FDA-Cleared Ultrasound Lifting with Imaging
Ultherapy® PRIME Treatment JB — Ultrasound Lift with Real-Time Imaging
Ultherapy PRIME is a non-surgical, FDA-cleared medical treatment available in our Johor Bahru clinic, designed for patients seeking a gradual lift and firming of the skin. It uses micro-focused ultrasound energy combined with patented real-time ultrasound visualisation. This technology allows our doctor to see the layers of tissue being treated, ensuring energy is delivered with precision. The treatment is indicated for lifting skin on the neck, under the chin, and on the brow. It can also be used to improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolleté area. It is important for patients to understand that Ultherapy PRIME is not a replacement for a surgical facelift; it is a non-invasive option for those with mild-to-moderate skin laxity who are not ready for surgery. The effects are the result of your body’s own collagen production, so they appear gradually over two to six months, and individual results will always vary based on factors like age, skin quality, and lifestyle.
At Medi Clinic JB, we provide this doctor-led procedure for residents of Johor Bahru and for the many patients who travel from Singapore seeking transparent and professional care. Our clinic, easily accessible from areas like Taman Pelangi, Mount Austin, and Iskandar Puteri, prioritises a comprehensive consultation process. We believe that an informed patient is a satisfied patient. During your assessment, our doctor will thoroughly evaluate your skin structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explain the treatment process in detail, including what to expect in terms of sensation, timeline, and potential outcomes. This focus on clear communication and realistic expectations is why patients from Bukit Indah, Medini, and even across the causeway choose us. They trust our commitment to safety, our disciplined treatment protocols, and our focus on stable, natural-looking results over aggressive promises.
Our philosophy is centred on long-term patient relationships rather than volume. While LCP certification is a baseline requirement for aesthetic doctors in Malaysia, true quality comes from a doctor’s experience, meticulous technique, and dedication to patient wellbeing. We use the Ultherapy PRIME system’s real-time imaging not just as a feature, but as the foundation of our See-Plan-Treat protocol. This ensures every treatment line is delivered to the correct depth, supporting an effective and safe procedure. We provide structured follow-up appointments to monitor progress and ensure you feel supported throughout your journey with us.
At Medi Clinic JB, we provide this doctor-led procedure for residents of Johor Bahru and for the many patients who travel from Singapore seeking transparent and professional care. Our clinic, easily accessible from areas like Taman Pelangi, Mount Austin, and Iskandar Puteri, prioritises a comprehensive consultation process. We believe that an informed patient is a satisfied patient. During your assessment, our doctor will thoroughly evaluate your skin structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explain the treatment process in detail, including what to expect in terms of sensation, timeline, and potential outcomes. This focus on clear communication and realistic expectations is why patients from Bukit Indah, Medini, and even across the causeway choose us. They trust our commitment to safety, our disciplined treatment protocols, and our focus on stable, natural-looking results over aggressive promises.
Our philosophy is centred on long-term patient relationships rather than volume. While LCP certification is a baseline requirement for aesthetic doctors in Malaysia, true quality comes from a doctor’s experience, meticulous technique, and dedication to patient wellbeing. We use the Ultherapy PRIME system’s real-time imaging not just as a feature, but as the foundation of our See-Plan-Treat protocol. This ensures every treatment line is delivered to the correct depth, supporting an effective and safe procedure. We provide structured follow-up appointments to monitor progress and ensure you feel supported throughout your journey with us.
The See–Plan–Treat Protocol
How Ultherapy PRIME Works with SPT Imaging
Ultherapy PRIME’s effectiveness is rooted in its unique See-Plan-Treat (SPT) protocol, a systematic approach that distinguishes it from other non-invasive treatments. This protocol relies on real-time ultrasound imaging, which provides our doctor with a live view beneath the skin’s surface. This “see” capability is crucial for both safety and for achieving consistent, predictable outcomes for our patients from Taman Molek, Tebrau, and Permas Jaya.
The process unfolds in three clear steps:
The process unfolds in three clear steps:
- See: Before and during the treatment, the doctor uses the ultrasound handpiece to visualise the layers of skin and soft tissue. This includes the epidermis (outer layer), the dermis (where collagen is rich), and, most importantly, the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System). The SMAS is a deep, foundational layer of tissue, the same layer addressed by surgeons during a surgical facelift. Visualising it ensures that the energy is delivered precisely where it will be most effective for lifting and avoids structures like bone.
- Plan: With a clear view of your unique anatomy, the doctor creates a personalised treatment map directly on the screen. This plan outlines the exact number of ultrasound lines (rows of energy points) and the specific depths (using different transducers) required to achieve the desired lift for your brow, neck, or jawline. This planning phase ensures a methodical and tailored energy delivery, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Treat: Following the map, the doctor delivers focused ultrasound energy to precise depths—typically 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm. This energy creates thousands of tiny, discrete thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at the target depth, while completely bypassing the surface of your skin. This controlled heating process initiates a natural healing response in the body, which includes the gradual production of new, strong collagen and elastin. This process, known as neocollagenesis, is what leads to the gradual firming, tightening, and lifting of the skin over the subsequent months. The precision of the SPT protocol is designed to support optimal collagen stimulation safely and effectively.
FDA-Cleared Treatment Areas
Targeted Lifting for Face, Neck, and Chest
Our doctor at Medi Clinic JB uses Ultherapy PRIME to address specific areas where skin laxity becomes apparent. The treatment plan is always personalised after a careful assessment of your skin’s condition and your aesthetic goals. This precision is particularly valued by patients from communities such as Setia Tropika, Kempas, and Larkin who seek reliable, doctor-directed care.
The primary FDA-cleared areas for treatment are:
The primary FDA-cleared areas for treatment are:
- Brow Lift: As we age, skin on the forehead can lose its elasticity, causing the brows to descend. This can create a tired or heavy appearance around the eyes. Ultherapy can be used to apply focused energy to the deep tissues of the forehead, which may result in a gentle lift of the brow line, helping the eyes look more open and rested.
- Under the Chin (Submental Area): Laxity under the chin can lead to a loss of definition and the appearance of what is sometimes called a “double chin” (caused by loose skin, not necessarily excess fat). Treatment in this area is designed to firm and tighten the skin, which can help create a cleaner, more defined angle between the chin and neck.
- Neck Lift: The skin on the neck is often thinner and one of the first areas to show signs of ageing, such as looseness or a “turkey neck” appearance. Ultherapy targets the deep layers of the neck tissue to stimulate collagen, which may help to tighten and smooth the skin for a more youthful profile.
- Décolleté (Chest): Sun exposure and natural ageing can cause vertical lines, wrinkles, and crepey texture on the upper chest. Ultherapy is FDA-cleared to address these concerns by delivering energy into the dermis, which can help smooth the skin’s surface and reduce the appearance of these lines.
The Patient Journey
What to Expect During Your Treatment
Your Ultherapy PRIME journey at Medi Clinic JB is a structured, five-step process designed to ensure you are well-informed, comfortable, and confident in your treatment plan. We guide patients from Johor and our visitors from Singapore through each stage with professional care.
- Initial Consultation and Suitability Check: Your journey begins with a private consultation with our doctor. This is the most important step. The doctor will listen to your concerns, perform a physical examination of your skin’s quality and laxity, and review your full medical history. This is to ensure you are a suitable candidate and to rule out any contraindications. We will discuss what Ultherapy can and cannot do, setting clear and realistic expectations for your potential outcome.
- Preparation and Comfort Management: On the day of your treatment, we recommend you arrive with clean, makeup-free skin. We will take pre-treatment photographs for your medical record. To manage comfort during the procedure, a topical anaesthetic cream may be applied to the treatment areas. We will discuss all comfort options with you to ensure your experience is as pleasant as possible. There are no injections or general anaesthesia involved.
- Imaging, Mapping, and Treatment: Once you are comfortable, the doctor will begin the See-Plan-Treat protocol. The doctor will first use the ultrasound applicator to scan the treatment areas, visualising your skin’s structure on the screen. A detailed treatment map is then created. Following this map, the doctor will deliver the precise micro-focused ultrasound energy. You may feel a sensation of deep warmth or tingling as the energy is delivered, which indicates that the collagen-building process has been initiated.
- Post-Treatment and Aftercare: Immediately after the session, your skin may appear slightly red or flushed, which is a normal, temporary response that usually subsides within a few hours. There is typically no downtime, and most patients are able to return to their normal daily activities, including work or social engagements, straight away. We will provide you with simple aftercare instructions, which generally involve being gentle with your skin and using sun protection.
- Review and Follow-Up: The results of Ultherapy PRIME develop gradually. We will schedule a follow-up appointment for you at around the 3- to 6-month mark. During this review, we will assess your clinical progress, compare your post-treatment photos with your initial ones, and discuss your results. This structured follow-up is a key part of our commitment to your long-term satisfaction.
Safety & Suitability
A Focus on Patient Safety
Patient safety is the cornerstone of every procedure performed at Medi Clinic JB. Ultherapy has an established safety profile and is cleared by the U.S. FDA, a standard recognised globally. Our adherence to the imaging-guided SPT protocol further enhances the safety of the treatment by allowing for precise, controlled energy delivery.
A thorough assessment is conducted by our doctor to screen for any contraindications. This treatment may not be suitable for everyone. Conditions that would prevent treatment include pregnancy or breastfeeding, active skin infections or open wounds in the target area, severe cystic acne, or the presence of certain metallic implants. It’s essential to disclose your full medical history during the consultation.
Following the treatment, it is normal to experience some temporary side effects as the skin’s deep tissues respond to the ultrasound energy. These are typically mild and short-lived:
A thorough assessment is conducted by our doctor to screen for any contraindications. This treatment may not be suitable for everyone. Conditions that would prevent treatment include pregnancy or breastfeeding, active skin infections or open wounds in the target area, severe cystic acne, or the presence of certain metallic implants. It’s essential to disclose your full medical history during the consultation.
Following the treatment, it is normal to experience some temporary side effects as the skin’s deep tissues respond to the ultrasound energy. These are typically mild and short-lived:
- Redness: The treated area may look flushed for a few hours. This is a common response to the heat.
- Swelling: Slight swelling may occur, which usually subsides within a few days.
- Tingling or Tenderness: The area may feel tender to the touch or have a tingling sensation for a period ranging from a few days to a few weeks. This indicates that the deep layers are responding to the treatment.
Expected Timeline
Timeline, Results, and Maintenance
Understanding the timeline for Ultherapy PRIME results is key to a satisfactory experience. This treatment stimulates your body’s own collagen production, a natural process that takes time. We ensure our patients from Johor Bahru and Singapore have clear, realistic expectations from the outset.
- Immediately After Treatment: There might be a subtle, temporary “plumping” effect due to mild swelling, but this is not the final result. The primary mechanism of action is just beginning.
- First Few Weeks (1-8 weeks): Some patients report early signs of tightening or a feeling of firmness in the treated skin during this period. This can be an encouraging early indicator, but the more visible lifting is yet to come.
- The Peak Result Window (3-6 months): This is the period when the most significant results typically become visible. The new collagen that has been forming gradually strengthens and reorganises, causing the skin to contract and lift. The skin may appear firmer, and contours, such as the jawline, may look more defined. The full effect is generally seen around the six-month mark.
Why Choose Our Clinic
Why Patients from JB and Singapore Trust Medi Clinic
In a city like Johor Bahru with many aesthetic options, particularly in areas like Taman Pelangi that cater to visitors, patients make a conscious choice to seek treatment at Medi Clinic JB. Our reputation is built on trust, transparency, and a commitment to medical ethics, which resonates with both local residents from areas like Taman Sutera Utama and Seri Alam, and our many patients who travel from Singapore.
Here is what sets our clinic apart:
Here is what sets our clinic apart:
- Expertise in Advanced Technology: The Ultherapy PRIME system is a sophisticated tool, and its effectiveness depends entirely on the skill of the operator. Our doctor has extensive experience with the SPT protocol, using the real-time imaging to its full potential to create treatment plans that are not only effective but also exceptionally safe.
- Transparent and Honest Counselling: We do not engage in hype or pressure. Our consultation process is educational. We explain the science, the procedure, the likely timeline for results, and any potential side effects. We ensure you understand that results are gradual and vary, providing you with the clarity needed to make a confident decision.
- A Focus on Stable, Natural Results: Our goal is not to change your appearance dramatically, but to restore a firmer, more youthful quality to your skin. We favour treatment plans that deliver natural-looking lifts, ensuring you still look like yourself, just refreshed. Many patients choose us because they prefer this conservative, safety-first approach over promises of extreme transformations.
- Personalised, Doctor-Led Care: From your first consultation to your final review, you will be under the care of our doctor. We do not delegate clinical assessments or treatment planning. This continuity of care ensures a deep understanding of your needs and a consistent approach.
- Convenience and Support for Cross-Border Patients: We understand the needs of our Singapore-based patients. We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate travel and provide clear communication to make the process seamless. Our location is convenient and accessible, making it a practical choice for high-quality medical aesthetic care outside of Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultherapy PRIME
Here are detailed answers to the most common questions about the Ultherapy PRIME treatment. For personalised medical advice, please arrange a consultation with our doctor.
What is Ultherapy PRIME?
Ultherapy PRIME is the current generation of the Ultherapy system. It is a non-invasive, U.S. FDA-cleared medical device that uses micro-focused ultrasound with real-time visualisation to lift and tighten the skin. It is not a laser and it is not surgery. It works by delivering precise energy deep into the skin’s foundational layers to stimulate the body’s own collagen production.
How does imaging improve the treatment?
Real-time imaging is a key safety and efficacy feature. It allows the doctor to see the layers of tissue on a screen during the treatment. This means the doctor can confirm that the energy is being delivered to the exact depth where it will be most effective for stimulating collagen, such as the SMAS layer, while avoiding other structures like bone. This level of precision is unique to the Ultherapy system.
Who is a good candidate?
The ideal candidate for Ultherapy PRIME is someone with mild-to-moderate skin laxity—where the skin is beginning to look and feel less firm. This often includes individuals in their late 30s and older. It is for people who want a noticeable lift but are not ready for surgery. Suitability for patients in Johor Bahru or from Singapore is always determined after a one-on-one medical consultation with our doctor.
When will I see changes?
Patience is important. As Ultherapy relies on your body’s own regenerative process, results are gradual. Some patients may see an initial subtle effect, but the main lifting and tightening typically develop over 3 to 6 months. Because the results come from your own collagen, the effect is very natural-looking. Individual results and timelines will vary.
What are the common side effects?
There is minimal downtime with Ultherapy. Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately. Common side effects are temporary and mild, including redness, slight swelling, tingling, or tenderness to the touch. These typically resolve within hours to a few days. Our doctor will discuss all potential effects with you.
Is Ultherapy the same as HIFU?
While both use ultrasound energy, they are not the same. Ultherapy is the only treatment of its kind that is U.S. FDA-cleared and uses patented real-time ultrasound imaging. This allows the doctor to see the target tissue for precise energy delivery. Generic HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) devices typically do not have this live imaging capability, meaning the treatment is performed ‘blind’. The quality and consistency of the energy delivered can also vary significantly between devices.
Can I combine it with other treatments?
Yes, Ultherapy can be an excellent foundation for a comprehensive anti-ageing plan. It addresses skin lifting, while other treatments can manage different concerns. It is often combined with dermal fillers like Belotero to restore volume, RF therapy for surface texture, or PN-HA boosters to improve skin hydration and quality. Our doctor can develop a personalised programme that safely integrates different treatments to meet your overall aesthetic goals.
Can Ultherapy PRIME replace a facelift?
No. It is important to have clear expectations. Ultherapy PRIME is a non-invasive treatment that lifts and tightens the skin; it does not and cannot duplicate the results of a surgical facelift. It is an excellent option for those who are not ready for surgery or for patients who wish to prolong the effects of previous cosmetic surgery. The doctor will clarify these differences during your consultation.
Is the treatment comfortable?
Comfort thresholds vary from person to person. As the ultrasound energy is delivered, you will likely feel a sensation of deep warmth or tingling. This is temporary and is a sign that the energy is being delivered to the correct depth. We take comfort seriously and will discuss various management options with you, such as topical anaesthetic, to ensure your experience is as manageable as possible.
Ultherapy PRIME Gallery
Learn more about Ultherapy PRIME
Download our detailed treatment guide to understand more about how Ultherapy PRIME uses micro-focused ultrasound to achieve a natural lift.
Download Treatment Guide
Ultherapy PRIME — Smart Guide
Learn how it works in 60 seconds
About Ultherapy PRIME
Step 1 / 10
You’ve completed the Ultherapy PRIME Smart Guide. The next step is a professional consultation to fully understand this treatment.
💬 Book a Doctor Consultation
Key Treatment Benefits
Why Patients Choose Ultherapy PRIME
Patients from Johor Bahru and Singapore choose Ultherapy PRIME for its distinct advantages. Below are some of the key benefits, which our doctor will discuss with you in the context of your own skin and goals. Results and individual experiences may vary.
Doctor-Mapped
Treatment lines and depths are planned by a doctor using live imaging.
Imaging-Guided
Live ultrasound visualisation supports targeted and precise energy delivery.
Minimal Downtime
Most patients can return to their daily routines immediately after treatment.
Single Session
The treatment is typically performed in one main session, with optional touch-ups if needed.
Ultherapy PRIME vs Generic Ultrasound (HIFU) Treatments
| Key Aspect | Generic Ultrasound / HIFU | Ultherapy PRIME at Medi Clinic JB FDA-CLEARED |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time Imaging | Most devices do not have real-time visualisation. Treatment is performed 'blind' based on general anatomical landmarks. | Features patented real-time ultrasound imaging, allowing the doctor to see the tissue layers and deliver energy with precision. |
| Depth Precision | Relies on preset depths. There is no visual confirmation that the energy is reaching the optimal tissue layer for collagen stimulation. | Doctor visually confirms the target plane (e.g., SMAS) on-screen, ensuring energy is delivered to the exact depth for an effective lift. |
| Regulatory Status | Regulatory clearances vary widely by country and device brand. Many are not cleared by the U.S. FDA for lifting. | The only system of its kind with U.S. FDA clearance for non-invasive lifting of the brow, neck, and submental area. |
| Treatment Protocol | Protocols can be inconsistent and vary greatly between different clinics, operators, and machine brands. | Follows the disciplined See-Plan-Treat (SPT) protocol, which is a methodical and personalised approach to treatment. |
| Energy Consistency | The quality, shape, and consistency of the thermal coagulation points can vary between different HIFU devices. | Engineered to deliver consistent and controlled thermal coagulation points at a specific temperature to support neocollagenesis. |
| Downtime | Downtime is generally minimal, but post-treatment effects can be less predictable. | Minimal downtime for most patients. Common transient effects like redness and tenderness are well-documented and typically mild. |
| Safety Profile | The safety profile depends heavily on the specific device and operator skill, with higher variability due to the lack of imaging. | An established safety profile backed by numerous clinical studies. Real-time imaging adds a significant layer of safety. |
| Best For | Used for non-surgical skin tightening for mild-to-moderate laxity. | Ideal for patients with mild-to-moderate laxity seeking a predictable, FDA-cleared lifting treatment without surgery or downtime. |
Real-time Imaging
Generic HIFU:
Most devices do not have real-time visualisation. Treatment is performed 'blind' based on general anatomical landmarks.
Ultherapy PRIME at Medi Clinic JB:
Features patented real-time ultrasound imaging, allowing the doctor to see the tissue layers and deliver energy with precision.
Depth Precision
Generic HIFU:
Relies on preset depths. There is no visual confirmation that the energy is reaching the optimal tissue layer for collagen stimulation.
Ultherapy PRIME at Medi Clinic JB:
Doctor visually confirms the target plane (e.g., SMAS) on-screen, ensuring energy is delivered to the exact depth for an effective lift.
Regulatory Status
Generic HIFU:
Regulatory clearances vary widely by country and device brand. Many are not cleared by the U.S. FDA for lifting.
Ultherapy PRIME at Medi Clinic JB:
The only system of its kind with U.S. FDA clearance for non-invasive lifting of the brow, neck, and submental area.
Your Personalised Consultation
Arrange Your Ultherapy PRIME Assessment
The first step towards understanding if Ultherapy PRIME is the right choice for you is a comprehensive medical consultation with our doctor. We invite you to schedule an appointment at our Johor Bahru clinic, where we serve patients from local communities like Taman Gaya, Adda Heights, and Taman Sutera Utama, as well as many who make the trip from Singapore for our professional and transparent approach. During your visit, our doctor will perform a detailed skin analysis, listen to your concerns, and determine your suitability for the treatment. We will develop a personalised plan and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred time.
