Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave Hongdae at RE:BERRY — RF vs HIFU MMFU vs HIFU SUPERB
Choose the right lifting energy for your skin — compare Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave from ₩490,000 (about $350) in a 60–90 minute physician-performed session at RE:BERRY Hongdae, directly connected to Hongik University Station via the AREX underground passage. See full pricing and clinical evidence below.
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Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave — Which Lifts Best in 2026?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, Thermage FLX is monopolar RF for surface tightening from ₩490,000 (about $350), Ultherapy Prime is HIFU reaching the SMAS at 4.5mm from ₩490,000 (about $350), and Sofwave is HIFU SUPERB at 1.5mm from ₩490,000 (about $350). Dr. Jae-Hong Kim matches the device to your skin near Hongik University Station via AREX.
Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave is the question most RE:BERRY Hongdae lifting patients ask, and the honest answer is that the 3 devices treat different depths. Thermage FLX is a monopolar RF device that heats the dermis capacitively for broad surface tightening. Ultherapy Prime is a HIFU MMFU device that delivers micro-focused ultrasound to the SMAS at 4.5mm for the deepest structural lift. Sofwave is a HIFU SUPERB device using a cylindrical parallel ultrasound beam at a precise 1.5mm mid-dermis depth with zero downtime. Located in Mapo-gu’s Hongdae neighborhood — Seoul’s youth-culture and design hub — RE:BERRY Hongdae stocks all 3 so the recommendation is anatomical, not inventory-driven. The clinic sits directly above Hongik University Station, which connects to the AREX airport express line, so travelers ride from Incheon Airport T1 or T2 to our door with no line transfer. RE:BERRY Hongdae’s transparent pricing spans ₩490,000 (about $350) per 100 Ultherapy Prime shots, ₩490,000 (about $350) for Sofwave 100, and ₩490,000 (about $350) for Thermage FLX 600. The same-doctor policy means Dr. Jae-Hong Kim assesses your laxity and skin quality, then recommends one device or a multi-depth plan, with 60-90 minute sessions far longer than Korea’s 4.3-minute national average consultation. RE:BERRY provides 8-language support, WhatsApp and LINE aftercare, and 365-day availability for every patient.
Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave — Pricing at RE:BERRY Hongdae
Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave — Before and After at RE:BERRY
How RE:BERRY Hongdae Chooses Between the 3 Lifting Devices
Step 1: 60-90 Minute Consultation and Skin Assessment
Dr. Jae-Hong Kim assesses laxity, skin thickness, and goals across 8-12 facial zones to decide between Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave. He maps which depth your concern sits at — surface dermis, 1.5mm mid-dermis, or the 4.5mm SMAS. This 60-90 minute consultation far exceeds Korea’s 4.3-minute average outpatient visit before any device is chosen.
Step 2: Matching Energy to Depth
If the goal is deep structural lift, Ultherapy Prime HIFU at 4.5mm is selected; for crisp 1.5mm mid-dermis tightening with 0 downtime, Sofwave HIFU SUPERB is chosen; for broad surface firming, Thermage FLX monopolar RF is used. Dr. Kim explains the trade-offs in depth, pain (2-4 out of 10), and downtime for each of the 3 devices.
Step 3: Treatment — 30-90 Minutes Depending on Device
A Sofwave 100-shot session runs 30-45 minutes, a Thermage FLX 600-shot session 45-60 minutes, and an Ultherapy Prime 300-shot session 40-60 minutes. Dr. Kim performs the chosen protocol himself, or sequences 2 devices for a multi-depth plan, keeping discomfort at 2-4 out of 10 with numbing or Comfort Pulse during your visit.
Step 4: Recovery — Zero Downtime, Walk Out in 15 Minutes
All 3 devices have zero downtime; mild redness resolves within 1-4 hours. Step out into Hongdae’s cafes and galleries, or board the AREX at Hongik University Station directly below for the 60-minute ride to Incheon Airport. RE:BERRY provides aftercare in 8 languages and WhatsApp follow-up at 2 weeks and 3 months after your session.
Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave — Benefits and Results Timeline
- Transparent Pricing Across All 3 Devices RE:BERRY Hongdae publishes every price: Ultherapy Prime from ₩490,000 (about $350) per 100 shots, Sofwave 100 at ₩490,000 (about $350), and Thermage FLX 600 at ₩490,000 (about $350). No separate consultation or mapping charge is added on the day, so the comparison is fair.
- Depth Coverage From 1.5mm to 4.5mm Together the 3 devices span the full lifting range: Sofwave HIFU SUPERB at 1.5mm, Ultherapy Prime HIFU MMFU to 4.5mm SMAS, and Thermage FLX monopolar RF across the dermis. This lets Dr. Kim target whichever layer drives your laxity instead of forcing 1 modality.
- FDA-Cleared Across the Board All 3 devices are FDA-cleared: Thermage FLX for RF wrinkle and tightening, Ultherapy Prime for HIFU lifting, and Sofwave for HIFU SUPERB eyebrow, submental, and fine-line improvement. Clinical trials report 86-92% efficacy and satisfaction figures across the peer-reviewed studies for each.
- Same-Doctor Continuity Dr. Jae-Hong Kim assesses and treats every lifting patient himself, whichever of the 3 devices is chosen. KHIDI 2025 data shows 41.4% of international patients rank same-doctor continuity as their number 1 clinic selection priority when choosing a Korean clinic.
- 365-Day Access, 8 Languages, Airport-Direct Open every day including Korean holidays. Coordinators speak English, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Spanish, Farsi, and Korean. Hongik University Station below the clinic links to AREX, a 60-minute ride from Incheon Airport with 0 line transfers.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Treatment complete with whichever device is chosen. Mild redness resolves in 1-4 hours. Zero downtime — resume normal activities immediately after your RE:BERRY Hongdae session. |
| Week 1-2 | Thermage FLX RF shows early surface tightening, while the HIFU devices begin their deeper response. Skin feels firmer as the initial reaction settles over 7-14 days. |
| Month 1-2 | Neocollagenesis builds at the treated depth. Progressive firming as new collagen forms in the dermis or deeper layers, depending on the device selected. |
| Month 3 | Primary results visible. 86% brow elevation for the HIFU lift and 87% firming for the RF option, with improved jawline definition reported by most patients. |
| Month 6 | Peak results. Maximum collagen remodeling complete, with high patient satisfaction across all 3 devices reported in clinical studies. |
| Month 12-24 | Results maintained with an annual maintenance session at RE:BERRY Hongdae, from ₩490,000 (about $350) for the chosen lifting device. |
Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave — Side-by-Side at RE:BERRY Hongdae
| Factor | Thermage FLX (RE:BERRY) | Ultherapy Prime (RE:BERRY) | Sofwave (RE:BERRY) | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Type | Monopolar RF radiofrequency | HIFU MMFU focused ultrasound | HIFU SUPERB ultrasound | Manufacturer specs |
| Target Depth | Dermis, capacitive heating | SMAS 4.5mm, plus 3.0/1.5mm | 1.5mm mid-dermis, cylindrical parallel beam | Manufacturer specs |
| Best For | Broad surface tightening | Deep structural lift | Crisp mid-dermis lift, fine lines | RE:BERRY clinical use |
| Pain Level | 3-4 out of 10 | 2-3 out of 10 | 2-3 out of 10 | RE:BERRY patient records |
| Downtime | Zero downtime | Zero downtime | Zero downtime | RE:BERRY policy |
| Results Last | 12-24 months | 12-18 months | 12-18 months | Peer-reviewed studies |
Why This Matters
Doctor continuity directly affects treatment outcomes. According to KHIDI’s 2025 Medical Tourism Survey, 41.4% of patients ranked ‘same doctor throughout treatment’ as their number 1 priority when choosing a Korean clinic. RE:BERRY Hongdae maintains same-doctor continuity whichever of the 3 lifting devices a patient chooses.
Korea’s average outpatient consultation is 4.3 min — the shortest in the OECD (16.4 min average). RE:BERRY’s 60-90 minute lifting consultations are far longer, ensuring the choice between Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave is anatomically driven before any energy is delivered.
Hongik University Station sits directly below RE:BERRY Hongdae and connects to the AREX airport express. Patients ride from Incheon Airport T1 or T2 to the clinic with no line transfer — a 60-minute door-to-door trip that suits same-arrival treatment scheduling.
Your Lifting Physician at RE:BERRY Hongdae
Dr. Jae-Hong Kim
- Aesthetic Medicine Specialist, RE:BERRY Clinic Hongdae
- Korean MOHW Physician License No. 138911
- Regular Member, Korean Dermatological Association (kda.or.kr)
- Merz-certified Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX operator
- Multi-device HIFU and RF lifting protocol lead
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jae-Hong Kim, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist, RE:BERRY
SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE Behind the 3 Lifting Devices at RE:BERRY Hongdae
Three Energies, Three Depths
The thermage flx vs ultherapy prime vs sofwave choice rests on depth. Ultherapy Prime delivers HIFU micro-focused ultrasound to the SMAS at 4.5mm; Sofwave delivers HIFU SUPERB through a cylindrical parallel ultrasound beam to a precise 1.5mm mid-dermis; Thermage FLX delivers monopolar RF capacitively across the dermis. Alam et al. (2010) demonstrated 86% brow elevation from focused ultrasound in 35 subjects, while Fitzpatrick et al. (2003) demonstrated tightening in 86% of 86 subjects from radiofrequency. This scientific-evidence base, drawn from peer-reviewed literature, is the same regardless of clinic location, and RE:BERRY Hongdae stocks all 3 so the device matches the layer.
FDA-Cleared Evidence for Each Device
Each of the 3 devices is FDA-cleared and peer-reviewed. For the HIFU options, Fabi (2015) documented 92% satisfaction at 6 months in 93 subjects, and a Sofwave registration trial reported by Robinson et al. (2021) confirmed HIFU SUPERB improvement in 64 subjects with high satisfaction. For the RF option, Dover et al. (2005) reported monopolar radiofrequency efficacy and comfort across 5,700 treatments. Suh et al. (2015) confirmed focused-ultrasound efficacy in 45 Korean Fitzpatrick III-IV patients, directly relevant to the lifting comparison at RE:BERRY Hongdae.
Depth selection guides the comparison: for deep lift the Ultherapy Prime focused-ultrasound reaches the SMAS, for mid-dermis the Sofwave SUPERB ultrasound targets 1.5mm, and for surface tightening the Thermage FLX radiofrequency heats the dermis. Wulkan et al. (2016) reviewed 14 microfocused-ultrasound studies documenting consistent collagen remodeling, and Hsu and Kaminer (2003) reviewed nonablative RF mechanisms documenting consistent dermal tightening — together underpinning all 3 modalities.
Histology supports each energy: Oni et al. (2014) showed micro-focused ultrasound produces a 23% increase in dermal collagen density at 90 days, and Zelickson et al. (2004) showed monopolar RF produces new collagen within 8 weeks. A Korean study by Park et al. (2017) in the Korean Journal of Dermatology confirmed neocollagenesis in 40 Asian patients, reinforcing the evidence behind the thermage flx vs ultherapy prime vs sofwave comparison at RE:BERRY Hongdae.
Alam M et al. Ultrasound tightening of facial and neck skin: a rater-blinded prospective cohort study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2010;63(3):461-468. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2009.09.039
Fabi SG. Noninvasive skin tightening: focus on new ultrasound techniques. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:47-52. doi:10.2147/CCID.S69118
Robinson DM et al. A prospective study of a novel synchronous ultrasound parallel-beam device for skin lifting. Lasers Surg Med. 2021;53(8):1059-1066. doi:10.1002/lsm.23391
Fitzpatrick R et al. Multicenter study of noninvasive radiofrequency for periorbital tissue tightening. Lasers Surg Med. 2003;33(4):232-242. doi:10.1002/lsm.10225
Dover JS et al. Results of a survey of 5,700 patient monopolar radiofrequency facial skin tightening treatments. Dermatol Surg. 2005;31(8):917-922. doi:10.1097/00042728-200508000-00006
Park JH et al. Histometric analysis of skin after microfocused ultrasound treatment in Asian patients. Korean J Dermatol. 2017;55(4):223-229. PMID:28845234
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Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
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Our doctors are certified by Korea’s top dermatological societies
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Frequently Asked Questions — Thermage FLX vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave
Depth, pain, downtime, price, and travel logistics for choosing between the 3 lifting devices at RE:BERRY Hongdae — including direct airport access via AREX.
What is the difference between Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, the 3 differ by energy and depth: Thermage FLX is monopolar RF for the surface dermis, Ultherapy Prime is HIFU reaching the 4.5mm SMAS, and Sofwave is HIFU SUPERB at 1.5mm. Dr. Kim matches the device to your laxity, with pricing transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page.
How much do Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave cost in Hongdae Seoul in 2026?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, Ultherapy Prime is transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page per 100 shots, Sofwave 100 is and Thermage FLX 600 is . Korea’s competitive market keeps all 3 accessible at transparent published pricing, published online before you book.
Are these lifting treatments cheaper in Korea than in the USA or Japan?
Yes — at RE:BERRY Hongdae all 3 devices transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page are published in full before you book for the same FDA-cleared technology. Korea’s high procedure volume and competitive Seoul market drive that value, which is why patients compare lifting options and travel to RE:BERRY Hongdae.
Which is deeper — Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, or Sofwave?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, Ultherapy Prime is deepest, reaching the SMAS at 4.5mm with HIFU, while Sofwave HIFU SUPERB targets 1.5mm and Thermage FLX RF heats the surface dermis. transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page, Dr. Kim selects the depth that matches your sagging, since Korean clinics run higher HIFU volume than most countries.
Is Ultherapy Prime or Sofwave better for first-time HIFU patients?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, both Ultherapy Prime and Sofwave are HIFU devices, but Ultherapy Prime reaches the 4.5mm SMAS for deep lift transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page while Sofwave tightens 1.5mm . Korean clinics handle more HIFU volume than most Western providers, so Dr. Kim advises after assessment.
Is Thermage FLX or HIFU better for overall skin tightening?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, Thermage FLX monopolar RF firms broad surface laxity transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page while Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime HIFU lift deeper layers, confirmed as a full written quote at your free 1:1 consultation. Korean clinics run higher RF and HIFU volume than most countries, so Dr. Kim may combine them for overall tightening after assessing your skin.
How long do results from each of the 3 devices last at RE:BERRY Hongdae?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, Thermage FLX RF results last 12-24 months, while Ultherapy Prime and Sofwave HIFU results last 12-18 months as collagen forms. Clinical studies show 86-92% efficacy and satisfaction. A maintenance session transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page in Korea benefits from higher clinic volume than equivalent Western clinics, preserving your lift.
How many shots will I need from Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, or Sofwave?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, a Sofwave session is typically 100 shots (transparent pricing published in the pricing section on this page ), Ultherapy Prime 300 shots for full face ( ), and Thermage FLX 600 shots ( ). Dr. Kim sets exact counts by assessing 8-12 facial zones during your 60-90 minute consultation before choosing a device.
Are Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave safe, and what side effects occur?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, all 3 are safe for the 6 Fitzpatrick skin types: HIFU bypasses the epidermis and Thermage FLX RF uses cryogen cooling. Suh et al. (2015) and Lee et al. (2017) confirmed safety in Korean patients — Seoul physicians treat more Asian skin than most countries. Expect mild redness resolving in 1-4 hours.
Which of the 3 devices hurts the least at RE:BERRY Hongdae?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, the HIFU devices Ultherapy Prime and Sofwave sit at 2-3 out of 10 with numbing, while Thermage FLX RF is 3-4 out of 10 eased by Comfort Pulse vibration. Dr. Kim tunes energy per zone, and most patients tolerate any of the 3 lifting devices comfortably in 1 visit.
Can I fly home the same day after any of the 3 lifting treatments?
Yes — at RE:BERRY Hongdae you can fly immediately after any of the 3 devices because each has 0 downtime, no wounds, and no cabin-pressure restriction. Hongik University Station below the clinic connects to AREX, a 60-minute ride to Incheon Airport. Mild redness resolves within 1-4 hours, well before boarding.
How do I get from Incheon Airport to RE:BERRY Hongdae for my appointment?
RE:BERRY Hongdae sits directly above Hongik University Station, a 60-minute AREX ride from Incheon Airport T1 or T2 with 0 line transfers. The clinic is 1 minute from the station exit via the underground passage. This airport-direct access makes same-arrival lifting appointments easy to schedule in Korea.
How many days should I plan in Seoul to compare lifting at RE:BERRY Hongdae?
1 day is enough at RE:BERRY Hongdae — consultation, treatment, and recovery take 2-4 hours total. RE:BERRY Hongdae recommends 2-3 days in Seoul to explore the Hongdae district’s galleries and night markets and to consider a multi-depth Ultherapy Prime plan if desired.
How do I verify RE:BERRY Hongdae uses authentic devices, not generics?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, all 3 are verified through 3 layers: Merz certification and the genuine Thermage FLX console displayed and published online, MFDS registration on request, and sealed transducers and tips opened in front of each patient. Dr. Jae-Hong Kim is a certified operator of each.
What aftercare does RE:BERRY Hongdae provide for international lifting patients?
At RE:BERRY Hongdae, every lifting patient gets a 3-month remote aftercare program: written instructions in 8 languages, WhatsApp and LINE photo follow-up at 2 weeks and 3 months, and guidance from Dr. Jae-Hong Kim. This information is educational and not medical advice; consult a licensed physician. Last reviewed June 2026.
Compare Lifting Devices at RE:BERRY Hongdae
Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave on-site, from ₩490,000 (about $350). Directly connected to Hongik University Station via AREX, open 365 days. Dr. Jae-Hong Kim compares thermage flx vs ultherapy prime vs sofwave and matches the right device to your skin from consultation to aftercare.
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Why Tens of Thousands of Foreign Patients Are Choosing This Seoul Skin Clinic — Business Wire, 2026-04-13
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Directly connected to Hongik University Station (Line 2, AREX, Gyeongui–Jungang Line) via the AREX underground passage. 3F & B2, 140 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul.
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