Guide

Why do deep folds form?

Deep wrinkles and folds such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines and the crease along the jaw usually form from a combination of factors. Supporting tissue loosens, fat pads descend, bone and fat volume decrease, and repeated expressions etch lines into the skin. Knowing which factor dominates is essential, because each needs a different tool.

Ultherapy Prime addresses the sagging part of this picture. It is less effective for folds caused mostly by volume loss or by muscle movement alone.

How does Ultherapy Prime work on folds?

Ultherapy Prime delivers micro-focused ultrasound to specific depths, including the SMAS layer that facial surgeons tighten during a facelift. Real-time imaging lets the practitioner see these layers and place energy precisely. The heated points trigger collagen remodeling, which can gradually lift the cheek and jowl tissue that pulls down on the folds. Compared with the original Ulthera platform, the Prime system features updated imaging and handpieces designed to support efficient treatment.

Who is it suitable for?

adults with mild to moderate sagging that deepens the nasolabial or marionette area;
people who want a non-surgical lift with minimal downtime;
patients who prefer gradual, natural-looking change;
those planning a combined approach with filler or boosters.

It may not suit people with severe laxity where surgery would be more effective, very thin skin with little underlying tissue, active skin infections in the area, or certain implants. Pregnancy is generally a reason to wait.

What to expect at Re:berry Hongdae

Diagnosis: the doctor assesses whether your folds come from sagging, volume loss, expression or a mix.
Design: treatment zones and shot count are planned, which may focus on the cheeks and jawline rather than the fold itself.
Comfort: numbing and pain-management options are discussed.
Treatment: energy is delivered line by line while the practitioner watches the screen.

Many patients feel deep heat or a sharp sensation along bony areas. Our Ultherapy comfort answer covers this in more detail.

Sessions and timeline

One session is typical. Some people notice a slight lift soon after, but the main change develops over two to three months as collagen rebuilds. Many patients repeat treatment about once a year. For longevity, see how long Ultherapy Prime lasts. Results vary by individual.

Recovery and side effects

There is usually no formal downtime. Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness to touch and occasional bruising or small numb patches may occur for days to a few weeks. Rare nerve-related effects are possible, which is why mapping and depth selection matter. Avoid saunas and heavy workouts for a day or two if the skin feels sensitive.

What is it combined with?

Deep folds rarely respond fully to one treatment, so Re:berry typically designs a combination:

Hyaluronic acid filler: such as Juvederm or Restylane to restore lost volume, often a few weeks after or before Ultherapy.
Thermage FLX: radiofrequency tightening for the skin surface layers.
Skin boosters: to improve the skin quality over the fold.
Revolle: Re:berry's signature volume remodeling program, discussed at consultation.

Alternatives to consider

Filler for deep folds when volume loss is the main cause;
Sofwave or Thermage FLX for skin-level tightening;
thread lifting for a more immediate mechanical lift;
surgical consultation for advanced sagging.

How do I know if my folds are from sagging or volume loss?

A simple check is to lie back and look in a hand mirror. If the fold softens noticeably when gravity pulls tissue back toward the ears, sagging is likely a major factor and lifting may help. If the fold stays deep, or the cheeks look flat and hollow, volume loss is probably playing a bigger role. This is only a rough guide; the doctor's examination of skin thickness, fat pads and bone support is what shapes the plan.

Is it practical for visitors?

Because Ultherapy Prime usually involves a single appointment with minimal downtime, many international patients fit it into a short trip and see the results develop after returning home. Tenderness when chewing or touching the jaw can last several days, which is worth knowing if you are planning a busy food tour in Hongdae.

Pricing and booking

Pricing depends on the area and shot count, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. See Location & Hours and book through the Booking page.

Will Ultherapy Prime erase my nasolabial folds?

Ultherapy Prime may soften folds caused by sagging cheek tissue, but it does not erase them. Folds caused by volume loss or bone changes usually need filler or other treatments as well. The doctor will explain which factors drive your folds and set realistic expectations, since results vary by individual.

Should I get filler or Ultherapy Prime first?

It depends on your plan. Many doctors lift first with ultrasound and add filler afterward once tissue position is clearer, while others treat both within a short interval. Re:berry Hongdae designs the sequence at consultation based on your anatomy and schedule, including how long you are staying in Seoul.

How many shots are needed for folds?

Shot count depends on face size, skin thickness, the degree of sagging and which areas are included. Treating the cheeks and jawline that pull on the folds often matters more than treating the fold line directly. Your shot plan and price are confirmed in writing at consultation before treatment begins.