Ultherapy Prime
Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive aesthetic procedure that uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V) to deliver focused ultrasound energy to the deeper structural layers of the skin. It is the only US FDA-cleared non-invasive ultrasound procedure that uses real-time imaging to visualise tissue layers during treatment, allowing the treating doctor to confirm placement and customise energy delivery to the individual patient’s anatomy before and during the session.
The treatment is designed to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production process in the deep dermis and SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) — the same foundational tissue layer addressed in surgical facelift procedures — without incisions, needles, or significant downtime.
At EHA Clinic, Ultherapy Prime is performed by our medical doctors and is customised based on the individual’s skin condition, anatomy, treatment areas, and goals. Suitability is assessed at consultation.
- Non-Invasive Treatment For Collagen Production
- Ultrasound Energy
- Improve Lines & Wrinkles
- Tighter & Lifted Skin
Ultherapy Prime
Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive aesthetic procedure that uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V) to deliver focused ultrasound energy to the deeper structural layers of the skin. It is the only US FDA-cleared non-invasive ultrasound procedure that uses real-time imaging to visualise tissue layers during treatment, allowing the treating doctor to confirm placement and customise energy delivery to the individual patient’s anatomy before and during the session.
The treatment is designed to stimulate the skin’s natural collagen and elastin production process in the deep dermis and SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) — the same foundational tissue layer addressed in surgical facelift procedures — without incisions, needles, or significant downtime.
At EHA Clinic, Ultherapy Prime is performed by our medical doctors and is customised based on the individual’s skin condition, anatomy, treatment areas, and goals. Suitability is assessed at consultation.
- Non-Invasive Treatment For Collagen Production
- Ultrasound Energy
- Improve Lines & Wrinkles
- Tighter & Lifted Skin
Treatment at a glance
Procedure Type
Non-invasive Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V). Energy is delivered at precise tissue depths — 1.5mm (superficial dermis), 3.0mm (deep dermis), and 4.5mm (SMAS/platysma) — while the doctor visualises the skin layers in real time using DeepSEE® imaging.
Expected Results
Downtime
Treatment Areas
Face (brow, periorbital, cheeks, midface, lower face, jawline), neck, submental (double chin) area, décolletage
Procedure Time
Approximately 30–90 minutes depending on the number and extent of treatment areas (including numbing cream application time)
What is Ultherapy Prime?
Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive procedure that uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V) technology to address mild to moderate skin laxity of the face, neck, and décolletage. It is US FDA-cleared to lift the neck, chin, and brow, and to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage.
Unlike standard focused ultrasound systems, Ultherapy Prime incorporates DeepSEE® real-time imaging, which allows the treating doctor to visualise the individual patient’s skin and tissue layers up to 8mm depth during the session — before and while energy is delivered. This real-time imaging capability distinguishes Ultherapy Prime from other ultrasound-based devices that deliver energy without live tissue visualisation.
Key features of the Ultherapy Prime system
used at EHA Clinic:
- Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V) — the only FDA-cleared non-invasive ultrasound skin lifting system with live imaging during treatment
- DeepSEE® transducers — multi-patient-use transducers that simultaneously visualise and deliver energy; tissue can be imaged to 8mm depth
- Three treatment depths — 1.5mm (superficial dermis), 3.0mm (deep dermis), 4.5mm (SMAS/platysma), each targeting a distinct tissue layer
- Thermal Coagulation Points (TCPs) — energy is focused into discrete microscopic zones at the target depth; the overlying skin surface is bypassed entirely
- Updated platform (Prime) — 20% faster treatment speed, 35% larger display screen, and a wider ultrasound imaging field compared to the previous Ultherapy system
- Suitable for all Fitzpatrick skin types — MFU-V acts thermally on deep tissue and is not dependent on skin pigmentation for efficacy
How Does Ultherapy Prime Work?
Real-Time Visualisation — See Before You Treat
Before energy is delivered, the doctor uses the DeepSEE® imaging function to visualise the patient’s individual skin and tissue layers in real time. This allows the treatment plan to be confirmed or adjusted based on the actual anatomy seen on screen — including the dermis, fat layer, SMAS, and muscle — rather than relying on estimation.
This visualisation capability is the defining clinical distinction of Ultherapy Prime compared to other non-invasive lifting devices, including standard HIFU systems, which do not provide real-time tissue imaging during treatment.
This collagen remodelling process is gradual, not instantaneous. Visible changes in skin quality and firmness, where they occur, develop over 3–6 months as the new collagen matures.
Thermal Coagulation in the Dermis and SMAS
When focused ultrasound energy is delivered at the target depth, it creates discrete Thermal Coagulation Points (TCPs) — tiny zones of controlled thermal injury at approximately 60–70°C. The body identifies these as areas requiring repair and initiates its natural wound-healing and collagen remodelling response. Fibroblasts are stimulated to produce new collagen and elastin fibres, which mature progressively over the months following treatment.
Clinical research on Ultherapy Prime has shown measurable increases in collagen production in treated versus untreated areas, including increased production of collagen Types I and III — the types most associated with the effects of ageing. Individual response varies.
This collagen remodelling process is gradual. Visible changes in skin quality and firmness, where they occur, typically develop over 2–6 months as new collagen matures.
Depth-Specific Treatment
| Transducer Depth | Tissue Layer Targeted | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
|
1.5mm |
Superficial dermis |
Fine lines, skin texture, pore quality; periorbital and brow area |
|
3.0mm |
Deep dermis |
Skin firmness, collagen density, surface lifting |
|
4.5mm |
SMAS / platysma layer |
Structural support of the face and neck; jawline, cheek, and submental lifting |
The Surface Remains Undisturbed
Because the ultrasound energy is focused precisely at the target depth beneath the skin, the epidermis is not disrupted during treatment. This accounts for the minimal downtime associated with the procedure.
Step-by-step Treatment Process
1. Consultation
The doctor assesses the patient’s skin condition using clinical examination and discussion of concerns and goals. The appropriate transducer depths, treatment areas, number of passes, and session plan are determined. Suitability, risks, and expected outcomes are discussed, and informed consent is obtained before treatment proceeds.
2. Skin Preparation
The treatment area is cleansed and an ultrasound gel is applied. A topical numbing cream is then applied and left on for approximately 20–30 minutes to reduce discomfort during energy delivery.
3. Real-Time Imaging and Treatment
The doctor places the Ultherapy Prime handpiece firmly against the skin. Using the DeepSEE® real-time ultrasound imaging, the tissue layers are visualised on screen and treatment placement is confirmed. Focused ultrasound energy is then delivered in systematic passes across the mapped treatment areas at the selected depths. Patients may feel a mild tingling, brief warmth, or a short prickling sensation when each pulse of energy is delivered. The doctor adjusts transducer depth and pass settings across different zones according to the treatment plan.
4. Post-Treatment
After treatment, a soothing gel or calming topical may be applied. Mild redness or temporary swelling in the treated area is common and typically subsides within a few hours. Post-treatment skincare and sun protection guidance will be provided.
What Can Ultherapy Prime Address?
Ultherapy Prime is US FDA-cleared for the face, neck, and décolletage. At EHA Clinic, the treatment plan is customised based on the patient’s concerns, skin condition, and anatomy as visualised at the time of treatment.
BROW AREA
The brow and periorbital region is treated using 1.5mm or 3.0mm transducer depths, which target the superficial and mid dermis in these areas of thinner skin. Addressing the SMAS/platysma layer of the forehead with the 4.5mm transducer may support the structural lift of the brow over time.
MIDFACE AND CHEEKS
The midface is treated using the 3.0mm and 4.5mm depths to target the deep dermis and SMAS in areas of thicker skin, with the aim of addressing changes associated with cheek support and midface skin laxity.
JAWLINE AND LOWER FACE
Ultherapy Prime can be applied along the jawline using both 4.5mm (SMAS) and 3.0mm (deep dermis) transducer settings, targeting early jowling and improving definition in the lower face contour.
SUBMENTAL AREA (DOUBLE CHIN)
The area beneath the chin is treated using the 4.5mm depth targeting the SMAS and platysma layer to address laxity and improve definition of the cervico-mental angle. Ultherapy Prime addresses the structural (laxity) component of submental fullness; it does not remove fat.
NECK
The neck is treated using a combination of 3.0mm and 4.5mm transducer depths, targeting the deep dermis and platysma layer to address skin laxity, firmness, and neck banding concerns.
DÉCOLLETAGE
Ultherapy Prime is US FDA-cleared to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage (upper chest area) using the 1.5mm transducer depth, which targets the superficial dermis of this region.
Ultherapy Prime vs. Other Non-Surgical Lifting Approaches
Ultherapy Prime (MFU-V)
TECHNOLOGY
Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V)
Real-time tissue imaging
Yes — DeepSEE® live imaging during treatment[5][3]
Treatment depths
1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm (dermis to SMAS)
Primary mechanism
TCPs at precise depth → collagen and elastin remodelling
FDA clearance
US FDA-cleared for face, neck, brow, décolletage[1][4]
Downtime
Minimal (hours to days)
Invasiveness
Non-invasive
Onset of results
Gradual over 2–6 months[2][7]
Onset of results
1 session (maintenance 12–18 months)
HIFU (Standard)
TECHNOLOGY
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
Real-time tissue imaging
No — energy delivered without live imaging
Treatment depths
2.0mm–6.0mm (varies by device)
Primary mechanism
Thermal coagulation → collagen remodelling
FDA clearance
Device-dependent; varies
Downtime
Minimal (hours)
Invasiveness
Non-invasive
Onset of results
Gradual over 3–6 months
Onset of results
1–2 sessions
Monopolar Radiofrequency
TECHNOLOGY
Radiofrequency energy to dermis
Real-time tissue imaging
No
Treatment depths
Primarily dermis
Primary mechanism
Thermal → collagen stimulation
FDA clearance
Device-dependent; varies
Downtime
Minimal
Invasiveness
Non-invasive
Onset of results
Gradual over weeks to months
Onset of results
Multiple sessions
Thread Lift
TECHNOLOGY
Absorbable sutures with barbs
Real-time tissue imaging
N/A
Treatment depths
Subcutaneous / SMAS
Primary mechanism
Mechanical repositioning + collagen around sutures
FDA clearance
Not applicable
Downtime
Mild swelling/bruising; 3–7 days
Invasiveness
Minimally invasive
Onset of results
Immediate mechanical lift + gradual improvement
Onset of results
Single session (maintenance as needed)
Note: Individual results vary. The comparison above describes general device characteristics and is for educational purposes. Suitability for any treatment is determined at consultation.
What Results Can You Expect
Immediately after treatment
Mild redness or temporary swelling in the treated areas may be present. Some patients notice initial skin firmness immediately after treatment, though this may partly reflect temporary post-procedural changes.
Within 2-4 weeks
As the skin’s healing and collagen remodelling response begins, initial improvements in skin quality may become noticeable in some patients.
2-6 months
Progressive improvement as new collagen and elastin are produced and dermal remodelling continues. Clinical studies of Ultherapy Prime have reported measurable improvements in upper neck laxity and jawline definition at around 90 days following a single treatment, in the majority of patients studied. Individual results vary.
number of sessions
Most patients are recommended to undergo one treatment session per area initially. The doctor will assess whether additional sessions are appropriate at follow-up based on the individual’s response and goals.
maintenance
Clinical results from Ultherapy Prime have been observed to persist for approximately 12 months or longer in many patients, after which a maintenance session may be recommended. Your doctor will advise on timing based on your individual response.
Results vary between individuals. Outcomes depend on factors including skin condition, age, lifestyle, the areas treated, and adherence to post-treatment care. Results cannot be guaranteed.
Side Effects and Safety
Common, temporary side effects
- Mild redness at the treatment site (typically resolves within a few hours)
- Temporary swelling (typically resolves within 24–48 hours)
- Mild discomfort, warmth, or tingling during treatment
- Tenderness or sensitivity in treated areas (typically transient)
Less common side effects
- Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the treated area (typically resolves within days to weeks)
- Small bruises (uncommon; usually resolve within a week)
- Temporary post-inflammatory changes in skin tone
Rare but reported side effects (with MFU-V devices generally)
- Burns or unintended tissue injury from incorrect settings or device placement
- Prolonged numbness or nerve-related effects
- Subcutaneous fat atrophy if energy is inadvertently delivered to unintended tissue planes
At EHA Clinic, Ultherapy Prime treatments are performed by registered medical practitioners who are trained in the use of the device and in real-time tissue visualisation. The DeepSEE® real-time imaging function is used to confirm tissue placement before energy delivery, which is designed to reduce the risk of unintended targeting. Full details of potential risks and side effects will be discussed during the consultation, and informed consent will be obtained before treatment.
Who May Be Suitable for Ultherapy Prime?
Suitable candidates:
- Adults with mild to moderate skin laxity in the face, neck, or décolletage
- Individuals in their 30s to 60s who notice early to moderate skin firmness or contour changes (though age is not an absolute criterion)
- Those concerned about jawline definition, brow heaviness, neck laxity, double chin definition, or décolletage lines and wrinkles
- Individuals seeking a non-invasive, non-injectable approach to skin lifting and firming
- Those wishing to maintain the effects of a prior surgical facelift
- Individuals of all skin types, as MFU-V does not rely on skin pigmentation for efficacy
- Patients with realistic expectations regarding the gradual and individual nature of results
Ultherapy Prime may NOT be suitable for individuals with:
- Open wounds, active skin infections, or severe cystic acne in the treatment area
- Implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers or defibrillators in or near the treatment area
- Implanted metallic hardware or permanent implants near the target zones
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Severe or advanced skin laxity where non-invasive approaches are unlikely to provide adequate improvement (surgical options may be more appropriate)
- Active or undiagnosed skin lesions, or suspected skin malignancy in the treatment area
- Blood-clotting disorders or current anticoagulant use (assessed on an individual basis with medical clearance)
- History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring (assessed individually)
A consultation with the doctor at EHA Clinic is required to determine if Ultherapy Prime is appropriate for each individual patient. The doctor will review the patient’s full medical history, current medications, skin condition, and treatment goals before recommending a treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Ultherapy Prime?
Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive procedure that uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Real-Time Visualisation (MFU-V) to address mild to moderate skin laxity in the face, neck, and décolletage. It is US FDA-cleared to lift the neck, chin, and brow, and to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. The device simultaneously images and treats tissue, allowing the doctor to visualise the skin’s layers in real time during the session.
How is Ultherapy Prime different from standard Ultherapy?
Ultherapy Prime is the updated version of the Ultherapy system. Key differences include a 20% faster treatment speed, a 35% larger imaging display, a wider real-time ultrasound field (visualisation up to 8mm depth), and refinements to energy delivery designed to improve patient comfort. Both systems use the same three transducer depths (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm) and share the same FDA clearance for skin lifting.
How is Ultherapy Prime different from HIFU?
Ultherapy Prime (MFU-V) and HIFU are both non-invasive focused ultrasound technologies, but they differ in a clinically meaningful way: Ultherapy Prime incorporates DeepSEE® real-time imaging, which allows the doctor to see the tissue layers being treated before and during energy delivery. Standard HIFU systems do not have this live tissue imaging capability. The Ultherapy Prime device also holds specific US FDA clearance for skin lifting and tightening indications.
Is Ultherapy Prime FDA-cleared?
Yes. Ultherapy Prime is US FDA-cleared — specifically to lift the skin on the neck, chin, and brow, and to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. It is the only FDA-cleared non-invasive ultrasound skin lifting procedure that uses real-time visualisation during treatment.
When will I see results?
Some patients notice initial changes in skin texture within the first few weeks. The primary improvements develop gradually over 2–6 months as new collagen and elastin are produced through the body’s natural remodelling process. Individual responses vary. Clinical studies have found meaningful improvements in neck laxity and jawline definition at around 90 days post-treatment in many patients.
How long do the results last?
Results have been observed to persist for approximately 12 months or longer in many patients. As the natural ageing process continues, periodic maintenance sessions may be recommended. Your doctor will advise on timing based on your individual response at follow-up.
How many sessions do I need?
Most patients are recommended to undergo one treatment session initially, with a maintenance session approximately every 12–18 months thereafter depending on their individual response, ageing progression, and goals. The doctor will advise on the appropriate plan at consultation.
Is Ultherapy Prime painful?
A topical numbing cream is applied before the procedure. During treatment, patients may feel a mild tingling, brief warmth, or transient prickling sensation when each pulse of energy is delivered. Clinical studies have reported comfort levels for Ultherapy Prime that are generally lower (i.e. more comfortable) than earlier Ultherapy systems. Most patients describe the sensation as tolerable. Comfort levels vary between individuals and treatment areas, and the doctor can adjust settings accordingly.
Is there downtime?
Downtime is minimal. Mild redness, temporary swelling, and tenderness are common immediately after treatment but typically settle within hours to a few days. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities on the same day.
Is Ultherapy Prime safe?
Ultherapy Prime is performed by our registered medical doctors at EHA Clinic. The real-time DeepSEE® imaging feature is used to confirm tissue placement before energy delivery, which is designed to reduce the risk of misdirected energy. As with any medical procedure, potential risks and side effects exist and will be discussed in full at consultation. Informed consent is obtained before treatment proceeds.
Can Ultherapy Prime be combined with other treatments?
Whether Ultherapy Prime may be combined with other treatments — such as dermal fillers, Botulinum Toxin injections, thread lifts, or RF microneedling — depends on the individual assessment and treatment plan. Combination approaches may be considered to address different aspects of the patient’s concerns, and the timing and sequencing of treatments will be planned by the doctor at consultation.
Who performs Ultherapy Prime at EHA Clinic?
Ultherapy Prime treatments at EHA Clinic are performed only by registered medical practitioners who are trained in the use of the Ultherapy Prime system and real-time tissue imaging, in accordance with the SMC Guidelines on Aesthetic Practices for Doctors and Singapore’s Healthcare Services Act (HCSA) regulatory framework.
Can you show before-and-after photos or guarantee results?
In accordance with Singapore’s MOH/HCSA advertising regulations, before-and-after photos are not displayed in public advertising materials to avoid creating misleading impressions of expected outcomes. Example images may be shared in-clinic during consultation for educational purposes, with full clinical context. Results cannot be guaranteed; individual outcomes vary.
What are the regulatory protections for patients?
All treatments at EHA Clinic are conducted in accordance with Singapore’s Healthcare Services Act (HCSA), HSA medical device regulations, and the SMC Guidelines on Aesthetic Practices for Doctors. These require standards for device safety and registration, practitioner competence, non-misleading advertising, and patient informed consent. Patients have the right to receive full information before agreeing to any procedure.
How is the cost determined?
The cost depends on the treatment areas, the number of transducer passes and depths used, and the overall treatment plan. A personalised cost estimate will be provided during the consultation after the doctor has assessed your skin condition and goals.
Who is not suitable for Ultherapy Prime?
Conditions that may make a patient unsuitable or require extra assessment include: open skin wounds or active infections in the treatment area, implanted electronic devices (e.g. pacemakers), implanted metallic hardware near treatment zones, pregnancy or breastfeeding, severe skin laxity (where surgical options may be more appropriate), and active or undiagnosed skin lesions. A full medical history review is conducted at consultation.
What should I do before and after treatment?
Before: Arrive with cleansed skin, free of makeup or heavy topical products. Inform the clinic of your full medical history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Avoid excessive sun exposure in the days before your session.
After: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily. Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products for the first few days. Avoid retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, or other active ingredients for 3–5 days post-treatment, or as directed by the doctor. Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, and prolonged heat exposure for 24–48 hours. Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your doctor.
Post-treatment care
- Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily and minimise direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks following treatment.
- Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers; avoid active topical ingredients (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, vitamin C serums) for 3–5 days or as directed by the doctor
- Do not massage or apply firm pressure to treated areas for the first 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous physical activity, saunas, steam rooms, and prolonged heat exposure for 24–48 hours
- Stay well hydrated and maintain a gentle skincare routine to support the skin’s natural recovery
- Contact the clinic if you experience prolonged redness, unexpected swelling, or any symptoms that concern you
Book a Consultation
Ultherapy Prime is suitable for a range of age groups, all genders, and all skin types. The treatment can be customised through the selection of different transducer depths to address concerns from skin laxity and jawline definition to brow heaviness, neck firmness, and décolletage lines. A consultation with the doctor at EHA Clinic is required to determine if you are a suitable candidate and to develop a personalised treatment plan.
Alternatively, reach out to us for a non-obligatory consultation.
Alternatively, reach out to us for a non-obligatory consultation
Meet your EHA Clinic Doctor
Dr. Elias Tam, the Doctor Trainer
Dr. Elias Tam, with over 30 years in medicine, leads EHA Clinic, focusing on advancing technical standards in aesthetic medicine. He holds the position of Clinical Lecturer at University College London. Throughout his many years as an aesthetic doctor, Dr. Tam has held multiple hands-on training sessions and seminars, sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with aspiring doctors in the field.
Under his guidance, EHA Clinic offers a safe and comprehensive range of aesthetic treatments for the face, body, and hair; including clinically established treatments such as hair transplants, non-surgical face-lifting, body sculpting, fillers and other injectable treatments.