First published: 2023-08-02 / Last reviewed: 2026-05-28
This is a guide to Ultherapy PRIME compiled by Dr. Choi Byeong-geun of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk (3 minutes walk from Konkuk Univ. Station Exit 1).
Many people feel that their skin becomes sensitive every time the season changes. While surface concerns like dryness or dead skin cells can be managed to some extent with self-care, age-related changes such as enlarged pores, deepening nasolabial folds, or sagging contours are difficult to reverse with cosmetics alone. In this article, we will explore why skin sags, how these changes alter facial impressions, and how lifting intervenes.
Where Does Sagging Begin?
At the core of skin sagging is collagen weakening. As we age, collagen in the dermis and SMAS layer decreases and loosens, reducing the skin's supportive strength.
Collagen is a structural protein that supports the skin from within. When it weakens, changes are reported to appear first in deeper layers rather than on the surface.
How Sagging Changes Your Impression
Sagging does not stop at one area but sequentially changes your impression.
- Drooping outer corners of the eyes change the impression
- Deepening nasolabial folds
- Jawline collapses and cheeks sag
- Facial shape changes due to jowls and double chin
Because multiple changes appear simultaneously, an approach that addresses both deep and superficial layers, rather than a single approach, may be considered.
Consult to find out which stage your face is in
How Ultrasound Addresses Deep Layers
Ultherapy intensively delivers ultrasound energy deep into the skin's SMAS layer. When thermal coagulation points are created in the target tissue, collagen coagulation, denaturation, and contraction occur, leading to collagen remodeling. Since sagging originates from collagen weakening, it is used to stimulate the SMAS layer to refine sagging facial contours.
How Radiofrequency Adds Superficial Elasticity
Tuneface promotes elasticity by delivering 3D volumetric ultrasound and radiofrequency energy together. It delivers energy tailored to each skin layer with 3-stage depth control and reduces surface irritation with an ice-contact cooling system. Aimed at collagen regeneration and elasticity recovery, it is used for improving pores, fine wrinkles, and overall elasticity.
Why a Layered Approach?
Sagging in the deep layers and reduced elasticity in the superficial layers have different causal layers. Therefore, a comprehensive approach combining ultrasound, which addresses the SMAS layer, and radiofrequency, which adds superficial elasticity, may be considered.
Even for the same sagging, the appropriate combination may vary depending on the stage of progression and skin thickness.
Conclusion
Sagging begins with collagen weakening and changes the overall impression of the face. Since the approach varies depending on which layer's changes are prominent, a design based on diagnosis comes first.
Inquire if you are curious about your skin aging stage
Related information can be found in the Ultherapy PRIME and Tuneface guides.
Authored by: Dr. Choi Byeong-geun (Chief Director of SHINE U Clinic Konkuk / Member of Korean Academy of Laser Dermatology and Hair, Korean Academy of Aesthetic and Plastic Laser Medicine, Korean Filler Society, etc.) Last reviewed: 2026-05-28
This article provides general information about procedures and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. The suitability and results of procedures may vary by individual.