Comprehensive Guide to the American Version of HIFU | 2026: Details on Ulthera’s Effects, Prices, and a Complete List of 20 Recommended Hospitals in South Korea

In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese people have gone to South Korea for Dermatology treatments. The options range from hyaluronic acid injections and Filler procedures to photothermal devices, offering a wide variety of choices. Among these treatments, HIFU has remained particularly popular due to its non-invasive nature, short recovery time, and noticeable tightening effects. However, there are two main versions of HIFU: the American version (Ulthera) and the South Korean version (HIFU). Many people find themselves confused when researching these options – the price difference between the two can be several times greater, so the question arises: is it really worth paying more for the American version?

In short: The American version of Ulthera is equipped with real-time ultrasound imaging technology, allowing physicians to precisely target the SMAS fascia layer during treatment, with effects lasting 12–18 months; the South Korean version is more affordable but offers shorter-lasting results (about 4–8 months). Below, we have compiled the price ranges for the American/South Korean versions of Ulthera at 20 dermatology clinics in South Korea (₩400,000–1,600,000 South Korean won), along with each clinic’s unique selling points, to help you make an informed decision before your treatment. (For the latest prices and special packages in June, please download the BeautsGO app for comparison.)

I. What is the American version of HIFU?

1. Technical principles

The American version of HIFU, developed by Merz Aesthetics in the United States, utilizes focused high-intensity ultrasound technology to deliver energy precisely to the deeper layers of the skin in a non-invasive manner.

Key technical features:

Depth of action: It reaches as deep as the SMAS fascia layer (about 4.5 mm), which is the layer that is only addressed in traditional facelift surgeries.

ONDO: Between 65°C and 70°C, this temperature range creates thermal coagulation points, which stimulate the regeneration and reorganization of Collagen.

The exclusive patented DeepSEE real-time ultrasound imaging technology enables physicians to clearly visualize the different layers of the skin and the location of the fascia, allowing them to accurately avoid nerves and bones and ensure that 100% of the energy is delivered precisely to the target area during the treatment.

Second-generation upgraded version (Ultherapy PRIME): The comfort level of this treatment has been significantly improved compared to the first generation.

2. The key differences between the American and Korean versions of ultrasonic technology

This is the question that everyone is most concerned about. The key differences are presented in the following table:

Precision

The American version of Ulthera is equipped with DeepSEE real-time imaging technology, allowing doctors to “watch the treatment process unfold” with the precision of a sniper – truly remarkable.

Korean version of HIFU (such as Hi-Fu, Q+, Z-ultrasonic waves, Shulike, etc.): Doctors rely on their experience to perform the treatment “blindly,” which truly tests their technical skills – moderate level.

Pain

The American version of Ulthera: Highly concentrated energy delivers significant deep-tissue relaxation effects; those who are sensitive to pain can opt for sedation during the treatment —★★★★☆

Korean-style HIFU: The treatment is fast, and the energy used is relatively mild; generally, applying a topical anesthetic ointment is sufficient ———— ★★★☆☆

Duration of effect

The American version of Ulthera: Approximately 12 to 18 months; one treatment is enough to last for over a year.

Korean-style HIFU: Approximately 4 to 8 months (it is recommended to receive treatments every six months to nine months, making it suitable for regular maintenance).

Price range (South Korea)

The American version of Ulthera costs between 9.4 million and 1.6 million Korean won (approximately NT$9,000 to 36,000, or HK$2,200 to 8,800).

Korean version of HIFU: 910,000 to 500,000 Korean won (approximately NT$2,200 to 11,000 / approximately HK$550 to 2,750)

Internationally recognized certification

US version of Ulthera: Approved by the US FDA for wrinkle reduction ✅ Approved by South Korea’s KFDA ✅ Approved by the EU CE ✅

South Korean version of HIFU: Approved by South Korea’s KFDA ✅ and EU’s CE ✅ (most brands do not have FDA approval).

Suitable for targeted marketing

The American version of Ulthera: For those who pursue ultimate results, prefer a one-step solution, and have sufficient budget.

Korean-style HIFU: Regular maintenance, entry-level medical beauty treatments, limited budget, or those who are afraid of pain

3. The international certification advantages of the US version of this ultrasonic technology

The American version of Ulthera is the only ultrasonic device in the world that has been approved by the US FDA for use in the “ultherapy” indication. It is also the only ultrasonic device approved by Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare for this purpose. This means that its safety and effectiveness are supported by the most stringent clinical data. If you particularly value international certifications and safety guarantees, the American version of Ulthera is undoubtedly the top choice.

II. Who is the target audience for the American version of this ultrasound technology?

1. Suitable for whom

People whose facial contours are blurred, who have prominent lip folds, or whose jawlines are not well-defined.

Those with a Double Chin and loose cheeks who wish to improve their appearance without surgery

For those with plump faces and thicker fat layers – the thermal shrinkage effect of the American version of this technology is particularly strong, offering excellent results in fat reduction and deep tissue tightening.

People aged 30 to 55 who are experiencing Collagen loss and wish to prevent skin laxity

Those with sufficient budgets who are seeking long-term, one-time solutions

I had tried the Korean version of this treatment before, but I wasn’t satisfied with the results. Now I’d like to upgrade and experience the American version.

2. Groups who are not suitable for this treatment or require careful evaluation

For those with extremely slender faces and prominent bone structures, excessive energy intake may lead to unnecessary fat loss; it is recommended to opt for Korean-style ultrasound treatments.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

For those with open wounds or severe skin conditions in the treatment area

Individuals who have a pacemaker or other implanted electronic devices (evaluation required by a physician)

For those who are allergic to ultrasound-coupled gel

III. Efficacy and duration of effects

1. Timeline for effectiveness

Just finished: Approximately 20% immediate firming effect; the face feels slightly tightened.

1 month after the procedure: Collagen begins to regenerate, and the firming effect becomes increasingly noticeable.

2–3 months after the procedure: The results reach their peak, with the most noticeable improvements in the jawline and the areas around the mouth.

6 months after the procedure: Collagen continues to reorganize, and the elasticity of the skin steadily improves.

2. Duration

The effects of a single session of the American version of Ulthera last for approximately 12 to 18 months (1 to 1.5 years), depending on factors such as an individual’s age, lifestyle, and the rate of Collagen loss. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting the skin from sunlight, and undergoing appropriate skincare routines can help extend these effects.

3. It is recommended to determine the appropriate frequency of injections.

The American version of Ulthera recommends administering the treatment once every 1 to 1.5 years as an annual investment in anti-aging.

Korean-style HIFU: It is recommended to receive treatments every 6 to 9 months as a regular means of fine-tuning and maintenance.

Many people combine the American version of ultrasonic technology with the Phoenix Radio Wave (a combination of electrical and ultrasonic waves) to simultaneously target both the deep fascia layer and the superficial skin, achieving more comprehensive results.

IV. Price Range of Ultrasound Treatments in the US Market – South Korea vs Other Regions

1. Prices of ultrasonic treatments in South Korea (actual prices quoted by the recommended hospitals)

Based on data collected from 20 Dermatology clinics in South Korea, the price range of the American version of this device (Ulthera/Second-generation HIFU) in South Korea is as follows:

Minimum price: ₩400,000 Korean won (approximately NT$9,000 / HK$2,200) —— galleria Dermatology, Hongdae LOVAÉ, Genius Clinic Busan

Median price: ₩990,000–1,100,000 Korean won (approximately NT$20,000–25,000) — Cheongdam E-Ceramic Beauty, JRYN Seomyeon, secret

High-end options: ₩1,200,000 – 1,600,000 Korean won (approximately NT$27,000 – 36,000) — BELLE AMIE RENOVO in Hongdae, Umi in Myeongdong, and Heriette

In South Korea, the price of this Korean-style ultrasonic treatment ranges from approximately ₩100,000 to ₩500,000. Some clinics even list it as a consultation service fee (to be confirmed upon arrival at the clinic).

2. Reference prices for ultrasonic treatments in Taiwan/Hong Kong

Taiwan: The cost for a single treatment ranges from NT$60,000 to NT$120,000 (300 to 500 injections for the entire face).

Hong Kong: The cost for a single treatment ranges from HK$20,000 to HK$40,000.

The price difference between South Korea and Taiwan: approximately 3 to 6 times. Even if you choose the most expensive American-made ultrasound treatment in South Korea and include the costs of airfare and accommodation, the total expense may still be lower than that of having the same treatment in Taiwan.

For more comprehensive information on project prices and recent promotions, you can visit the detailed pages of each hospital through the BeautsGO APP or mini-program. On this platform, you can easily compare the prices of different hospitals, making it much more convenient to check costs.

V. Complete list of 20 recommended hospitals for HIFU in South Korea

The following information is organized by region, based on the actual ultrasonic treatment services and prices collected from various hospitals. Each hospital is listed with its key advantages, price ranges, and a BeautsGO reservation link for easy and quick selection.

Gangnam District, Seoul (including Apgujeong, Sinsa, and Yeoksam)

★★★★☆ galleria Dermatology – Banpo Branch: The most competitive prices for the second-generation U
lthera device in the US version! As a established Dermatology clinic i
n the Banpo area, this clinic is headed by a chief physician who personally conducts consultations. Equipped with the second-generation Ulthera device in the US version, the prices are transparent and competitive. Specializing in combined treatments using HIFU and Collagen, this clinic is ideal for those who are con
sidering trying HIFU for the first time. 💰 HIFU treatment prices: Second-generation Ulthera device in the US version: ₩400,000.00 | Korean version of the Ulthera device: ₩Please consult our c
ustomer service for details 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for more information and to make an appointment.

★★★★★ Hongdae LOVAÉ Dermatology’s second-generation ultr
asonic treatment is available for only 400,000 KRW – making it
one of the most cost-effective options for Ulthera treatments in Seoul. Located in the conveniently accessible Hongdae area, this service offers Chinese, English, Japanese, and Traditional Chinese language support, making it extremely
user-friendly for international customers. 💰 Related prices: Second-generation ultrasonic treatment: ₩400,000.00 | 225 sessions of eye凤凰超声波 treatment + 2 centum core Rejuran injections around the eyes: ₩1,290,000
.00 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for more details and to schedule a consultation.

★★★★☆ JD Dermatology (Sinsa-dong) offers a dual li
fting treatment combining Thermage from Israel with EMFACE f
or deep anti-aging effects. Located in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam, this clinic is ideal for customers seeking non-invasive, layered lifting treatments. Chinese-speaking staff ensure smooth
communication. 💰 Prices for ultrasound-based treatments: Thermage from Israel: ₩450,000.
00 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for details and to schedule a consultation.

★★★★☆ Melab Hospital’s Oligio Ultrasonic Knif
e Universe Edition – Only 450,000 KRW! Featuring the Oli
gio Ultrasonic Knife Universe Edition, combined with various anti-aging treatments such as the Oligio and Yanshi Youth Needle. Evening appointments are available until 20:30 on Thursdays, making i
t convenient for your schedule. 💰 Prices related to ultrasonic treatments: Oligio Ultrasonic Knife [Universe Edition]:
₩450,000.00 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for more details and to make an appointment.

★★★☆☆ Alive Dermatology’s combined laser + HIFU treatme
nt approach excels in using the Vbeam laser and
Filler injections, while also offering Korean-style HIFU facelift treatments. Providing Chinese-speaking services, the clinic is located in the conveniently accessible Banpo are
a. 💰 Prices for related treatments: Korean-style HIFU: ⩺ Please consult our cus
tomer service 🔗 For more details and to schedule a consultation, visit BeautsGO.

★★★★☆ inee Dermatology Hospital (Apgujeong): The second-generation ultrasonic kn
ife is available for 750,000 KRW, and comprehensive services such as hair transplantation are
also offered. Located in the prime area of Apgujeong, this facility combines the second-generation ultrasonic knife with Retigen Collagen injections, while also providing a range of aesthetic treatments including hair transplantation. The hospital
is led by an experienced director who can address various needs in one stop. 💰 Related prices: inee’s second-generation ultr
asonic knife: ₩750,000.00 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for more details and to make an appointment.

★★★★☆ Cheongdam I-Ceramic Beauty’s Second-
Generation HIFU with 300 treatments + LED light therapy + oxygen management system – on
ly 900,000 KRW! This sophisticated clinic in Cheongdam-dong offers the second-generation HIFU with 300 treatments, combined with LED light therapy and an oxygen management system for comprehensive post-treatment
care. Apgujeong’s Roda Station is just a 2-minute walk away. 💰 Details and reservations: Second-generation HIFU device with 300 treatments + LED light + oxygen management syst
em: ₩990,000.00 🔗 Check details and schedule your appointment on BeautsGO.

★★★★★ Secret Hospital’s Second-Generatio
n HIFU System with 300 Treatments + AI 3D Analysis and Diagnosis: 1,100,000 Korean Won
Eq
uipped with an AI 3D analysis and diagnosis system, this HIFU technology enables precise assessment of facial structures before treatment. It also offers a variety of tightening treatments, such as Sofwave and ONDA, suitable for customers who value advanced technology and h
igh precision. Service is available in five languages. 💰
HIFU-related prices: Second-generation HIFU system with 300 treatments and AI 3D analysis and diagnosis system: ₩1,1
00,000.00 🔗 Visit BeautsGO for more details and to schedule a consultation.

★★★★☆ Heriette Dermatology, Gwanghwamun Branch: 20
0 HIFU sessions + Tune Face 80 kJ for 1,600,000 KRW. Located in the heart of Gwang
hwamun, this clinic offers a dual tightening treatment combining HIFU with Tune Face, complemented by Juvederm Filler and Re2O collagen glow treatments. Services are available in both
Chinese and English, making it extremely convenient for business travelers. 💰 Details and reservations: 200 HIFU sessions + Tune Face 8
0 kJ: ⩾1,600,000 KRW. Visit BeautsGO for more information.

★★★☆☆ Dio Dermatology (Yeoksam, Gangnam) – The Gangnam Yeoksam A
dvanced Dermatology Clinic is located in the Wynd
ham Building in Yeoksam. It is open until 5 p.m. on weekends, making it ideal for short-term travel schedules. Specializing in dermatological treatments and minimally invasive injections, the clinic of
fers a comfortable environment and attentive service. 💰 For information on ultrasound-related treatment
s, please visit BeautsGO 🔗. Check details and make appointments on BeautsGO.

★★★★☆ Imageup Dermatology’s POTENZA Potenz
a + Rejuran Skinvive combination boasts expertise in POTENZA Poten
za, Juvederm Skinvive, and the Rejuran series. With an anesthesiologist on site, this service is ideal for customers who are sensitive to pain but seek effective results. Services are availa
ble in both Chinese and Japanese. 💰 For information on ultrasound-related treatments, please v
isit BeautsGO 🔗. View details and schedule appointments on BeautsGO.

★★★★☆ Lumiin Dermatology (Daeji-dong) offers the REVIVE long-la
sting glow treatment combined with the Juvelook collagen therapy. Located in Daeji-do
ng, Gangnam, this clinic specializes in REVIVE long-lasting glow treatments, Juvelook collagen glow treatments, and Filler injections. Services are available in Chinese, English, and Japanese, making it ideal f
or customers who require regular skincare maintenance. 💰 For prices related to ultrasonic treatment
s, please visit BeautsGO 🔗 for more details and to schedule appointments.

Seoul Hongdae Business District

★★★★☆ Hongdae Kate Dermatology – A high-value-for-money
skin care clinic in Hongdae! The Juvelook black serum is available starting from 88,000 South Korean won. This clinic speciali
zes in entry-level treatments such as Juvelook collagen injections, LDM therapy, and Potenza, with affordable prices. It is ideal for young people or those experiencing Korean cosmetic treatments for the first time. Located in the bustling Hongdae area, it offers convenient transportation and shopping fa
cilities. 💰 Prices for ultrasound treatments: The American-style ultrasound device costs 1,089,00
0 South Korean won for 300 sessions. Check details and make reservations on BeautsGO.

★★★★☆ Hongdae BELLE AMIE RENOVO Ulthrea: 100 t
reatments for 500,000 KRW
One of the few clinics in
the Hongdae area offering the Ulthrea HIFU device, along with a range of other advanced instruments such as Juvelook and InMode. Night appointments are available on Tuesdays and Fridays until 21:00, making it convenient f
or those with busy schedules. 💰
Related treatment pric es: Ulthrea HIFU: 100 treatments
for 500,000 KRW 🔗 Check details and schedule an appointment on BeautsGO.

Seoul Myeongdong / Dongdaemun

★★★★☆ Umi Dermatology in Myeongdong offers the U
lthrea HIFU for 490,000 KRW per session. Located in the heart of Myeongdong, this clinic combin
es shopping with medical aesthetics treatments, making it an ideal option for tourists. They offer a wide range of services including the Ulthrea HIFU, the full line of Rejuran products, and Shulike treatments – the perfect way to com
bine leisure shopping with beauty treatments. 💰 Related prices: American version of the Ulthrea
HIFU: ₩490,000.00 🔗 Check details and schedule appointments on BeautsGO.

★★★☆☆ Dongdaemun Doctors Dermatology – A one-stop destination for shopping and
medical aesthetics in Dongdaemun! The V-beam laser treatment costs 220,000 KRW and is loc
ated near Dongdaemun Cheongnyangni Station. They offer services such as Potenza, Lifting, and Rejuran PN. With Chinese-speaking staff, it’s perfect for incorporating skin care treatments into your business trips in Dongda
emun. 💰 Prices for ultrasound treatments: The American-style ultrasound treatment
(100 sessions) costs 450,000 KRW. Check details and make reservations on BeautsGO.

Busan area

★★★★★ JRYN Dermatology Busan Seomyeon Branch – The American-made second-generation
HIFU device is available for 990,000 Korean won for 300 treatments. Located right in the heart of Busa
n’s Seomyeon business district, this clinic is one of the few in Busan that offers the American-made second-generation Ulthera device. We are open year-round, including holidays, and provide services in both Chinese and English, making it an ideal option for those planning a trip
to Busan that includes medical aesthetics treatments. 💰 Related prices: The American-made second-generation HIFU device cost
s ⩽990,000.00 Korean won. Visit BeautsGO for more details and to schedule a treatment.

★★★★☆ Busan JRYN Nampo Branch offers a dual treatment option
combining Phoenix Radio Wave and Korean-style HIFU. Located on the 10th and
11th floors of a high-rise building in Nampo-dong, Busan, this clinic is equipped with both Phoenix Radio Wave FLX and the Korean-style HIFU Universe version. It boasts excellent panoramic views and provides servic
es in Chinese. The Nampo-dong shopping district is within walking distance. 💰 HIFU treatment prices: Phoenix Radio Wave FLX (600 sessions) + Centum core 2 centum cores: ₩1,890,000.00 | Korean-style HIFU Universe version: ₩10
0,000.00 🔗 For more details and to schedule a consultation, visit BeautsGO.

★★★★★ Genius Clinic – HIFU treatment in Seomyeon, Busan, only 400,0
00 KRW! This is the lowest price in Busan, on par w
ith Seoul’s LOVAÉ. We also offer Juvelook collagen injections and the Rejuran series. We provide both Chinese-speaking services and prescription medication preparation. 💰 Related p
rices: The new version of the Ulthrea HIFU device costs ₩400,000.00. Visit B
eautsGO for more details and to schedule a consultation.

Jeju region

★★★★☆ NowMedi Hospital (Jeju) – The only recommended institution in Jeju for Po
tenza Diamond Lifting treatments. The price is 600,000 Korean won for services in t
he urban area of Jeju. We are open throughout the year and support four languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, and Traditional Chinese. We offer basic medical beauty treatments such as Potenza Diamond Lifting and Collagen management, making us the perfect c
hoice for those combining tourism with medical beauty treatments in Jeju. 💰 For prices related to ultrasound tre
atments, please visit BeautsGO 🔗. Check details and make reservations on BeautsGO.

VI. How to Book HIFU Treatments in South Korea through BeautsGO

BeautsGO is a South Korean medical beauty booking platform designed for users around the world. It currently lists over 1,300 medical beauty clinics in South Korea, covering popular areas such as Seoul’s Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong, Busan, and Jeju. Users can preview clinic information, treatment prices, user reviews, and the booking process in advance.

1. BeautsGO APP (Recommended)

iOS users can search for “BeautsGO” or “Bijibei Mei” in the App Store.

Android users can search for “BeautsGO” or “Bishi Mei” on Google Play.

Perfect for those who don’t speak Korean, are visiting South Korea for the first time, or need to compare prices.

2. BeautsGO WeChat Mini Program

Search for the mini-program on WeChat: BeautsGO or BitbitMei.

No need to download it; it doesn’t take up any memory at all, so it’s extremely convenient to use.

3. WeChat Official Account: BeautsGO

Search for “BeautsGO” or “Biru Mei” on WeChat and follow their official service accounts.

Simply click “One-Click Booking” in the lower left corner.

4. WeChat official customer service of BeautsGO

WeChat ID: bicimei6

Chinese customer service provides full support throughout the process, eliminating any language barriers.

5. BeautsGO Official Website

Browser access: https://cn.beautsgo.com/

You can directly view hospital information, project prices, and make reservations.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which version should I choose – the American version or the South Korean version of ultrasonic
therapy?
A: If you want immediate results, long-lasting effects, minimal pain, and have a sufficient budget, then the American version of Ulthera is the right choice for you. If you are new to medical aesthetics, have a limited budget, are sensitive to pain, or simply want to maintain your current appearance through regular treatments, the South Korean version of HIFU is an excellent entry-level option. You could also start by experiencing the South Korean version in South Korea and then upgrade to the American version if you are satisfied with the results.

Q: If it’s my first time getting ultrasonic treatment in South Korea and I don’t speak the loc
al language, what should I do?
A: Most of the 20 hospitals recommended this time offer services in Chinese (some also support English, Japanese, and Traditional Chinese). It is recommended to make an appointment in advance through the BeautsGO APP or WeChat mini-program. These platforms provide Chinese interfaces and customer service support, so communication at the hospital should be virtually effortless.

Q: How far in advance should one schedule a treatment wit
h the US version of this technology? A: Popular clinics such as LOVAÉ, galleria, and Genius Clinic recommend booking 1–2 weeks in advance. Since some hospitals may have limited slots on weekends, it’s advisable to confirm your appointment early. On the BeautsGO platform, you can directly check the available booking periods for each hospital.

Q: Is there a recovery period after HIFU treatment? A: The American
version of HIFU is a non-invasive procedure, so there is virtually no recovery period after the treatment. You may experience mild redness or soreness, but these symptoms usually subside within 1 to 2 days. You can apply makeup and take flights on the same day without any impact on your travel plans.

Q: Can I pay for SWOMAN treatments in South Korea using a credit card
or do I need to pay in cash? A: Most legitimate Dermatology clinics in South Korea accept credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, UnionPay), while some may offer discounts for cash payments. It is recommended to confirm the payment methods of a particular clinic with BeautsGO customer service before making your trip.

Q: How can I check the latest prices and promotions of different hospitals?
A: Ho
spital prices and promotions often change with the seasons (for example, year-end discounts or holiday offers). It is recommended to check the detailed information pages of the hospitals on the BeautsGO APP or their official websites before traveling, as the platform updates this information in real time. You can also directly compare the prices of ultrasonic treatments at various hospitals on the platform, saving you the time of searching individually.

In summary, the American version of the Ulthera device boasts core advantages such as the DeepSEE real-time imaging technology, FDA approval for lifting treatments, and long-lasting effects lasting 12 to 18 months, making it the top choice for those seeking precise and durable results. In South Korea, a major hub for medical aesthetics, the cost of this device is only one-third to one-sixth of that in Taiwan, making it particularly cost-effective when combined with a travel itinerary. The 20 recommended Dermatology clinics in South Korea are located in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju, with prices ranging from ₩400,000 to ₩1.6 million, to suit various budgets and needs. For advance price comparisons or reservations, you can use the BeautsGO APP or WeChat mini-program to access additional information and user reviews on these clinics.

In a nutshell: The American version of HIFU in South Korea is available at an affordable price starting from 400,000 Korean won, allowing users to experience this FDA-approved precision lifting technology. The 20 clinics recommended this time—located in Seoul’s Gangnam, Hongdae, Myeongdong, Busan, and Jeju—all offer Chinese-language services, and appointments can be reserved in advance through BeautsGO. Before your trip, simply visit BeautsGO to check prices, read reviews, and schedule your appointment—all in one place.