Ultherapy vs Thermage: Which One Fits Your Sagging, and Can You Do Both in Seoul?

The short answer to Ultherapy vs Thermage is depth. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound to reach the deep SMAS layer, the layer behind sagging, and lift from there. Thermage FLX uses radiofrequency to heat the dermis and tighten loose skin. If your jawline has dropped, start with Ultherapy. If your contour holds but the skin looks crepey with open pores, start with Thermage.

Most people who ask us this have the same worries. "I don't want to pay for the wrong one." "Do I need both?" "Will I look swollen on the flight home?" Here is how the two compare, how to tell which fits your face, and how a combined plan works.

Ultherapy vs Thermage at a glance

The clinic says results for both build gradually over 1 to 3 months, then last about a year. Results vary by individual.

Which one fits your face?

Stand at a mirror and place your fingertips beside your cheekbones. Lift gently up and back.

• The jawline snaps back and the weight beside your smile lines eases. That points to deeper sagging, so Ultherapy is the first option.
• The contour barely changes, but fine lines and pores bother you. That points to loose skin, so Thermage is the first option.
• Both are true. A combined plan is worth discussing.

This is only a starting point. The doctor confirms it in person. With Ultherapy, real-time ultrasound imaging shows the skin layers, so each shot is checked for depth.

How we perform each one

TR Ultherapy Prime follows a 3-step design: a face design, an area-by-area plan chart, then an ultrasound check that sets depth, direction and shot count. MERZ, the maker of Ulthera, selected us as an Ulthera GOLD STANDARD clinic, and we keep your design notes for the next session.

TR Thermage FLX uses the EYES, FACE or FACE & BODY tip for each area. Each tip is single use, and you can check its number. Dr. Kim Yoo-ju is a Thermage TTT Master.

Doing both: how a combined plan works

Our Ulthermage plan tightens the surface with Thermage first, then lifts the SMAS with Ulthera. TR Ultherran lifting adds Rejuran for skin quality on top. If you only come to Seoul once a year, combining in one trip is often the simpler plan.

Comparing devices with threads as well? See Korean thread lift vs devices.

Aftercare during your trip

• Ultherapy: avoid saunas, steam rooms, alcohol and smoking for about 1 week, and skip cold compresses right after.
• Thermage: daily activities right away. Skip cold compresses right after and keep your skin well moisturized.

The clinic lists about 30 to 90 minutes for a Thermage session. Book ahead if you want it on a set day of your trip.

Not sure which one? Send one photo

Send us three things on WhatsApp

1. Photos of your face from the front and at an angle
2. Which bothers you more: a dropped contour or loose skin
3. Your arrival date and flight home

We reply with available times and confirm the fee by message after your assessment.

On the day, the doctor checks your skin thickness and where the sagging sits, then recommends Ultherapy, Thermage or both. Results vary by individual.