Ultherapy PRIME (2024) versus Legacy Ultherapy (2009): Non-surgical Facelift and Skin Tightening

Ultherapy has been a popular option for non-invasive face lift and skin tightening since receiving US FDA approval in 2009. 3 million Ultherapy treatments, >100 clinical publications and approvals in >80 countries later, Ultherapy itself got a facelift with Ultherapy Prime, which was launched in 2024. With the release of Ultherapy PRIME worldwide, many are curious to know: what’s the difference between Ultherapy PRIME (2024) and the original legacy version of Ultherapy (2009)? Is it just hype and marketing? What should Ultherapy clients expect from the Ultherapy Prime treatments? 

In this article, we’ll cover all you need to know, from details on imaging capabilities to treatment comfort levels. But first, let’s review some general facts about Ultherapy and its place in aesthetic treatment.

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a non-invasive treatment that utilises micro-focused ultrasound energy. This energy is delivered to the deep layers of the skin, specifically targeting the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, which is the same layer that surgeons tighten during a traditional facelift. It is the only FDA-cleared procedure for lifting the skin on the neck, chin and brow, and for improving lines and wrinkles on the chest.

Mechanism of Action:

The ultrasound energy delivered by Ultherapy creates targeted thermal coagulation points, reaching depths of up to 4.5mm—comparable to surgical facelift depths—without cutting or damaging the skin’s surface. The precise thermal effect triggers the body’s natural wound-healing process, which in turn:

• Stimulates neocollagenesis (new collagen production)
  
• Strengthens existing collagen networks
  
• Gradually lifts and tightens skin
  

This controlled thermal injury stimulates the body's natural healing response, leading to the production of new collagen and elastin. Over time, this results in a gradual lifting and tightening effect, improving skin laxity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. 

What Makes Ultherapy Different from Other Treatments?

Unlike radiofrequency or PicoSure Laser skin treatments, which target the superficial layer of skin known as the epidermis, Ultherapy bypasses the epidermis entirely and targets the deeper SMAS layer, the same layer manipulated during facelift surgery. This makes it a non-invasive alternative for those seeking facial rejuvenation without downtime.

The closest alternative to Ultherapy is HIFU (High intensity Focused Ultrasound), which also utilises focused ultrasound waves to tighten and lift. However, there are several key differences between Ultherapy and HIFU, including real-time visualisation, consistency and precision, making Ultherapy the preferred choice for discerning clients.

Ultherapy PRIME (2024) vs. Legacy Ultherapy (2009): Technological Differences

A Quick Overview:

• Legacy Ultherapy (launched in 2009) was an ultrasound-based aesthetic platform for non-surgical facelift, non-surgical browlift, non non-invasive skin tightening.
  
• Ultherapy PRIME (launched in 2024) built upon the Ultherapy system (2009) with features designed to improve performance, precision and patient comfort. Future developments of the Ultherapy system will be with the Ultherapy Prime system, with legacy Ultherapy (2009) to be phased out over the next 2-3 years.
  

Let’s break down how the two systems compare across several key areas:

1. Ultrasound Imaging Capabilities

Legacy Ultherapy:
Offered basic real-time imaging, allowing practitioners to see beneath the skin surface—but with limitations in depth accuracy and clarity.

Ultherapy PRIME:
Features high-resolution DeepSEE™ ultrasound imaging, enabling:

• Sharper visualisation of skin layers (up to 8mm depth)
  
• Greater accuracy in targeting key anatomical zones
  
• Tailored energy delivery based on tissue density
  

Why the difference Matters:

Ultherapy Prime’s improved visualisation helps doctors direct energy efficiently to collagen-rich areas, for effective and consistent outcomes.

2. Treatment Speed and Efficiency

Legacy Ultherapy:
Full-face treatments could take 90–120 minutes, depending on the treatment area and protocol.

Ultherapy PRIME:
Thanks to energy delivery algorithms and streamlined transducers, treatment times are reduced by up to 30–40%. A full-face treatment (800 lines) may now be completed in 45–60 minutes.

Why the difference Matters:
Faster treatment times with Ultherapy Prime means less discomfort for clients and less fatigue for doctors. In busy clinics with a high Ultherapy patient case load, this also means less waiting time (as cases are often performed back to back).

3. Patient Comfort and Tolerability

It’s no secret that Ultherapy treatments can be uncomfortable, with many patients loving the Ultherapy results but dreading the pain during treatment. With Ultherapy Prime, the discomfort levels are significantly lower- based on patient feedback.

Legacy Ultherapy (2009):
Many patients experienced moderate to severe discomfort during the Ultherapy treatment, often described as a "poking" or "prickling" sensation, especially in sensitive areas like the jawline. Some patients opted for sedation or even general anaesthesia due to the pain from Ultherapy. Most patients rate the pain score from Ultherapy to be 6-7 out of 10.

Ultherapy PRIME:

• Redesigned transducers provide smooth and even energy delivery
  
• Low peak temperature settings generally improved pain tolerability for patients
• Faster processing speeds allow rapid energy delivery
• Clearer ultrasound images increase the precision of delivery
  

Most patients rate the pain score of Ultherapy Prime to be 3-4 out of 10 (still stings a little but not too bad), with many returning Ultherapy clients giving positive feedback when they experience Ultherapy Prime.

Why the Difference Matters:
Clients who have performed Ultherapy before report that Ultherapy PRIME feels less painful (Legacy Ultherapy pain 6-7/10, Ultherapy Prime pain 3-4/10)—making it a good option for those who were previously hesitant because of worries over pain or discomfort.

4. Display and User Interface Technology

Legacy Ultherapy:
Featured a functional but basic touchscreen with minimal customisation, a cartoon image of the face.

Ultherapy PRIME:
 Offers a display interface with:

• Glass display with 2X enlarged ultrasound field for crystal clear visualisation
• Hyper-realistic patient model for custom treatment mapping

Why the Difference Matters:
A responsive and detailed user interface means the doctor can fine-tune treatments and adapt the treatment to suit your skin in real time.

Who is Ultherapy For? And What Are the Risks?

Ideal Candidates for Ultherapy:

• Individuals aged 30–60 experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity
  
• Those looking to address:
  
  • Sagging jawline
    
  • Drooping brows
    
  • Loose neck skin
    
  • Lines and wrinkles on the chest
    
• People who want natural-looking results without surgery or downtime
  

Ultherapy Prime clients tend to be successful and busy working professionals who wish to maintain their image and delay the ageing process without any downtime and minimal risk, hence, they choose Ultherapy Prime for a safe, effective and clinically proven option. In the words Korean Superstars Lee Min Ho and Jun Jihyun, they chose Ultherapy Prime to “See my skin, Lift my Way, Love my Prime”

Note: For older patients with severe skin sagging, a surgical facelift may be required.

Potential Side Effects of Ultherapy:

Ultherapy is generally safe, but as with any medical-grade treatment, some mild and temporary side effects may occur:

• Redness (usually fades within a few hours)
• Swelling or tenderness (resolves in 1–3 days)
• Tingling or numbness (temporary, may last up to 2 weeks)
• Bruising  (temporary, may last up to 1-2 weeks)
• Burns and blisters (requires wound care and antibiotics)

These side effects typically resolve on their own and do not require medical intervention. However, we understand that patients may have concerns or side effects that sometimes vary. That’s why at Bay Aesthetics Clinic, our doctors provide thorough pre-treatment consultation and post-care advice to ensure that you are confident and informed about your treatment through every stage.

Ultherapy at Bay Aesthetics Clinic

At Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa, patients considering Ultherapy will first undergo a comprehensive doctor’s consultation. This includes a detailed assessment of their skin laxity and a discussion of their individual aesthetic goals. This thorough evaluation helps determine if Ultherapy is the appropriate treatment option.

During this consultation, our medical professionals will explain the Ultherapy procedure, potential outcomes, and any relevant considerations. A personalised treatment plan will be developed to address specific areas of concern and to align with the patient's expectations.

Considerations for Ultherapy Treatment

It is important to have a clear understanding of what Ultherapy can and cannot achieve. Ultherapy PRIME is typically considered for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity who are seeking a non-surgical approach to address concerns such as:

• Sagging skin on the neck and chin
• Drooping eyebrows
• Fine lines and wrinkles on the décolletage

Potential side effects of Ultherapy PRIME treatment can include temporary redness, swelling, and tenderness. In rare instances, nerve inflammation may occur. These effects are typically self-limiting and resolve within a few days or weeks.

Choosing a Qualified Ultherapy Provider

With the established Ultherapy brand, there are imitators. It is not uncommon to encounter devices marketed as "fake Ultherapy" or Korean HIFU devices attempting to pass themselves off as genuine Ultherapy. There are also “black sheep” establishments which outrightly deceive clients and tell them that they are getting a genuine Ultherapy Prime (2024) treatment, when it is a Korean HIFU or Legacy Ultherapy (2009) device.

When selecting a clinic for Ultherapy (PRIME), it is important to look for the following:

• Ultherapy Prime Certificate of Authenticity: Verify that the clinic possesses a valid Ultherapy certificate of authenticity, confirming that they are using a genuine Ultherapy device. For a full list of Ultherapy providers, refer to https://www.ultherapysg.com/certified-clinics.html
• Ultherapy Training of the Doctor: Ensure that the doctor performing the procedure has completed certified Ultherapy training.
• Experience Level of the Doctor: Inquire about the doctor's experience with Ultherapy treatments.

Expertise at Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa

At Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa, we perform only genuine Ultherapy treatments. Our doctors have all completed the certified Ultherapy training conducted by international professionals and have performed hundreds of Ultherapy cases.

Dr. Bernard Tan and Dr. Hoe Ying Min bring over 20 years of combined experience and surgical training in Facial Plastic Surgery. Their expertise ensures that patients receive a high standard of care and attention throughout the Ultherapy process.

Experience matters, which is why Ultherapy is one of our frequently requested treatments with a high patient satisfaction rate!

To learn more about Ultherapy and to determine if it is the right option for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tan or Dr. Hoe at Bay Aesthetics Clinic and Medispa.

Ultherapy PRIME Before and After photos

Due to Healthcare Advertising regulations, before and after photos may not be displayed publicly. Before and after photos of actual Ultherapy patients will be shown during the consultation. Contact us to view our portfolio of results

Ultherapy PRIME Prices at Bay Aesthetics Clinic

Full Face Ultherapy PRIME (400 Lines) 

• Performed by aesthetic doctor - $1488 nett
• Performed by medical director - $1788 nett

Consultation fee: Aesthetic Doctor $50, Medical Director $80. Waived if Ultherapy treatment is performed.

For a customised treatment plan and updated pricing, please reach out to us for more details.