Ultherapy Prime

How it works

Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound with visualisation (MFU-V). Ultrasound energy is focused at a set depth to create tiny thermal coagulation points while the epidermis is largely unaffected. These points trigger tissue repair and collagen remodelling, producing tightening.

The usual depth settings are 4.5 mm, 3.0 mm and 1.5 mm, corresponding roughly to the SMAS, deep dermis and superficial dermis. The 4.5 mm setting is the main reason this device gets attention — the SMAS is the layer addressed in surgical facelifts, and few non-surgical devices reach it.

The other distinguishing feature is real-time imaging. The website stresses 「실시간 모니터링으로 정확한 에너지 전달」 — accurate delivery via real-time monitoring. Subcutaneous structures can be viewed before firing to confirm where energy will land. Where skin thickness varies a lot, this matters: too shallow and the effect is diluted; too deep and structures that shouldn't be affected are.

Typically suited to

• A facial contour that has begun to descend, with the jawline losing definition
• Sagging under the chin
• Descent of the cheek mass, with deepening nasolabial folds
• Loosening of the neck
• Wanting to improve structural support without surgery

Those with thin subcutaneous fat or a naturally lean face need careful assessment: energy acting on the fat layer may further reduce local volume, which isn't necessarily desirable. That judgement is made at consultation.

What "lines" mean

Ultrasound treatment is dosed in "lines" (발 / shots). Each line is one energy pulse creating a row of coagulation points. A full-face treatment typically runs to several hundred lines, depending on the area (whether neck and eyes are included), the degree of laxity and the transducer configuration.

More lines is not better. Energy delivery has to match what the tissue can tolerate and recover from; over-treating doesn't scale the result up linearly, it scales discomfort and recovery up. The doctor gives a recommended range at consultation.

Price is tied directly to line count, which is where quotes get misunderstood — different clinics' quotes may cover very different line counts and areas, so a headline price alone can't be compared. When asking for a quote, confirm lines, areas covered and transducers used.

Procedure and recovery

During treatment there is heat and a deep aching sensation, varying by person and area; bony areas (the jaw border, the cheekbone) are usually felt more. The clinic uses topical anaesthetic or other comfort measures as appropriate.

Afterwards the skin may be briefly red, slightly swollen or tender, usually easing within days. A few people notice local numbness or a cord-like feeling that fades with time.

Results are gradual. Collagen remodelling is usually well established at two to three months, when the change is clearest.

Pairing with other devices

The website spells out the combination: 「고강도 리프팅이 필요한 경우 슈링크•써마지와 병합」 — for intensive lifting, combine with Shurink and Thermage.

The most common pairing is Ultherapy Prime + Thermage FLX: one handles deep support, the other surface tightness and texture. Their working layers don't overlap, so they complement rather than compound risk. Whether they are done in the same period and at what interval is decided by the doctor according to skin tolerance.

Side-by-side comparison of the two

Precautions

• Tell the doctor about current medication, allergies and previous aesthetic treatments — especially thread lifts and fillers in the face
• Postpone if there is active infection, an open wound or a severe acne flare
• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Tell the doctor about implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers
• Sun protection and moisturising afterwards; avoid saunas and steam rooms for a while

General information only; not a substitute for consultation.

On authenticity

Ultrasound treatments depend heavily on genuine equipment and consumables; transducer condition directly affects energy output. THE LIZ CLINIC displays its Ultherapy Prime authorised-provider certificate on the premises.

It is entirely reasonable to ask about the device model and transducer status at consultation; a reputable clinic won't mind.

How to verify equipment and consumables