What It Is
Doublo HIFU is a non-surgical skin lifting and tightening treatment that uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) technology. Like Ultherapy and Shurink, it delivers focused ultrasound energy into different layers of the skin, including the SMAS layer (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) — the same structure lifted during surgical facelifts.
The energy creates thermal coagulation points at targeted depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm), which stimulate collagen and elastin production. Over time, this process leads to firmer, lifted, and more youthful-looking skin.
Doublo was one of the first Korean-developed HIFU systems and is often praised for being effective, safe, and affordable. It is commonly used for patients who want visible tightening but prefer a budget-friendly option compared to Ultherapy.
Why It’s Done
Patients choose Doublo HIFU for multiple anti-aging and contouring benefits:
➝ Facial lifting → Tightens sagging cheeks, jowls, and jawline.
➝ Wrinkle reduction → Softens fine lines around the mouth, forehead, and eyes.
➝ Skin tightening → Improves elasticity and firmness on the face, neck, and décolletage.
➝ Contour refinement → Defines the chin and jawline, enhancing the “V-line.”
➝ Brow lift → Helps correct drooping eyelids and lifts the eye area.
➝ Preventative care → Many patients in their 20s and 30s use it to maintain firmness before significant sagging occurs.
In Korea, Doublo is often chosen by younger patients or medical tourists because it is less expensive than Ultherapy but still delivers noticeable lifting and tightening.
Alternatives
While Doublo is effective, other treatments may be recommended depending on patient needs:
- Ultherapy (branded HIFU) → FDA-approved, premium version with imaging technology.
- Shurink HIFU → Korea’s most popular and versatile HIFU system.
- Ultraformer III → Advanced HIFU with improved comfort and precision.
- Thermage FLX (Radiofrequency tightening) → Targets superficial skin tightening and texture.
- Microneedling RF (Scarlet, Sylfirm X) → Improves skin texture, pores, and elasticity.
- Thread lifts → Mechanical lift with immediate results.
- Injectables (Sculptra, Radiesse, Rejuran) → Stimulate collagen but do not lift as effectively.
In Korean dermatology, Doublo is sometimes combined with:
- Doublo + Thread Lift → Structural lift plus long-term collagen boost.
- Doublo + Rejuran/Exosomes → Lifting plus regenerative skin repair.
- Doublo + Botox/Fillers → Lifting plus wrinkle reduction and contour enhancement.
Preparation
Preparation ensures safe and effective results:
➝ Consultation & analysis → Doctors assess skin laxity and contour needs.
➝ Medical history review → Patients disclose implants, medications, or chronic conditions.
➝ Avoid blood thinners → Stop aspirin or supplements 5–7 days before (with doctor’s guidance).
➝ No alcohol or smoking → At least 48 hours before treatment.
➝ Stop harsh skincare → Discontinue acids, retinoids, or exfoliants 3–5 days before.
➝ Hydration → Well-hydrated skin responds better to HIFU therapy.
In Korea, many clinics prepare patients with hydrating facials or barrier-strengthening masks to ensure minimal irritation during the procedure.
How It’s Done
A Doublo HIFU session typically lasts 30–60 minutes, depending on treatment areas:
- Cleansing → Skin is cleaned to remove impurities.
- Numbing cream → Applied for 20–30 minutes for comfort.
- Ultrasound gel → Applied to enhance energy transmission.
- HIFU delivery →
- The Doublo device delivers focused ultrasound at 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm depths.
- Patients may feel mild heat or tingling during energy pulses.
- Post-care soothing → Cooling masks, LED light therapy, or hydrating serums are applied.
Treatment plan:
- One session → Provides noticeable results.
- Maintenance → Every 6–12 months, depending on skin aging and lifestyle.
Recovery
One of Doublo’s biggest advantages is minimal downtime:
- Immediately after → Mild redness or swelling; skin feels firmer.
- Day 1–3 → Some tenderness or tingling in treated areas.
- Week 2–4 → Early lifting and tightening effects become noticeable.
- Month 2–3 → Peak results appear, with improved contours and smoother skin.
Aftercare tips:
➝ Apply SPF 50+ sunscreen daily.
➝ Avoid saunas, alcohol, and intense workouts for 48 hours.
➝ Use gentle, hydrating skincare for a few days.
➝ Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet for collagen support.
In Korea, aftercare is often enhanced with soothing sheet masks, exosome serums, or antioxidant infusions to accelerate healing.
Complications
Doublo HIFU is generally safe, but mild side effects may occur:
➝ Redness or swelling → Temporary, fades in hours or days.
➝ Tenderness or tingling → Common, resolves within 1–2 weeks.
➝ Bruising → Rare, more likely in sensitive areas.
➝ Nerve irritation → Very rare, prevented by experienced providers.
➝ Uneven results → Reduced through skilled technique and proper mapping.
Korean dermatology minimizes risks through precise calibration, expert technique, and customized protocols.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is one of the most advanced hubs for HIFU-based lifting, and Doublo remains widely available as a cost-effective yet reliable option.
1. Popular Devices
- Doublo Gold → Newer model with faster delivery and improved patient comfort.
- Doublo-S → Specialized for both face and body contouring.
2. Combination Programs
- Doublo + Thermage → Deep tightening plus superficial smoothing.
- Doublo + Exosome infusion → Lifting plus regenerative repair.
- Doublo + Thread Lift → Immediate lift plus gradual collagen remodeling.
Final Thoughts
Doublo HIFU in Korea is a highly effective and accessible solution for those seeking non-surgical lifting and tightening. By targeting the SMAS layer and stimulating collagen, it delivers natural and progressive results without the downtime of surgery.
Korean dermatology clinics have refined Doublo treatments with combination programs, advanced protocols, and affordable pricing, making it one of the most popular choices among locals and medical tourists. For anyone seeking a safe, budget-friendly, and natural-looking facelift alternative, Doublo HIFU in Korea is an excellent option.
