Shurink vs. Ultherapy: Same HIFU, But the Results Can Differ — Here's Why

Whenever patients come in for a Lifting consultation, Shurink and Ultherapy almost always come up together. They're often grouped in a similar price range, and the quick explanation — "both are HIFU" — tends to follow. That one-liner, however, doesn't make it any easier to decide which one is actually the better fit for your skin.

> This article is an informational summary of procedures available at Beautystone Clinic.

Both target the SMAS Layer with HIFU — but their delivery methods differ

HIFU works by focusing ultrasound energy to a precise point beneath the skin's surface, generating heat that triggers Collagen contraction and regeneration at the SMAS Layer: the fascial layer that sits above the facial muscles and is the primary structural origin of facial sagging.

Ultherapy, developed by Merz Aesthetics, incorporates real-time skin imaging (MFU-V: Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization), allowing the physician to visualize the exact depth of the SMAS Layer on screen before each shot is delivered. Shurink, a widely used HIFU device in Korea, operates without imaging — instead, the practitioner selects cartridges for different depths. Both devices preserve the epidermis while directing thermal energy into the Dermis and SMAS Layer.

Onset of results and Collagen regeneration patterns are broadly similar

A clinical review of MFU (Ultherapy-class) procedures found that approximately 92% of patients showed improvement in skin Elasticity and fine lines at the 90-day mark, with results observed to persist through 12 months. Shurink follows the same HIFU mechanism, so the fundamental sequence — Collagen contraction → regeneration → sustained improvement — is comparable.

What actually determines outcomes isn't the device name — it's cartridge depth selection, number of shots, and the practitioner's clinical experience. Results vary between physicians using the same Ultherapy system, and with Shurink, outcomes depend just as much on which depth is targeted and how many shots are placed.

There are subtle differences in Pain and Downtime

| Category | Ultherapy | Shurink | |---|---|---| | Imaging (skin cross-section visualization) | Yes | No | | Depth of action | 1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5mm | 1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5mm | | Recommended sessions | 1 session (every 12 months) | 1–2 sessions (every 6–12 months) | | Pain level | Moderate to strong (anesthesia recommended) | Mild to moderate | | Downtime | Immediate to 1 day | Minimal | | Duration of results | Approx. 12 months | 6–12 months |

The same HIFU clinical review reported an average Pain score of 3.8 on a 0–10 scale, with higher levels noted in areas such as around the eyes and under the chin. Topical anesthetic cream or analgesic medication is commonly used in conjunction with the procedure. Transient Erythema and Swelling are expected in virtually all cases.

There are clear signals that point toward one option over the other

Ultherapy may be the better fit if you:

• Have notable variation in skin thickness or SMAS Layer depth (imaging allows for more precise targeting)
• Prefer a single, comprehensive session with results that carry through approximately 12 months
• Are comfortable with anesthesia and can tolerate a higher level of procedural discomfort

Shurink may be the better fit if you:

• Are new to HIFU and prefer to start with a gentler, more manageable experience
• Prefer lighter maintenance sessions every 6–12 months
• Want to minimize anesthesia and return to your routine as quickly as possible

As noted above, both belong to the same HIFU family and follow a similar overall trajectory. But when it comes to imaging capability, Pain intensity, and session frequency, your personal priorities will naturally point you toward one or the other.

In these situations, other options are worth discussing as well

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Active inflammation, Acne, or herpes in the treatment area
• Keloid tendency (history of raised Scars following injury or procedures)
• Another laser or Filler procedure performed within the past week
• BMI above 30, with notably thicker skin or fat layer

That last point relates to the depth limitations of HIFU technology. Clinical reviews consistently note that patients with a very high BMI or significant baseline sagging may see limited results from HIFU alone. In those cases, exploring Radiofrequency (RF) Lifting or Thread lift alongside HIFU is a more realistic approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Will the results last forever?

A. No procedure offers permanent results. The Collagen stimulated by HIFU gradually integrates into the natural aging process, typically over the course of about 12 months. Many patients choose to repeat the procedure on a roughly 12-month cycle, though the ideal interval varies based on age and individual skin condition.

Q. Can I receive both procedures?

A. Receiving two HIFU sessions targeting the same area at the same time is not recommended. Some patients choose to complete a full cycle with one device, then try the other at their next session. A more common approach is combining HIFU with a different modality — such as Radiofrequency (RF) — to address different layers or mechanisms simultaneously.

Q. How long does post-procedure Swelling last?

A. Mild Erythema and Swelling are expected immediately after the procedure and typically resolve within one to two days. That said, Swelling around the under-chin and eye areas can linger longer for some patients — if you have an important event coming up, it's advisable to allow a buffer of three to five days.

Further Reading

• "I Was Told My Face Was Too Thin for Lifting" — That's Only Half True
• Ultherapy vs. Shurink: What the Difference Between Once a Year and Once Every 6 Months Really Means | Beautystone Clinic
• Cheekbone Ultherapy: Do You Really Need to Treat the Whole Face? | Beautystone Clinic
• For Anyone in Their Late 30s Torn Between Ultherapy and Shurink