Will Ulthera Prime Lifting Be More Effective Than Before? | [Yonsei Star Dermatology Sinchon]

When researching lifting procedures, Ulthera is often the first name encountered. It has become synonymous with high-intensity ultrasound lifting devices. Recently, an evolved version, Ulthera Prime, was released in Korea, leading many to wonder, "Is it really better than the existing Ulthera?" To put it simply, the fundamental operating principle of the laser itself has not changed. Instead, it can be understood as an upgrade with improved imaging technology and processing speed, which helps to perform the procedure more accurately and comfortably.

Ulthera is a representative HIFU device that has been consistently used for about 15 years since its launch in 2009. It works by delivering high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to the deep layers of the skin, creating thermal coagulation points. This stimulation induces collagen regeneration, leading to lifting and tightening effects.

Here, HIFU stands for HIGH-INTENSITY FOCUSED ULTRASOUND. The key is that it targets deep within the skin, not just the surface. Detailed procedure information can be found in the Ulthera Prime Lifting Guide.

Ulthera's most significant feature is that its ultrasound energy can reach the SMAS layer, approximately 4.5mm deep. The SMAS layer is the fascial layer that supports the face and is difficult to reach with only superficial stimulation. Delivering energy to this depth to induce collagen regeneration forms the basis of the lifting effect.

By checking the condition of the skin layers visually while applying the laser, it is possible to apply the appropriate intensity to the necessary areas for each individual. This personalized treatment, tailored to each person's skin condition, leads to satisfactory results. It may also be helpful to compare it with Gouri treatment, which uses a different collagen stimulation method within the same ultrasound category, or Juvelook information, which focuses on dermal volume.

While maintaining the basic principle of creating thermal coagulation points to induce collagen regeneration, Ulthera Prime (officially named Ulthera Prime), also known as Ulthera 2, has recently been released in Korea. The differences from the existing Ulthera can be summarized into three main points.

• Expanded Display: A screen approximately 35% larger than before allows for more comfortable monitoring of skin condition during the procedure.
• Improved Processing Speed: Device recognition time is shortened, reducing the wait between ultrasound energy deliveries.
• Expanded Ultrasound Field: The imaging field is more than twice as wide, and visual noise has been reduced.

The first is, of course, the appearance. Thanks to the approximately 35% larger display, the practitioner can monitor the screen much more comfortably during the procedure.

The second change is that the device's processing speed has increased by approximately 10 times. With significant advancements in the applied processor, the time the machine takes to recognize between ultrasound energy delivery and preparation has been shortened, ultimately leading to a reduction in overall treatment time.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask via chat consultation regarding Ulthera Prime treatment.

The third and most important difference is that the ultrasound field is more than twice as large, and visual noise has been reduced, allowing for stable and clear images. This means that the inside of the skin can be seen in more detail. With a clearer screen, the practitioner can deliver energy more accurately, leading to potentially better results.

You might be wondering if the upgraded performance means better results. In the examination room, we believe that the improved ultrasound imaging technology, which is Ulthera's greatest strength, increases the possibility of receiving a safer and faster procedure. However, the effectiveness may vary depending on individual skin conditions.

The improvement in imaging technology can lead to overall satisfaction, so those who had concerns about existing Ulthera lifting, such as 'hollowing,' may have renewed expectations with this opportunity. Comparing it with Thermage Tightening information, which differs from ultrasound lifting targeting deeper SMAS layers, can also be helpful in making a choice.

However, since the technical aspects of the laser principle have not changed from the previous version, the skill and diagnosis of the practitioner ultimately determine the results. We recommend checking the following points before undergoing Ulthera Prime:

• Whether the intensity is adjusted while checking the skin condition on screen
• Whether the treatment area and frequency are thoroughly discussed before deciding
• Whether information on the recovery process and precautions after the procedure has been provided in advance
• Whether the plan is tailored to individual skin thickness and degree of sagging

In this article, we have summarized the changes in Ulthera Prime, supplementing the information previously introduced. The most accurate way to determine if this procedure is right for your skin condition is to consult directly.

Chief Director Lee Sang-joo (MD, PhD, Yonsei University College of Medicine and Graduate School, completed dermatology residency at Severance Hospital, President of the Korean Dermatological Association) Chief Director Lee Sang-joo's Profile First published 2025-04-07 / Last reviewed 2026-06-16

This article is for general information purposes only, and treatment effects and responses may vary from person to person. Please consult with medical staff through a consultation to determine the appropriate method for you.