HIFU lifting in Gangnam, Seoul
Focused ultrasound delivered to the deep SMAS layer to lift the brows, cheeks, jawline and neck from within — no incisions, no needles and no downtime.
What is HIFU?
HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is a non-invasive lifting treatment that focuses ultrasound energy at set depths beneath the skin — including the SMAS layer that surgeons tighten in a facelift — creating tiny heat points that contract tissue and stimulate new collagen, lifting the face and neck without cuts. The skin surface is left intact, so you can return to normal activities immediately.
Tightening begins within a few weeks and peaks at around 2–3 months. Results typically last 9–15 months. Several HIFU devices exist, including Ulthera (Ultherapy) and Shurink; your doctor chooses the device and depths for your skin.
- Treatment time
- About 30–60 min
- Downtime
- None – mild swelling possible
- Results visible
- A few weeks, peak 2–3 mo
- Lasts
- About 9–15 months
- Energy
- Focused ultrasound
- Depth
- Dermis to SMAS
- Performed by
- MIN Clinic physicians
- Location
- Cheongdam, Gangnam
Where HIFU lifts best
Shot count and depth are adjusted to skin thickness and the area being treated.
Jawline
Defines a softened lower-face contour.
Cheeks
Lifts early mid-face sagging.
Brows
Gently raises heavy brows and opens the eyes.
Neck & under-chin
Firms laxity under the jaw.
A good fit if you…
- have mild to moderate sagging
- want a lift without needles or incisions
- need zero downtime on a short trip
- want yearly maintenance of a natural lift
Consider alternatives if you…
- have very thin faces with little fat — volume may be better with fillers
- have severe skin excess needing surgery
- are pregnant or have open wounds or active acne in the area
- have metal implants or devices in the treatment zone
Before & after HIFU lifting
Drag the handle to compare. Photographed at MIN Clinic with the patient’s consent.
Before
After
- Treatment
- Ultherapy (micro-focused ultrasound)
- Concern
- Jawline and cheek sagging
- Downtime
- None
- Clinic
- MIN Clinic, Cheongdam-dong
Individual results vary. Photos are shown with patient consent and are not a guarantee of outcome. A doctor consultation is required before treatment.
View more before & afterThree depths, one lift
HIFU cartridges target different layers so the doctor can build a lift from the deep structure up.
4.5 mm – SMAS
The fibromuscular layer tightened in surgical facelifts; responsible for structural lift.
3.0 mm – deep dermis
Contracts collagen for firmness and contour.
1.5 mm – superficial
Refines fine lines and skin texture in thinner areas.
Device choice
Your doctor selects the device — for example Ultherapy or Ulthera Prime — based on your goals.
How your visit works
Most international guests complete the visit in one half-day, timed around their flight.
Message us
Send photos and your goals on WhatsApp. We reply in English with options and an estimated price.
Skin analysis
An AI 3D skin analysis and a one-to-one consultation with your physician.
Treatment
HIFU is performed by your MIN Clinic physician, with numbing or comfort care where needed.
Aftercare
English aftercare notes, follow-up on WhatsApp and tax-free benefits with a foreign passport.
Mild redness or swelling; normal activity.
Occasional tenderness along the jaw fades.
Firmer, more lifted contours appear.
Fullest result; lasts about 9–15 months.
How much does HIFU cost in Seoul?
HIFU in Seoul ranges from about ₩500,000 to ₩2,500,000 depending on the device brand, number of shots and area. MIN Clinic confirms your exact price at consultation.
HIFU
VAT 10% added for non-exempt patients · prices may vary with promotions · tax-free benefits with a foreign passport. Your exact price is confirmed at consultation.
See current offers
Seasonal offers and combination prices are listed on our event page and confirmed in writing at consultation.
HIFU vs other lifting devices
Ultrasound lifts deep; RF and microwaves tighten and contour.
| Treatment | Energy | Depth / focus | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| HIFU | Focused ultrasound | SMAS + dermis | Structural lift |
| 10THERMA | Monopolar RF | Dermis | Tightening, texture |
| ONDA | Microwaves | Subcutaneous fat | Fuller lower face |
| Thread lift | PDO threads | Subcutaneous | Immediate repositioning |
Dr. Min Young-Soo
Chief Director, MIN Clinic Cheongdam · 20+ years in aesthetic medicine
- Adjunct Professor, Hanyang University
- Top Restylane Injector, Galderma (2012)
- Top Radiesse Injector, Merz (2011)
HIFU questions we hear most
Can’t find your answer? Message our English-speaking team on WhatsApp.
Is HIFU the same as Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is one brand of focused ultrasound; HIFU is the general name for the technology. Devices differ in imaging, transducers and energy, and your doctor will explain which suits you.
Does HIFU hurt?
You will feel brief deep heat or prickling pulses, mostly over bony areas like the jaw. Numbing cream is applied, and energy is adjusted to your comfort.
How long do HIFU results last?
Typically about 9–15 months. Many patients repeat once a year to maintain the lift.
Are there side effects?
Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness or tingling are common. Rarely, small bruises or temporary numbness occur. Choosing a physician-led clinic helps ensure correct depths and energy.
Can HIFU be combined with other treatments?
Yes. HIFU is often combined with RF tightening for the dermis or skin boosters for skin quality.
Often explored with HIFU
Plan your HIFU in Cheongdam
4F Daedong Tower, 326 Dosan-daero, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Sat from 10:00 · English & Korean
Results vary by individual. A doctor consultation is required before any treatment.
