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Laser Lifting

Tunethera: Next-generation total lifting solution

Laser Lifting

Tunethera
Next-generation total lifting solution

Hello, this is Dr. Won-sang Lee, Chief Director of Kate Clinic.
I’d like to explain in detail one of the most popular non-surgical lifting procedures: “Tunethera.” 

What is Tunethera ?

Tunethera is a treatment that combines two powerful lifting technologies.

Hello, this is Dr. Won-sang Lee,
Chief Director of Kate Clinic.
I’d like to explain in detail one of the most popular
non-surgical lifting procedures: “Tunethera.”

What is Tunethera ? 

Tunethera is a treatment that combines
two powerful lifting technologies.

ULTHERAPY
Ulthera

Uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) to target the SMAS layer

TUNEFACE & TUNELINER
Tuneface&Tuneliner

Uses radiofrequency (RF) and 3D ultrasound technology to target the dermis

TUNETHERA
Tunethera 

The combination of these two technologies
creates a powerful synergy,
delivering results greater than the sum of their parts.

ULTHERAPY
Ulthera

Uses high-intensity
focused ultrasound (HIFU) 
to target the SMAS layer


TUNEFACE & TUNELINER
Tuneface&Tuneliner

Uses radiofrequency (RF)
and 3D ultrasound technology
to target the dermis

TUNETHERA
Tunethera

The combination of these two technologies creates a powerful synergy, delivering results greater than the sum of their parts.

Supporting Clinical Research

 The effectiveness of Tunethera is supported by multiple clinical studies :

  1. Fabi SG. Noninvasive skin tightening: focus on new ultrasound techniques. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:47-52.
  2. Alam M, White LE, Martin N, et al. Ultrasound tightening of facial and neck skin: a rater-blinded prospective cohort study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2010;62(2):262-269.
  3. Suh DH, Shin MK, Lee SJ, et al. Intense focused ultrasound tightening in Asian skin: clinical and pathologic results. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(11):1595-1602.
  4. Taub AF, Tucker RD, Palange A. Facial tightening with an advanced 4-MHz monopolar radiofrequency device. J Drugs Dermatol. 2012;11(11):1288-1294.

Before we dive into the details, here’s a simple case study.

 Four Skin Types That Benefit Most from Tunethera  — and Why

Tunethera does not produce the exact same results for everyone, its effectiveness varies depending on skin condition and individual concerns. Based on 20 years of clinical experience, here are the four types that show the most significant improvement.

  Case Study 01  


 Individuals in their 
40s–50s with significant skin sagging
and reduced elasticity 
case image
 Key Features
  • Visible sagging caused by gravity
  • Blurred facial contours due to weakening of the SMAS layer
  • Overall loss of elasticity from decreased collagen and elastin
 How Each Technology Works
  • Ultherapy (deep layer) : Ultrasound energy reaches the SMAS layer (4.5 mm deep), creating thermal coagulation points at 60–70°C, which tighten the lax fascia for a strong lifting effect.
  • Tuneface (mid layer) : Radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen production in the dermis, improving overall skin elasticity.
Synergy Effect
Ultherapy strengthens the “structural pillars” in the deeper layers, while Tuneface builds an “elastic mattress” in the mid layers, creating a multi-dimensional lifting effect. It’s similar to reinforcing both the pillars (Ultherapy) and the walls (Tuneface) of a building at the same time.
  Case Study 02  


 Individuals needing contour improvement and double chin correction
case image
 Key Features
  • Blurred boundary between the jaw and neck
  • A rounder or fuller appearance caused by a double chin or deep cheek fat
  • A sharper, more defined jawline is desired
 How Each Technology Works
  • Selective fat reduction with Tuneliner : 3D ultrasound selectively targets and breaks down fat cells.
  • Jawline lifting with Ultherapy : Ultrasound energy reaches the SMAS layer to lift the sagging jawline upward.
Synergy Effect
While Tuneliner removes unnecessary fat, Ultherapy lifts the skin— creating a powerful “dual contour refinement” effect. It’s similar to a sculptor carving away excess material (Tuneliner) while refining the overall shape (Ultherapy). Together, they create a sharper, more defined facial contour.
  Case Study 03  


Individuals who need improvement in fine lines and skin texture
case image
 Key Features
  • Fine lines appearing throughout the face
  • Rough or uneven skin texture
  • Dull, uneven skin tone with reduced radiance
 How Each Technology Works
  • Collagen regeneration with Tuneface : Radiofrequency delivers controlled heat (40–45°C) to the dermis, promoting new collagen formation
  • Deep-layer stimulation with Ultherapy : Focused ultrasound activates deeper regenerative processes within the skin.
Synergy EffectTuneface
Tuneface improves surface-level fine lines through collagen regeneration, while Ultherapy targets deeper wrinkles with lifting energy—providing comprehensive, multi-layer wrinkle care. Together, they stimulate regeneration from both the surface (Tuneface) and deeper layers (Ultherapy), restoring healthier, smoother, and younger-looking skin. 
  Case Study 04  


 Busy individuals who want fast recovery and long-lasting results 
case image
 Key Features
  • Limited time for frequent treatments
  • Prefer natural lifting effects without surgery
  • Want both immediate improvement and long-term results
 How Each Technology Works
  • nstant effect of Tuneface :  RF energy contracts collagen immediately, delivering an instant tightening effect.
  • Long-term effect of Ultherapy : Gradual lifting continues to improve over time and lasts for 6 months to 1 year.
  • Sustained effect of Tuneliner : Fat-cell reduction results can last for 2–3 years.
Synergy Effect
Tuneface delivers immediate tightening, while the longer-term lifting of Ultherapy and the extended fat-reduction effects of Tuneliner appear in sequence — creating a “time-layered improvement.” With just one treatment session, patients benefit from short-, mid-, and long-term effects, making this an ideal choice for busy modern individuals.

Before we dive into the details, here’s a simple case study.

 Four Skin Types That Benefit Most from Tunethera  
— and Why

Tunethera does not produce the exact same results for everyone, 
its effectiveness varies depending on skin condition and individual concerns.

Based on 20 years of clinical experience, here are the four types that show the most significant improvement.

Case Study 01


Individuals in their 40s–50s with
significant skin sagging and reduced elasticity


Key Features
  • Visible sagging caused by gravity
  • Blurred facial contours due to weakening of the SMAS layer
  • Overall loss of elasticity from decreased collagen and elastin
How Each Technology Works
  • Ultherapy (deep layer) : Ultrasound energy reaches the SMAS layer (4.5 mm deep), creating thermal coagulation points at 60–70°C, which tighten the lax fascia for a strong lifting effect. 
  • Tuneface (mid layer) : Radiofrequency energy stimulates collagen production in the dermis, improving overall skin elasticity.


Synergy Effect


Ultherapy strengthens the “structural pillars” in the deeper layers,
while Tuneface builds an “elastic mattress” in the mid layers, creating a multi-dimensional lifting effect.
It’s similar to reinforcing both the pillars (Ultherapy) and the walls (Tuneface) of a building at the same time.

Case Study 02


Individuals needing contour
improvement and double chin correction


Key Features
  • Blurred boundary between the jaw and neck
  • A rounder or fuller appearance caused by a double chin or deep cheek fat
  • A sharper, more defined jawline is desired
How Each Technology Works
  • Selective fat reduction with Tuneliner : 3D ultrasound selectively targets and breaks down fat cells.
  • Jawline lifting with Ultherapy : Ultrasound energy reaches the SMAS layer to lift the sagging jawline upward.


Synergy Effect


While Tuneliner removes unnecessary fat, Ultherapy lifts the skin— creating a powerful “dual contour refinement” effect.
It’s similar to a sculptor carving away excess material (Tuneliner) while refining the overall shape (Ultherapy).
Together, they create a sharper, more defined facial contour.
 
Case Study 03


Individuals who need
improvement in fine lines and skin texture


Key Features
  • Fine lines appearing throughout the face
  • Rough or uneven skin texture
  • Dull, uneven skin tone with reduced radiance
How Each Technology Works
  • Collagen regeneration with Tuneface : Radiofrequency delivers controlled heat (40–45°C) to the dermis, promoting new collagen formation
  • Deep-layer stimulation with Ultherapy : Focused ultrasound activates deeper regenerative processes within the skin.


Synergy EffectTuneface


Tuneface improves surface-level fine lines through collagen regeneration,
while Ultherapy targets deeper wrinkles with lifting energy—providing comprehensive, multi-layer wrinkle care.
Together, they stimulate regeneration from both the surface (Tuneface)
and deeper layers (Ultherapy), restoring healthier, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

Case Study 04


Busy individuals who want
fast recovery and long-lasting results


Key Features
  • Limited time for frequent treatments
  • Prefer natural lifting effects without surgery
  • Want both immediate improvement and long-term results
How Each Technology Works
  • Instant effect of Tuneface : RF energy contracts collagen immediately, delivering an instant tightening effect.
  • Long-term effect of Ultherapy : Gradual lifting continues to improve over time and lasts for 6 months to 1 year.
  • Sustained effect of Tuneliner : Fat-cell reduction results can last for 2–3 years.


Synergy Effect


Tuneface delivers immediate tightening, while the longer-term lifting of Ultherapy
and the extended fat-reduction effects of Tuneliner appear in sequence — creating a “time-layered improvement.”
With just one treatment session, patients benefit from short-,
mid-, and long-term effects, making this an ideal choice for busy modern individuals.

Synergy Effects of Tunethera

What makes Tunethera special is that it provides a multi-layer lifting system.

Synergy Effects of  Tunethera

What makes Tunethera special is that it provides a multi-layer lifting system.

1
Deep-layer lifting, Ultherapy

Acts on the SMAS layer for
a powerful lifting effect

2
Mid-layer tightening, Tuneface

Acts on the dermis to regenerate collagen
and improve elasticity

3
Fat-layer management, Tuneliner

Reduces excess fat to create a cleaner,
more sculpted contour.

When do results appear, and 
 how long do they last  ?
Initial
results		Immediate tightening effects
from Tuneface right after
treatment
Mid-term
results		Gradual improvement from
2–4 weeks post-treatment
Maximum
improvement
Full results from 3–6 months
Longevity
Ultherapy results last 6 months–1 year, Tuneliner results last 2–3 years
Maintenance Typically maintained with
treatment 1–2 times per year
When do results appear, 
and  how long do they last  ?
Initial
Results 		Immediate tightening effects from Tuneface right after treatment.
Mid-term ResultsGradual improvement from 2–4 weeks post-treatment.
Maximum ImprovementFull results from 3–6 months.
LongevityUltherapy results last 6 months–1 year, Tuneliner results last 2–3 years.
MaintenanceTypically maintained with treatment 1–2 times per year
How does each technology work?
How does each
technology work?
1
Ultherapy
The key technology for deep-layer lifting

Ultherapy is a technology I have trusted in clinical practice for many years. It delivers ultrasound energy precisely to the SMAS layer — approximately 4.5 mm beneath the skin’s surface. This is the same layer that plastic surgeons target during a surgical facelift. ;


An easy way to understand the mechanism is to imagine using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight onto a single point until the paper begins to burn. In the same way, Ultherapy concentrates ultrasound energy to form thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at 60–70°C. This heat causes the tissue to contract, and the collagen within it becomes denatured. In response to this controlled, beneficial injury, the body begins to produce new collagen. 


Clinical studies show that improvement continues for up to 6 months after treatment, with results lasting for about one year.

2
Tuneface 
Expert in mid-layer collagen regeneration

Tuneface is a handpiece used with the Accent Prime device and is a radiofrequency treatment that uses a patented unique frequency of 40.68 MHz. When heat of 40–45°C is delivered to the dermis, the skin stimulates new collagen production, and when heat of around 65°C is applied, existing collagen contracts to produce an immediate tightening effect.


My patients especially appreciate that the dual cooling system makes the treatment far less painful. Additionally, with three adjustable depth levels (1mm/2mm/3mm, 5mm/8mm/11mm), the treatment can be individualized to the patient’s skin condition and needs. 

3
Tuneliner  
A solution for facial contour refinement

Tuneliner uses 3D ultrasound technology to selectively target fat cells. The ultrasound energy is absorbed by fat cells, generating heat, which destroys them. The destroyed fat cells are naturally eliminated through lymphatic drainage.


It is effective for improving double chin, deep cheek fat, and sagging jawline, and results last for about 2–3 years. In my experience, this treatment provides particularly good results for patients with excess facial volume or unclear jawlines.

mobile background
 Who is Tunethera recommended   for   ?

Based on 20 years of clinical experience,
I recommend Tunethera for the following individuals.

01

Those with significant sagging or who need strong lifting

02

Those with busy schedules who cannot visit the clinic frequently

03

Those in their 40s or older with marked
loss of elasticity
and sagging

04

Those whose jaw–neck boundary has become unclear

05

Those with sagging cheeks that make nasolabial folds look deeper

06

Those who need improvement in both skin elasticity and overall
facial contour

1
Ultherapy
The key technology for deep-layer lifting

Ultherapy is a technology I have trusted in clinical practice for many years. It delivers ultrasound energy precisely to the SMAS layer—approximately 4.5 mm beneath the skin’s surface. This is the same layer that plastic surgeons target during a surgical facelift. 


An easy way to understand the mechanism is to imagine using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight onto a single point until the paper begins to burn.
In the same way, Ultherapy concentrates ultrasound energy to form thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at 60–70°C. This heat causes the tissue to contract, and the collagen within it becomes denatured. In response to this controlled, beneficial injury, the body begins to produce new collagen.


Clinical studies show that improvement continues for up to 6 months after treatment, with results lasting for about one year.

2
Tuneface
Expert in mid-layer collagen regeneration

Tuneface is a handpiece used with the Accent Prime device and is a radiofrequency treatment that uses a patented unique frequency of 40.68 MHz. When heat of 40–45°C is delivered to the dermis, the skin stimulates new collagen production, and when heat of around 65°C is applied, existing collagen contracts to produce an immediate tightening effect. 


My patients especially appreciate that the dual cooling system makes the treatment far less painful.
Additionally, with three adjustable depth levels (1mm/2mm/3mm, 5mm/8mm/11mm), the treatment can be individualized to the patient’s skin condition and needs. 

3
Tuneliner
A solution for facial contour refinement

Tuneliner uses 3D ultrasound technology to selectively target fat cells.
The ultrasound energy is absorbed by fat cells, generating heat, which destroys them.
The destroyed fat cells are naturally eliminated through lymphatic drainage. 


It is effective for improving double chin, deep cheek fat, and sagging jawline, and results last for about 2–3 years.
 In my experience, this treatment provides particularly good results for patients with excess facial volume or unclear jawlines.

mobile background

01

Those with significant sagging or who need strong lifting

02

Those with busy schedules who cannot visit the clinic frequently

03

Those in their 40s or older with marked loss of elasticity and sagging

04

Those whose jaw–neck boundary has become unclear


05

Those with sagging cheeks that make nasolabial folds look deeper

06

Those who need improvement in both skin elasticity and overall facial contour

What is the
treatment process ?

    STEP 1    

Consultation & Assessment 

We first analyze the skin condition and degree of aging in detail.We fully listen to the patient’s expectations and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.

      STEP 2    

Ultherapy
Treatment

Ultrasound energy is precisely delivered to the SMAS layer. A full-face session usually takes about 30–60 minutes.

    STEP 3    

Tuneface / Tuneliner Treatment 

Depending on the skin type and the areas that need improvement, different handpieces and depths are used.

      STEP 4    

Final Care

The procedure is completed with soothing and moisturizing treatment.

What to do
after the procedure ?

Here are the post-care guidelines
I always emphasize to my patients.

Hydration  
The skin may become drier than usual after the procedure, so please keep it well hydrated.
Minimize irritation 
Avoid any strong friction or stimulation on the treated area.
Use of recovery cream 
I recommend using a regeneration cream to support skin recovery.;
Sun protection 
Minimize sun exposure and apply sunscreen thoroughly.
Avoid alcohol and heat exposure 
For 48 hours after the procedure, avoid alcohol, saunas, and hot baths that can cause blood vessel dilation.
What is the treatment process ?






STEP 1

Consultation & Assessment

We first analyze the skin condition and degree of aging in detail.We fully listen
to the patient’s expectations
and goals to create a personalized treatment plan.

 STEP 2

Ultherapy Treatment

Ultrasound energy is precisely delivered to the SMAS layer. A full-face session usually takes about 30–60 minutes.

STEP 3

Tuneface/Tuneliner Treatment 

Depending on the skin type and the areas that need improvement, different handpieces and depths are used.

STEP 4

Final Care

The procedure is completed with soothing and moisturizing treatment.

mobile background
What to do after the procedure ?

Here are the post-care guidelines I always emphasize to my patients.

Hydration : The skin may become drier than usual after the procedure, so please keep it well hydrated.
Minimize irritation : Avoid any strong friction or stimulation on the treated area.
Use of recovery cream : I recommend using a regeneration cream to support skin recovery.
Sun protection : Minimize sun exposure and apply sunscreen thoroughly.
Avoid alcohol and heat exposure : For 48 hours after the procedure, avoid alcohol, saunas, and hot baths that can cause blood vessel dilation.

 In Closing

Tunethera is a premium total lifting solution that combines the powerful lifting of Ultherapy with the elasticity improvement and contour refinement of Tuneface/Tuneliner.

Based on my 20 years of clinical experience, proper patient selection and a tailored treatment plan are the keys to satisfactory results


Many of my patients say: “My face feels firmer and more lifted.”, “People keep asking if I did something because I look younger.”, “My facial line looks so much more defined."


If you would like more information or a personalized consultation, feel free to contact the clinic anytime.

I am committed to doing my very best for your skin health and beauty.

FAQs
FAQs



Ultherapy: What a 20-year dermatologist really thinks

Hello, this is Dr. Won-sang Lee, Chief Director of Kate Clinic.

Having performed dermatologic procedures for over 20 years, I’ve come across countless lifting treatments. Among them, Ultherapy is the one I receive the most questions about.

Today, I’d like to walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of Ultherapy that patients are most curious about.


So, what exactly is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a non-invasive lifting procedure that uses high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU).

Since receiving FDA approval in 2009, it has been performed more than 1.75 million times worldwide. It holds four FDA clearances and is supported by more than 40 published clinical studies demonstrating its safety and efficacy.


[Image 1: Ultherapy Device and FDA Approval Certificate]

[Links to FDA Approval & Two Clinical Studies]


The core principle of Ultherapy is delivering ultrasound energy at 60–70°C precisely to the SMAS layer (the fascia layer) without damaging the skin surface. It’s similar to focusing sunlight through a magnifying glass onto a single point.


Advantages of Ultherapy

1. Proven safety and effectiveness

Based on my 20 years of experience using various lifting devices, Ultherapy has unique advantages.

The biggest feature is that it has real-time ultrasound imaging technology (DeepSee™). Thanks to this technology, I can directly see up to 8mm deep during the procedure, enabling highly precise treatment.

Why is this such a major advantage? Most other devices rely heavily on the practitioner’s intuition to know whether the energy is hitting the correct depth — so the final result depends greatly on the doctor’s skill.


[Image 2: Real-time skin layer visualization using DeepSEE technology]


2. Fundamental lifting without surgery

Ultherapy is the only non-invasive procedure that can reach the SMAS layer at a depth of 4.5mm.

Compared to devices like Thermage or other RF technologies that reach only 2–2.5mm, this is a significant difference. In fact, many of our clinic’s patients have shown high satisfaction with jawline improvement.


3. Immediate return to daily activities

One of the most practical advantages is that there is virtually no downtime.

You can wash your face and wear makeup immediately after the procedure, making it ideal for people with busy lifestyles. Mild swelling or redness may appear, but most of it resolves naturally within 24–72 hours.


[Image 3: Ultherapy before-and-after results (jawline improvement)]


4. Long-lasting results

Collagen regeneration leads to gradual improvement over 2–6 months.

Clinical studies show that lifting effects can last up to 1 year. This means that even a single treatment can offer long-lasting benefits.


[Image 4: Graph showing the duration of Ultherapy results]


Disadvantages and Limitations of Ultherapy

1. Significant treatment discomfort

To be completely honest, Ultherapy can be painful.

Because the energy penetrates deeply into the SMAS layer, sharp, bone-level discomfort may occur. This is especially common around the jaw and forehead areas.

However, numbing cream or local anesthesia can significantly reduce discomfort.


[Image 5: Illustration explaining anesthesia methods for pain reduction]


2. High treatment cost

Ultherapy is considered a premium lifting procedure, so the cost may feel considerable.

A typical session of 300–600 shots ranges from ₩1,000,000 to ₩1,500,000, which is considerably higher than Korean devices such as Shurink.


3. Variability in results due to individual differences

Not all patients experience the same effectiveness.

Patients with very little facial fat may experience unintended fat loss, resulting in a hollow look. In such cases, Ultherapy may not be suitable.


[Image 6: Comparison of suitable vs. unsuitable skin types for Ultherapy]


4. Limited immediate results

Ultherapy works gradually through collagen regeneration.

Some patients expect instant changes, but the maximum effect appears 2–3 months after treatment. This can create a gap between expectations and reality.


Precautions for Ultherapy Treatment

Choosing genuine devices and skilled medical professionals

The most important point is choosing a clinic that uses certified genuine Ultherapy equipment.

There have been reports of side effects caused by counterfeit or reused cartridges. At our clinic, we help verify authenticity through the official “Check Ulthera” app.


[Image 7: Guide to identifying genuine vs. counterfeit products]


Importance of prior consultation

It is crucial to accurately assess each patient’s skin condition and expectations.

Skin thickness, fat distribution, and muscle condition must be evaluated comprehensively to create a proper treatment plan. Personalized treatment is essential, not indiscriminate procedures.


Closing Remarks

Based on 20 years of clinical experience, Ultherapy is undeniably an effective lifting procedure.

However, it is not a universal solution. It must be chosen carefully by considering the patient’s age, skin condition, and expectations.


[Image 8: Age-specific Ultherapy treatment guidelines]


Above all, please determine whether Ultherapy is right for you through sufficient consultation. I recommend discussing with an experienced dermatologist like us to make the best decision.

Wishing you the very best in your journey toward healthier, more beautiful skin.


References :

  • FDA approval documents (2009–2012))
  • Over 40 clinical studies on the Ultherapy System
  • Global data from more than 1.75 million procedures
  • Official Merz Aesthetics Korea guidelines


* Results may vary depending on individual skin condition. A thorough consultation with a qualified specialist is essential before treatment.



Operating Hours

 Tel. +82 2-6952-1234
Weekdays 
11:00 am ~ 8:30 pm 🌙
Saturday 
10:00 am ~ 4:30 pm 
(No lunch break)
Lunch Break
1:30 pm ~ 2:30 pm

Address
7F, Kate Clinic, 148 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

   

Kate Clinic
 Business Registration Number: 525-36-00662 
 Representative : Lee Won-sang   |   E-mail : kateclinic@naver.com
Terms of Use   |   Privacy Policy

 ⓒKATE CLINIC. All Rights Reserved

 Operating Hours

 Tel. +82 2-6952-1234
Weekdays11:00 am - 8:30 pm 🌙
Saturday10:00 am - 4:30 pm (No lunch break)
Lunch Break1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Address   7F, Kate Clinic, 148 Yanghwa-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

   

Kate Clinic   |   Business Registration Number : 525-36-00662   |   Representative: Lee Won-sang   |   E-mail : kateclinic@naver.com

Terms of Use   |   Privacy Policy    |   ⓒKATE CLINIC. All Rights Reserved