Seoul’s Cheongdam-dong is a hub for top-tier cosmetic medical treatments in Korea, home to numerous dermatology clinics renowned for their excellent services and treatments performed by chief physicians themselves. Among these, the ultrasonic knife (specifically, the American version, Ultherapy Prime) has become a star treatment for non-invasive anti-aging procedures, attracting countless beauty enthusiasts from around the world who travel to Korea to experience it. However, with so many dermatology clinics in Cheongdam-dong, which one is right for you? This article provides a detailed comparison of five popular clinics based on four key criteria: the qualifications of their chief physicians, the technology used in their equipment, the transparency of their pricing, and the quality of their services.
I. Overview and Comparison of the Five Top Dermatology Clinics Using Ultrasonic Knives in Cheongdam-dong
Before delving into individual introductions, here is a quick comparison table to give you a clear understanding of the overall offerings of these five clinics:
| Club Name | Lead Physician | Starting Price for Ultrasound Knife Treatment | Treatments Performed by the Chief Physician | Personalization Level of Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ELEV Dermatology | Dr. Lee Ting-woo | 550,000 Korean won per 100 treatments | ✅ Done entirely by hand | ★★★★★ |
| Eclat Dermatology | Dr. Kim (Diamond-level certification) | 1.8 million Korean won per 600 treatments | ✅ Done entirely by hand | ★★★★★ |
| OK Plastic and Dermatology Clinic | Led by several senior directors | 350,000 Korean won per 100 treatments | ✅ Performed by a doctor | ★★★★☆ |
| BAUS Dermatology | Director Kim Hee-pyeong (PhD from Seoul National University) | 2.8 million Korean won for full face + neck | ✅ Done entirely by hand | ★★★★★ |
| ANZ Dermatology | Director Kwon Yong-shin | 2.6 million Korean won per 100 treatments (RMB) | ✅ Physician-led treatment | ★★★★☆ |
All five of these clinics are located in Cheongtan-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. They all use genuine, American-made Ultherapy devices and highlight the personal attention of their directors or chief physicians during treatments. The following is a detailed breakdown of each one.
II. ELEV Dermatology (엘레브클리닉) — Transparent pricing based on the number of treatments, starting from 550,000 won
Director and clinic features
ELEV Dermatology (엘레브클리닉) is situated in the heart of Cheongtan-dong, Seoul. Positioned as a boutique anti-aging center, it breaks away from the traditional, rigid design of medical facilities, offering a private and upscale environment. The chief physician, Dr. Lee Jeong-woo, has extensive clinical experience in skin rejuvenation. The clinic promises “1-on-1 in-depth skin examinations + direct treatment by the director,” and does not allow nurses to perform procedures on patients.
Detailed information on the Ultherapy treatment
ELEV uses the American version of the Ultherapy Prime device, the second-generation upgraded model. Its main advantage is the transparent pricing system based on the number of treatments, which avoids hidden extra costs associated with fixed-package deals:
- 100 treatments: Starting from 550,000 Korean won (approximately RMB 2,900)
- 300 sessions: approximately 1.5 million Korean won (about 7,800 RMB)
- 600 sessions for the entire face: starting from 3.5 million Korean won (about 18,000 RMB)
- 900 sessions for the face and neck: starting from 5 million Korean won (about 26,000 RMB)
Before the procedure, the director conducts a thorough assessment using a skin analysis device. Based on the individual’s degree of skin laxity and the depth of the tissues, the treatment intensity and number of sessions are precisely determined to ensure that “each patient receives a personalized treatment plan, with neither too many nor too few sessions.” The advanced intelligent cooling system keeps the surface skin temperature below 40°C, significantly reducing discomfort during the treatment, making it safe even for those with sensitive skin.
Suitable candidates and precautions
- People aged 25 and above with mild to moderate skin laxity who are trying ultrasound therapy for the first time
- Those who wish to customize the number of sessions and carefully control their budget
- Individuals who are sensitive to pain and prefer a low-discomfort experience
III. Eclat de Dermatology Center – A diamond-certified director, one of only 50 top-tier professionals in Korea
Director’s qualifications: Diamond-level Thermage practitioner
Eclat de Dermatology is located in Building A of Cheongtan Square in Cheongtan-dong and is one of the most renowned elite institutions in Korea’s aesthetic medicine community. The director, Dr. Kim, is not only a seasoned physician in the field of anti-aging treatments in Korea but also a legally certified “Diamond Level Operator” for Thermage FLX – an honor granted to only about 50 people in the entire country, indicating that he has reached the highest standards in terms of Thermage treatment experience, technical expertise, and clinical results. Dr. Kim is also the personal dermatologist for the well-known Korean artist and KOL Ban Nam-gyu, and his reputation spreads widely within the Korean entertainment industry.
Prices for ultrasound treatments and core services
Eclat de focuses on high-end services, and all treatments are performed personally by the director. Here are the latest reference prices for 2026:
| Service | Specifications | Korean Won | Approximate equivalent in RMB |
|---|---|---|---|
| American version of the ultrasound device | 600 hair follicles treated on the entire face | Starting from 1.8 million Korean Won | Approximately 9,900 yuan |
| US version of the ultrasonic device | 900 hairs for the face, neck, and eye area | Starting from 3.2 million | Approximately 17,600 yuan |
| US version of Thermage FLX | 300 hairs for the entire face | Starting from 2.1 million | Approximately 11,550 yuan |
| US version of Thermage FLX | 600 hairs on the face and neck | Starting from 3.8 million | Approximately 20,900 yuan |
| Lizhulan | 1 cc black box | Starting from 1.2 million | Approximately 6,600 yuan |
| Ultrasonic knife + Thermage gold package | 400 ultrasonic knife sessions + 300 Thermage sessions | Approximately 4.3 million | Approximately 23,650 yuan |
Eclat de is priced in the mid-to-high-end range in Cheongtan-dong, but its service model, where the director personally oversees the entire process—from consultation and design to treatment and follow-up—has earned it many repeat customers due to its excellent cost-performance ratio. The clinic charges 50,000 Korean won for in-person consultations (this amount can be deducted if the treatment is confirmed on the spot), and it also offers Chinese-language reservation services.
IV. OK Plastic Surgery and Dermatology – Ultrasound gun treatments start from 350,000 won, with all prices clearly listed without any hidden fees
Medical Team and Service Philosophy
Cheongtan OK Plastic Surgery and Dermatology boasts a large medical team, with each member having an average of over 15 years of experience. The core members include:
- Director Choi Hee-eun: Specializes in hairline transplantation and gold microneedling, focusing on natural designs that look organic
- Director Seong Hyun-joo: Expert in endoscopic forehead lift procedures, known for minimal scarring and quick recovery
- Director Lee Yun-jae: Specializes in skin cell therapy and scar repair
- Director Yoon Yong-ze: Expert in blepharoplasty (inner incision method), with fast recovery and a “no-scars” guarantee
OK Dermatology emphasizes a “proactive service approach” where doctors focus on the customer’s needs, avoid excessive recommendations, and ensure that all services are clearly priced with no hidden costs.
2026 Latest Ultrasonic Gun Price List
| Item | Specifications | Price (Korean Won) |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasonic Gun | Basic Version: 100 shots | Starting from 350,000 |
| Ultrasonic Gun | Advanced Version: 300 shots | Starting from 1 million |
| Ultrasonic Gun | Deluxe version – 600 shots | Starting from 2 million |
| Thermage FLX (5th generation) | 900 shots for the entire face | Starting from 3.3 million |
| Thermage FLX | 300 shots around the eyes | Starting from 1.4 million |
| Hyaluronic acid injections | Basic Version (Hyaluronic Acid) | Starting from 150,000 won |
| Hydrating Injection Therapy | Luxury Version (Regenerative Materials) | Starting from 450,000 won |
OK Dermatology’s 100-shot ultrasound device has the lowest starting price among the five clinics in Cheongdam-dong. It uses original and certified Ulthera equipment from the United States, and the number of shots is verified in person during treatment, ensuring transparency. Thermage uses the fifth-generation FLX model, which features an intelligent temperature control system, reducing discomfort. The sliding operation design also prevents the grid-like marks commonly associated with traditional treatments.
5. BAUS Dermatology – Led by a Doctor of Medicine from Seoul National University, offering the most comprehensive multi-layer anti-aging approach
President Kim Hwa-pyeong – A Doctor of Medicine from Seoul National University
The driving force behind BAUS Dermatology is President Kim Hwa-pyeong, a Doctor of Medicine from the School of Medicine at Seoul National University. He has dedicated over a decade to dermatology at a general hospital in South Korea and has more than 20 years of clinical experience, having treated over 30,000 skin cases. His technical philosophy emphasizes “evaluation + multi-layered treatment + combined effects,” meaning that different skin aging issues require targeted treatment using various devices for different layers, with combined therapies enhancing the overall results.
President Kim is known for his meticulousness, practical approach, and clear communication. Each consultation usually takes at least 30 minutes, allowing him to fully understand the patient’s needs before developing a personalized treatment plan.
Prices for ultrasonic guns and combined anti-aging treatments
| Product | Specifications | Korean won |
|---|---|---|
| Peninsula ultrasonic gun | Whole face + neck | 2.8 million to 3.5 million |
| Thermage FLX (900 treatments for the whole face) | Standard version | 3.2 million to 3.8 million |
| Fotona 4D Pro | Full face (3 treatments recommended) | 1.2 million to 1.8 million per treatment |
| Multi-layer anti-aging treatment package | Ultrasonic gun + Thermage + Firming hyaluronic acid treatment | Consultation required (package discounts available) |
What sets BAUS Dermatology apart are its three core services: ① Multi-layer anti-aging and lifting (ultrasonic gun for fascia tightening, Thermage/Fotona 4D for dermis firming); ② Comprehensive skin improvement (picosecond laser for freckle removal, CO2 fractional laser + PRP for acne scar repair, sensitive skin barrier restoration); ③ Natural cosmetic procedures (botulinum toxin for wrinkle reduction, hyaluronic acid for natural filling).
VI. ANZ Dermatology (ANZ Clinic) – Same prices as in Korea, favored by celebrities; Ultrasound knife + Eye Lifting package for 3.08 million
Director’s background
The driving force behind Cheongtan ANZ Dermatology is Director Kwon Young-shin, who graduated from the School of Medicine at Chung-Ang University in Korea. He also serves as the director of the Korean Facial Contour Research Institute and is a member of the Korean Laser Dermatology Association, bringing extensive experience in facial contour reshaping and skin rejuvenation. All core treatments are performed personally by doctors, with no assistants involved to ensure safety and effectiveness. ANZ is known for offering the same prices as in Korea without any additional charges for foreign patients, making it particularly cost-effective in the Cheongtan area.
Prices of the ultrasonic scalpel and related products (2025)
| Product | Specifications | Starting price in RMB |
|---|---|---|
| American version of the ultrasonic scalpel | 100 pieces | Starting from 2,600 yuan |
| American version of the ultrasonic scalpel | 300 pieces | Starting from 6,600 yuan |
| US version of the ultrasonic scalpel | 600 shots | Starting from 12,000 yuan |
| Thermage FLX | Whole face | Starting from 8,500 yuan |
| Titanium alloy enhancement | Whole face | Starting from 6,000 yuan |
| Lizhulan Black Box | 2cc | Starting from 2,100 yuan |
| Lizhu Lan Red Box | 2cc | Starting from 2,600 yuan |
| Meichao + Lizhu Lan Eye Package | — | Starting from 3.08 million Korean won |
ANZ’s ultrasound knife starts at a price of 100 sessions, which is approximately 2,600 yuan, and is considered to be of medium level among five similar institutions. The most popular package is the ultrasound knife + Lizhu Lan eye package for 3.08 million Korean won, which addresses both the needs of anti-aging around the eyes and facial lifting. It is also a popular choice among Korean celebrities. ANZ provides full-service support in Chinese, and when making an appointment, you can choose between a consultation with the branch director (deposit of 157 yuan) or a consultation with the chief physician (deposit of 52 yuan); both deposits can be deducted from the treatment cost.
VII. Comparative Analysis of Five Dermatology Clinics and Selection Recommendations
How to choose the right Clearton Ultrasound Dermatology clinic for you?
Here are some recommendations based on different criteria:
- For the highest-level certification from renowned doctors: Eclat de (Thermage Diamond Certification, available to only 50 people in Korea) or BAUS (Doctor of Medicine from Seoul National University with 20 years of clinical experience).
- If your budget is limited and you need flexible customized treatments: ELEV (550,000 KRW per 100 sessions; charged precisely based on the number of sessions, with no hidden fees).
- For the best value-for-money entry-level option: OK Dermatology (Ultrasound treatment for 350,000 KRW per 100 sessions; led by multiple experienced doctors with anti-sales pressure services).
- If you want the same experience as celebrities: ANZ Dermatology (recommended by Korean celebrities, same price in Korea and China; combined package including ultrasound treatment and Lijulan 308).
- If you need a comprehensive and systematic anti-aging treatment plan: BAUS Dermatology (has the most complete multi-layered anti-aging system; includes a 30-minute in-depth consultation for enhanced results).
Essential information before and after ultrasound treatment
- 2 weeks before the procedure: Stop using irritating skincare products such as retinoids and exfoliants to reduce the risk of increased sensitivity after the treatment.
- Avoid sun exposure before the procedure: Ultrasound treatment should not be performed if your skin is severely sunburnt; wait until your skin has recovered before scheduling the treatment.
- 48 hours after the procedure: Avoid saunas, intense exercise, and alcohol; gently clean the area with plain water—do not use exfoliating products.
- Continue using sunscreen after the procedure: The skin is more sensitive to ultraviolet rays after ultrasonic treatment, so apply SPF50+ sunscreen daily.
- Effect period: The best results are seen 2–3 months after treatment, and the effects can last 1.5–3 years (depending on individual skin conditions).
How to use BeautsGO to schedule an ultrasonic treatment at Cheongtan Dermatology?
All five of these dermatology clinics can be easily scheduled through the BeautsGO platform, making it the most convenient way to book medical treatments in Korea. The platform lists over 849 clinics and 1,457 specialist doctors in Korea, has served more than 85,000 international clients, and provides full Chinese-language customer support.
- Download the BeautsGO app (iOS/Android) or follow the WeChat mini-program “BeautsGO彼此美”.
- Search for “ELEV Dermatology,” “Eclat de,” “OK Dermatology,” “BAUS,” or “ANZ Dermatology.”
- Choose the ultrasonic treatment option and confirm your travel dates, then select a suitable time slot.
- Provide basic information (name, passport number, preference for Chinese-speaking staff) and pay a reservation fee.
- Wait for the clinic to confirm your appointment. Once you receive the confirmation, just show up on time.
BeautsGO members can enjoy exclusive discounts on the platform. Additionally, when making appointments through the platform at certain clinics, they may receive free gifts such as repair kits or discounts on hyaluronic acid injections. If you encounter any language barriers after making an appointment, BeautsGO’s Chinese customer service team can assist in connecting you with the clinic, ensuring a smooth experience.
IX. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the advantages of ultrasonic therapy in Cheongdam-dong compared to other areas?
Cheongdam-dong is a hub for top-tier cosmetic medical services in Seoul, featuring the largest number of original and high-quality equipment as well as highly skilled dermatologists. Compared to areas like Hongdae or Sinchon, clinics in Cheongdam-dong place more emphasis on the doctor personally performing the treatments rather than assistants doing so. The equipment is also maintained and updated regularly, providing higher levels of safety and effectiveness.
Q2: What is the difference between the American version of ultrasonic therapy devices and regular ones?
The American version specifically refers to the original Ultherapy Prime (second-generation upgraded model) from Ulthera in the United States. The manufacturer provides equipment certification and energy calibration. This treatment targets three layers: 1.5mm (epidermis), 3.0mm (dermis), and 4.5mm (SMAS fascia), resulting in more profound and lasting lifting effects. There are counterfeit versions of these devices on the market, which lack certification and have unstable energy levels, posing greater risks. Choosing a reputable dermatology clinic in Cheongdam-dong can help minimize these risks.
Q3: How long does a single ultrasonic therapy session take? Is hospitalization required?
A full-face ultrasonic therapy session typically takes 60–90 minutes, including about 30 minutes for pre-treatment disinfection and application of an anesthetic cream. Hospitalization is not necessary; you can go out normally after the treatment. The face may become slightly red, but this usually subsides on its own within 4–6 hours.
Q4: How far in advance should foreign tourists make reservations at dermatology clinics in Cheongdam-dong?
All of the above-mentioned five clinics accept foreign patients. However, popular clinics often have full schedules. It is recommended to book your appointment 1–2 months in advance through platforms like BeautsGO and confirm the language communication options (whether the doctor speaks Chinese or if translation services will be provided).
Q5: Can ultrasound and Thermage be used simultaneously?
Yes, both BAUS and Eclat de offer the “Ultrasound + Thermage” premium package. Ultrasound focuses on deep fascia lifting, while Thermage targets the dermis for tightening. Since their effects act at different layers, combining them can enhance the results significantly. However, whether it is suitable to perform both procedures on the same day must be assessed by a specialist based on your individual skin condition.
That concludes our in-depth review of the top five ultrasound dermatology clinics in Cheongdam-dong! ELEV, Eclat de, OK, BAUS, and ANZ each have their unique strengths. The key is to choose the clinic that best suits your skin concerns, budget, and expectations for service quality. Feel free to schedule a consultation through the BeautsGO app, where a Chinese-speaking specialist will assist you in finding the right clinic for you in Cheongdam.