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 ฿25,000; Ulthera Prime (advanced protocol) from ฿45,000. Thermage FLX from ฿50,000. 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.
07Common questions
Can I do both in one session?+
Technically possible, but tolerability is reduced and we prefer sequential treatment 6–8 weeks apart.
Which gives faster results?+
Thermage gives slightly more immediate skin tightening at week 1; Ulthera builds over 3–6 months.
What is a shot or line in HIFU — is something injected?+
No injection — a shot or line is one pulse of focused ultrasound delivered along the skin. HIFU like Ulthera and Ultraformer is priced by how many lines are used (often 300–800 for a full face); more lines means more coverage.
How many shots do I need for a full face?+
A full face commonly uses around 300–600 lines, more if the neck is included. The exact count depends on your laxity and goals and is confirmed at consultation.
Ultraformer III or Oligio X — which should I pick?+
Ultraformer III is HIFU (ultrasound) that lifts at depth, like Ulthera; Oligio X is monopolar RF that tightens the skin envelope comfortably with little downtime, closer to Thermage. Lifting versus tightening — many patients combine them.
Can I do Oligio X soon after Thermage?+
Both are skin-tightening RF, so they're usually spaced rather than stacked back-to-back. Your physician sets the timing from what you've recently had — bring your history to the consultation.
Is there a combined Ultraformer and Oligio promotion?+
Combined and sequential-course pricing is offered; current promotions are refreshed monthly at /promotion.
How much is Ulthera Prime versus Ulthera SPT?+
Ulthera SPT starts from ฿25,000 and Ulthera Prime (advanced protocol) from ฿45,000; the right one depends on the depth and lift you need.
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