Ultherapy vs Ultraformer vs LinearZ: which HIFU lift suits you?
Written by Dr. Klaer · Comparison guide · 5 min read
Ultherapy, Ultraformer and LinearZ are all focused-ultrasound (HIFU) lifting treatments. They work on the same idea, but differ in how the energy is placed, how it feels, and price. Here's a plain comparison to help you talk it through with the doctor.
First: what does HIFU do?
HIFU focuses ultrasound energy into tiny points at set depths under the skin, usually 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm. The deepest of these reaches the SMAS, the firm layer that surgeons tighten in a facelift. The heat makes tissue contract and starts new collagen, so the lift builds gradually over 2–3 months, with no cuts and little downtime.
HIFU is best for lifting: jowls, a soft jawline, double chin and sagging cheeks. For skin firmness and texture, radiofrequency (RF) such as Thermage, Oligio or Density is often added. See our RF comparison.
Ultherapy PRIME
- Made by Merz Aesthetics (USA). PRIME is the latest Ultherapy platform.
- Key difference: built-in ultrasound imaging. The doctor sees the skin layers on screen in real time and places energy at exactly the right depth. This is called MFU-V (micro-focused ultrasound with visualisation).
- Cleared by the US FDA for lifting the brow, under the chin and neck, and improving lines on the chest.
- Feel: can be more intense than other HIFU, especially over bony areas. Pain relief is used.
- Sessions: usually once a year.
- Price: the highest of the three.
Ultraformer
- Made by Classys (Korea). Common versions are Ultraformer III and Ultraformer MPT.
- Key difference: many cartridges for different depths on the face and body. MPT uses a faster, micro-pulsed delivery designed to improve comfort and speed.
- No live imaging. Placement relies on the practitioner's knowledge of facial anatomy.
- Sessions: often every 6–12 months.
- Price: mid-range. Widely available in Thailand.
LinearZ
- A newer-generation HIFU that can deliver energy in continuous lines, not only single dots, so an area is covered quickly and evenly.
- Feel: designed for good comfort and a shorter treatment time.
- No live imaging. Like Ultraformer, placement is guided by the doctor's anatomy knowledge.
- Sessions: usually every 6–12 months.
- Price: good value per area. Often combined with Oligio RF in one visit.
At a glance
| Ultherapy PRIME | Ultraformer | LinearZ | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA (Merz) | Korea (Classys) | Korea |
| Live imaging of skin layers | Yes | No | No |
| How energy is delivered | Dots, placed with imaging | Dots; micro-pulsed on MPT | Continuous lines and dots |
| Best known for | Precise, image-guided lift | Versatile face and body depths | Fast, even, comfortable coverage |
| Typical repeat | Once a year | 6–12 months | 6–12 months |
| Price level | Highest | Mid | Mid |
| At Craft Clinic | Yes · 39,990 THB / 300 shots | Not offered | Yes · 10,990 THB / 300 lines |
Which one should I choose?
- You want the most precise lift and it's your main yearly treatment: Ultherapy PRIME.
- You want a good lift with comfort and value, or to repeat more often: LinearZ.
- You also want firmer, smoother skin: pair HIFU with RF, for example our Oligio x LinearZ combo.
The right choice depends on how much laxity you have, your skin thickness, your budget and how much discomfort you're comfortable with. The doctor will assess your face before recommending a plan.
Results vary from person to person. This article is general information, not medical advice. Ultherapy, Ultraformer and LinearZ are trademarks of their respective owners.