Frequently Asked

Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about Ultherapy PRIME treatment, results, and what to expect.

Ultherapy PRIME is the evolution of Ultherapy, which has been recognised by a body of expert physicians as the Gold Standard for non-surgical lifting and tightening. It is the only Micro-focused Ultrasound with real-time Visualisation (MFU-V) treatment cleared by the U.S. FDA for lifting the brow, skin on the neck and under the chin as well as improving lines and wrinkles on the décolleté.

Ultherapy PRIME builds on the established safety profile of Ultherapy, which is scientifically supported by more than 120 publications and over 3.5 million treatments in more than 80 countries worldwide.^1,7,11 In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.

Ultherapy PRIME is the only non-invasive skin lifting treatment with real-time ultrasound imaging that allows practitioners to assess your skin and deliver a truly personalised treatment with long-lasting results that can last up to a year or more.⁷ Ultherapy PRIME also uses time-tested ultrasound technology to stimulate the formation of new collagen deep below the skin's surface. The treatment takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area treated, and without any downtime.^1-3,6,9,10

Ultherapy PRIME is the only FDA-cleared skin-tightening and lifting device with real-time visualisation. This enables the practitioner to assess your skin before treatment and precisely deliver energy where you need it the most. Through this technology, the treatment can be personalised to your unique needs, resulting in a safe and more effective treatment^1-3,6,8-10

No. With nonsurgical Ultherapy PRIME, there is no downtime. After your treatment, you can resume your normal activities immediately, following the instructions of your healthcare practitioner.^1,6

Most Ultherapy PRIME patients see meaningful results after just one session. Since your treatment stimulates your body's own collagen production, the results may vary. You may see some initial lift, but the ultimate results will take place over two to three months as the growth of new collagen and elastin develops. A single Ultherapy PRIME treatment can give lasting results that can last up to a year or more. Your healthcare practitioner will advise on the likely outcomes for you.^1-10

As ultrasound energy is delivered, you may feel the sensation of heat and/or tingling, indicating that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Treatment comfort levels vary from person to person, and your practitioner will discuss your personalised treatment plan with you.

A good candidate is someone experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity. For example, loose skin under the neck or chin, lowered brows, or lines/wrinkles on the chest. It's not a replacement for a surgical facelift, but ideal for those not ready for surgery or seeking maintenance. It can also be chosen by younger individuals looking to take proactive aesthetic steps.

Still have questions?

1. Ulthera® Instructions for Use.
2. Fabi SG, Joseph J, Sevi J, Green JB, Peterson JD. Optimizing patient outcomes by customizing treatment with microfocused ultrasound with visualization: gold standard consensus guidelines from an expert panel. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(5):426-432.
3. Park JY, et al. Customized Treatment Using Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization for Optimized Patient Outcomes: A Review of Skintightening Energy Technologies and a Pan-Asian Adaptation of the Expert Panel's Gold Standard Consensus. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2021;14(5):E70-E79.
4. Whitney ZB, Zito PM. Anatomy, skin, superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) fascia. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing; 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519014/. Updated October 27, 2018. Accessed December 9, 2019.
5. Suh DH, Choi JH, Lee SJ, Jeong KH, Song KY, Shin MK. Comparative histometric analysis of the effects of high-intensity focused ultrasound and radiofrequency on skin. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2015;17(5):230-236.
6. Fabi SG, Massaki A, Eimpunth S, Pogoda J, Goldman MP. Evaluation of microfocused ultrasound with visualization for lifting, tightening, and wrinkle reduction of the décolletage. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69(6):965-971.
7. Werschler WP, Werschler PS. Longterm efficacy of micro-focused ultrasound with visualization for lifting and tightening lax facial and neck skin using a customized vectoring treatment method. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016;9(2):27-33.
8. Pavicic T, Ballard JR, Bykovskaya T, et al. Microfocused ultrasound with visualization: Consensus on safety and review of energy-based devices. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021.
9. Sasaki G, Grossman J, Fabi SG, et al. Stimulation of Collagen Synthesis in Human Skin Following Microfocused Ultrasound Therapy. Presented at the ASDS 2018 Annual Meeting.
10. White WM, Makin IR, Barthe PG, Slayton MN, Gliklich RE. Selective creation of thermal injury zones in the superficial musculoaponeurotic system using intense ultrasound therapy: a new target for noninvasive facial rejuvenation. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2007;9(1):22-29.
11. Data on file. Number of Ultherapy Treatments. Merz Aesthetics 2025.