Ulthera & Ulthera Prime
Microfocused ultrasound with real-time imaging delivers heat to the SMAS layer, the same layer tightened in a surgical facelift. See Ulthera.
Wrinkles & Volume Loss
Sagging Skin Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Non-surgical lifting for a firmer jawline and lower face — our women doctors match ultrasound, radiofrequency and collagen treatments to how and where your skin has loosened.
0 days
typical downtime for device lifting
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How can I tighten sagging skin without surgery?
Mild to moderate sagging can be improved without surgery using energy-based lifting and collagen stimulation. Microfocused ultrasound (Ulthera) tightens the deeper SMAS layer, while radiofrequency (Thermage FLX, XERF, Oligio) firms the skin itself. Results build over 2–3 months and often last around a year. Sculptra or filler can restore lost support. Severe laxity may still need surgical consultation; results vary between individuals.
- Sessions
- Usually 1, repeated yearly
- Downtime
- Minimal — mild redness or tenderness
- Treatment time
- About 30–90 minutes
- Onset
- Gradual over 2–3 months
- Longevity
- Often around 12 months
- Anesthesia
- Numbing cream; pain relief options available
Understanding sagging skin
Why skin loosens
Sagging is the result of several changes happening together: collagen and elastin decline from our mid-twenties, facial fat pads shrink and move downwards, ligaments loosen and bone gradually resorbs. Sun exposure, weight change, smoking and genetics speed this up.
It typically shows first along the jawline (jowls), at the marionette lines and under the chin, and is often linked to loss of facial volume. Treating both laxity and volume usually looks more natural than tightening alone.
Signs of sagging skin
- A softer, less defined jawline or early jowls
- Deeper smile and marionette lines
- Looser skin under the chin or on the neck
- Skin that looks crepey when you tilt your head down
- A face that looks tired even after rest
Device lifting suits mild to moderate laxity. Our doctors will tell you honestly if a surgical opinion would serve you better.
Our approach
Lifting at every depth
Skin, fat and the supporting SMAS layer loosen at different rates — so we choose devices by depth.
Thermage FLX
Monopolar radiofrequency heats the dermis evenly to firm skin and improve crepiness on the face, eyes and neck.
XERF & Oligio
Radiofrequency options that tighten skin with comfortable cooling — useful for maintenance or patients who prefer a gentler session.
Linearz & Inmode
Targeted lifting and contouring for the jawline and lower face, often combined with ultrasound for definition.
Sculptra
Poly-L-lactic acid stimulates collagen over several months to rebuild support lost with age.
Filler support
Small amounts of hyaluronic acid at key points such as the cheek and jawline restore structure that lifts the lower face.
What to expect
A firmer, clearer contour
Drag the handle to compare. Lifting builds gradually as new collagen forms, so changes look natural to those around you.
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Before
After 3 mths
Illustration for explanation only — not a patient photograph. Individual results vary; real case photos are shown during your consultation.
Is it right for you?
Good candidates
- Early jowls or a softening jawline
- Mild to moderate laxity on the face or neck
- Patients who want lifting without incisions
- Visitors who need to return to plans the same day
- Those maintaining earlier surgical or device results
Pronounced excess skin or very heavy jowls usually respond better to surgery.
Safety first
Possible side effects
Temporary redness, mild swelling and tenderness along the jaw are common and settle within hours to a few days. Uncommon effects include small bruises, welts or temporary numbness, and rarely nerve irritation or a superficial burn.
We reduce risk with imaging-guided placement (Ulthera), conservative energy settings over thin or bony areas, and careful mapping that avoids nerves and the thyroid.
We do not treat during pregnancy, over active infection or open wounds, or over metal implants or pacemakers for some radiofrequency devices. Tell us about recent fillers or threads.
Your visit
How treatment works at Nest Clinic
Laxity assessment
Your doctor maps where and how much skin has loosened.
Device plan
Ultrasound, radiofrequency or collagen mix chosen.
Comfort care
Numbing cream and pain relief options.
Lifting session
About 30–90 minutes depending on area.
Follow-up
Gradual change reviewed over 2–3 months.
Medical reviewer · Chief Medical Doctor
Dr. Kyung-yeon Lee
Dr. Lee trained at Seoul National University College of Medicine (M.S.) and completed residency at Seoul National University Hospital. Before joining Nest Clinic she was director at VS Line Clinic in Apgujeong. Nest Clinic is led entirely by women doctors, with one-to-one consultations rather than high-volume treatment.
Seoul National Univ. College of Medicine
Korean Society for Aesthetic Laser Surgery
Korean Academy of Facial Filler
Key Doctor · Jetema e.p.t.q.
This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Kyung-yeon Lee in October 2026. It is for general information and does not replace an in-person diagnosis.
FAQ
Sagging Skin questions, answered
Will I see results immediately?
Some patients notice slight tightening right away, but the main lift develops over 2–3 months as new collagen forms. Results vary with age, skin thickness and degree of laxity.
How long do results last?
Ultrasound and radiofrequency lifting results commonly last around 12 months. Skin continues to age, so many patients repeat treatment once a year.
Does Ulthera hurt?
It can feel uncomfortable over bony areas. We use numbing cream, adjust energy where needed and offer additional pain relief options so the treatment stays tolerable.
Can I travel after treatment?
Yes. There is usually no visible downtime, so you can fly or continue sightseeing the same or next day.
Ulthera or Thermage — which is better for me?
Ulthera works deeper, on the SMAS, and suits heavier laxity along the jaw. Thermage FLX firms the skin surface and crepiness. Many patients combine both; your doctor will advise after examination.
Can lifting replace fillers?
Not always. Lifting tightens, but it does not replace lost volume. If hollowness is part of the picture, hollow cheek treatment
or Sculptra may be added.
Related treatments
Explore lifting and contour care
Consultation
Plan your non-surgical lift
Send a front and side photo on WhatsApp for a first opinion in English, then book a lifting consultation with our doctors.
Nest Clinic Gangnam · 4F–5F Seocho Building, 453 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 · Gangnam Station Exit 10
Mon–Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun closed
Results differ from person to person. All medical procedures carry potential risks and side effects; a doctor will explain them before treatment. Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for a personal medical consultation.
