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Ultherapy + Thermage combination
Ultherapy PRIME lifts from deep support layers; Thermage tightens the whole dermis above them. Combined, they work on sagging and laxity at two different depths in one plan.
What the combination is and how it works
Ultherapy PRIME and Thermage are two of the best-known energy lifting treatments, and they work in different ways. Ultherapy PRIME uses HIFU — high-intensity focused ultrasound — to deliver energy to precise points at set depths of 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm, heating tissue to around 65–70°C. It is regarded as a benchmark for deep sagging and can treat several depths in one session. Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency to spread heat evenly through the dermis at around 3.0 mm, at roughly 65–75°C, tightening the skin as a whole.
Put simply, Ultherapy works on the deeper foundation , while Thermage works on the surface fabric of the skin. Many faces show both problems at once — deeper tissues that have descended and skin that has lost firmness — which is why the two are often planned together.
Which layers it targets and who it suits
In our 8-layer Skin Architecture model, Ultherapy reaches down towards the fascia (SMAS) and subcutaneous layers, while Thermage works through the full-thickness dermis . Combining them means more than one layer of laxity is addressed in the same plan.
The combination may suit you if you have:
- Sagging along the jawline or jowls together with loose, crepey skin
- A softened lower face and loss of firmness across the cheeks
- Early to moderate ageing changes and a preference for non-surgical options
- Time for a single, more thorough lifting session rather than frequent lighter ones
What happens on the day
A director examines your face and decides which layers need attention, how much energy each area needs and in what order the devices are used. Your plan and settings are recorded in your Skin Library. The face is cleansed and marked, and comfort measures are discussed beforehand — sensations vary between areas and from person to person. Both treatments are typically performed in the same visit, with the doctor adjusting depth and energy around delicate zones. You can rest in Café Obliv Ansik afterwards.
Downtime, results and how long they last
Downtime is usually limited. Mild redness, swelling or tenderness can occur, and a pulling sensation right after treatment is common. Results come in stages:
- Some immediate tightening on the day
- Noticeable change usually within 1–3 months
- Final results around 3–6 months as new collagen forms
As a guide, HIFU results tend to last around 12–18 months and RF results around 6–12 months, which is one reason maintenance plans are discussed in advance. Results vary from person to person.
Often combined with
Energy lifting combines well with collagen stimulators, which support the rebuilding process from inside — see Energy Lifting + Collagen Stimulator . If volume loss is part of the picture, the doctor may also discuss filler placed with our dual-plane approach, or thread lifting.
Is it right for me?
If your main issue is deep descent with little skin laxity, Ultherapy alone may be enough. If your skin is loose but the deeper structure is still well supported, Thermage alone may suit you. If you find treatment discomfort difficult, the doctor may suggest CoolSoniq , a HIFU option with cooling that many people find gentler. Significant volume loss often needs volume restoration as well as lifting.
For international visitors
Because downtime is limited, the combination fits well into a short trip, and much of the change continues to develop after you get home. Send your travel dates and photos on WhatsApp and ask us for a personalised quote.
Preparing for your appointment
A combined session is longer than a single treatment, so a little planning helps the day run smoothly.
- Allow extra time in your schedule, and avoid booking tight plans straight afterwards
- Arrive with clean skin and no heavy make-up if possible
- Tell the doctor about any fillers, threads or other treatments in the area, and when they were done
- Mention medications, implants or medical conditions so the plan can be checked for safety
- Eat beforehand and stay hydrated, as a longer session is more comfortable when you are not hungry
If you are combining this with other treatments during a short stay, our combining treatments guide and the sharper jawline goal explain how lifting fits into a wider plan.
At a glance
- Layers: Fascia/SMAS (HIFU) + full dermis (RF)
- Programme: Contour energy lifting
- Downtime: Usually limited
- Results visible: Noticeable 1–3 months, final 3–6
- Lasts: HIFU ~12–18 months, RF ~6–12 months
- Pairs with: Collagen stimulators
Questions about the combination
Why combine Ultherapy and Thermage instead of choosing one?
They work at different depths. Ultherapy focuses energy on deep support layers to lift, while Thermage heats the whole dermis to tighten the skin. When both deep descent and skin laxity are present, combining them addresses more of the problem in one plan.
Can both be done on the same day?
They are commonly performed in the same visit, which suits people with limited time in Seoul. The doctor decides the order and energy for each area during your consultation.
Is the treatment painful?
Sensations vary by area and from person to person, and deeper HIFU points can feel more intense. Comfort measures are discussed beforehand, and the doctor can adjust settings during treatment.
When will I see the full result?
Some tightening may be noticed on the day, with noticeable change over 1–3 months and final results around 3–6 months as collagen rebuilds. Results vary from person to person.
Plan your lifting combination
Message us on WhatsApp in English. Obliv Clinic Seoul Origin, Pagoda Tower, 93 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jongno-gu — about 5 minutes on foot from Jonggak and Euljiro 1-ga stations, close to Myeongdong.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Suitability, number of sessions and results vary from person to person and are decided with a doctor at consultation.
