Medical Tourism Blog
Skin Laxity Face Solutions: Ultherapy Lifting Procedures in Korea for Tighter, Younger-Looking Skin
Table of contents
- Ultherapy Lifting: A Detailed Medical Overview
- Best Clinics in Korea for Skin Laxity Face
- The Ultherapy Journey in South Korea for Medical Tourists
- Cost Analysis: Ultherapy in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
- Patient Experiences and Outcomes with Ultherapy for Skin Laxity
- Conclusion
- References
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[Facial skin laxity](/blog/facial-skin-laxity-korea) refers to the noticeable loss of firmness and elasticity in the skin, a common effect of aging caused by the reduction of collagen and elastin. Though losing these proteins is a natural part of growing older—usually starting after your mid-20s—several factors can speed it up. Sun exposure, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, genetics, smoking, and poor nutrition all contribute to this process. It's also important to know that aging impacts more than just the outer layer of skin—changes in the fat, muscles, and even bone beneath the surface help fuel the downward migration that leads to sagging. Because these deeper changes play such a big role, treatments that target the underlying support structures are often more effective than surface-only skincare, especially for significant laxity.
Common Signs and Pseudonyms
Facial skin laxity shows up in several ways: sagging cheeks, jowls along the jawline, and loose skin on the neck are typical. Other signs include crepey texture under the eyes or neck, fine lines and wrinkles, droopy eyelids, under-eye bags, and loss of a well-defined jawline. Sometimes, terms like “turkey neck” or “basset hound” are used for extreme cases. A quick “pinch test”—where you pinch the skin and see how quickly it bounces back—can give you an idea of your skin’s elasticity. For a formal diagnosis, it’s best to see a medical professional who will look into your health, lifestyle, and family history as well as your cosmetic concerns. While lifestyle changes like sun protection and better nutrition can help slow the process, they can’t reverse laxity caused by aging and gravity. That’s where medical interventions like Ultherapy come into play. Often, a combination of healthy habits and targeted treatments yields the best results.
Ultherapy Lifting: A Detailed Medical Overview
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy (also called Ulthera) is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment designed to lift and tighten skin on the face, neck, and chest using micro-focused ultrasound energy. It holds the unique distinction of being the only U.S. FDA-cleared, non-invasive skin lifting treatment for these areas and enjoys a “Gold Standard” reputation for non-surgical tightening, thanks to substantial scientific backing and a 95% satisfaction rate one year after treatment. Its high approval among experts gives patients added peace of mind.
How Ultherapy Works
Ultherapy works by delivering precise micro-focused ultrasound energy beneath the skin, targeting the dermis and foundational layers like the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), where laxity begins. This process gently heats tissues to 60-70°C—enough to stimulate the body’s natural healing response and boost new collagen production by up to 1.4 times, along with a 42% increase in collagen Types I and III. The procedure’s safety and effectiveness are underpinned by DeepSEE or Real-Time Visualization (MFU-V) technology, which allows providers to see beneath the skin and focus energy only on the right tissues while avoiding vital structures. This real-time imaging is not just a bonus, but a vital part of delivering consistent, safe results; it also highlights the value of having a skilled practitioner perform the treatment.
Ideal Candidates and Expected Results
Ultherapy is perfect for those with mild to moderate skin laxity—think lowered brows, loose neck skin, or noticeable chin sagging—who want lifting benefits but aren’t ready for surgery. It's also a great option to help prolong the effects of past cosmetic procedures. Results reveal themselves gradually over two to six months, as new collagen forms, and can last a year or more. While the outcome is a natural-looking lift and firmer skin, patients should note that Ultherapy doesn’t replace a surgical facelift’s dramatic results but offers a subtler, refreshed look.
Best Clinics in Korea for Skin Laxity Face
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for skin laxity face:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic | Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic is in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, led by Dr. Lee Hyungmin, a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 16 years of experience. As a one-doctor clinic, all lifting and petite procedures are performed by Dr. Lee himself, ensuring precision, safety, and truly personalized, end-to-end care. Recognized as one of the 100 Good Doctors in Korea. For laxity concerns of the face and neck, provides area-specific lifting solutions, including tailored lifting laser treatments for the face, under-eye area, double chin, and neck wrinkles; Neck Wrinkle Lifting program; complementary non-invasive face-lift procedures (including thread-lifts or ultrasound-based therapies); Hand Wrinkle and Pigmentation Program. | Lifting laser treatments for the face, under-eye area, double chin, and neck wrinkles; Neck Wrinkle Lifting; non-invasive face-lift procedures including thread-lifts and ultrasound-based therapies; Hand Wrinkle and Pigmentation Program |
| Cellinique Clinic | Located in the heart of Gangnam, Cellinique Clinic is a premier, one-doctor stem cell and aesthetic medicine center that blends advanced regenerative science with precision device-based lifting to address facial skin laxity without surgery. Led by renowned stem cell expert Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim, Cellinique delivers 100% personalized care—integrating Ultherapy Prime, the newest evolution of micro-focused ultrasound skin-lifting, with proprietary NovaStem autologous blood–based rejuvenation and complementary treatments such as PRP, exosomes, Radiesse, Juvelook, laser lifting, LDM, thread lifts, fillers, NK cell therapy, blood purification (ABC BMT), and stem cell fat grafting—to restore elasticity, refine contours, and elevate overall skin health and beauty. | Ultherapy Prime advantage: smoother, more precise, and more comfortable treatments than classic Ultherapy, with a larger, clearer imaging screen for superior accuracy, faster energy delivery, and dramatically improved comfort even on delicate areas; Enhanced outcomes for laxity: trusted micro-focused ultrasound stimulation with Ultherapy Prime enables more tailored results, less discomfort, and enhanced lifting outcomes for non-surgical tightening; Regenerative-first strategy: NovaStem utilizes concentrated autologous blood to activate aged cells and regenerate damaged tissues, restoring skin elasticity and health; stem cell therapy options further support tissue repair and rejuvenation; Expert leadership and credibility: Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim is a recognized authority in stem cell medicine; Comprehensive, multimodal care: customized protocols for facial laxity combine ultrasound lifting with collagen stimulators (Radiesse, Juvelook), laser lifting, LDM, thread lifts, and targeted injectables for synergistic elasticity and skin-quality improvement; Precision and comfort: high-resolution imaging guidance and faster energy delivery help target treatment areas accurately while improving patient comfort; One-doctor, 100% personalized care: direct oversight from Dr. Kim ensures continuity, safety, and tailored plans from facial rejuvenation to whole-body wellness; Health-aligned aesthetics: complementary options like blood purification (ABC BMT) and NK cell therapy support immunity and overall health; Premier location: a modern, premium clinic setting in Gangnam with a full spectrum of advanced stem cell and laser treatments for patients seeking non-surgical lifting in Korea. |
| Made Young Plastic Surgery | Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, is a premium destination for facial and anti-aging care, uniting deep clinical expertise with advanced, safety-first systems to deliver tailored solutions for Skin Laxity Face. With surgeons who personally guide each patient from consultation through recovery, and a full spectrum of surgical and non-invasive options designed to lift, tighten, and redefine facial contours, Made Young blends artistry with proven medical rigor to achieve natural, lasting rejuvenation. | Specialized in facial and anti-aging procedures, offering personalized plans specifically for skin laxity of the face, jawline, and neck; Verified medical team with average over 15 years of experience; Full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists on site for every case; 1:1 dedicated monitoring with one anesthesiologist per patient; full CCTV coverage of procedures; full spectrum of laxity solutions: facelift, neck lift, forehead and sub-brow lifts, double chin lift; non-invasive lifting such as Ultherapy, Shurink, thread lifting (including men’s thread lift), V-line lifting, and skin boosters; natural, balanced outcomes prioritizing facial harmony; separate aftercare center for post-procedure care and follow-up; Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place; professional credibility: Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and MIS-certified; centrally located in Gangnam. |
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic
Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, offers expert care for facial skin laxity under the direct hands-on leadership of Dr. Lee Hyungmin, a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 16 years of experience. As a one-doctor clinic, all lifting and petite procedures are performed by Dr. Lee himself, ensuring precision, safety, and truly personalized, end-to-end care. Recognized as one of the 100 Good Doctors in Korea, Dr. Lee’s reputation reflects his commitment to excellence and patient-centered outcomes.
For laxity concerns of the face and neck, Seojin provides area-specific lifting solutions, including tailored lifting laser treatments for the face, under-eye area, double chin, and neck wrinkles, alongside a dedicated Neck Wrinkle Lifting program. Complementary options such as non-invasive face-lift procedures (including thread-lifts or ultrasound-based therapies) are carefully selected to match individual anatomy and goals. To harmonize overall rejuvenation, the clinic also offers a Hand Wrinkle and Pigmentation Program, addressing aging signs beyond the face for more balanced, natural-looking results.
You can check out their website here: Seojin Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
Cellinique Clinic
Located in the heart of Gangnam, Seoul, Cellinique Clinic is a premier, one-doctor stem cell and aesthetic medicine center that blends advanced regenerative science with precision device-based lifting to address facial skin laxity without surgery. Led by renowned stem cell expert Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim, Cellinique delivers 100% personalized care—integrating Ultherapy Prime, the newest evolution of micro-focused ultrasound skin-lifting, with proprietary NovaStem autologous blood–based rejuvenation and complementary treatments such as PRP, exosomes, Radiesse, Juvelook, laser lifting, LDM, thread lifts, fillers, NK cell therapy, blood purification (ABC BMT), and stem cell fat grafting—to restore elasticity, refine contours, and elevate overall skin health and beauty.
- Ultherapy Prime advantage: smoother, more precise, and more comfortable treatments than classic Ultherapy, with a larger, clearer imaging screen for superior accuracy, faster energy delivery, and dramatically improved comfort even on delicate areas
- Enhanced outcomes for laxity: trusted micro-focused ultrasound stimulation with Ultherapy Prime enables more tailored results, less discomfort, and enhanced lifting outcomes for non-surgical tightening
- Regenerative-first strategy: NovaStem utilizes concentrated autologous blood to activate aged cells and regenerate damaged tissues, restoring skin elasticity and health; stem cell therapy options further support tissue repair and rejuvenation
- Expert leadership and credibility: Dr. Chris Gunwoo Kim is a recognized authority in stem cell medicine, presenting across Asia in 2024 on SDF-1alpha injection and lecturing at major meetings, and in 2025 unveiling Cellinique’s NovaStem Kit at the KOAT Spring Conference
- Comprehensive, multimodal care: customized protocols for facial laxity combine ultrasound lifting with collagen stimulators (Radiesse, Juvelook), laser lifting, LDM, thread lifts, and targeted injectables for synergistic elasticity and skin-quality improvement
- Precision and comfort: high-resolution imaging guidance and faster energy delivery help target treatment areas accurately while improving patient comfort
- One-doctor, 100% personalized care: direct oversight from Dr. Kim ensures continuity, safety, and tailored plans from facial rejuvenation to whole-body wellness
- Health-aligned aesthetics: complementary options like blood purification (ABC BMT) and NK cell therapy support immunity and overall health, reinforcing long-term skin vitality
- Premier location: a modern, premium clinic setting in Gangnam with a full spectrum of advanced stem cell and laser treatments for patients seeking non-surgical lifting in Korea
You can check out their website here: Cellinique Clinic Website
Made Young Plastic Surgery
Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, is a premium destination for facial and anti-aging care, uniting deep clinical expertise with advanced, safety-first systems to deliver tailored solutions for Skin Laxity Face. With surgeons who personally guide each patient from consultation through recovery, and a full spectrum of surgical and non-invasive options designed to lift, tighten, and redefine facial contours, Made Young blends artistry with proven medical rigor to achieve natural, lasting rejuvenation.
- Specialized in facial and anti-aging procedures, offering personalized plans specifically for skin laxity of the face, jawline, and neck
- Verified medical team: only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, providing direct consultation and diagnosis before any procedure
- Comprehensive safety system: full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists on site for every case
- 1:1 dedicated monitoring: one anesthesiologist consistently monitors one patient, with a cross-check system enabling multiple anesthesiologists to coordinate rapid, precise responses if needed
- Maximum transparency and accountability with full CCTV coverage of procedures
- Full spectrum of laxity solutions: facelift, neck lift, forehead and sub-brow lifts, double chin lift, plus non-invasive lifting such as Ultherapy, Shurink, thread lifting (including men’s thread lift), V-line lifting, and skin boosters
- Natural, balanced outcomes supported by techniques that prioritize facial harmony and long-term rejuvenation
- Separate, dedicated aftercare center delivering complete and systematic post-procedure care and follow-up
- Recognized excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place
- Professional credibility: selected as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society
- Centrally located in Seoul’s Gangnam district, combining premium facilities with patient-centered service for a seamless, safe experience
You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website
The Ultherapy Journey in South Korea for Medical Tourists
South Korea is a popular hub for medical tourism, especially for Ultherapy, due to a highly organized and patient-friendly approach.
Pre-Treatment: Consultation and Preparation
The journey begins with a thorough consultation, which helps determine if you’re a good Ultherapy candidate and lets the provider formulate a personalized plan for your unique facial features and goals. Many clinics in South Korea offer streamlined processes, allowing for same-day consultation and treatment (with pre-booking recommended). Detailed assessments—including facial structure and skin thickness evaluations—help fine-tune the treatment. With support services like multilingual staff and help with travel logistics, international patients enjoy a seamless experience.
The Procedure: What to Expect During Treatment
On treatment day, your skin is cleaned, and ultrasound gel is applied before the smooth Ultherapy applicator is used. The practitioner views real-time images beneath your skin to precisely deliver energy to the right depth, avoiding sensitive structures. Patients often notice a warm, tingling sensation as the energy activates deep tissue collagen production. The session lasts from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the area, and while most don’t need anesthesia, topical numbing can be provided for comfort.
Post-Treatment: Aftercare and Recovery
One of Ultherapy’s biggest perks is minimal downtime—most people return to daily activities right away. Mild redness, swelling, tingling, or tenderness are typical but temporary and resolve within days or weeks. Aftercare is simple: stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and follow the clinic's instructions. You should avoid icing and heavy exercise for a few days. Improvements in elasticity and firmness usually become visible about 8-12 weeks after treatment, with peak results developing in two to three months. Some choose yearly touch-ups to maintain benefits.
Ensuring Authenticity and Safety
For medical tourists, using authentic Ultherapy equipment is crucial. Counterfeit devices or unofficial transducer tips can cause significant side effects due to irregular energy output. To ensure safety, pick a clinic that’s FDA-cleared and CE-marked. Look for official certifications, hologram stickers, or QR codes on devices. Consult the official Ultherapy website for authorized clinics, or use medical tourism agencies that verify clinic credentials, ensuring you get the genuine treatment and the safest experience.
Cost Analysis: Ultherapy in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
South Korea is a global leader for Ultherapy, thanks to advanced facilities, skilled experts, and lower prices than many Western countries.
Average Costs in South Korea
Ultherapy in South Korea is generally more affordable than in the USA or Turkey. Prices typically range from ₩1,100,000 to ₩5,500,000 ($1,200–$1,750 USD on average). Specific area pricing for 2025 includes:
- Full face: ₩1,500,000 – ₩2,500,000 ($1,100–$1,850 USD)
- Jawline only: ₩800,000 – ₩1,200,000 ($600–$900 USD)
- Full face + neck: ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,000,000 ($1,500–$2,200 USD)
Many clinics offer value-added packages, combining Ultherapy with other treatments like Rejuran Healer or LDM therapy, providing more comprehensive anti-aging solutions at lower costs per treatment.
Comparative Costs: South Korea vs. USA, Turkey, and Thailand
Table: Comparative Ultherapy Costs for Medical Tourists (USD)
| Country | Average Cost (USD) | Minimum Cost (USD) | Maximum Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Korea | $1,475 | $1,200 | $1,750 | Competitive; often includes packages |
| Turkey | $3,000 | $3,000 | - | Starting price |
| USA | $2,300 | - | - | Typical area; lower prices may reflect smaller treatments |
| Thailand | N/A | N/A | N/A | No pricing data in current research |
As seen, South Korea offers significant savings and value, making it especially appealing to international patients.
Value Proposition for Medical Tourists in South Korea
South Korea’s appeal isn’t just about cost. The country has built a strong reputation with its well-funded healthcare system and government support, private hospitals (94% of total), world-class doctors, and patient-centric care. International visitors benefit from visa exemptions for 112 countries, daily use of English, and dedicated medical travel agencies offering support from consultation to post-op care. Services often include free transport, itinerary planning, and 24/7 assistance. Many clinics can accommodate same-day treatment, making it easy to fit Ultherapy into travel plans and maximizing convenience.
Patient Experiences and Outcomes with Ultherapy for Skin Laxity
Ultherapy patients frequently share positive results, both cosmetically and emotionally, highlighting steady improvements as their skin gradually rebuilds collagen.
Addressing Specific Concerns
For example, one patient in their 30s used Ultherapy to address forehead lines, crow’s feet, [loss of jawline definition](/blog/loss-of-jawline-definition-korea), volume loss, and a drooping brow. Post-procedure, they noticed a firmer jawline, reduced sagging, restored facial volume, and an uplifted brow—making the face look brighter and “less tired.” Many patients report similar benefits:
- Under the chin laxity: More defined chin and smile
- Early aging: Noticeable improvements after a few months
- Droopy eyes or “basset hound” lower face: Appreciated the non-surgical option
- Tired appearance: Felt facial contours were more defined
- Lowered brow line: Saw a “huge difference” in appearance and confidence
- Loose skin on face/neck: Felt tighter, firmer, and “like my inside matched my outside”
- Double chin: A pleasing alternative to surgery
- Crepey chest skin: Continued to wear V-necks confidently
- Hooded eyelids: Noticed gradual improvements over several weeks
Psychological Impact and Patient Satisfaction
Patients often experience a boost in self-confidence after seeing their refreshed look, with friends and family noticing a younger, “more rested” appearance, even if they can't pinpoint the specific change. Many prefer Ultherapy to injectables or surgical options due to its non-invasive nature, natural-looking results, and minimal downtime. The high satisfaction rate—95% after a year—underscores its popularity as both an aesthetic and psychological game-changer.
Conclusion
Facial skin laxity arises from both biological aging and external factors, ultimately requiring solutions that address deep structural layers as well as surface skin. Ultherapy stands out for its non-invasive, FDA-cleared approach, using micro-focused ultrasound and real-time imaging to naturally boost collagen and deliver safe, precise results. South Korea excels as a global Ultherapy destination, offering skilled providers, cost savings, and comprehensive support for medical tourists. Patient stories confirm improved facial contours, firmer skin, and a stronger sense of self-confidence, solidifying Ultherapy’s reputation as a leading option for non-surgical skin tightening.
References
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