Altera or Ultraformer: which device is more effective for skin lifting

Choosing between Altera (Ultherapy) and Ultraformer devices is one of the most common decisions when purchasing equipment for non-surgical facelifts. Both devices work on the basis of focused ultrasound technology, which is aimed at strengthening the skin and lifting. The devices differ in terms of precision, comfort, and expected results.

When the face loses its clear contours and jowls and wrinkles appear on the neck, many people look for a way to restore skin elasticity without surgery. The two flagships of hardware lifting—Ultherapy and Ultraformer—provide effective rejuvenation. To choose the best device for SMAS lifting, you need to understand the effectiveness of the methods and who each of them is suitable for.

Why the choice of device matters

For clinics, SMAS lifting is a modern service that uses the best devices. Purchasing high-quality equipment is a strategic investment in the business. The choice of device determines the results of the procedures, the reputation of the clinic, the number of clients, and the speed of return on investment. To choose the best device, a number of factors should be analyzed:

1. Accuracy of SMAS targeting. Lifting provides a lasting effect when the energy hits the right layer (4.5 mm — SMAS, 3.0 mm — dermis, 1.5 mm — superficial dermis). Incorrectly selected depth of exposure provides minimal results and can cause side effects.

2. Effectiveness and predictability. The Ultherapy device with a visualization system allows the doctor to control the process and guarantee stable results. Despite the lack of a visualization system, Ultraformer demonstrates high efficiency when the protocol is followed and the markings are done correctly.

3. Patient comfort. Different technologies affect the level of pain, and therefore the feeling of comfort during procedures.

4. Safety. Premium devices allow the doctor to work in difficult areas without fear of damaging nerves or blood vessels, which reduces the likelihood of complications.

Ultherapy or Ultraformer: which one is better? The choice is not an easy one, as it determines not only the technology used, but also the success of the clinic. The right equipment helps attract new patients, retain existing ones, and quickly recoup the investment.

Overview of Ultherapy technology

Ultherapy is an innovative system for non-surgical lifting, which has become the «gold standard» in hardware cosmetology. The built-in tissue visualization system sets the equipment apart from its competitors. The doctor sees the structure of the skin and the SMAS layer on the screen in real time, which allows them to direct the ultrasound as accurately and safely as possible. Key features:

1. Principle of action. Micro-focused ultrasound forms thermocoagulation points in the deep layers of the skin. This triggers the natural production of collagen and elastin, which tightens the skin and makes it more supple and elastic.

2. Depth of impact. The device operates at levels of 1.5 mm (superficial wrinkles), 3.0 mm (dermis), and 4.5 mm (SMAS layer). This allows for a comprehensive approach to solving problems.

3. Results. The first changes are noticeable after 4-6 weeks. The peak effect is achieved in 3-6 months. The lifting effect lasts up to 12-18 months, making the procedure one of the most long-lasting among non-surgical methods.

4. Session. Duration: 45-120 minutes, depending on the area.

5. Pain. The procedure may be accompanied by moderate pain, but with proper anesthesia, it is easily tolerated by patients.

6. Controllability. Thanks to ultrasound guidance, the risk of nerve and vessel damage is minimized. This is especially important when working with sensitive areas of the face and neck.

7. Indications. The device is prescribed for moderate ptosis of the middle or lower third of the face, blurred oval, jowls, tissue sagging, «Venus rings» and slight excess submental fat.

Ultherapy is suitable for patients who want to achieve the most pronounced and predictable results in a single procedure. For clinics, the device provides the opportunity to offer premium services that increase trust and build an image of expertise.

Overview of Ultraformer technology

Ultraformer is a modern cosmetology device for ultrasonic lifting that combines high efficiency and versatility. Unlike Ultherapy, it is not equipped with an imaging system, but offers a wide range of cartridges and modes. This makes the device convenient for use on the face and body. Main characteristics:

1. Principle of operation. Focused HIFU ultrasound forms microthermal zones in the skin and subcutaneous structures. This triggers collagen synthesis and provides noticeable lifting.

2. Depths of exposure. Ultraformer operates at levels of 1.5/2.0/3.0/4.5 mm for the face and 6/9/13 mm for the body. This makes it possible to correct the oval of the face, fight wrinkles, and work with problem areas of the body—the abdomen, arms, and knees.

3. Result. The lifting effect is gradual: the first changes are visible after 3–4 weeks, the maximum result is achieved after 2–3 months and lasts for 9–15 months.

4. Sessions. For a pronounced lifting effect, 1-2 procedures may be required. This approach is convenient for patients who prefer to build up the effect gradually.

5. Comfort. Ultraformer is considered to be more gentle in terms of sensations. Due to the characteristics of energy delivery, the procedure is easier to tolerate than Ultherapy.

A wide range of cartridges allows us to offer patients not only a facelift, but also body contouring. This expands the range of services and increases revenue. Ultraformer is ideal for those looking for a balance between effectiveness, affordability, and comfort. For clinics, it is a universal solution: one device covers the needs of several areas of aesthetic medicine at once.

Which is more effective, Ultraformer or Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is an excellent choice if you need a powerful session that guarantees results and impresses patients with its technological sophistication. The premium approach is aimed at clients who value precision and status.

Ultraformer is the optimal solution for clinics that want to offer a wider range of services: from face to body. Its softness and flexibility allow the procedure to be adapted to the individual needs of patients, and its more affordable cost makes the services attractive to the audience. To choose the best option, it is important to compare Ultraformer and Ultherapy, the differences between which are presented in the table.

Criterion	Ultherapy	Ultraformer
Technology	HIFU with visualization	HIFU without visualization
Control over exposure	The doctor sees the skin layers in real time	Works according to protocol and markings without visual control
Depth of exposure	1.5/3.0/4.5 mm	1.5/2.0/3.0/4.5 mm (face); 6/9/13 mm (body)
Sessions	One procedure is often sufficient	1–2 procedures are often required
Comfort of the protocol	Medium-high intensity	Softer and more comfortable for the patient
Time to results	First effects after 4–6 weeks, peak after 3–6 months	First effects after 3–4 weeks, peak after 2–3 months
Duration of results	Up to 12–18 months	Up to 9–15 months
Areas of application	Face, neck, décolleté	Face + body (abdomen, arms, knees, and others)
Cost	Premium class, higher price of the device and consumables	More affordable device and operating costs
Clinical advantages	High precision, predictability, minimization of errors	Versatility, advanced capabilities, cost-effectiveness

Both devices are effective, but Ultherapy is more precise and predictable. Ultraformer is more versatile and affordable. The choice depends on positioning — premium service or a universal approach with broad coverage.

Who is each option suitable for?

The HIFU technique is recommended for patients aged 28–55+ with mild to moderate ptosis, blurred oval, jowls, slight «double chin», horizontal rings on the neck, and décolleté. Ultherapy is the right choice when precision and guaranteed results are important. Key factors: complex anatomy, thin skin, risk areas. The device is ideal for patients who want to achieve a pronounced lifting effect in a single session. The device provides more noticeable procedures and has a higher cost for the effectiveness of targeted exposure.

Ultraformer promotes delicate, step-by-step correction with the possibility of refining the result. The device is characterized by flexibility in areas, less discomfort, and is focused on patients who are sensitive to pain. It is a more affordable solution that can provide high-quality results when used by a professional.

Final comparison

Which SMAS lifting is the most effective? Ultherapy is the optimal choice for clinics operating in the premium segment. This device is particularly effective in cases where high stability of results, minimization of risks, and the reputation of the expert center are important. Patients who choose Ultherapy are often willing to invest more in the procedure to achieve noticeable results in one visit and trust world-class technologies.

Ultraformer is better suited for clinics that cater to different categories of clients and a wide range of needs. The device is versatile, allowing you to work not only with the face but also with the body. This makes it easy for clinics to expand their list of services and increase the number of repeat visits. Patients who choose Ultraformer expect a more comfortable experience during the session, prefer a gradual increase in results, and value the optimal price-quality ratio.

When choosing SMAS lifting for skin care, it is worth determining which device is better in each individual case. Thus, Ultherapy is the choice for those who focus on expertise and premium service. Ultraformer is for those who focus on versatility, affordability, and a diverse customer base.

Conclusion

Ultherapy and Ultraformer are the leaders among SMAS lifting devices. The choice of equipment directly depends on the clinic's goals and patient expectations. Ultherapy is the right choice if your priorities are premium service, the reputation of an expert center, and visible results after just one procedure. Ultraformer is suitable for clinics that want to expand their audience and offer an affordable solution with the possibility of gradual correction. Each device is effective in its own niche. It is easy to find and purchase devices on favorable terms on the Bimedis marketplace. The international medical equipment platform offers a wide selection of equipment for aesthetic medicine and dermatology.