Ulthera is often referred to as a “premium lifting” procedure. This is partly because it is a reliable treatment, but also because of its relatively high price point. So, why is Ulthera so expensive? It is likely not simply due to its brand name or marketing. There are factors within it that are easy to overlook if you do not look closely.
This is because every factor—from the sophisticated procedure and high-end medical equipment to, above all, the skill of the practitioner—constitutes the price of Ulthera. It has already been 15 years since Ulthera was introduced in Korea. Shall we take a closer look at why this consistently popular treatment is not just an “expensive procedure,” but a “procedure that is bound to be expensive”?
The reason why Ulthera is expensive
Accurate procedure without error
Ulthera is a procedure that applies a laser to the SMAS layer, which is located between the fat and muscle layers. The principle is to lift the skin by coagulating and contracting the SMAS tissue. One of the distinguishing features from other laser treatments is that the procedure can be performed while viewing the imaging device attached to the machine. Using patented DeepSEE™ technology, the patient’s skin condition can be monitored in real time, allowing for precise adjustment of output power, tip type, and position.
The fact is, you must deliver the shots in the correct direction and angle to achieve the desired results without side effects like cheek hollowing! Precise treatment also reduces the unnecessary waste of shots.
Distinct effect
Ulthera regenerates collagen deep within the skin to neatly refine sagging contours lacking elasticity. It is suitable for localized areas such as the forehead, eye area, cheeks, mid-face, and double chin, as well as for any area requiring lifting, including the entire face and neck. By delivering ultrasound energy to the fascial layer located 4.5mm deep from the epidermis, it provides a powerful lifting effect. As it induces the production of new collagen, the results become even more pronounced over time. Shurink, a domestically produced device available at a lower price point, offers a similar procedure, but there are significant differences in effectiveness and duration of results.
Using expensive devices
Ulthera is the very foundation of ultrasound lifting equipment. Manufactured by the German company Merz, its price alone reaches hundreds of millions of won. Furthermore, the tips (transducers) are consumables with a fixed number of uses per unit that cannot be exceeded. The price of these tips also exceeds one million won. Consequently, the unit cost of the procedure itself is inevitably high. However, considering the stability provided by the real-time imaging system, it would be an excellent choice.
Reasons for the price difference in Ulthera
Difference in the number of shots
The number of Ulthera shots required naturally varies depending on the individual’s treatment plan. It is a logical conclusion that more shots cover a larger area, and consequently, the price increases. For localized areas, fewer than 300 shots are typically used, while for the entire face, the procedure usually ranges from 600 to 900 shots. However, a high number of shots is not beneficial for everyone. The appropriate number of shots must be determined based on face size and skin condition. This is why it is essential to proceed after a thorough consultation with a doctor.
Whether to use official tips
As mentioned earlier, the unit cost of the tips themselves, which are consumables, is expensive. For this reason, refurbished tips are sometimes used. While using refurbished tips may result in a slightly lower treatment price, the tip is a crucial component that comes into direct contact with the skin. Refurbished tips can cause skin damage akin to burns due to excessively concentrated ultrasound, or they may provide minimal effects due to energy that is too weak. To save time and money, using genuine tips that deliver uniform energy is essential.
The practitioner’s expertise
As with all procedures, the practitioner’s expertise significantly impacts the outcome of Ulthera. In particular, since this procedure requires delivering energy to the deep layers of the skin, the doctor’s experience and technical skill are crucial. This is because they must understand the structure of the skin layers, accurately assess the patient’s skin condition before the procedure, and determine exactly where and how to apply the treatment based on this information. If the energy fails to reach the fascia layer or if strong thermal energy is applied to areas where major nerves pass, you may experience side effects or an unsatisfactory result.
Treatment combinations worth the Ulthera price
There is a way to maximize the effects of Ulthera, an expensive procedure. It creates synergy when combined with treatments that cover areas Ulthera might miss. If you want to maintain a more natural, youthful complexion, remember this combination.
Ulthera + Thermage
Ultherapy targets the skin’s fascia layer, while Thermage delivers energy to the skin’s shallowest layer, the dermis. In other words, they target different layers of the skin. This means that combining the two treatments allows you to care for both the surface and the deeper layers of the skin. By targeting deep within the skin to achieve a lifting effect, you can simultaneously address elasticity, fine lines, and skin texture improvements with Thermage.
Ulthera + Rejuran
It also pairs well with skin boosters. Among them, Rejuran is a procedure that uses salmon DNA (PN component) to stimulate collagen production and restore the skin to a healthy state. It strengthens the skin barrier and offers excellent effects in moisturization, reducing fine lines, and improving skin texture. It is injected into the dermis layer of the skin. It can help protect skin that has become sensitive after Ultherapy and also complements hydration. However, since the skin may become uneven due to the resulting embossing after Rejuran treatment, it is generally recommended to schedule the procedure after Ultherapy.
Ulthera + Juvelook
Juvelook is a skin booster that stimulates the skin to produce its own collagen. Utilizing polynucleotide (PN) ingredients, it promotes the production of collagen and elastin deep within the skin. It is sought after by many for improving pores and fine lines, as well as smoothing skin texture. This combination is recommended for those who want to neatly refine their facial contours with Ulthera and improve hydration and overall skin condition.
How to save money on Ulthera
You have decided to undergo the procedure, but it is not easy to shake off the burden of the price. However, a good choice ultimately leads to a good treatment, and this is the shortcut to avoiding wasting money. There is a way to experience Ulthera smartly and economically.
Making long-term plans
It is important to take a long-term view for any procedure. Rather than approaching it with the mindset of simply eliminating wrinkles in specific areas, considering the desired outcome and setting the treatment direction accordingly can actually save you time and money. It is about seeing the forest, not just the trees. Maintaining consistent care by determining the frequency of treatments or procedures that work well with Ultherapy is actually a more economical approach to skin care.
The Importance of Choosing a Hospital
It is of the utmost importance to find a skilled doctor. After all, Ultherapy is a procedure that requires meticulous adjustments tailored to the individual. Even when using the same machine, Ultherapy requires an accurate analysis of the patient’s condition to proceed with the treatment accordingly. This is why VOS Dermatology and Director Kim Hong-seok are all the more trustworthy, as they are home to board-certified dermatologists who make up only 2% of doctors in the country.
Take advantage of event promotion discounts
There are hospitals that reach out to customers with various seasonal events. If the timing is right, why not take full advantage of these benefits? Please check to see if Boss Dermatology is currently running a discount event. Discuss your skin concerns here at a clinic that provides personalized 1:1 treatment through consultations with doctors, rather than a factory-style approach.