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Comparison of sound waves and radio waves

Ultrasound vs. Radiofrequency: How to Choose? A Side-by-Side Comparison of Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX | In-Depth Breakdown by NEWYOUNG’s Director

Ultrasonic Waves vs. Radiofrequency: How to Choose? Complete Comparison of Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX | NEWYOUNG Cheongdam

Standing in front of the mirror, have you started to notice those slight signs of sagging too? When taking photos, it always seems like your jawline isn’t sharp enough, and your cheeks look a bit droopy.?

Open your phone and search for “Recommended anti-aging clinics in South Korea」、「Top Recommendations for Cheongdam Aesthetic Surgery」と a ton of information pops up—some say ultrasound is better, while others claim radio waves are better. The more you look at it, the harder it is to decide which one to choose.。

This article was written just for you.

We go straight for the simplest way to do it, by using Ultherapy Prime (HIFU) and Thermage FLX (Phoenix Radio Waves)Clarify the difference clearly. After reading this, you’ll understand:Which one suits your face?

I. First, figure out what type of concern you have.

Many people make the wrong choice right from the start, and that’s becauseI’m not sure if my face is “loose” or “slumped.”。

🔹 Softer-looking faceThe skin loses its elasticity, Pores become more noticeable, fine lines increase, and the flesh on the cheeks seems to sag.
🔹 Face “sagged”: Blurred jawline, prominent Double Chin, deeper Nasolabial Fold Correction, and a loss of facial contours

🔹 Loose and saggy: Both symptoms are present

Once you figure out which type you belong to, you’ll know which direction to go.

II. What’s the difference between sound waves and radio waves?

Understand it in the simplest way possible:

Think of your face as a house—

  • Radio wavesIt’s likeTidy up the wall surfaceto smooth and tighten the surface
  • Ultrasound wavesIt’s likeStrengthen the foundation and support structureslift the overall contour upward

Understand all the differences at a glance

Thermage FLX (Phoenix Radio Waves)Ultherapy Prime (HIFU)
Energy TypeRF Frequency (Monopolar RF)HIFU focused ultrasound
Depth of ActionDermis layer: 1-4mmSMAS fascia layer: 4.5mm
Heating method3D volumetric heating (even heating across the entire surface)Focus on spot heating (precisely targeting one point)
Key BenefitsFull-face tightening: Smoother skin, reduced fine lines, smaller Pores, and improved overall skin qualityStructural LiftThe jawline becomes sharper, the flesh around the mouth improves, and the contours look smoother.
Ideal forLoose face: lack of skin elasticity, numerous fine lines, and rough textureFace “sags”: blurred jawline, Double Chin, and sagging contours
Results appearImmediate results + gradual enhancement over 2-6 monthsIt appears gradually over 2–3 months
Duration of Effect12-18 months12-18 months
FDA-approvedSkin TighteningLift

A one-sentence summary:

  • I want toFirm skin, reduces fine lines → Radio Waves (Thermage FLX)
  • I want toLift contours and restore jawline definition → Ultrasound (Ultherapy Prime)

Loose and saggy? You can get either!— “Electronic and Acoustic Waves” complement each other rather than replace one another。

III. What’s the difference between Ultherapy Prime and the older version?

By 2026, the South Korea market will have largely upgraded to Ultherapy Prime(The latest generation from Merz Aesthetics’ official US source).

The biggest difference lies in “DeepSEE’s real-time visualization technology”.— Doctors can see it on the screenSee the exact landing point of each energy blast in real timeIt precisely targets the SMAS fascia layer, eliminating the need for “blind” treatment.

Colloquial languageThe old version is like “playing by feel,” while Prime is like “There’s navigation running.」。

Pain levels are also reduced by about 35–40%, while the treatment time shortens from 90 minutes to 60–75 minutes.

IV. What are the features of Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is the world’s most renowned radiofrequency lifting device, developed by American company Solta Medical, with over 20 years of history.

Equipped with FLX versionAccuREP™ Smart Energy Optimization Technology— An impedance test is performed on every inch of skin before each shot.Automatic fine-tuning of output energyTo ensure that every shot is even, precise, and safe.

4 Types of ProbesFacial amethyst probe, eye area sapphire probe, body slimming probe — treatment available for the whole body.

V. So... which one should I choose?

It’s simple—answer these 3 questions:

ProblemAnswer AAnswer B
What’s the issue that matters most to you?Loose skin, numerous fine lines, and enlarged PoresBlurred jawline, sagging face, Double Chin
What kind of improvement are you hoping for?The skin becomes firmer, brighter, and smoother.The contours become smoother, the face takes on a V shape, with defined lines.
What are your priorities?Skin Quality Lifting > Contour TransformationContour Adjustment > Skin Lifting

✅ More people choose Option A → Radiofrequency therapy (Thermage FLX) is recommended first.
✅ More people choose Option B → Ultherapy Prime is the top recommendation.
✅ Having both → You might consider pairing them with “Dual RF Waves”

VI. Why Choose NEWYOUNG? Personal Consultation by the Cheongdam Clinic Director – No Assembly-Line Approach

Gangnam District in Seoul is the largest market in the world for ultrasound and radiofrequency treatments, with a huge number of clinics—yet the quality varies greatly among them.

3 Things That Set NEWYOUNG Apart:

① Personal assessment and procedure by Director Wu Xujun

Neither ultrasound nor radio waves can be used just by turning on the device — they require a doctor to determine based on each individual’sSkin thickness, fat distribution, degree of saggingTo determine the number of pulses, depth, and energy parameters。

At NEWYOUNG,Dr. Wu Xujun personally handled the entire process from assessment to injection.It’s not performed by nurses, nor is it used for resident doctors to practice.

② Non-assembly line, 1-on-1 premium service model

Some clinics see dozens of clients in a single day, leaving limited time and attention for each person.

NEWYOUNG PicksBook a one-on-one consultationNo rush, no pressure. From pre-operative assessment to post-operative follow-up, the same doctor takes care of everything throughout the process.

③ Pre-procedure ultrasound safety assessment

At NEWYOUNG,An ultrasound safety assessment is conducted before every treatment.— To assess your skin condition, the location of previous fillers, and whether there are any lumps or bumps, ensuring you’re a suitable candidate.

For procedures that aren’t suitable, the clinic director will tell you honestly. There’s no forced treatment or pushy sales to close a deal.

VII. Price Reference for 2026: South Korea vs Taiwan

To you who’s doing your homeworkTransparent pricing is the foundation of trust. Below are the reference ranges for 2026.

Ultherapy Prime (HIFU)

SolutionPrice in South Korea (KRW)Around NT$
Face: 100 shots500,000Around 12,000
Face: 300 shots1,500,000Around 36,000
Face: 600 shots2,700,000Around 65,000

Thermage FLX (Phoenix Radio Waves)

SolutionPrice in South Korea (KRW)Around NT$
Face: 600 shots2,700,000Around 65,000
Around eyes: 225 shots1,500,000Around 36,000
Around eyes: 450 shots2,000,000Around 48,000

Taiwan Market Comparison:

  • The price for 100 Ultherapy sessions in Taiwan is around NT$28,000–35,000
  • The price of a 600 MHz frequency from Taiwan’s Phoenix Radio is around NT$65,000–85,000.

The price in South Korea is around 35–65% of that in Taiwan.Even when including flight and accommodation, you can still save a considerable amount of money.

⚠️ All prices are exclusive of 10% VAT.The actual number of treatments and plan will be confirmed after a face-to-face consultation with the clinic director.— It’s not about sending more messages the better; the ideal amount is “just right.”

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Q1: Which is more painful, ultrasound or radio waves?

A: Everyone experiences it differently. Generally, radio waves cause a more noticeable “heat sensation,” while sound waves result in a “localized deep-level tingling” feeling. Anesthetic is applied before either treatment, and Ultherapy Prime also reduces pain by 35–40% compared to the older version, making it tolerable for most people.

Q2: Is there a recovery period after the procedure?

A:No needBoth are non-invasive treatments, allowing you to resume normal activities and wear makeup on the day of treatment. Some people may experience mild redness, which usually subsides within a few hours to a day.

Q3: When can I see the results?

A: Signal strengthThere’s already a sense of tightening right now.Collagen production continues to increase over 2–6 months.. Sound waves are2-3 monthsThe results start to show gradually, in about86% of patients showed measurable improvement within 3 monthsThe duration of effect for both is the same12-18 months。

Q4: Can ultrasound and radio waves be used together?

A:Sure, and many people do that.Radio waves (full-layer tightening) + sound waves (structural lifting) = “Radio-Sound Dual Waves” – the two work together complementarily rather than as substitutes for each other.The sequence and interval between treatments should be determined by a doctor based on your individual condition; generally, an interval of 4–6 weeks is recommended.。

Q5: What are the differences between getting cosmetic procedures in South Korea and Taiwan?

A: The equipment itself is the same (both are original), butSouth Korea’s doctors perform 5 to 10 times more procedures per year on average than those in Taiwan.They also have more experience. Moreover, prices in South Korea are around 35–65% of those in Taiwan, making it even more cost-effective even when including flight and accommodation.

Q6: How can I ensure it’s an original, genuine probe?

A: Every original probe comes with one.Unique Serial NumberYou can verify it by scanning a code on the spot.Reject probes of unknown origin or those that have been modifiedWhen you arrive at the clinic, feel free to ask to verify the probe packaging and serial number.

IX. From Taiwan to NEWYOUNG: How to Book? How to Get There?

📍 Address: 78-9, Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul

🚇 TransportationExit 3 at Apgujeong Rodeo Station, about a 2-minute walk.

⏰ Business Hours:

  • Monday–Friday: 10:00–20:00
  • Saturday: 10:00–17:00
  • Sunday: Closed

📱 How to Book an Appointment:

MethodAccount
LINE@096fpaaj
WhatsApp+82 10-8189-6892
Instagram@newyoung.clinic
Linktreelinktr.ee/newyoung.clinic
Official Websitenewyoung.cceeo.com

💡 Helpful tip:

  • Available on siteA Chinese translator accompanies throughout the entire process.
  • Each guest is accompanied byDr. Wu Xujun’s 1-on-1 Assessment
  • SuggestionsBook 2–4 weeks in advanceEnsure the director is available during that time.

🤍 NEWYOUNG Clinic in Cheongdam

A premium anti-aging clinic located in Cheongdam, Seoul.
Every guest is taken care of byDr. Wu XujunPersonal one-on-one assessment.
Inside the clinicA Chinese translator accompanies throughout the entire process.。
No age pressure — just focus on caring for your true skin condition.

Feel free to schedule a consultation — we’re waiting for you in Cheongdam✨

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