As we age, many of us notice that our facial skin isn’t as firm as it used to be. Fine lines begin to appear, or the jawline seems to sag over time. If you’re looking for a way to care for your facial skin without relying on surgery, the Ulthera treatment is currently one of the most popular and trusted skin lifting programs worldwide. With its innovative technology, it helps stimulate collagen and restores your skin’s structure to look firmer.
This article will answer your doubts about what Ultherapy is, why it has become a top choice for skin tightening, and how an Ulthera machine can help you regain a youthful appearance.
Key Takeaways
- The Ulthera treatment program uses Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V) energy, delivering it to multiple skin layers to stimulate collagen production and help lift the skin without surgery.
- Ultherapy skin tightening treatment addresses sagging issues, such as an undefined jawline, drooping cheeks, double chins, and neck laxity. Results gradually become more pronounced as the collagen-building process takes place over 2-3 months.
- The number of lines and targeted areas should be assessed on an individual basis because everyone’s facial structure, skin thickness, fat volume, and level of sagging are different. It isn’t recommended to choose solely based on the number of lines.
- The Ulthera therapy cost varies depending on the treatment area, number of lines, and the machine model. Before proceeding, choose a standardized clinic with verifiable machines and a doctor who can appropriately assess your treatment plan.
What Is Ultherapy and How Does It Work?
What is Ultherapy and how does SMAS lifting actually work? Ultherapy is a skin lifting program that utilizes highly specific microfocused ultrasound technology to stimulate the creation of new collagen, making the skin look youthful and smooth.
How Ultherapy Treatment works
The principle of Ultherapy involves delivering ultrasound energy waves through an applicator deep into the dermal layers. This energy converts into tiny thermal points of around 60-70°C, aligned beneath the skin. When the heat reaches the tissue layer, it causes immediate contraction while stimulating the long-term production of new collagen and elastin, gradually tightening sagging skin.
Therefore, the Ulthera skin tightening program involves a procedure that rejuvenates the skin and helps lift the face without surgery, leading to its widespread popularity.
Ultherapy Depth Levels
The highlight of the Ulthera machine is its ability to penetrate deep into the skin layers. With applicators featuring three different depth levels, doctors can select the most appropriate one for your specific skin concerns and target areas.
- 1.5 mm applicator: Ideal for the upper skin layer and fine lines, such as around the eyes, forehead, or areas with thin skin.
- 3.0 mm applicator: Suited for the middle skin layer, where vertical and horizontal collagen fibers intermix. It effectively tightens the skin around the cheeks and jawline, reducing sagging.
- 4.5 mm applicator: Ultherapy face can reach deep down to the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer, the exact same tissue layer cosmetic surgeons adjust during a surgical facelift. Delivering energy to this depth effectively lifts the facial structure, making the overall skin look lifted, contoured, and well-defined.
How Many Ultherapy Models are There, and What’s the Difference?
Currently, there are two widely recognized and popular Ulthera machine models in the aesthetic industry: Ulthera SPT and Ulthera Prime. Let’s look at the differences between the two.
Ulthera SPT
Ulthera SPT uses SPT (See, Plan, Treat) technology. This means seeing the skin layers, planning the treatment sites, and treating by delivering energy to the target tissues. This enables doctors to customize the Ultherapy treatment based on each individual’s skin structure.
Ulthera Prime
Ulthera Prime is the newest model built upon the original SPT technology. With advanced software and hardware developments, it offers even higher lifting efficiency.
Here are the reasons why getting an Ulthera treatment with the Ulthera Prime machine is rapidly gaining popularity:
- Clear imaging function: This machine comes with a high-definition display, allowing doctors to see the skin structure in intricate detail in real-time. This ensures a highly appropriate treatment plan.
- Fast processing system: The updated system makes each shot faster than before, shortening the overall program time and keeping the patient more comfortable.
- Multiple depth adjustments: The Ulthera Prime program can adjust energy delivery to 3 depths (1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mm), addressing issues from the superficial layer down to the SMAS layer—the foundational structure of the face, leaving it tight and youthful.
- Comprehensive solutions: The Ulthera treatment program comprehensively addresses skin and neck laxity, reduces double chins, and targets wrinkles at their root causes.
Comparison Table: Ulthera SPT vs. Ulthera Prime treatment
Feature | Ulthera SPT | Ulthera Prime |
Operating Principle | Uses High-Intensity MFU-V waves with SPT (See, Plan, Treat) technique | Uses next-gen MFU-V waves with a sharper display system |
Skin Layer Visualization | Ultrasound screen displaying skin structure in real-time | Full HD screen, much clearer, showing more detailed skin layers |
Treatment Technique | See: See the skin Plan: Plan the target areas Treat: Deliver energy to target tissues | Multi-depth adjustments (1.5, 3.0, 4.5 mm) for precise targeting at each layer |
Sensation During Treatment | Less painful than older models, but still feels slightly tight | Less painful than the SPT model due to more stable energy delivery |
Treatment Time | Takes around 60-90 minutes depending on skin concerns | About 20% faster than SPT due to an upgraded processing system |
Results | Lifts and tightens skin, reduces sagging, fades wrinkles | 20-30% visible improvement immediately; full results in 2-3 months. Skin looks dense, smooth, and lasts around 1 year |
Suitable For | Those with mild to moderate skin sagging | Those who want clear results, less pain, shorter treatment time, and the latest technology |
Key Highlights | SPT technique focuses on personalized planning | Full HD screen, less pain, faster, more durable, and clearer results |
What Does Ultherapy Treatment Help With?
Ultherapy is a non-surgical facial lifting technology that adjusts the face shape and rejuvenates the skin in many ways, such as:
- Lifting and reducing the laxity of the face and neck.
- Slimming the face for a sharper, more proportionate jawline.
- Reducing double chins to create a sleek, firm look.
- Diminishing wrinkles and smile lines, giving the skin a smooth, youthful appearance.
- Boosting skin density and strength, promoting a healthy look through an Ultherapy face treatment.
Who Is Ultherapy Suitable For?
Ultherapy treatment at our Bangkok clinic is perfect for those who want to lift, contour, and restore their skin without surgery and have limited downtime.
- Individuals aged 25 and above interested in lifting, reducing sagging, or treating fine facial lines.
- Those who want a V-shape face, a defined jawline, and a reduced double chin without plastic surgery.
- People concerned about drooping eyelids or sagging eye corners. An Ultherapy lifting facial can lift the brows and eyelids without altering facial bone structure.
- People with limited time who want to restore their skin to look dense, firm, and smooth, as the Ulthera treatment program stimulates deep collagen production.
- Individuals looking for noticeable results without long recovery periods; maintaining results requires doing the Ulthera lifting facial program just once a year.
Who Should Avoid Ultherapy? Things to Know Before Deciding
- Ultherapy treatment shouldn’t be performed on areas with open wounds, lesions, severe inflammation, or cystic acne.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with certain underlying diseases, or those undergoing treatments affecting the immune system should consult a doctor first, as there’s insufficient safety data for these specific groups.
Comparing Ultherapy with HIFU, Thermage, and Other Procedures
Many wonder which program best suits their skin and needs. We’ll summarize the differences between each procedure and who they’re suited for.
Procedure | Main Benefits / Features | Best Suited For |
Ultherapy | Lifts the face, reduces sagging, and defines the jawline. | Those starting to experience skin sagging with minimal facial fat, seeking results close to a non-surgical facelift. |
HIFU (Ultraformer III) | Tightens the skin and restores smooth skin texture. | Those with minor wrinkles, slight sagging, and looking for early-stage maintenance. |
Thermage | Plumps, tightens, and firms the skin while partially reducing subcutaneous fat. | Individuals with sagging cheeks and double chins who want denser, more elastic skin. |
Other Procedures (Volumer, Oligio, Morpheus8, Emface) | Improves overall skin quality, reduces wrinkles, and strengthens facial muscles. | Those wanting targeted skin restoration or long-term sagging prevention. |
If you’re unsure which procedure is right for you, it’s recommended to get an assessment from a specialized dermatologist or a doctor providing the Ulthera program to align the treatment with your needs.
Pros and Limitations of Ultherapy
Pros of Ultherapy
- Enhanced safety: Real-time visualization screens allow doctors to see the skin layers, ensuring precise placement and energy delivery to the desired areas.
- No surgery needed: It’s a non-surgical procedure with no incisions and no downtime. You can resume your daily routine immediately afterward.
- Long-lasting results: A single session can last up to 1-2 years.
- Clear outcomes: You can feel the change from the very first session, with results peaking around 2-3 months thanks to deep Ultherapy skin tightening.
Limitations of Ultherapy
- Sensation during the procedure : You may feel slight pain or a tingling sensation in certain areas during the treatment, which can be minimized with numbing cream or painkillers.
- Swelling : Some patients may experience mild swelling after the treatment, which naturally subsides within 1-2 days.
- Cost : The Ulthera therapy cost can be higher compared to other skin-tightening procedures.
Which Areas Can Be Treated With Ultherapy, and How Many Lines are Used?
- The Ulthera skin tightening program can address skin problems in various areas, especially Ulthera Prime treatment, which features a smaller applicator that reaches difficult spots better than older models. Each area requires a different number of lines or shots depending on the individual’s skin condition. Here’s an estimated line count:
- Around the eyes: Approximately 100 lines to lift the brows and reduce fine lines around the eyes.
- Cheeks: Approximately 300-400 lines, ideal for tightening sagging cheeks for a slimmer look.
- Double chin: Approximately 200 lines to reduce the double chin and sharpen the jawline.
- Full face and double chin: Approximately 600-800 lines for comprehensive results covering the face and upper neck.
Full face, double chin, and neck: Approximately 800-1,000 lines for complete lifting from the face down to the neck.
However, the number of lines or shots used depends on the individual’s skin condition and the doctor’s professional assessment.
Pre and Post-Care for Ultherapy
Before Ultherapy
Preparing for Ultherapy treatment isn’t complicated since it’s a non-surgical procedure. The most important step is consulting a doctor to assess your skin condition and properly plan the treatment. Inform your doctor thoroughly about your medical history, allergies, or any previous facial procedures to ensure a safe experience and satisfying results.
Post-Care for Ultherapy
- You can resume normal daily activities immediately with no downtime.
- Makeup and skincare products can be applied as usual.
- Apply a high-SPF sunscreen regularly.
- Avoid intense sun exposure for the first 1-2 weeks to prevent skin irritation.
- Refrain from laser programs or high-heat procedures in the treated area for at least 2 weeks.
How Long Does It Take to See Results, How Long Does It Last, and When to Repeat?
- Immediately after: Some may feel their skin is slightly tighter, though mild redness or swelling may occur.
- 1-2 weeks: Most swelling and tenderness gradually subside.
- 1 month: The continuous collagen rebuilding and restructuring process actively kicks in.
- 2-3 months: The lifting results usually become highly visible.
- Afterwards: Results can continue to develop for up to 6 months and last about 1 year or more in some individuals.
As for repeating the treatment, there’s no fixed timeline for everyone. You should have a doctor assess it when firmness begins to decline, considering your age, skin condition, and treatment goals.
Can Ultherapy Be Combined With Other Procedures?
At TALISA Clinic in Bangkok, you can plan Ultherapy treatment alongside Botox, fillers, thread lifts, fat-reduction procedures, or other skin-tightening devices in some cases. However, the sequence and waiting periods depend on the treated areas and the specific procedures involved.
What Affects the Results After Ultherapy?
If results fall short of expectations, it could be due to several factors, such as:
- The number of lines or treatment areas didn’t match the level of sagging.
- The placement and depth of the energy didn’t align with the target tissue.
- Severe sagging where non-surgical procedures offer limited results.
- Evaluating the results too soon before the collagen-building process peaks.
- The main issue stems from excess fat or facial bone structure, rather than just skin laxity.
How Much Does Ulthera Therapy Cost?
Generally, the Ulthera therapy cost for standard or Ulthera Prime treatments depends on the targeted areas and the number of lines used. A doctor will evaluate this based on individual skin concerns.
Here’s an estimated pricing guide for the Ulthera facial lifting program:
Area | Estimated Number of Lines | Estimated Starting Price |
Around the eyes | 100-200 lines | 13,000 THB |
Cheeks | 300-400 lines | 30,000 – 52,000 THB |
Cheeks + Double Chin | 500-600 lines | 50,000 – 60,000 THB |
Full face covering cheeks, double chin, and neck | 600-800 lines | 60,000 – 80,000 THB |
Where to Get Ultherapy? A Checklist Before Choosing a Clinic
Choosing a standardized clinic for an Ulthera treatment clinic in Bangkok ensures you receive close, safe care and highly effective results. Before getting the service, consider these factors:
- Clinic credibility: Choose a legally licensed clinic with clean premises and easy accessibility.
- Medical supervision: The treatment must be overseen by a knowledgeable doctor who understands how to use the equipment, accurately diagnose skin problems, and design a proper plan.
- Reasonable pricing: Be cautious of overly cheap Ulthera treatment prices, as they carry the risk of counterfeit, non-standard machines, or an insufficient number of lines.
- Real user reviews: Check out reviews from actual clients across the clinic’s channels to compare results before making a decision.
- Standardized equipment : Ensure the Ultherapy clinic Bangkok uses genuine, standard Ulthera machines from the manufacturer to guarantee results.
How to Check for Genuine Ultherapy Machines
Before the procedure, you can ask for machine details, model information, and proof from the distributor or manufacturer, including the serial number and certification documents. If the clinic has a system to verify authentic machines from Merz Aesthetics, do so before proceeding.
Another key indicator is the Visualization system. Genuine Ultherapy displays tissue structures via real-time ultrasound, which doctors use to position and adjust depth during the treatment.
However, if you’re still hesitating about where to find an Ultherapy face clinic that offers excellent value and the most satisfying results, we recommend directly asking for information and consultations from your clinic of choice to get accurate details tailored to your needs.
What Ultherapy Is: The Ultimate Non-Surgical Facial Contour Lifter
Ultherapy is a skin-tightening program utilizing high-frequency ultrasound technology as a surgical alternative. It resolves sagging skin, reduces wrinkles, and creates a defined jawline. A single session of the Ulthera facial lifting program provides long-lasting and worthwhile results, making it a top choice for many.
For those seeking a highly standard and safe clinic, TALISA Clinic is ready to provide the Ulthera treatment program using the standardized Ulthera Prime machine. Every case is guided by an experienced doctor to ensure you feel confident at every step and receive satisfying, personalized results.
For more information, contact us at:
- LINE:@talisaclinic
- Instagram:talisaclinic
- Facebook:TALISA Clinic
- Tel:062-486-3626
Frequently Asked Questions about Ultherapy Treatment (FAQs)
Q: How many days in advance should I do Ultherapy treatment before an important event?
A: If you have an important event and want to allow time for post-treatment swelling, redness, or tenderness to subside, it’s recommended to plan it at least 1-2 weeks ahead. However, if you want the firmness to fully develop, allow about 1-3 months. The effects of Ultherapy progress gradually as collagen rebuilds and restructures, typically peaking 1-3 months post-treatment.
Q : Will Ultherapy make my face look gaunt or haggard?
A: The main purpose of Ultherapy treatment is to lift the skin and stimulate collagen, not directly break down fat. However, outcomes depend on the placement, depth, and energy delivery plan of each individual. Those with naturally gaunt faces, low subcutaneous fat, or prominent facial bones should consult a doctor first to design the most suitable treatment areas.
Q: Can men do Ultherapy?
A: At TALISA Clinic in Bangkok, men can definitely undergo Ultherapy skin tightening treatment just like women to treat sagging skin, undefined jawlines, or laxity under the chin and neck. The number of lines, depth, and targeted areas are planned individually based on facial structure, skin thickness, and degree of sagging, rather than being determined by gender alone.
Q: If I stop doing Ultherapy, will my face sag more than before ?
A: Stopping Ultherapy doesn’t directly cause your skin to sag more than its baseline. Over time, the effects of collagen stimulation gradually fade while your skin continues to age naturally. Therefore, you might feel a decrease in firmness compared to when the results were at their peak. If you wish to maintain the results, consult a doctor to see when you should repeat the treatment.
Q: How should I care for my skin at home to make Ultherapy treatment results last longer?
A: Post-treatment, maintain a consistent skincare routine. Apply sunscreen daily, avoid intense sun exposure, keep your skin hydrated, get enough rest, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking. When using retinoids or active anti-aging ingredients, choose products suited for your skin type. If your skin gets irritated easily, consult a doctor before use.
References
Ultherapy PRIME®. (n.d.). Merz Aesthetics. Merzaesthetics. https://www.merzaesthetics.ca/solutions/ultherapy/
Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center. (n.d.). Ultherapy Houston TX | Non-Surgical Facelift and Skin Tightening. Derm laser Surgery. https://www.dermlasersurgery.com/procedures/ultherapy/
Chloe Zomorodi. (2024, September 27), What to Know About Ultherapy. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-to-know-ultherapy
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