Shurink vs Ultherapy in Korea: Non‐Surgical Lifting Options Compared

If you’re considering a non-surgical lift or skin-tightening treatment in Korea, two of the standout options you’ll encounter are Shurink and Ultherapy. Both promise firmer skin and improved contour, but they use very different technologies, target different layers, and are optimal for different concerns. Choosing the right one for your skin type, ageing pattern and goals is key.

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to deliver energy deep into tissues.

• It targets the SMAS layer (which is the same layer lifted in surgical facelifts) and deep dermis. Gangnam+2
• It’s used for lifting rather than just tightening.
• In Korea, it’s one of the more premium options.

→ Mechanism

It focuses ultrasound energy down to precise depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm) and creates thermal coagulation points at about 60-70 °C in the target tissue to stimulate collagen.

→ What It’s Best For

• Deep skin laxity (jawline, neck, lower face)
• Lifting rather than just skin tightening
• Those looking for a more dramatic non-surgical lift

→ Considerations

• Can be more uncomfortable/painful than surface treatments.
• Cost tends to be higher.
• Results may take 2-3 months to fully appear.

What is Shurink?

Shurink is a Korean-developed HIFU (or ultrasound) device focused on skin lifting and tightening.

• It uses ultrasonic energy to penetrate dermis and sometimes the SMAS/fascia depending on cartridge depth.
• It is often more affordable in Korean clinics than Ultherapy.

→ Mechanism

Ultrasound energy is focused at specific depths (with cartridges of 1.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 4.5 mm etc) to stimulate collagen regeneration. Jivaka Beauty+1

→ What It’s Best For

• Contouring (jawline, V-line)
• Skin laxity when fat/fat-pad descent is part of the issue
• Patients wanting less downtime and gentler procedure

→ Considerations

• The lifting effect may be more modest compared to devices like Ultherapy which target deeper and more precisely. Primi clinic
• May require multiple sessions for maximal effect.
• Device implementations vary: clinic of skill matters.

Which Treatment Should You Choose?

Choose Ultherapy if you:

• Have noticeable sagging (jawline, neck, lower face)
• Want a more defined lift without surgery
• Are okay with higher cost and some discomfort
• Want a non-surgical alternative to a facelift

Choose Shurink if you:

• Have contour / fat-pad issues (double chin, jowls) + mild laxity
• Want a gentle treatment with smoother recovery
• Are looking for refinement rather than major lift
• Prefer a more affordable and comfortable option

Consider Combining Treatments

In Korea many clinics combine treatments:

• Example: Use Ultherapy for deeper lift + Shurink for large area contour/fat reduction.
• Or sequence: Shurink first for contour enhancement, then Ultherapy later for deeper lift.

Practical Tips for Korea Visitors

• Ask what model/version of the device is being used. (Ultherapy “Prime” etc).
• Ask how many shots or lines will be delivered and what depth/cartridges.
• Ask about pain management (topical numbing, cooling)
• Look at real before/after photos of similar concerns.
• Check cost breakdown: area treated, handpiece, number of shots.
• Discuss maintenance plan: Will you need another session after 6-12 months?
• Confirm clinic uses genuine certified device (Ultherapy is FDA/CE).
• Ensure you’re realistic about what non-surgical can deliver vs surgery.

🔍 Final Thoughts

Both Shurink and Ultherapy have strong roles in non-surgical lifting and contouring — especially within the Korean aesthetic market. The key is matching the technology to your anatomy + ageing pattern + goals.

• If your priority is deep lifting and structure, Ultherapy stands out.
• If your priority is contour + fat reduction + gentle tightening, Shurink is a strong candidate.
• For the most dramatic improvement without surgery, many Korean patients choose Ultherapy or combine it with other technology.
• Device type matters — but clinic expertise and treatment plan matter even more. As one article said: “The key difference in effectiveness … lies in the devices’ default energy settings. … the skill and understanding of the practitioner … are more crucial than the devices themselves.”