Ultraformer became one of the most popular HIFU facelifts in Singapore after I explained why I’m a firm believer in it. I’m grateful to be named the Official Regional Trainer for Ultraformer, and I should be happy that it is gaining mainstream popularity.

Yet, I’m actually concerned. Please, don’t sign up for Ultraformer until you have read and understood how the Ultraformer works!

Why do people get so different results? Why do some charge $300 and others $3,000? What are Mini-HIFUs!? Here’s a checklist that will answer your questions.

Best for Knowledgeable and Patient-Oriented Doctor

#1 – There’s more than ONE Ultraformer

Commonly marketed as “THE Ultraformer”, this might be slightly misleading because there are actually THREE VERSIONS (Ultraformer 1, Ultraformer 2, Ultraformer 3)! Some of my patients have told me they’ve seen clinics that advertise material from UF3 when they are actually using a UF2 machine!

Here are some advantages of the UF3:

• Higher power allows STRONGER treatments
• Less pain & faster treatment
• World’s first and only HIFU 2.00mm Cartridge (MF2)
• Improved treatment of fine lines and narrow areas like eye bags

3 EXTRA depth settings to treat all areas of face and body

Ultraformer 2 on the left and Ultraformer 3 on the right

Don’t get me wrong. I still strongly endorse the UF2 (I use the Ultraformer 3) but be careful about paying UF3 prices for a UF2.

Tip 1: Simply ask what version of Ultraformer your doctor is using.

#2 –  Not all patients are suitable for Ultraformer

Ultraformer is great for most people looking for facelifts. However, there are some patients where radiofrequency/laser lifting or injectables work better.

Make sure your doctor has a wide range of lifting techniques and can customise an individualised treatment plan. Don’t go to a clinic that does ONLY Ultraformer (or other HIFU) for facelifting. They are more likely to just want to sell you the treatment.

Tip 2: Ask your doctor if you are a good candidate for the Ultraformer and suggestions for alternative treatments.

#3 – Beware of Mini-HIFUs

This is important!

All clinical studies that show the results of micro-focused ultrasound use a SINGLE, INTENSE session protocol in their treatments. There is NO clinical evidence behind splitting a HIFU treatment into many small mini-HIFU treatments. In short, MINI-HIFUs are NOT proven to work.

A single mini-HIFU session can be as cheap as $200 compared to proper HIFU sessions that start from $800. However, many Mini-HIFU patients come to my clinic complaining about the lack of results even after multiple sessions many months later.

$200 is a really low price and so many patients give it a try. It is common for medi-spas to upsell more treatments during each mini-HIFU visit when you complain it’s not working. Don’t fall into this trap.

Tip 3: Ignore Mini-HIFUs. Opt for real Ultraformer sessions that give results.

#4 – Check for the NUMBER of shots

Yes, the number of shots and how each shot is delivered matters. This should be individualized to every patient’s needs and expectations. The typical number of shots required for an effective full-face treatment can range from 500 to 1000!

No way to know the number of shots except to ASK!

These HIFU shots have a consumable cost, and 500-1000 shots take a very long time to complete.

Tip 4: Know how many shots you’re paying for. Mini-HIFUs (fewer than 300 shots) rarely work!

#5 – Pick an experienced doctor

Ultraformer is commonly thought to be a simple treatment. Unfortunately, it is not simple at all.

Demonstrating my UF3 techniques to fellow doctors in Yangon

Technique plays a big role in successful treatment. HIFU may look like a boring repetitive treatment, but actually requires experience, careful planning, and lots of patience. My personal HIFU technique was developed only after more than 500 cases, as well as regular interactions with Key Opinion Leaders of the Ultraformer 3 from Korea and South-East Asia.

Explaining a fair bit of my HIFU techniques as a UF3 Trainer

The importance of technique is also why I conduct every single Ultraformer treatment personally. If you ever find yourself in an Ultraformer treatment that is done by anyone other than a doctor, please stop the session.

Tip 5: Request for before/after photos of the doctor’s Ultraformer work.

Feel free to contact me personally if you have more questions on the Ultraformer.

Watch how I perform Ultraformer HIFU on a patient: