Energy devices and threads can do a lot for mild to moderate sagging, but they are not a facelift. This guide explains honestly what each approach can and cannot achieve, so you can plan your Seoul visit with realistic expectations.
Non-surgical lifting, such as Ulthera Prime, Thermage FLX or a thread lift, tightens skin and supports tissue with little or no downtime, giving a subtle to moderate improvement that usually lasts about 6–18 months. A surgical facelift removes excess skin and repositions deeper tissue, giving a much larger and longer-lasting change, but it needs anesthesia, incisions and weeks of recovery. Non-surgical options suit mild to moderate laxity; heavy sagging usually needs surgery. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not perform surgical facelifts. Non-surgical lifting starts from ₩149,000 (Shurink Universe), excluding 10% VAT.
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Non-surgical lifting vs a facelift: the honest answer
Non-surgical lifting and a surgical facelift are not two versions of the same thing. Non-surgical lifting uses energy (ultrasound, radiofrequency, laser or microwave) or dissolvable threads to tighten skin, stimulate collagen and support tissue. It can make a face look fresher, firmer and more defined, with little or no downtime. A surgical facelift physically repositions the deeper layers of the face and removes excess skin. It can correct sagging that no device can reach, but it involves anesthesia, incisions, scars and a much longer recovery.
Please note that Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not perform surgical facelifts. We are a doctor-led dermatology and aesthetic clinic, and we focus on non-surgical treatments. If our doctor feels surgery would serve you better, we will tell you honestly. For an overview of the non-surgical options, see Korean lifting treatments explained.
What can non-surgical lifting achieve?
Non-surgical treatments work best for mild to moderate laxity. Realistic goals include:
- A crisper jawline and softer early jowls
- Firmer, smoother, less crepey skin on the face and neck
- A slightly lifted brow or cheek
- Better skin quality and glow
- Slowing the visible pace of aging when repeated regularly
Main options at Dernia include Ulthera Prime(deep ultrasound lifting), Thermage FLX(RF skin tightening), Shurink Universe, Oligio X, Volnewmer, Titanium Lifting and the PDO thread lift.
What are the limitations of non-surgical lifting?
It is important to understand what devices and threads cannot do:
- They cannot remove excess skin. If there is a lot of loose, hanging skin, tightening alone will not make it disappear.
- The lift is modest. Results are usually described as looking rested or refreshed rather than dramatically changed.
- Results are temporary. Most last around 6–18 months, depending on the treatment, so maintenance is part of the plan.
- Response varies. Skin thickness, age, sun damage, smoking and weight changes all affect how well collagen responds.
- They do not restore lost volume. Hollow temples or cheeks may need collagen stimulators or filler instead.
What does a surgical facelift involve?
In general terms, a facelift is performed by a plastic surgeon under sedation or general anesthesia. Incisions are usually placed around the ears and hairline. The surgeon lifts and tightens the deeper support layer (SMAS), repositions tissue and removes excess skin before closing. Recovery typically involves significant swelling and bruising for one to two weeks, with a return to most normal activities after about two to three weeks, and residual swelling settling over several months. Results can last many years, although aging continues.
Surgery carries risks that non-surgical treatments generally do not, including anesthesia risks, bleeding or hematoma, infection, visible scarring, nerve injury, hair loss near incisions and asymmetry. A facelift should only be considered after an in-person consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Non-surgical lifting | Surgical facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Energy devices or dissolvable threads | Incisions, SMAS repositioning, skin removal |
| Anesthesia | Numbing cream or local anesthetic | Sedation or general anesthesia |
| Degree of change | Subtle to moderate | Significant |
| Downtime | None to about one week (threads) | Several weeks |
| Results last | About 6–18 months | Many years |
| Scars | None, or tiny entry points | Yes, usually hidden around ears and hairline |
| Best for | Mild to moderate laxity, prevention | Moderate to heavy sagging, excess skin |
Which is right for you?
Non-surgical is usually a good fit
- Early to moderate jowls or a softening jawline
- Crepey or less firm skin
- You want no or minimal downtime
- You prefer gradual, natural-looking change and maintenance
A surgical opinion may suit better
- Heavy sagging along the jaw and neck
- Significant excess or hanging skin
- Deep folds that persist despite previous lifting treatments
- You want a large, long-lasting change and can accept surgical recovery
Many people use non-surgical lifting to delay the point at which surgery becomes worthwhile, and some use it after a facelift to maintain skin quality. See when to start lifting treatments and who should avoid lifting treatments.
What happens at a non-surgical lifting consultation
A good consultation should help you decide whether non-surgical lifting is worthwhile at all, not just which device to book. At Dernia, it follows these steps:
- Assessment in English. A licensed doctor examines your face at rest and in motion, checking skin thickness, how much tissue has descended, volume loss and the neck.
- Honest expectations. The doctor explains what non-surgical treatment is likely to change for you, and says plainly if a surgical opinion would serve you better.
- A layered plan. If non-surgical lifting suits you, the doctor may combine deep lifting, skin tightening and, where needed, volume support, rather than relying on one device.
- Clear price and timing. You agree the final plan and price before treatment, and it is scheduled around your travel dates.
Bring photos of yourself from five to ten years ago if you can; they help the doctor understand how your face has changed. Our list of questions to ask at your consultation may also help.
Is non-surgical lifting safe? Risks and side effects
Energy-based lifting is considered low risk under medical supervision. Common effects include temporary redness, swelling and tenderness. Uncommon effects include bruising, blisters, temporary numbness or tingling; rarely, burns, nerve irritation or unwanted fat loss can occur. Thread lifts carry more risk, including bruising, dimpling, asymmetry, visible or palpable threads, extrusion and infection. A licensed doctor should confirm that you are a suitable candidate and set realistic expectations before any treatment.
How much does non-surgical lifting cost in Seoul (2026)?
Dernia does not offer surgical facelifts, so we do not quote a price for surgery. In general, facelift costs depend on the surgeon, the extent of surgery, anesthesia and hospital fees. These are Dernia's 2026 prices for non-surgical lifting:
| Treatment | Plan | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| Shurink Universe | 600 shots, full face | ₩259,000 |
| Titanium Lifting | Full face | ₩450,000 |
| Ulthera Prime | 400 lines, full face | ₩1,390,000 |
| Thermage FLX | 600 shots, full face and jawline | ₩1,690,000 |
| Thread lift | Full lower face | ₩1,690,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed at consultation. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. See the full 2026 price list.
Planning non-surgical lifting around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your dates and photos via the consultation form; our doctor will tell you honestly whether non-surgical lifting is likely to meet your goals.
- Avoid your arrival day. Schedule treatment for day two or later.
- Allow time for threads. If a thread lift is planned, leave five to seven days before your flight home.
- Getting here. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
Flying home? Most energy-based lifting has no wounds, so flying the next day is usually fine. After threads, fly once the doctor has checked you. Our aftercare guide covers what to avoid in the first days.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-surgical lifting replace a facelift?
Not for heavy sagging or excess skin. Non-surgical lifting suits mild to moderate laxity and gives a more subtle, temporary improvement.
Does Dernia perform facelifts?
No. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong focuses on non-surgical treatments and does not perform surgical facelifts. Our doctor will tell you honestly if surgery may suit you better.
How long does non-surgical lifting last?
Usually about 6–18 months depending on the treatment. Thermage FLX and thread lifts commonly last 12–18 months, and Ulthera Prime about a year.
Is a thread lift the same as a mini facelift?
No. A thread lift uses dissolvable threads without removing skin, while a surgical facelift involves incisions and skin removal.
What is the cheapest non-surgical lifting at Dernia?
Shurink Universe starts from ₩149,000 for 300 shots, excluding 10% VAT. The right option depends on your skin and goals.
Can I combine non-surgical treatments?
Yes. Many people combine HIFU and RF, or add threads, to address different layers. Your doctor will advise.
Not sure if non-surgical lifting is enough?
Send us your photos and travel dates. A doctor examines your face in person, explains realistic results in English and confirms your plan and price before treatment.
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This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.