K-ClinicUlthera vs Thermage in Korea: Which Lifting? | Céramique
According to Céramique Clinic in Seoul, Ulthera uses ultrasound that reaches the SMAS (fascia) layer and suits a sagging contour, while Thermage uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen to improve laxity and skin texture. So choosing between them depends on which layer your problem is mainly in, which Director Lee Jong-jin, a doctor of aesthetic anatomy, judges from your facial structure. The clinic's listed prices were from a promotion that ended on September 30; confirm current quotes in the live chat.
Find out which layer the problem is in, then choose the device
Ulthera and Thermage are two lifting devices that are often compared. They are not a higher and lower version of the same thing; they work on different layers.
Céramique Clinic near Sinnonhyeon Station in Seoul has both. The clinic explains that Ulthera (ultrasound) reaches the fascia layer (SMAS) and suits a sagging contour, while Thermage (radiofrequency) heats the dermis to stimulate collagen and improve laxity and skin texture.
Work back from what bothers you
Look in a mirror and see which of these bothers you most:
A contour that is dropping, a jawline that is blurring: the problem leans toward the deeper layer, so you can start by asking about Ulthera.
Loose skin that feels less elastic, poor texture: the problem leans toward the dermis, so you can start by asking about Thermage.
This is only a direction for your questions, not a diagnosis. Which device actually suits you is judged by Director Lee Jong-jin (이종진) based on your facial structure. If both apply, the doctor may suggest combining them.
Should you compare shot counts?
Both Ulthera Prime and Thermage FLX are counted in "shots". The clinic's data has listed Ulthera Prime at 100, 300 and 600 shots and Thermage FLX at 300 and 900 shots, among other options.
But the information does not say that more shots are better. For lifting, how many shots and which areas should be advised by the doctor for your situation; do not compare only on shot count.
As for prices, the clinic listed September promotion prices that ended on September 30, so they are not quoted here. K-Clinic will confirm the current quote with the clinic at your consultation.
If you can only choose one, how to talk to the doctor
If your budget covers only one device, tell the doctor your budget limit directly and ask which layer to treat first; that is more practical than choosing the more expensive one yourself. Céramique says the devices can be combined according to the degree of laxity and your budget.
The day itself and aftercare
At Céramique, consultation and treatment can be completed on the same day, in a stand-alone building with private one-person rooms and a VIP lounge. You can arrive without makeup, or remove it at the clinic; if you take blood thinners or similar medication, tell the clinic beforehand.
Temporary redness or mild swelling may occur after treatment and usually fades quickly; avoid saunas, alcohol and strenuous exercise for a few days. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 09:00–18:00 (lunch break 13:00–14:00); closed Saturday and Sunday. The address is 29 Bongeunsa-ro 2-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, about a 2-minute walk from Sinnonhyeon Station.
Common questions
Q. I had Thermage at home. Can I have Ulthera this time?
You can ask. Tell us the device, shot count and date of your last treatment, and the doctor will judge which layer to treat this time.
Q. Can I go shopping straight afterwards?
Yes. After most lifting treatments you can go about your day as normal; the actual situation depends on the treatment and your skin.
Q. Do I need to book in advance?
We recommend booking a slot through the website first, as the waiting time on arrival is shorter.
Book lifting at Céramique Clinic through K-Clinic
Still unsure between Ulthera and Thermage? Use the "Request booking" button or the live chat on this website for a free consultation and send us your situation.
Please send front and side photos, what bothers you most, the lifting treatments you have had and when, your budget limit and the weekdays you are free in Seoul. We confirm the current quote and slots with the clinic, then send you the arrival time and address once the booking is confirmed.
The actual treatment depends on the results of your examination.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Ulthera and Thermage?
According to the clinic, Ulthera is ultrasound that reaches the SMAS (fascia) layer and suits a sagging contour, while Thermage is radiofrequency that heats the dermis to stimulate collagen and improve laxity and skin texture. They work on different layers.
Both are recommended. Which one should I choose?
Tell the doctor what bothers you: a contour that is dropping, or loose skin and poor texture. The doctor will advise based on your examination, and if the problem is spread across layers you can also ask about combining them.
Are more shots always better?
The information does not say so. The clinic has listed options such as Ulthera Prime 100 and 300 shots and Thermage FLX 300 and 900 shots. How many shots suit you should be advised by the doctor after your examination.
How do I book?
Use the "Request booking" button or the live chat on this website for a free consultation. We check slots and the current quote with the clinic, then send you the arrival time and address once the booking is confirmed.
Clinics in this article
About 2 min walk from Sinnonhyeon Station
