Hello.
I am Director Dong-young Kim of Cleor Clinic Hongdae Branch.
When you stand in front of a mirror with a neutral expression,
have you ever felt that your jawline seems less defined than before?
"It looks fine when I smile, but when my face is still,
it looks saggy and makes me look older."
The blurring of facial contours is not simply due to weight loss or gain,
but because the SMAS layer, which supports the skin from within,
becomes loose as we age.
This layer is located much deeper than the skin surface,
making it difficult to reach with creams or massages.
A representative method to access this deep layer
is the ultrasound lifting treatment, Ultherapy Prime.
Today, I will explain the principles of how Ultherapy Prime works,
and step-by-step, what has changed compared to the original Ulthera.
What is Hongdae Ultherapy Prime?
👉 Ultherapy Prime is a next-generation ultrasound lifting device from Merz that delivers High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
to the SMAS layer.
As a medical device approved by the US FDA and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS),
its official approved name is a Focused Ultrasound Stimulator System.
The mechanism can be compared to using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight.
Just as paper burns when scattered sunlight is concentrated into a single point,
it concentrates ultrasound energy onto a specific point deep within the skin
to create thermal coagulation points.
This stimulation induces the regeneration of collagen and elastin in the SMAS layer,
causing loose tissue to contract and refining the facial contours.
Because it acts directly on the deep layers without passing through the epidermis,
it is a non-invasive procedure performed without damaging the skin surface.
Differences between Hongdae Ultherapy Prime and Original Ulthera
👉 Ultherapy Prime is a new model released in Korea in 2025,
designed to improve pain management and procedural convenience compared to the original Ulthera.
The original Ulthera has been used for a long time without major changes
since its US FDA approval in 2009.
Ultherapy Prime is known to reduce stinging and irritation
by applying a new dedicated tip.
Additionally, it allows for real-time visualization of skin layers via ultrasound imaging during the procedure,
enabling energy delivery while monitoring the exact location of the SMAS layer.
This is why those who "hesitated to get the original Ulthera due to pain"
are considering ultrasound lifting once again.
Benefits and Advantages of Hongdae Ultherapy Prime
👉 The core advantages of Ultherapy Prime can be summarized into three points:
deep layer lifting, short downtime, and gradual collagen regeneration.
First, it acts on the deep SMAS layer, which is difficult for RF lifting to reach.
It non-invasively accesses the same layer targeted in a surgical facelift,
lifting the jawline and facial contours from the inside.
Next, the downtime is relatively short.
Since it does not damage the skin surface,
it is reported that patients can return to daily life or apply makeup immediately after the procedure.
Finally, the changes take place gradually.
While some may experience an immediate tightening effect,
it is known that elasticity improves as collagen regenerates
over a period of approximately 2 to 3 months.
Who is Hongdae Ultherapy Prime for?
Those concerned about a blurred jawline and double chin when the face is neutral
Those experiencing the onset of sagging cheeks or loss of facial contour
Those who want deep layer lifting without the burden of surgery
Those who hesitated because the original Ulthera was painful
Those who need to return to daily life immediately after the procedure
Side Effects and Precautions for Hongdae Ultherapy Prime
👉 Ultherapy Prime is a procedure where changes become fully established
during the 2 to 3 months when collagen regenerates, rather than immediately after.
If the sagging is severe or if you also want to improve surface elasticity,
a combination with RF-based treatments may be recommended.
During the procedure, you may feel a brief sensation of heat
or a slight tingling deep within the skin,
and numbing cream is used to minimize discomfort.
Mild redness or slight swelling may occur after the procedure,
but these are reported to subside quickly in most cases.
The procedure may be restricted in the following cases, requiring a prior consultation:
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
If there are metal implants or prosthetics in the treatment area
If you use internal electronic devices such as a pacemaker
If there are acute skin troubles, wounds, or herpes in the treatment area
If you have a keloid-prone constitution or have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease
⚠️ Pre-treatment Precautions for Hongdae Ultherapy Prime
1–2 Weeks Before the Procedure
If you have recently received deep fillers or other lifting treatments,
we will determine the appropriate timing for the procedure during your consultation.
It is also advisable to leave an interval after strong chemical peels or laser treatments.
2–3 Days Before the Procedure
Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the possibility of post-procedure swelling,
so it is recommended to avoid it if possible.
Day of the Procedure
Please visit the clinic with a clean face after washing.
If you are taking any medications or have a history of facial procedures,
please inform us during the consultation so we can adjust the settings accordingly.
⚠️ Post-treatment Precautions for Hongdae Ultherapy Prime
Day of the Procedure
Light face washing, basic skincare, and makeup are generally possible.
Please do not rub or apply strong pressure to the treated area.
1–2 Weeks After the Procedure
It is recommended to refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking.
Avoid activities that cause excessive sweating, such as saunas, steam rooms, and strenuous exercise.
Post-treatment Care
Be more thorough with moisturizing than usual,
and consistent use of sunscreen will help maintain the results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How is Hongdae Ultherapy Prime different from RF lifting?
Ultherapy Prime uses ultrasound (HIFU) to act on the deep SMAS layer,
while RF lifting like Thermage uses radiofrequency to address elasticity in the dermal layer.
Since the depth of action differs, the most suitable treatment varies
depending on the degree of sagging and your goals.
Q. How painful is Hongdae Ultherapy Prime?
You may feel a brief sensation of heat or a tingling stimulus deep within the skin during the procedure.
The new dedicated tip is known to reduce irritation compared to the original Ulthera,
and numbing cream is applied to minimize discomfort.
Q. When will I see the results of Hongdae Ultherapy Prime?
While some may experience an immediate tightening effect,
it is reported that the changes stabilize as collagen regenerates over approximately 2 to 3 months.
Q. How many sessions of Hongdae Ultherapy Prime are required?
It depends on the skin condition, but some experience noticeable changes after just one session.
Since some receive it at regular intervals for maintenance and cumulative care,
the recommended number of sessions will be provided during your consultation.
Q. Can I return to daily life immediately after Hongdae Ultherapy Prime?
As it is a non-invasive procedure that does not damage the skin surface,
it is generally possible to apply makeup and return to daily life immediately after the procedure.
However, it is best to avoid saunas or strenuous exercise on the day of the treatment.
The blurring of facial contours often begins not on the surface,
but in the deep SMAS layer within the skin.
Hongdae Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive lifting option that delivers ultrasound energy to that deep layer
to lift sagging contours from the inside.
The treatment area and number of sessions suitable for your skin condition
will be determined during your consultation.
If you are concerned about a blurred jawline or double chin when your face is neutral,
please feel free to visit Cleor Clinic Hongdae Branch.
Even before deciding on a procedure, we will provide detailed guidance on your skin condition
and the most suitable care direction through a prior consultation.
※ This content is for general informational purposes, and results may vary depending on the individual.
Please consult with a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and to determine if the procedure is right for you.