Ultraformer III in Seoul: HIFU Lifting and V-Line Contour
The short answer
Ultraformer III, known as Shurink in Korea, is a Korean HIFU device that focuses ultrasound energy into the deep skin and SMAS layer to lift the cheeks, define the jawline and reduce fullness under the chin. In Gangnam a full-face session typically costs about ₩200,000–₩800,000 for 300–600 shots, takes 30–45 minutes, and has no downtime. Results build over 4–12 weeks and last about 6–12 months.
Key facts
- Also called: Shurink (Korean market name)
- Technology: HIFU with macro and micro-focused cartridges
- Best for: V-line contouring, mild jowls, double chin, early cheek descent
- Shots: typically 300–600 lines for the face
- Session time: 30–45 minutes
- Downtime: none; mild redness or tenderness
- Typical Seoul price: about ₩200,000–₩800,000
What Ultraformer III is
Ultraformer III is one of the most widely used Korean HIFU platforms, sold domestically under the name Shurink and abroad as Ultraformer. Like other high-intensity focused ultrasound devices, it concentrates energy into tiny points beneath the skin, creating controlled thermal injury at precise depths. Those points contract existing collagen and set off a repair process that builds new collagen and tightens tissue over the following weeks.
The device became popular in Gangnam because it offers a fast, comfortable treatment at a fraction of the price of imported devices, and it is often used as regular maintenance lifting.
How the cartridges work
Ultraformer III offers cartridges for different depths. Deeper cartridges, around 4.5 mm, reach the SMAS layer that surgeons tighten during a facelift. Middle-depth cartridges, around 3.0 mm, target the deep dermis and fat. Shallow cartridges, around 1.5–2.0 mm, tighten the upper dermis and refine texture. A micro-focused mode can treat small areas such as around the eyes and mouth. Your doctor chooses the combination according to face shape and goals.
Who benefits most
- People in their late 20s to 50s with early laxity
- A soft jawline or mild jowls
- Fullness under the chin that blurs the V-line
- Fine lines and crepiness around the eyes
- Those wanting an affordable maintenance lift every six to twelve months
Very thin faces need careful energy settings to avoid unwanted volume loss, and significant sagging or excess skin usually needs threads or surgery.
Ultraformer III versus other lifting devices
| Device | Energy | Comfort | Typical full-face price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultraformer III (Shurink) | HIFU | Moderate | ₩200,000–₩800,000 |
| Doublo Gold | HIFU | Moderate | ₩200,000–₩700,000 |
| Ultherapy | Micro-focused ultrasound with imaging | More intense | ₩1,500,000–₩4,000,000 |
| Oligio | Monopolar RF | Moderate | ₩400,000–₩1,500,000 |
HIFU focuses on deeper lift and contour, while RF devices tighten the skin itself. Many patients in Seoul combine the two in one visit.
What to expect on treatment day
Your face is cleansed and numbing cream may be applied for 20 to 30 minutes. The doctor marks the treatment zones and applies ultrasound gel. The handpiece is placed against the skin and fires a line of energy with each shot. You will feel warmth and brief deep pricking or aching, most noticeable over the jawbone and near the temples. Comfort varies between people, and energy can be adjusted. A full face takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
After the session
Most people leave with slight redness that fades within an hour or two. The jaw and cheeks may feel tender or a little swollen for a few days, particularly when chewing. Makeup can be applied straight away. Rare effects include small bruises, temporary numbness or nerve tingling, which typically resolve without treatment.
Results timeline
- Immediately: a subtle tightening from collagen contraction
- Weeks 4–8: firmer, more defined jawline and reduced chin fullness
- Around month 3: peak result
- Months 6–12: gradual fading as natural ageing continues
Because it is affordable and has no downtime, many patients in Korea repeat Ultraformer III every six months as part of a maintenance routine.
Choosing a clinic
Results depend heavily on technique and shot placement. Ask whether a doctor performs the treatment, how many lines are planned per area, whether cartridges are genuine and new, and whether the neck or eye area is included. Confirm the total price in writing before treatment starts. For broader comparisons, see our guide to skin tightening treatments in Korea without surgery.
Tips for international patients
Ultraformer III is ideal for short trips: you can be treated in the morning and sightsee in the afternoon. Since results appear over the following weeks, take photos before treatment so you can compare at home. If you plan injectables like filler in the same visit, ask the doctor about the best order, as many prefer to perform HIFU first.
This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Is Ultraformer III the same as Shurink?
Yes. Shurink is the name used in Korea, while Ultraformer III is the international name.
Does it hurt?
Most people feel warmth and brief deep pricking, especially over bone; numbing cream helps.
How many shots do I need?
A full face usually uses around 300–600 lines, depending on face size and areas included.
When will I see results?
A slight lift may show immediately, with the main improvement at 4–12 weeks.
Can I fly the next day?
Yes. There is no downtime, so flying soon after is generally fine.
Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?
Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.