Cheongdam has a reputation for premium clinics, but Ulthera Prime is the same device wherever it is used. Here is how to compare cost and treatment quality between Cheongdam and Myeongdong.
Ulthera Prime (Ultherapy) is a micro-focused ultrasound lifting device that works the same way in Cheongdam or Myeongdong. The real differences are the number of lines, the transducers used, the doctor's planning and whether VAT is included, not the neighborhood. Cheongdam suits visitors staying in Gangnam; Myeongdong is more central for most tourists. At Dernia Clinic Myeongdong, Ulthera Prime starts from ₩390,000 for 100 lines, ₩1,090,000 for 300 lines and ₩1,390,000 for a 400-line full face (excluding 10% VAT).
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
What is Ulthera Prime?
Ulthera Prime is the latest generation of the Ultherapy system made by Merz Aesthetics. It uses micro-focused ultrasound to create tiny thermal points at set depths beneath the skin, including the SMAS layer that surgeons tighten in a facelift. Over the following months, the treated tissue contracts and new collagen forms, giving a gradual lift to the brows, cheeks, jawline and under the chin. A real-time imaging screen lets the practitioner see the skin layers while treating, which helps place energy accurately.
Because it is a branded device, Ulthera Prime is the same machine in Cheongdam, Myeongdong or anywhere else. See our Ulthera Prime treatment page for the full explanation.
Cheongdam vs Myeongdong: does location affect your Ulthera result?
Cheongdam-dong, in Gangnam-gu, is known for luxury boutiques and high-end clinics with private rooms and a premium feel. Myeongdong, in central Seoul, is the city's tourist hub, close to most visitor hotels, Namsan and the palaces. Neither area guarantees a better result. Ulthera outcomes depend on:
- Assessment. Whether a doctor maps your face and decides where lift is needed.
- Line count and depth. Enough lines, placed at the right depths for your anatomy.
- Technique. Avoiding nerves and thin bony areas, and adjusting energy to comfort.
- Genuine equipment. Authentic Ulthera transducers and a visible line count.
How much does Ulthera Prime cost in Myeongdong (2026)?
| Plan | Typical coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 lines | One target area, such as the brows or under the chin | ₩390,000 |
| 300 lines | Lower face and jawline | ₩1,090,000 |
| 400 lines | Full face | ₩1,390,000 |
| 600 lines | Full face, under the chin and neck | ₩1,990,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026 — see payment and tax. More on the Ulthera Prime price page.
Why Ulthera quotes differ between clinics
Clinics in prestige districts may have higher costs, but the biggest differences in Ulthera pricing usually come from the plan itself:
- Lines, not sessions. Ulthera is priced by lines delivered. A cheaper quote may simply cover fewer lines.
- Ulthera vs other ultrasound. Some clinics use other HIFU brands, which are priced differently. Make sure the quote names Ulthera Prime.
- Who performs it. A doctor-performed treatment takes more physician time.
- VAT and extras. Check whether VAT, numbing and soothing care are included.
If budget is a priority, Shurink Universe is another focused ultrasound option with a lower price per session but a shorter typical duration. Compare them in Ulthera Prime vs Shurink Universe. Dernia does not currently offer Sofwave; ask at consultation if you are weighing it against Ulthera.
How to check that your Ulthera is genuine
Because Ulthera Prime is one of the most requested lifting treatments in Korea, visitors sometimes worry about whether they are receiving the real device and the full number of lines. These checks work in any clinic, in Cheongdam, Myeongdong or elsewhere:
- Ask for the device by name. The quote and consent form should say Ulthera Prime or Ultherapy, not simply HIFU.
- Look at the screen. Ulthera displays live ultrasound images of the skin layers during treatment, which other HIFU devices may not.
- Confirm the line count. Ask to see the counter at the end of the session so you know how many lines were delivered.
- Ask who treats you. A doctor-performed treatment is preferable, because placement and depth decisions matter.
- Get written aftercare. In English, with a contact for questions after you leave Korea.
Clinics that are confident in their equipment are usually happy to answer these questions. If a clinic is reluctant, it is reasonable to look elsewhere. See our expert review of Ulthera Prime for a balanced overview of the device.
Is Ulthera Prime right for you?
Usually a good fit
- Mild to moderate sagging of the brows, cheeks or jawline
- Early jowls or loose skin under the chin
- People wanting one session with minimal downtime
- Those maintaining a previous lift
Talk to the doctor first
- Very thin faces with little fat (risk of a hollowed look)
- Heavy sagging where surgery may suit better
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active acne, infection or open wounds in the area
See who should avoid lifting treatments.
What happens on treatment day
- English consultation. The doctor assesses your face, plans lines and depths and confirms the price.
- Numbing. Topical cream for around 30–40 minutes; the doctor may discuss other comfort options.
- Mapping. Treatment areas are marked, avoiding sensitive nerve zones.
- Treatment. The doctor applies the transducer line by line, checking the imaging screen. You feel short, deep pulses of heat.
- Aftercare. Soothing care and written instructions in English.
Results, recovery and safety
Some people see a slight lift immediately, but the main change develops over two to three months as collagen remodels, and a single session usually lasts about a year or longer. Expect mild redness and swelling for a few hours, and tenderness along the jaw or cheekbones for a few days. Avoid saunas and intense exercise for a day or two.
Uncommon side effects include temporary numbness, nerve irritation, bruising or welts. Rarely, overtreatment of thin faces can cause a gaunt look, which is why careful assessment matters. A licensed doctor should confirm you are a suitable candidate. Read the Ulthera Prime results timeline.
Should you travel to Cheongdam for Ulthera?
From Myeongdong, Cheongdam is roughly 35–45 minutes by subway or taxi, depending on traffic. If you are staying in Gangnam or planning a day of luxury shopping there, it may be convenient. If your hotel is in central Seoul, there is no need to cross the river for genuine Ulthera Prime. What matters more is being able to return easily if you have a question in the days after treatment.
Think, too, about how the rest of the day will feel. With numbing, mapping and treatment, an Ulthera appointment can take around two hours, and the jaw may feel tender afterward. Many visitors prefer to walk back to their hotel, rest, and enjoy a quiet dinner nearby rather than sit in traffic across the river.
Planning Ulthera Prime around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Send your dates through our consultation form so the doctor can propose a line plan.
- Avoid your arrival day. Choose day two or later.
- Easy to reach. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2). See location and directions.
- Combining with Thermage? Read combining Thermage and Ulthera.
Flying home? Ulthera involves no wounds, so most people can fly the next day. Tenderness along the jaw is normal for a few days. Our aftercare guide explains what to expect.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ulthera cheaper in Myeongdong than Cheongdam?
Not necessarily. Compare the number of lines, whether it is genuine Ulthera Prime, who performs it and whether VAT is included. At Dernia Myeongdong, it starts from ₩390,000 for 100 lines before VAT.
How many lines of Ulthera do I need?
About 100 lines treat one small area, 300 lines the lower face and jawline, and 400 lines a full face. The doctor recommends a plan after assessment.
How long does Ulthera last?
A single session usually lasts about a year or longer, with results building over two to three months.
Does Ulthera hurt?
Most people feel brief, deep pulses of heat, strongest over bony areas. Numbing and energy adjustment help make it tolerable.
Does Dernia offer Sofwave?
Dernia does not currently offer Sofwave. The doctor can discuss Ulthera Prime, Shurink Universe or Thermage FLX as alternatives.
Can I combine Ulthera with Thermage?
Yes, many people do, because they work at different depths. The doctor plans the combination and order for your skin.
Planning Ulthera Prime in Seoul?
Tell us your concerns and travel dates. A doctor maps your face in English and confirms the line 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.