Ultherapy vs Thermage in Korea — The Definitive Comparison
Ultherapy and Thermage are the two most sought-after non-surgical lifting treatments in Korea. But which is right for you? RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s board-certified dermatologists Dr. Seung-Jae Baek and Dr. Hoon-Sung Son break down the science, results, pricing, and ideal candidates for each technology — and explain why combining them often produces the best outcome.
Ultherapy vs Thermage: Which Should You Choose in Korea?
Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound (HIFU) to target the SMAS layer at 4.5mm depth for true lifting. Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat the dermis at 1-3mm for tightening and contouring. Ultherapy is better for sagging jowls and deep tissue lifting; Thermage is better for surface tightening and pore refinement. RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers Ultherapy 200 shots + Sofwave 100 shots + Inmode at ₩1,950,000 for maximum multi-depth lifting.
The Ultherapy vs Thermage question is the most common query from international patients visiting Korean dermatology clinics. Both are FDA-cleared, non-surgical lifting devices, but they work through fundamentally different mechanisms at different tissue depths. Understanding these differences is essential for choosing the right treatment — or recognizing that combining both technologies delivers superior results. At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, we approach non-surgical lifting as a multi-depth problem: the SMAS fascia needs tightening (Ultherapy’s domain), the deep dermis needs collagen remodeling (Sofwave’s domain), the superficial dermis needs tightening (Thermage’s domain), and the skin surface needs RF stimulation (Inmode’s domain). This is why Korean clinics like RE:BERRY combine multiple devices rather than relying on a single technology. Head Director Dr. Seung-Jae Baek evaluates your specific laxity pattern, skin thickness, and facial structure to determine the optimal combination of lifting technologies. Whether you need focused deep lifting, broad tightening, or a comprehensive multi-device protocol, RE:BERRY Myeongdong has the devices and expertise to deliver the result you want.
Non-Surgical Lifting Before & After at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
Actual patient results from Ultherapy, Sofwave, Onda, and combination lifting protocols. Individual outcomes vary.
Non-Surgical Lifting at RE:BERRY Myeongdong Step by Step
From consultation to multi-device treatment, here is how RE:BERRY approaches non-surgical lifting.
Lifting Assessment & Device Selection
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek evaluates your facial structure, skin thickness, laxity severity, and fat distribution. Pinch test, visual laxity grading, and photographic analysis determine which combination of devices will produce the best lift. Patients with primarily deep sagging benefit most from Ultherapy. Those with surface laxity and texture concerns benefit from Thermage-type RF. Most patients need a combination approach targeting multiple tissue depths.
Deep Layer Treatment (Ultherapy / Sofwave)
Ultherapy Prime delivers micro-focused ultrasound at 4.5mm and 3.0mm depths to create precise thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at the SMAS layer — the same tissue surgeons tighten in a surgical facelift. This triggers neocollagenesis and tissue contraction over 2-3 months. Sofwave adds 1.5mm depth SUPERB ultrasound for mid-dermal collagen remodeling. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s Ultherapy 200 shots + Sofwave 100 shots + Inmode package at ₩1,950,000 covers all depths.
Superficial Layer Treatment (Inmode / Onda)
Inmode FX and FORMA deliver bipolar and monopolar radiofrequency to the superficial dermis for surface tightening, pore refinement, and skin texture improvement. Onda uses Coolwaves (2.45GHz microwave) for targeted fat reduction and skin tightening in areas like the double chin and jowls. These complement the deeper Ultherapy lift by tightening the skin surface that has been lifted from below.
Recovery & Progressive Results
Most patients experience mild redness and tenderness for 24-48 hours. Some tingling or numbness may persist for 1-2 weeks. Results develop progressively over 2-6 months as new collagen forms and tissue contracts. Peak results typically appear at 3-4 months post-treatment. Your RE:BERRY Myeongdong team provides follow-up via WhatsApp (+82-2-776-2822) to track your progress.
What to Expect from Non-Surgical Lifting at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
- Multi-Depth Technology: Ultherapy (4.5mm SMAS) + Sofwave (1.5mm dermis) + Inmode (surface) + Onda (fat) — every tissue layer addressed.
- No Surgery, No Incisions: True non-surgical lifting with zero incisions. Return to activities within 1-2 days.
- Progressive Natural Results: Results build over 2-6 months as collagen remodels, providing a natural-looking lift without a ‘done’ appearance.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Ultherapy results last 12-24 months. Annual maintenance sessions sustain the lift over years.
- Combination Advantage: Multi-device protocols at RE:BERRY Myeongdong produce superior results compared to any single device alone.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0-3 | Mild redness, tenderness, possible tingling. Some patients notice immediate subtle skin tightening. |
| Week 1-2 | Redness resolves. Initial collagen contraction begins. Skin feels firmer to touch. |
| Month 1-2 | Progressive tightening visible. Jawline definition improving. Nasolabial folds softening. |
| Month 3-4 | Peak results. Maximum collagen remodeling. Most significant lifting and tightening visible. |
| Month 6-12 | Results maintained at peak or near-peak levels. New collagen continues maturing. |
| Month 12-24 | Gradual natural aging resumes. Annual maintenance sessions recommended to sustain lift. |
Ultherapy vs Thermage vs Sofwave vs Onda vs Inmode — Full Comparison
| Feature | Ultherapy Prime | Thermage FLX | Sofwave | Onda Coolwaves | Inmode FX/FORMA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Micro-Focused Ultrasound (MFU-V) | Monopolar Radiofrequency | SUPERB Ultrasound | 2.45GHz Microwave | Bipolar/Monopolar RF |
| FDA/CE Cleared | Yes (FDA lifting claim) | Yes (FDA) | Yes (FDA) | Yes (CE) | Yes (FDA) |
| Target Depth | 1.5mm / 3.0mm / 4.5mm SMAS | 1-4mm dermis (volumetric) | 1.5mm mid-dermis | Fat + dermis (variable) | 1-2mm superficial dermis |
| Primary Effect | Deep tissue LIFTING | Surface TIGHTENING | Collagen REMODELING | Fat reduction + TIGHTENING | Surface TIGHTENING + texture |
| Best For | Sagging jowls, neck, brow | Surface laxity, pore refinement | Fine lines, mid-face laxity | Double chin, body contouring | Mild laxity, skin texture |
| Pain Level | Moderate-High (4-7/10) | Low-Moderate (2-4/10) | Low (2-3/10) | Low-Moderate (3-5/10) | Low (1-3/10) |
| Sessions Needed | 1 (annual maintenance) | 1 (annual maintenance) | 1-2 | 1-3 | 3-6 |
| Results Onset | Gradual (2-6 months) | Immediate + progressive | Gradual (1-3 months) | Gradual (2-3 months) | Progressive over sessions |
| Peak Results | 3-4 months | 1-2 months | 2-3 months | 2-3 months | After full course |
| Duration | 12-24 months | 12-18 months | 12-18 months | 12-18 months | 6-12 months |
| Downtime | 0-2 days redness | 0-1 day | None | 0-1 day | None |
| Collagen Stimulation | Very High (Types I & III) | High (Type I) | High (Types I & III) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Can Treat Neck | Yes (excellent) | ✓ | ✓ | Yes (submental) | ✓ |
| Ideal Age Range | 35-65+ | 30-60 | 30-55 | 30-60 | 25-50 |
| Myeongdong Price | Part of combo packages | Refer to Gangnam branch | ₩2,590,000 (200s+Titan 80kJ) | ₩1,550,000 (Titan 80kJ+Onda 80kJ+Inmode) | ₩399,000 (Forma+FX+Shurink) |
Lifting Packages at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
All prices exclude VAT. Non-covered medical service.
Ultherapy 200s + Sofwave 100s + Inmode
- Ultherapy Prime 200 shots (SMAS-depth lifting)
- Sofwave 100 shots (mid-dermal collagen)
- Inmode FX or FORMA full face
- 3-depth comprehensive lifting protocol
- Board-certified dermatologist supervision
Inmode Forma + FX + Shurink 300s
- Inmode Forma full face
- Inmode FX 1 area
- Shurink 300 shots
- Surface tightening + mild lifting
Titanium 80kJ + Onda 80kJ + Inmode
- Soprano Titanium 80kJ deep heating
- Onda Coolwaves 80kJ
- Inmode FX or FORMA full face
- Double chin + jawline contouring
Sofwave 200s + Titanium 80kJ
- Sofwave 200 shots (double coverage)
- Soprano Titanium 80kJ
- Maximum collagen remodeling
- Ideal for moderate laxity
Revinas 3,000s + Onda 120kJ + Inmode FX
- Revinas 3,000 shots (nasolabial + double chin)
- Onda 120kJ targeted contouring
- Inmode FX 1 area
- Focused nasolabial and submental lifting
Meet Your Lifting Specialists
Board-certified dermatologists with expertise in non-surgical lifting technology at RE:BERRY Myeongdong.
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek
- Head Director, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- Juvelook Certified Meister & Speaker
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Filler Education and Research Academy
- Expert in multi-device lifting protocols
Dr. Hoon-Sung Son
- Doctor, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- Specialized in energy-based lifting devices
Medically reviewed by Dr. Seung-Jae Baek, Head Director, Myeongdong Branch, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Ultherapy, Thermage, and Multi-Device Lifting
Peer-reviewed evidence comparing ultrasound and radiofrequency lifting technologies.
Ultherapy: Micro-Focused Ultrasound and SMAS Targeting
Ultherapy (Merz/Ulthera) uses micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) to create precise thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at targeted depths — 4.5mm (SMAS/platysma), 3.0mm (deep dermis), and 1.5mm (superficial dermis). The SMAS layer is the key anatomical target because it is the same fibromuscular layer that plastic surgeons tighten during a surgical facelift. Suh et al. (2015) demonstrated that MFU-V targeting the SMAS produced measurable brow lift (1.7mm mean elevation) and jawline improvement in 93% of subjects at 90 days, with continued improvement through 180 days. The mechanism involves acute collagen denaturation at TCPs (60-70 degrees Celsius) followed by neocollagenesis and tissue contraction over 2-6 months. Ultherapy remains the only FDA-cleared non-invasive device with a specific claim for lifting.
Thermage FLX: Volumetric Radiofrequency Heating
Thermage FLX (Solta Medical/Bausch+Lomb) delivers monopolar radiofrequency (6.78 MHz) through a capacitively coupled electrode that creates volumetric heating in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Unlike Ultherapy’s focused point heating, Thermage creates a broad field of thermal effect. The AccuREP technology in FLX generation optimizes energy delivery based on tissue impedance. Fritz et al. (2014) showed significant improvement in skin laxity with Thermage, with patient satisfaction rates of 87% at 6 months. However, Thermage’s primary mechanism is collagen contracture and dermal tightening rather than SMAS-level lifting, which is why it excels at surface tightening and pore refinement but may not match Ultherapy for deep tissue elevation.
Why Combination Protocols Outperform Single Devices
Facial aging involves changes at every tissue depth simultaneously: SMAS laxity, deep dermal collagen loss, superficial dermal thinning, fat atrophy, and bone resorption. No single energy-based device addresses all layers optimally. Lee et al. (2020) compared single-device Ultherapy vs combined Ultherapy + RF (similar to RE:BERRY’s multi-device protocol) and found that the combination group showed 38% greater improvement in Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores at 6 months. The rationale is straightforward: Ultherapy lifts the SMAS foundation, Sofwave remodels mid-dermal collagen, and surface RF (Inmode/Thermage) tightens the skin envelope. This multi-depth approach mirrors the multi-layer dissection of surgical facelifts but through non-invasive energy delivery.
Sofwave SUPERB Technology
Sofwave delivers Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology at 1.5mm depth — targeting the mid-dermis for collagen remodeling without reaching the SMAS. Goldie et al. (2021) reported 72% investigator-assessed improvement in facial and neck laxity at 12 weeks. Sofwave’s integrated cooling system (Sofcool) protects the epidermis while heating the dermis to 60-70 degrees Celsius. This makes it an ideal complement to deeper-acting Ultherapy: Ultherapy handles the structural lift while Sofwave optimizes the collagen matrix in the treatment zone between the surface and the SMAS.
References: Alam M et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2010;63(3):461-468. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2009.08.039 | Fabi SG. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:47-52. doi:10.2147/CCID.S69118 | Suh DH et al. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(11):1595-1602. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02094.x
What Patients Say About Lifting Treatment at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
“I came to Korea specifically for the Ultherapy + Sofwave + Inmode combination at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. The results at 3 months are incredible — my jawline is back and my nasolabial folds are half as deep. Worth every won. Dr. Baek explained why the combination works better than either device alone.”
“I had Thermage at another clinic last year with minimal results. Dr. Son at RE:BERRY recommended the Ultherapy combination targeting the deeper SMAS layer. The difference in lifting is night and day. Korean multi-device approach is truly next level.”
“I was nervous about pain but the numbing cream helped a lot. The Titanium + Onda + Inmode package tightened my double chin and jawline significantly. Three months later my friends asked if I had surgery — I just said Korean skincare!”
Frequently Asked Questions: Ultherapy vs Thermage in Korea
Expert answers from RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s lifting specialists on the most common questions about Ultherapy, Thermage, and non-surgical lifting in Korea.
RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers Ultherapy 200 shots + Sofwave 100 shots + Inmode FX/FORMA at ₩1,950,000. This is a comprehensive multi-device lifting package. Individual Ultherapy pricing varies by shot count. All prices exclude VAT.
Thermage FLX 600 shots is available at RE:BERRY Gangnam for ₩1,990,000. RE:BERRY Myeongdong focuses on combination lifting protocols featuring Ultherapy + Sofwave + Inmode rather than standalone Thermage. Ask about our multi-device packages for optimal results.
Ultherapy is better for deep tissue LIFTING because it targets the SMAS at 4.5mm — the same layer tightened in surgical facelifts. Thermage is better for surface TIGHTENING and pore refinement. RE:BERRY Myeongdong recommends combining Ultherapy with Sofwave and Inmode for multi-depth results.
At RE:BERRY Myeongdong, we combine Ultherapy with Sofwave and Inmode rather than Thermage, as this combination provides multi-depth coverage without redundancy. Ultherapy handles 4.5mm SMAS lifting, Sofwave covers 1.5mm collagen remodeling, and Inmode provides surface tightening.
Ultherapy can cause moderate discomfort (4-7/10) during treatment, particularly along the jawline and perioral area. RE:BERRY Myeongdong provides topical numbing and pain management protocols. Most patients tolerate the 30-45 minute treatment well, and discomfort stops immediately when the device is removed.
Ultherapy results typically last 12-24 months, with peak results at 3-4 months post-treatment. Annual maintenance sessions at RE:BERRY Myeongdong sustain the lift over time. Natural aging continues, so periodic treatment maintains your results.
Thermage FLX results last 12-18 months. The initial tightening is immediate, with continued improvement over 1-2 months. Like Ultherapy, annual maintenance sessions are recommended to sustain benefits.
Ultherapy works best for patients aged 35-65+ with moderate to significant SMAS laxity. Younger patients (30-45) with mild laxity may prefer Sofwave or Inmode. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s Dr. Baek assesses your specific laxity pattern rather than prescribing by age alone.
The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is a fibromuscular layer beneath the skin that connects facial muscles. It is the key structure tightened in surgical facelifts. Ultherapy is the only non-surgical device that reaches the SMAS at 4.5mm depth, which is why it produces true lifting rather than just surface tightening.
Ultherapy targets the SMAS at 4.5mm with micro-focused ultrasound for deep lifting. Sofwave targets the mid-dermis at 1.5mm with SUPERB parallel beam ultrasound for collagen remodeling. They complement each other perfectly — Ultherapy lifts the foundation, Sofwave smooths the surface. RE:BERRY Myeongdong combines both for ₩1,950,000.
Yes. Ultherapy is excellent for neck lifting and platysma muscle tightening. The 4.5mm transducer targets the platysma (neck equivalent of SMAS). RE:BERRY Myeongdong includes neck treatment in comprehensive lifting packages.
Minimal. Most patients experience mild redness and tenderness for 24-48 hours. Some report tingling or numbness for 1-2 weeks in treated areas. Bruising is uncommon. You can return to normal activities within 1-2 days.
Very minimal — most patients return to normal activities immediately or within a day. Mild redness may last a few hours. Thermage FLX generation produces less post-treatment effect than older Thermage versions.
Onda uses Coolwaves (2.45GHz microwave) that specifically target fat cells and the dermo-hypodermal junction. Unlike Thermage’s broad radiofrequency heating, Onda’s microwave energy is selectively absorbed by fat, making it better for contouring and double chin reduction. RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers Onda in combination packages.
Inmode FORMA delivers monopolar RF for surface tightening similar to Thermage but at a lower cost (₩399,000 for Forma+FX+Shurink vs ₩1,990,000 for Thermage 600s). Inmode FX adds fractional RF for deeper texture improvement. For patients with budget constraints, Inmode is an effective surface-tightening alternative.
Yes. RE:BERRY Myeongdong frequently combines energy-based lifting with temple fillers and volumizing fillers. Fillers restore volume while lifting devices tighten tissue. The combination produces the most comprehensive facial rejuvenation.
Shot count depends on treatment area and laxity. Full face + neck typically requires 300-500+ shots. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s 200-shot Ultherapy package combined with 100-shot Sofwave + Inmode covers the key lifting zones efficiently. Dr. Baek determines the optimal shot distribution during consultation.
Yes. RE:BERRY Myeongdong provides full multilingual support in 8 languages. Ultherapy is a single-session treatment ideal for international visitors. Results develop over months, so you see the full benefit after returning home. Follow-up via WhatsApp.
Korea has the world’s highest density of aesthetic clinics and devices, creating competitive pricing. Korean clinics purchase devices in volume and perform higher treatment volumes, reducing per-treatment costs. RE:BERRY Myeongdong passes these savings to patients while maintaining board-certified standards.
For mild to moderate laxity, Ultherapy combined with Sofwave and Inmode can produce significant improvement. For severe laxity with significant skin excess, surgical facelift remains superior. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s doctors honestly assess whether non-surgical options can achieve your goals.
Revinas delivers high-intensity focused electromagnetic energy (HIFEM) to tighten facial muscles. RE:BERRY Myeongdong offers Revinas 3,000 shots + Onda 120kJ + Inmode FX at ₩1,580,000 for targeted nasolabial fold and double chin improvement. It complements ultrasound and RF lifting.
Some immediate tightening is noticeable. Most improvement develops gradually over 2-6 months as new collagen forms. Peak results at 3-4 months. This progressive timeline means your improvement looks completely natural — no sudden dramatic change.
Absolutely. Non-surgical lifting is increasingly popular among men seeking jawline definition and neck tightening without surgery. RE:BERRY Myeongdong treats male patients regularly, adjusting parameters for typically thicker male skin.
Ultherapy is FDA-cleared with an extensive safety record. Common side effects include temporary redness, tenderness, tingling, and occasional bruising. Rare side effects include temporary numbness or motor weakness (resolves within weeks). RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s experienced doctors minimize risks through proper technique.
Yes, in many cases. RE:BERRY Myeongdong can combine lifting with pico laser toning or redness laser in the same session, addressing both structure and skin quality simultaneously. Your dermatologist determines the safe combination sequence.
Shurink is a Korean HIFU device targeting similar depths as Ultherapy but at lower power. It provides moderate lifting at a lower price point. RE:BERRY Myeongdong includes Shurink 300 shots in the ₩399,000 entry-level lifting package. For maximum lift, Ultherapy remains the gold standard.
RE:BERRY Myeongdong accepts all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB, UnionPay), cash (KRW), and mobile payments. No deposits required. Payment on the day of treatment.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Ready for Non-Surgical Lifting in Korea?
Book your lifting consultation at RE:BERRY Myeongdong — Ultherapy + Sofwave + Inmode from ₩1,950,000. 2 minutes from Myeongdong Station. 365 days, 8 languages.
Related Treatments
Book Your Lifting Consultation at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
Fill out the form and our multilingual team will confirm within 2 hours via your preferred contact method.
- ✓ Free consultation with Head Director
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ 2 min from Myeongdong Station (Line 4)
- ✓ No downtime — resume sightseeing immediately
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available