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Ultherapy Prime vs Ultraformer what’s the difference?

skin tightening

Which Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Treatment Is Right For You?

Non-surgical skin tightening treatments using ultrasound technology have become increasingly popular for lifting and firming ageing skin without downtime. Two leading options are Ultherapy Prime and Ultraformer III. While both treatments stimulate collagen production using focused ultrasound energy, they differ in technology, precision, treatment experience, and longevity of results.

In this guide, we explain the key differences between Ultherapy Prime and Ultraformer III to help you understand which treatment may suit your skin concerns and aesthetic goals.

How Do Ultherapy Prime and Ultraformer III Work?

Ultherapy Prime Technology

Ultherapy Prime uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V), which delivers ultrasound energy while providing real-time imaging of the skin layers.

This advanced imaging allows clinicians to:

  • Visualise skin structures during treatment

  • Target precise treatment depths

  • Deliver energy to the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) layer — the same structural layer typically addressed in surgical facelifts

  • Customise treatment placement for improved safety and accuracy

By targeting deeper support layers beneath the skin, Ultherapy Prime focuses on lifting and tightening while stimulating natural collagen regeneration.

Ultraformer III Technology

Ultraformer III uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), which is also designed to stimulate collagen production and skin tightening.

Key features include:

  • Multiple interchangeable cartridges targeting various skin depths

  • Versatility for both face and body treatments

  • Energy delivery guided by anatomical knowledge and clinical experience (without real-time imaging)

While Ultraformer III effectively stimulates collagen, it relies on practitioner expertise to estimate treatment depth and placement.

Treatment Results and Longevity

Ultherapy Prime Results

Ultherapy Prime is often recommended for individuals experiencing moderate to advanced skin laxity.

Typical expectations may include:

  • Progressive lifting and tightening effects

  • Collagen remodelling continuing for several months

  • Visible improvements typically appearing around 2–3 months

  • Results that may last approximately 12–24 months depending on individual factors

Ultraformer III Results

Ultraformer III is commonly chosen for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity or those seeking maintenance treatments.

Patients may notice:

  • Earlier visible skin tightening effects within 1–2 months

  • Gradual collagen stimulation

  • Results typically lasting around 6–12 months

  • More frequent maintenance treatments may be recommended

Because each person’s skin quality, ageing process, and lifestyle differ, results and longevity vary between individuals.

Treatment Comfort and Experience

Ultherapy Prime Treatment Experience

Ultherapy Prime delivers focused energy to deeper skin layers, which can create a stronger sensation during treatment.

Patients may experience:

  • Deeper warmth or tingling sensations

  • Longer treatment sessions depending on treatment areas

  • Updated transducer technology designed to improve comfort compared to earlier Ultherapy systems

Ultraformer III Treatment Experience

Ultraformer III is often described as a more gentle treatment option.

Patients commonly report:

  • Mild to moderate warmth or tingling

  • Shorter treatment sessions

  • More distributed energy delivery across treatment zones

Comfort levels vary depending on treatment depth, area, and individual sensitivity.

Post-Treatment Reactions

Ultherapy Prime Recovery

Because Ultherapy Prime targets deeper support structures, temporary post-treatment reactions may be slightly more noticeable.

Common and expected reactions may include:

  • Mild to moderate redness

  • Swelling or puffiness, particularly around the jawline or cheeks

  • Tenderness similar to muscle soreness

  • Tingling or skin sensitivity

  • Temporary welts or raised marks

Less commonly, patients may experience:

  • Temporary numbness

  • Mild bruising

These reactions usually resolve naturally within several days.

Ultraformer III Recovery

Ultraformer III generally produces milder post-treatment reactions.

Common temporary effects include:

  • Mild redness

  • Slight swelling

  • Warmth in treated areas

  • Mild tenderness

Most patients resume normal daily activities immediately after treatment.

Aftercare Tips for Ultrasound Skin Tightening Treatments

Following proper aftercare can help support optimal skin recovery and collagen stimulation:

  • Avoid intense heat exposure such as saunas or hot yoga for 48 hours

  • Use recommended post-treatment skincare products

  • Maintain good hydration

  • Avoid strong facial massage for 1–2 weeks

  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

Which Treatment Should You Choose?

Both Ultherapy Prime and Ultraformer III are advanced ultrasound skin tightening treatments. The most suitable option depends on:

  • Your level of skin laxity

  • Treatment goals

  • Comfort preference

  • Desired longevity of results

  • Clinical assessment of skin thickness and structure

A professional consultation allows clinicians to assess your skin condition and recommend a personalised treatment plan.

Book a Consultation

At J Medical Aesthetics, we provide customised skin tightening treatment plans using advanced medical-grade technologies. Our team performs detailed skin analysis to determine which treatment may suit your individual needs.

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