📋 In This Guide
What is HIFU and How Does Shurink Work?
HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It delivers precise energy pulses to the SMAS layer — the same layer a surgeon tightens during a facelift — without any cuts or needles. The controlled thermal damage triggers collagen production, gradually firming and lifting skin over two to three months.
Shurink is a Korean-manufactured HIFU device by Classys Inc. It dominates the Seoul market because it is faster, more comfortable, and slightly cheaper to operate than the American original (Ulthera / Ultherapy), while producing comparable results. Most Gangnam clinics now use Shurink as their primary HIFU platform.
Key treatment areas include:
- Lower face and jawline (jowl lifting)
- Neck and décolletage tightening
- Brow lifting and forehead smoothing
- Under-eye area (with a gentler cartridge)
- Body: arms, abdomen, inner thighs
Seoul HIFU / Shurink Price Breakdown (2026)
| Treatment Area | Low (budget clinic) | Mid (standard Gangnam) | High (premium) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full face + neck (300 shots) | ₩200,000 | ₩350,000–₩500,000 | ₩700,000–₩900,000 |
| Full face only (200 shots) | ₩150,000 | ₩250,000–₩380,000 | ₩500,000–₩650,000 |
| Neck only | ₩80,000 | ₩120,000–₩200,000 | ₩280,000–₩400,000 |
| Eye area (100 shots) | ₩60,000 | ₩90,000–₩150,000 | ₩200,000–₩300,000 |
| Body (abdomen, 400 shots) | ₩200,000 | ₩350,000–₩600,000 | ₩800,000–₩1,200,000 |
Shurink vs Ulthera vs Doublo — Which Is Best?
| Device | Origin | Price (Seoul) | Pain Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shurink | Korea (Classys) | ₩200K–₩900K | Moderate | Value + speed; most popular in Korea |
| Ulthera (Ultherapy) | USA (Merz) | ₩600K–₩2M | Higher | Deep SMAS; premium branding |
| Doublo Gold | Korea (HIRONIC) | ₩180K–₩700K | Moderate | Budget option; decent for maintenance |
| Ultraformer MPT | Korea (Classys) | ₩250K–₩800K | Low–Moderate | Comfortable; good for sensitive skin |
For most foreigners visiting Seoul, Shurink is the smart choice: it is the device most Gangnam doctors are most experienced with, produces reliable results, and costs significantly less than Ulthera for equivalent shot counts.
Recommended Clinics for HIFU in Gangnam
What to Expect Before, During & After
Before the Treatment
- Remove all makeup and sunscreen before your appointment
- Avoid retinol or AHA/BHA products for 48 hours prior
- Discuss your concerns clearly — ask the doctor to mark the target zones
- Numbing cream is usually applied 20–30 minutes before to reduce discomfort
During the Treatment
The procedure takes 30–60 minutes depending on area. You will feel intermittent heat and tingling as the device passes over your skin. Bony areas (jawline, temples) are more sensitive. Most patients rate the discomfort as 3–5 out of 10 with numbing cream.
After the Treatment
- Mild redness and slight swelling may occur for 1–3 days — normal and temporary
- Results begin appearing at 4–8 weeks and peak around 3 months
- A single session typically lasts 6–12 months; many patients repeat annually
- Avoid intense heat (sauna, hot yoga) for 48 hours post-treatment
FAQ
Is HIFU safe for all skin tones?
Yes. Unlike some laser treatments, HIFU is safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types including darker skin tones, because the ultrasound energy bypasses the epidermis entirely and acts on the deeper layers.
How soon before a trip should I get HIFU?
If you want to look your best for an event, schedule HIFU 2–3 months before, as peak collagen production takes time. If you are getting it as part of a Seoul trip, the treatment itself is fine — just expect mild redness for a day or two.
Can I combine HIFU with other treatments?
Yes, and it is commonly done in Korea. Popular combinations include HIFU + Botox (jaw) + skin booster (Rejuran or Juvelook) for a comprehensive anti-aging result. Allow at least one week between energy-based treatments.
Do I need multiple sessions?
Most patients see good results from a single session and repeat after 6–12 months for maintenance. Those with significant laxity may benefit from two sessions spaced 8–12 weeks apart.
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