Ultherapy vs Thermage vs Combination Treatment: Korea’s Ultimate Skin Lifting Guide

Korea is known for its world-class non-surgical lifting technology, and two of the most popular treatments are Ultherapy and Thermage. Many people wonder whether they should get just one—or combine both for even better results.
This guide explains exactly what each treatment does, who it’s best for, and when combining them creates the most powerful lifting effect.

What Ultherapy Does (Deep Structural Lift)

Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound to target deep layers of the face, including the SMAS—the layer tightened during surgical facelifts.

Benefits of Ultherapy

• Strong lifting for sagging cheeks and jowls
• Jawline contouring
• Neck tightening
• Brow and eye-area lift
• Long-lasting results (12–18 months)

Best For

• Moderate to advanced sagging
• Loss of facial definition
• Visible heaviness along the jawline or neck

What Thermage Does (Surface Firming & Elasticity)

Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis, tightening collagen and improving overall skin quality.

Benefits of Thermage

• Firmer, smoother skin
• Better elasticity and texture
• Reduced fine lines and crepey skin
• Minimal discomfort and no downtime
• Works well on eyelids, cheeks, and neck

Best For

• Mild to moderate skin laxity
• Wrinkles and fine lines
• Rough texture or loss of elasticity
• Patients who prefer comfortable treatments

Ultherapy or Thermage Alone: Who Should Choose What?

Choose Ultherapy Alone If:

• You want noticeable lifting and shaping
• Your skin shows deeper sagging
• You want long-lasting results
• You prefer a structural facial improvement

Choose Thermage Alone If:

• You want smoother, firmer skin
• Your concerns are mild laxity or wrinkles
• You have thin or sensitive skin
• You want little to no downtime
• You prefer routine anti-aging maintenance

Ultherapy + Thermage Together: The Most Complete Lifting Solution

Many Korean dermatology clinics combine Ultherapy + Thermage because they target different layers of the skin.

Why Combination Treatment Works So Well

• Ultherapy lifts the deep foundation
• Thermage tightens the surface layers
• Together, they deliver:
• Strong lifting + contouring
• Better skin texture
• Improved elasticity
• Longer-lasting anti-aging effects
• More natural, balanced results

Best For Combination Treatment

• Patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s
• Those with both sagging and texture concerns
• People wanting a “full anti-aging upgrade”
• Anyone preparing for a major event, photoshoot, or visible makeover

How Korean Clinics Usually Structure the Combination

• Ultherapy first for deep structural lifting
• Thermage next to refine skin texture and firmness
• Treatments can be done on the same day or spaced weeks apart
• Results gradually improve over 2–3 months

Which Option Is Best for You in Korea?

Choose Ultherapy Alone

If deep sagging or jowls are your main concern.

Choose Thermage Alone

If you want firmer, smoother, more youthful skin without intense sensation.

Choose the Combination

If you want the strongest, most comprehensive lifting results—both on the surface and deep within the skin.

Why Korea Is the Best Place for These Treatments

• Advanced ultrasound and RF machines
• Experienced dermatologists specializing in lifting techniques
• Natural and balanced results emphasized
• Customizable plans: alone, alternating, or combined
• Competitive pricing compared to the US, Japan, and Europe