In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound), a non-invasive lifting procedure.

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📌 What is HIFU?

HIFU is a treatment that focuses ultrasound energy deep into the skin to stimulate collagen production, resulting in a lifting effect.

 

There are various HIFU devices available on the market, with popular ones such as Ulthera, Shurink, Linear G, V-Lo, and Liftera.

 

However, the basic principle of all these devices is the same.

 

Generally, you might hear that "Ulthera needs to be done once a year for long-lasting effects, while Shurink requires three treatments once a month."

 

In this article, we will explore the differences between Ulthera and Shurink, and explain why there is a variation in their effectiveness.

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📌 Which is More Effective: Ulthera or Shurink?

In conclusion, if we are only considering the effectiveness, Ulthera is the superior option.

(However, Ulthera costs about three times more than Shurink.)

 

That being said, this does not mean that other HIFU devices are ineffective.

 

The difference in effectiveness between Ulthera and Shurink comes from the difference in the basic energy settings of the machines.

 

Since Ulthera has a higher energy output, it delivers stronger results. However, with the right energy settings, other HIFU devices can also achieve results comparable to Ulthera.

 

Therefore, what matters most is not the device itself, but how the practitioner adjusts the energy during the treatment.

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📌 Why Shurink’s Effectiveness is Lower Than Ulthera’s

Shurink has a relatively lower basic energy setting.

 

Additionally, the latest version, Shurink Universe, has introduced a feature called MP mode, which allows the energy to be applied in a linear fashion.

In the standard dot mode, energy is applied in small dots, while in MP mode, energy is delivered in a linear fashion.

 

The manufacturer claims that this allows the energy to be distributed more evenly.

 

However, I do not necessarily believe that MP mode is superior.

 

This is because when energy is applied linearly, heat is dispersed, making it more difficult to increase the energy level.

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📌 Basic Energy Setting of Ulthera

When looking at the energy settings of Ulthera, the energy at the same depth of 3mm is almost the same as Shurink, but Ulthera has a higher energy setting at 4.5mm depth.

 

Additionally, Ulthera uses a dot mode for energy delivery, unlike Shurink's linear MP mode. This allows Ulthera to apply a higher energy level.

 

The manufacturer claims that Ulthera can treat the target layer while viewing it on ultrasound images, but in practice, it's difficult to perfectly target only the desired layer with energy.

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📌 Which Clinic Should You Choose?

In the past, some clinics used reused tips (non-authentic tips), but after media reports, most clinics no longer use them.

 

✔ First, check the price!
→ Just because a clinic offers extremely low prices doesn't necessarily mean they are using reused tips.

 

However, don't choose a clinic based on price alone.

 

To receive effective treatment, it’s important to check the following three points!

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📌 Why Do Results Vary Even with the Same Equipment and Shot Count?

In fact, even using the same HIFU device, the results can vary greatly depending on the practitioner’s technique.

 

1. Is the shot distribution at the appropriate depth?

HIFU uses cartridges that target different depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm).

 

💡 It’s crucial to select the appropriate depth for each part of the face, or the effectiveness will be reduced.
💡 Depending on the facial structure, some areas require more energy than others.

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2. he use of pressure and angle during the treatment
✔ No pressure is needed for the shallow 1.5mm layer.
✔ Moderate pressure is needed for the deeper layers of 3.0mm and 4.5mm

MERZ Korea

Additionally,

💡 Applying excessive gel is a no-go!
💡 It’s ideal to have the patient’s head lowered during the treatment.
💡 The treatment should be performed from bottom to top, and from the inside out!

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3. Is the correct energy being applied during treatment?
The principle of HIFU is to use ultrasonic thermal energy to heat the target layer to 40-45°C, stimulating collagen regeneration.

High-intensity focused ultrasound treatment for skin: ex vivo evaluation, J.H park(2016)

 

✔ If the correct energy is not used, the effects will be minimal.
✔ If the density of the hot spots is low, sufficient lifting effects cannot be expected.

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📌 Summary – How to Choose Between Ulthera and Shurink

 

✅ 1. Ulthera and Shurink are lifting procedures using HIFU technology.

✅ 2. The effectiveness of the treatment largely depends on the practitioner’s skill, rather than the equipment used.

✅ 3. It’s essential to choose a clinic that focuses on proper energy, depth of shots, and pressure during the treatment!

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📌 Final Thoughts...

Higher price does not always equal better treatment.

 

Carefully compare the price, equipment, and the practitioner’s expertise to choose a clinic that offers good cost-performance!

 

✨ Let’s aim for a youthful and toned face line with lifting!

 

This was Dr. Won Daehan, the Chief Director! 😊

 

Thank you for reading until the end!

 

📍 Primi Clinic
52 Seongsu-ilro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul, 3F (Primi Clinic)