Ulthera Prime vs Standard: อัปเกรดคุ้มมั้ย? — VERZO CLINIC

    TL;DR: Ulthera Prime features updated transducer technology with improved imaging for more precise energy delivery. Standard Ulthera uses the earlier-generation micro-focused ultrasound system. Both use the same HIFU principle but Prime offers better visualization of tissue layers, potentially more consistent results, and some practitioners report it is slightly more comfortable.

    Written by Dr. Waleerat Thaweebanchongsin, licensed physician with over 10 years of aesthetic-medicine experience. VERZO CLINIC near BTS Ekkamai. Free consultations via LINE @verzo.

    Last updated: April 2026

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between Ulthera Prime and standard Ulthera?

    Ulthera Prime features updated transducer technology with improved imaging for more precise energy delivery. Standard Ulthera uses the earlier-generation micro-focused ultrasound system. Both use the same HIFU principle but Prime offers better visualization of tissue layers, potentially more consistent results, and some practitioners report it is slightly more comfortable.

    How many Ulthera shots do I need?

    Shot count depends on treatment area: 300 shots for targeted treatment (lower face only), 600 shots for standard full-face protocol, 900 shots for comprehensive face and neck. Dr. Waleerat typically combines 3 depth settings (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm) in a single session for maximum collagen stimulation across all skin layers.

    What depths does Ulthera treat?

    Ulthera offers three main depth options: 1.5mm targets the superficial dermis for fine lines and skin texture. 3.0mm targets the deeper dermis for skin tightening. 4.5mm reaches the SMAS layer (the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts) for deep structural lifting. A comprehensive protocol uses all three depths.

    How much does Ulthera cost in Bangkok?

    At VERZO CLINIC, Ulthera pricing averages approximately 37,000 THB per depth setting. A full 3-depth protocol (1.5mm + 3.0mm + 4.5mm) with 900 shots ranges from 80,000-120,000 THB. This is approximately 40-60% less than Ulthera pricing in Japan, Singapore, or Australia.

    Does Ulthera hurt?

    Ulthera can be uncomfortable, particularly at the 4.5mm depth setting which reaches the SMAS layer. Most patients describe it as a hot prickling or brief zapping sensation. At VERZO CLINIC, we use a combination of topical numbing cream, cold air cooling, and careful technique to minimize discomfort. Pain tolerance varies — most patients rate it 4-6 out of 10.

    When will I see Ulthera results?

    Some tightening is noticeable immediately after treatment due to tissue contraction from heat. However, the full result develops over 2-6 months as new collagen forms. Peak results typically appear at month 3-4. Results continue to improve up to month 6 and can last 12-18 months.

    Who should upgrade to Ulthera Prime?

    Ulthera Prime is recommended for patients who want the latest technology, those with complex facial anatomy requiring precise targeting, and patients who found standard Ulthera uncomfortably painful in previous sessions. For first-time patients, standard Ulthera delivers excellent results.

    Can Ulthera be combined with other treatments?

    Yes, Ulthera combines well with thread lifts (mechanical lift + collagen stimulation), Sculptra (deep volume restoration), and Thermage (RF tightening for surface skin). Many patients at VERZO CLINIC do Ulthera for deep SMAS lifting and Thermage for surface tightening in the same visit or staggered sessions.

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    Device Treatment

    Ulthera Prime vs Standard

    Is the upgrade worth it? A clinical comparison of technology, shot counts, depth options, and real pricing from VERZO CLINIC Bangkok.

    Dr. Waleerat April 2026 12 min read

    What Is Ulthera (Micro-Focused Ultrasound)

    Ulthera (Ultherapy) lifts skin on the neck, chin, and brow using micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V). It delivers focused energy to precise depths, creating thermal coagulation points that trigger your body's collagen-building response. The key distinction: Ulthera targets the SMAS layer — the same deep tissue layer addressed in surgical facelifts.

    Ulthera Prime vs Standard Technology

    FeatureStandardPrime
    TechnologyMFU-VMFU-V (upgraded)
    ImagingStandard visualizationEnhanced imaging
    Energy deliveryProven effectiveMore precise targeting
    ComfortModerate discomfortSlightly improved
    Clinical evidenceExtensive (10+ years)Growing

    Shot Counts: 300, 600, or 900

    300 Shots

    Targeted — lower face only. Good for first-time patients or maintenance.

    600 Shots

    Standard full-face protocol for comprehensive treatment.

    900 Shots

    Comprehensive face + neck. Maximum collagen stimulation across all areas.

    Depth Options: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm

    1.5mm — Superficial Dermis

    Targets fine lines, skin texture, and surface-level tightening. Least painful depth.

    3.0mm — Deep Dermis

    Targets skin laxity and deeper wrinkles. Moderate discomfort. Significant tightening effect.

    4.5mm — SMAS Layer

    The deepest setting, reaching the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. Maximum structural lifting. Most discomfort but most impactful.

    Real Protocol at VERZO CLINIC

    "My standard Ulthera protocol combines all three depths in a single session. We start with the deepest 4.5mm for structural lifting, then 3.0mm for dermal tightening, and finish with 1.5mm for surface refinement. This layered approach ensures we are stimulating collagen at every tissue level. The total session takes approximately 60-90 minutes."

    — Dr. Waleerat Thaweebanchongsin, VERZO CLINIC Founder

    Results Timeline

    Immediately

    Mild tightening from tissue contraction (heat effect)

    Month 1

    Initial collagen production begins. Subtle improvement.

    Month 2-3

    Visible lifting and tightening. Skin feels firmer.

    Month 3-4

    Peak results. Maximum collagen density achieved.

    Month 6

    Continued improvement. Some patients see good results here.

    Month 12-18

    Results maintained. Consider maintenance session.

    Pricing at VERZO CLINIC

    Ulthera Per Depth

    ~37,000 THB

    Per depth setting (1.5mm, 3.0mm, or 4.5mm)

    Full 3-depth protocol (900 shots): 80,000-120,000 THB

    40-60% less than Japan, Singapore, or Australia

    Who Should Upgrade to Prime

    Consider Prime

    • Want the latest technology
    • Complex facial anatomy requiring precise targeting
    • Found Standard uncomfortably painful previously
    • Budget allows for the premium option

    Standard Is Excellent

    • First-time Ulthera patient
    • Budget-conscious approach
    • 10+ years of proven clinical results
    • Straightforward treatment areas

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the difference between Ulthera Prime and Standard?

    Prime has updated transducer technology with improved imaging for precise energy delivery. Both use HIFU but Prime offers better visualization and potentially more consistent results.

    How many shots do I need?

    300 for targeted (lower face), 600 for standard full-face, 900 for comprehensive face+neck. Dr. Waleerat combines 3 depths (1.5/3.0/4.5mm) in one session.

    What depths does Ulthera treat?

    1.5mm: superficial dermis (fine lines). 3.0mm: deeper dermis (tightening). 4.5mm: SMAS layer (structural lifting). Comprehensive protocol uses all three.

    How much does Ulthera cost in Bangkok?

    Approximately 37,000 THB per depth setting. Full 3-depth protocol: 80,000-120,000 THB. 40-60% less than Japan, Singapore, or Australia.

    Does Ulthera hurt?

    At 4.5mm depth: 5-7/10 pain. Hot prickling or zapping sensation. Numbing cream, cold air cooling, and careful technique minimize discomfort.

    When will I see results?

    Some tightening immediately. Full results at 3-4 months. Improvement continues to month 6. Lasts 12-18 months.

    Who should upgrade to Prime?

    Those wanting latest technology, complex anatomy requiring precise targeting, or patients who found Standard uncomfortably painful.

    Can Ulthera be combined with other treatments?

    Yes — with thread lifts (mechanical lift + collagen), Sculptra (deep volume), and Thermage (surface tightening) in same or staggered sessions.

    Ready for Ulthera?

    Dr. Waleerat will assess your skin, recommend Standard or Prime, and design the optimal shot count and depth protocol for your face.

    VERZO CLINIC, Sukhumvit Road near BTS Ekkamai. Open daily 10:00-19:00.

    Medical Disclaimer

    Results vary depending on individual skin and body conditions.

    Please consult a physician before treatment.

    สอบถามทาง LINE

    VERZO CLINIC — 988-990-992 Sukhumvit Road, Ekkamai, Bangkok 10110, Thailand. เปิดทุกวัน 10:00–19:00 น. ให้บริการภาษาไทย อังกฤษ ญี่ปุ่น และจีน

    ติดต่อ: LINE @verzo · WhatsApp +66 95 326 6644