a full-face session usually takes 30–90 minutes with no incisions. Some tightening is immediate, but the main lift develops over 2–3 months.

Independent patient guide · Medically informative, not a substitute for a doctor's advice · Last reviewed:

October 2026
Clinic in Seomyeon, Busan

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a brand of micro-focused ultrasound with visualisation, letting the operator see tissue layers on screen while treating. HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is the broader category; Korea has many HIFU devices, including domestically developed ones. The ultrasound converges at set depths to create tiny thermal points in the dermis and the SMAS layer, the same layer tightened in surgical facelifts, without damaging the skin surface. The body responds by producing new collagen over the following weeks.

Who is it for?

  • Adults, often in their 30s to 60s, with early to moderate laxity
  • People wanting a subtle lift without surgery or downtime
  • Those maintaining results after a facelift or threads

It is less effective for heavy sagging or very thin, aged skin. Active acne, open wounds or metal implants in the treatment zone may be contraindications.

What happens at the clinic

  1. Assessment: the doctor maps lax areas and checks for fillers, threads or implants.
  2. Preparation: skin is cleansed; numbing cream or oral pain relief may be offered.
  3. Treatment: ultrasound gel is applied and the transducer is moved in lines, delivering pulses at chosen depths.
  4. Finishing: gel is wiped off; you can leave immediately.

Recovery and aftercare

Mild redness fades within hours. Some people have swelling, tenderness to touch or tingling for days, especially along the jaw. Makeup and normal routine can usually resume the same day. Collagen remodelling continues for about 2–3 months, and many people repeat treatment about once a year.

Risks and side effects

  • Discomfort during treatment, especially over bony areas
  • Temporary swelling, tenderness or numbness
  • Bruising or welts in rare cases
  • Rarely, temporary nerve irritation causing muscle weakness, or fat loss creating hollowing when energy is placed too deep in thin faces
  • Burns with improper technique or non-genuine devices

Choosing a clinic for Ultherapy or HIFU in Seomyeon

  • Choose a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who personally supervises treatment.
  • Ask which device is used and whether it is the genuine brand with authentic cartridges.
  • Ask how many lines (shots) and which depths they plan for your face.
  • Ask whether thin areas will be treated more conservatively to avoid hollowing.
  • Ask about pain control options.

For visitors

With essentially no downtime, HIFU fits easily into a short trip. Results appear after you return home. Seomyeon is reachable from Gimhae Airport via the light rail and Line 2.

Key facts

  • Treats: mild to moderate jowls, sagging jawline, low brows, loose neck skin, submental laxity
  • Technology: micro-focused ultrasound, often with imaging (Ultherapy) or other HIFU devices
  • Depths: commonly 1.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 4.5 mm
  • Session time: about 30–90 minutes
  • Downtime: minimal; mild redness, swelling or tenderness
  • Results: develop over 2–3 months; often last around a year
  • Typical NHI coverage: not covered (cosmetic)

Frequently asked questions

Does Ultherapy hurt?

Many people find it uncomfortable, describing deep heat or prickling, particularly over the jawline and bony areas. Numbing cream, oral pain relief or adjusted settings can help. Discomfort stops when treatment ends.

When will I see Ultherapy results?

Some tightening may be noticed right away, but the main lift develops gradually over 2–3 months as new collagen forms. Results then typically last around a year, depending on age and skin quality.

Ultherapy vs Thermage: what is the difference?

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to reach deeper layers, including the SMAS, for lifting. Thermage uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis more broadly for tightening and texture. Some people combine them for different effects.

Is there downtime after HIFU?

Usually very little. Mild redness, swelling or tenderness may last hours to a few days. Most people return to work immediately and can wear makeup the same day.

Can HIFU cause facial fat loss?

In people with thin faces, energy delivered too deep or too often can reduce fat and cause hollowing. Experienced practitioners adjust depth and lines to your anatomy. Mention any concern about volume loss beforehand.

Medical disclaimer: Seomyeon.Clinic is an independent information directory. Content is for general education and does not replace a consultation with a licensed physician. Suitability, risks, results and costs vary by person and clinic. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.