Two leading devices built on different energy
Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX are two of the most recognised non-surgical lifting treatments, and visitors to Korea often ask which one they should choose. They are frequently mentioned together, but they work in different ways and are usually chosen for different goals. Knowing how each one works helps you understand why a doctor might recommend one, the other, or both.
Ultherapy Prime: focused ultrasound with imaging
Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound. It delivers energy to precise depths, including the deeper supportive layer of the face that is lifted in surgical facelifts. The energy creates small, controlled points of heat, and the body responds by remodelling collagen over time.
A key feature is real-time ultrasound imaging. The practitioner can see the layers of skin and tissue on screen before delivering each line, which helps place energy at the intended depth.
Ultherapy Prime is often discussed for:
- Lifting sagging tissue.
Jowls and loss of jawline definition.
- Brow heaviness.
Mild drooping around the brows in suitable patients.
- Under-chin and neck laxity.
Loose tissue beneath the jaw.
See our Ultherapy Prime page
for more.
Thermage FLX: monopolar radiofrequency
Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency. Instead of focusing heat into tiny points, it warms a broader volume of the deeper skin layers while the surface is cooled. This heat encourages collagen fibres to tighten and supports new collagen formation.
Thermage FLX is often discussed for:
- Skin tightening.
A firmer feel across the face and neck.
- Texture and crepiness.
Smoother-looking skin where it has become thin or finely wrinkled.
- Eye area.
A dedicated eye tip for loose eyelid skin in suitable patients.
See our Thermage FLX page
for more.
Comparing treatment goals
A simple way to frame the difference is depth and pattern of heat:
- Depth.
Ultherapy targets specific deeper layers, including supportive tissue. Thermage heats the skin itself more broadly.
- Main goal.
Ultherapy is more associated with lifting; Thermage is more associated with tightening and texture.
- Sensation.
Ultherapy often feels like deep aching or prickling over bony areas. Thermage is usually felt as pulses of deep heat.
- Timeline.
Both tend to develop gradually over a few months.
- Common reactions.
Redness, swelling and tenderness for both. Ultherapy may also cause bruising or temporary numbness; Thermage carries a small risk of heat-related blistering.
Another practical difference is how each treatment is priced and planned. Ultherapy is counted in lines delivered across areas and depths, while Thermage is counted in pulses delivered through a tip chosen for the area. That means quotes for the two are not directly comparable, and the number of shots for one does not translate to the other.
Because they address different layers, some Korean clinics combine them in a single plan. Whether this is right for you is a medical decision made at consultation, taking into account your skin, health and travel dates.
Prices at Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon
At Daybeau Clinic Seomyeon, Ultherapy Prime 300 shots is listed at KRW 990,000. This is a first-visit price in KRW, VAT excluded (10% VAT added at payment), checked October 2026. First-visit prices apply once per new patient per item.
Thermage FLX is quoted after an in-person consultation, because the tip and shot count depend on the treatment area and your plan. See our price list
for other lifting options.
Who may be better suited to each
These are general patterns, not rules:
- Ultherapy Prime may suit
people whose main concern is sagging along the jawline, jowls or under the chin, with enough tissue to lift.
- Thermage FLX may suit
people whose main concern is skin quality, crepiness or overall firmness, or who want treatment around the eyes.
- Neither may be enough
for heavy sagging or significant skin excess, where other approaches, including a surgical opinion, may be discussed.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have an implanted electronic device or metal implants, or have a condition affecting healing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX together?
Combining them is sometimes done in Korea, but suitability and timing depend on your skin and are decided at consultation.
Which one shows results sooner?
Both tend to develop gradually. Some people notice slight tightening early, with further change over the following months.
Which one is better for the eyes?
Thermage FLX has a dedicated eye tip that is often discussed for the eyelid area. Your doctor will assess whether it suits you.
Do results last the same amount of time?
Longevity varies by person, skin and lifestyle for both. No specific duration can be guaranteed.
Unsure whether ultrasound or RF fits your goals? Book a consultation
or message us on WhatsApp for a reply in English.
