01How each device works
Ulthera (micro-focused ultrasound) deposits coagulation points at three depths — 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm — including the SMAS layer that surgeons address in a facelift. Thermage (monopolar RF) heats the dermis volumetrically.
Both stimulate collagen, but the depth and pattern of energy delivery are completely different.
02Who suits which
Patients with descent (jowls, brow heaviness) benefit from Ulthera's SMAS-depth lift. Patients with skin laxity and crepiness benefit from Thermage's dermal tightening.
Most patients in their forties have both concerns and benefit from sequential treatment.
03When to combine
Sequencing matters. We typically perform Ulthera first to address the structural lift, then Thermage 6–8 weeks later for envelope tightening. Combining in a single session is possible but tolerability is reduced.
04Bangkok pricing (2026)
Ulthera SPT from ฿18,000; Ulthera Prime (advanced protocol) from ฿45,000. Thermage FLX from ฿28,000. Combined pricing offered for sequential courses.
05Shots and lines — how energy pricing works
The single most-asked question about energy lifting is how it's priced. HIFU devices (Ulthera, Ultraformer) are sold by the number of energy lines, or shots, delivered — each line is one pass of focused ultrasound, not an injection.
More lines means more coverage and a stronger effect, which is why a quote depends on how many lines your face and neck need. RF devices like Thermage and Oligio are usually priced per session or by area rather than per shot.
- A shot or line = one pulse of energy along the skin — nothing is injected.
- HIFU (Ulthera, Ultraformer): priced by line count — roughly 300–800 lines for a full face.
- RF (Thermage, Oligio): usually priced per session or treatment area.
- Your final quote depends on the area treated and lines needed — confirmed at consultation.
06Which device for your concern
Beyond Ulthera and Thermage, two options come up most in consultations. For deep structural lifting, the CLASSYS Ultraformer III — HIFU Skin Lift is a line-based ultrasound alternative to Ulthera.
For comfortable, even tightening with essentially no downtime, Oligio X — Korean Monopolar RF Lifting is the RF option many patients add after, or instead of, Thermage. Descent responds best to HIFU lifting; crepey, lax skin responds best to RF tightening; most faces benefit from a combination, sequenced at consultation.
Ready to talk to our doctor?
Send a photo or describe your concern on LINE — we'll suggest a treatment plan and price range before you visit.
07Pertanyaan Umum
Can I do both in one session?+
Which gives faster results?+
What is a shot or line in HIFU — is something injected?+
How many shots do I need for a full face?+
Ultraformer III or Oligio X — which should I pick?+
Can I do Oligio X soon after Thermage?+
Is there a combined Ultraformer and Oligio promotion?+
How much is Ulthera Prime versus Ulthera SPT?+
09References & further reading
- Focused Ultrasound Stimulator System for Aesthetic Use — Class II Guidance | FDAFDA Class II guidance for focused ultrasound (Ultherapy category) aesthetic devices.
- Comparative histometric analysis of HIFU and radiofrequency on skinHIFU impacts focal deep tissue; monopolar RF impacts diffuse regions; both induce neocollagenesis.
- Microfocused Ultrasound: Pan-Asian Adaptation of Expert Panel Gold-Standard ConsensusMFU-V delivers energy at 1.5, 3.0, 4.5 mm depths; Thermage RF relies on tissue impedance.
- Radiofrequency facial rejuvenation: Evidence-based effectRF heats dermis 40–48°C causing immediate collagen contraction then new synthesis over months.
External sources · last verified 2026-06-16