As a mom who is about to turn 40, I’ve gone through countless challenges in my battle against aging. From the intense pain of the first-generation Ulthera device to gripping the bedsheet in agony, to my face swelling like a doughy bun during the recovery period, and then to the fleeting results of regular lifting treatments—it wasn’t until I tried the second-generation Ulthera Prime at Retoo Clinic in Cheongtan that I finally found a solution that suited me. Today, I’d like to share my real experience with you all!
🏥 I. First Impressions of Retoo Clinic in Cheongtan
Retoo Clinic is located in the heart of Cheongtan-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. It collaborates with several Korean entertainment companies and is known as an “artist-oriented hospital.” The clinic covers an area of 3,000 square meters and offers a spacious and comfortable environment for patients.
📍 Basic Information about the Clinic
- Address: 435 Isandae-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul (in the Cheongtan-dong area)
- Opening Hours: Weekdays 10:00-19:00, Saturdays 10:00-16:30 (Closed on Sundays and public holidays in Korea)
- clinic’s Focus: High-end personalized treatments, emphasizing a “1-to-1 private customization” service philosophy
🌟 Unique Services Offered
- Personal Consultation by the Director: Customized treatment plans are developed based on individual skin conditions and bone structures
- Chinese-Speaking Staff: Skin examinations are provided, and interpreters and clinic managers are available throughout the treatment consultation and price confirmation process
- Private environment: Separate consultation rooms and administrative spaces to ensure the privacy of your treatment experience.
- Advanced equipment: We use certified state-of-the-art devices such as Titan Lift, Thermage FLX, and the American version of the Ulthera device.
🔬 Second, what is the second-generation American version of the Ulthera device, Ultherapy Prime?
Ulthera is a pioneer in the field of ultrasound technology. Thanks to its microfocused ultrasound technology, it can penetrate deep into the skin, comprehensively rejuvenate the skin’s support structure, effectively tighten the skin, enhance contours, and stimulate collagen production. The second-generation Ultherapy Prime represents a significant upgrade based on these original capabilities!
✨ Comparison between the second generation and the first generation
| Comparison items | First-generation Ulthera | Second-generation Ultherapy Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment duration | Approximately 60 minutes | Approximately 45 minutes (20% reduction) |
| Pain intensity | VAS score of 6.2 | VAS score of 3.8 (a significant decrease) |
| Imaging technology | DeepSEE real-time imaging | Upgraded DeepSEE technology: 8mm ultra-deep imaging |
| Treatment depth | 4.5mm, 3.0mm, 1.5mm | Added 8mm depth, reaching the muscle layer directly |
| Recovery Period | The redness lasts for 1–3 days. | The redness does not exceed 24 hours. |
🎯 Key Technical Features
- DeepSEE real-time imaging monitoring: Doctors can visually confirm the layers of the facial skin on the monitor, accurately target the treatment area, and avoid accidental injuries.
- Intelligent pulse technology: More stable energy delivery for a more comfortable treatment experience.
- Visualized “targeting”: Like a surgically precise blade, it acts precisely on the desired layer.
💆♀️ III. My Actual Experience
Step 1: Make an appointment at the clinic.
Book your appointment in advance through the BeautsGO platform (it is recommended to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during weekends). Upon arrival, you will need to pay a reservation fee of 33,000 Korean won, which can be deducted from the total treatment cost after the consultation.
Step 2: Personal Consultation with the Director
The director personally conducted a skin examination and analyzed in detail the degree of my facial sagging. Given my deep nasolabial folds, blurred jawline, and drooping apple cheeks, she recommended a combined treatment for my entire face and neck, costing approximately 800 yen.
Step 3: Preoperative Preparation
- Clean your face and remove all makeup.
- Apply an anesthetic and wait for about 30 minutes.
- The doctor will confirm the treatment plan again.
Step 4: Treatment Process
The entire treatment took about 45 minutes, which is 15 minutes shorter than the first generation of the device. During the procedure, the doctor would frequently ask how I was feeling and adjust the intensity of the treatment. Although there was still some stinging sensation, it was significantly milder compared to the “electric shock”-like pain experienced with the earlier version—and completely tolerable.
Step 5: Postoperative Care
- After the treatment, my face turned slightly red, but the redness subsided by the end of the day.
- The doctor provided detailed guidelines for postoperative care.
- It is recommended to avoid hot environments (such as saunas or hot baths) within 48 hours.
- Continue using medical cold compresses for 7 days.
- Avoid intense facial massages for 1 month.
📊 IV. Effect Comparison and Duration
⏱️ Timeline of Effects
- Immediately after the procedure: A slight lifting sensation, with the jawline appearing more defined.
- 2–4 weeks: 92% of participants noticed an improvement in their jawline at this stage; I also felt that my nasolabial folds became less pronounced.
- 3 months: The effects are most noticeable! Collagen production reaches its peak, and the definition of the jawline increases by an average of 60%.
- 6 months: The facial contours become more defined, and the skin’s elasticity improves significantly.
💰 Price Reference
The treatment prices at legitimate institutions in Korea vary significantly, depending on the scope of treatment and the number of sessions:
- Basic package (about 500 sessions): For localized enhancement, the price ranges from approximately 15,000 to 23,000 RMB.
- Gold package (about 800 sessions): Comprehensive treatment for the face and neck, priced at around 25,000 to 35,000 RMB.
- VIP customized package (900 sessions or more): Includes post-treatment recovery management, starting from 32,000 RMB.
⏳ Duration of Effects
The effects of the second-generation American version of the ultrasonic device last for 24 to 30 months, which is an extension compared to the first generation. It is recommended to undergo maintenance treatments after 1.5 to 2 years to maintain the best results.
🆚 V. American Version vs. Korean Version (HIFU)
Many people have asked me what the differences are between the American and Korean versions. Here is a brief comparison:
| Comparison Items | US version of Ultherapy | Korean version of HIFU |
|---|---|---|
| Technical principles | Microfocused ultrasound + real-time imaging | High-intensity focused ultrasound |
| Visualization | DeepSEE real-time imaging: clear visibility for precise treatment | No real-time imaging |
| Accuracy | Extremely high; can target specific layers of the skin with precision | Higher |
| price | Higher (15,000 – 35,000) | Lower (a few thousand – over 10,000) |
| Target audience | People who seek precision, safety, and long-lasting results | People with limited budgets who want to try ultrasound therapy |
In summary: The American version of the ultrasound device is like a “sighted sniper rifle,” while the Korean version is more like an “all-purpose fishing net.” If your budget allows, it is recommended to choose the American version, especially the second-generation Prime model, which offers better performance and a more comfortable experience.
👩⚕️ VI. Target audience and precautions
✅ Target audience
- Age 30-55, with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Fuzzy jawline, seeking clear contours
- Declining apple cheeks, deepening nasolabial folds
- Skin laxity in the neck, resulting in wrinkles
- Those looking for non-invasive lifting options without surgery
⚠️ Not suitable for certain individuals
- Those with open wounds or severe acne on the face
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Those with metal implants on the face (such as plates or screws)
- Patients with severe heart conditions
💡 Key points for post-operative care
- Avoid high-temperature environments (saunas, hot baths, sun exposure) within 48 hours after surgery
- Continue using medical cold compresses for 7 days and drink plenty of water
- Avoid intense facial massages for 1 month
- Protect your skin from the sun—SPF50+ sunscreen is essential
- Drink plenty of water to promote collagen production
📱 VII. How to schedule a consultation at Cheongtan Retoo Dermatology?
Want to experience the same advanced ultrasound device? Book through the BeautsGO platform—it’s convenient and fast!
🌟 Advantages of the BeautsGO platform
- Official partnership: BeautsGO is the official reservation platform for Cheongtan Retoo Dermatology
- Quick reservation: You can complete your reservation online in just 10 minutes. For popular services, reservations are usually available within 1-2 days.
- Chinese-language service: Our customer support is available in Chinese throughout the process, ensuring smooth communication.
- Transparent prices: There are no hidden fees; all prices are clearly listed.
📲 Reservation process
- Search for “Cheongtan Retoo” or “Litu Dermatology” on BeautsGO.
- Choose the “US-style Ultrasound Knife” treatment and the desired date.
- Provide your contact information and submit your reservation request.
- Wait for the clinic to confirm your reservation. Once confirmed, just arrive at the designated time.
📝 Reservation tips
- It is recommended to reserve 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during weekends.
- A reservation fee of 33,000 Korean won is required (this can be deducted from the treatment cost after the consultation).
- Prepare the questions you want to discuss in advance to make the consultation more efficient.
- If you have a history of allergies or are taking any medications, please inform the doctor in advance.
🎯 VIII. Conclusion: My genuine experiences
It’s been over two months since I had the second-generation U.S.-version ultrasound treatment. The most noticeable changes are:
- The jawline is clearer: My side profile looks more defined, and I no longer need to worry about finding the right angle when taking photos.
- The nasolabial folds have faded: Although they haven’t completely disappeared, they are definitely much lighter than before.
- My skin has become tighter: It feels more elastic and no longer saggy.
- My overall complexion has improved: With the increase in collagen production, my skin looks fuller and more radiant.
If you, like me, have encountered many challenges in your anti-aging journey and are looking for an effective, comfortable treatment with long-lasting results, I highly recommend trying the second-generation U.S.-version ultrasound treatment at Cheongtan Retoo Dermatology!
Remember to book in advance through the BeautsGO platform. Wishing everyone firm and youthful skin!✨
📝 Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the US version of the ultrasound device very painful?
The pain level of the second-generation Ultherapy Prime has been significantly reduced, with the VAS score dropping from 6.2 on the first generation to 3.8 on the second. Anesthetic is applied before the procedure, and the doctor will adjust the intensity according to your tolerance; most people find it tolerable.
Q2: How soon can I see results?
Initial results can be seen within 2-4 weeks, with the effects becoming more noticeable after about 3 months and reaching their peak after 6 months.
Q3: How long do the results last?
The effects of the second-generation US version of the ultrasound device last for 24-30 months. It is recommended to undergo maintenance treatments 1.5-2 years later.
Q4: How soon can I wear makeup after the procedure?
You can wear makeup on the same day after the procedure, but it is safer to wait 24 hours to allow your skin sufficient time to recover.
Q5: How many treatments are needed?
Generally, a single treatment is sufficient to achieve noticeable results. However, the exact number of treatments required depends on an individual’s skin condition and age; it is recommended to consult a doctor during a face-to-face consultation.
Reference sources: Official website of Cheongtan Retoo Meitu Dermatology, 8682 Plastic Surgery Network, Litchi Beauty, and other materials compiled together.
