When it comes to nonsurgical skin tightening and rejuvenation, Ultherapy® and RF microneedling are two treatments that provide noticeable improvement. Both are popular options with our patients at Reviance Portland, especially as complementary treatments to facial plastic surgery. Many patients will undergo Ultherapy or RF microneedling if they are not ready for a facelift but like to see some improvement. Others will undergo treatment post-surgery for maintenance.
It’s important to remember that these treatments require a high level of skill and experience to perform well. At Reviance Portland we pride ourselves on training our providers to do the best treatment for each patient and that’s the biggest difference as to why we can achieve lasting, beautiful, and natural results.
When comparing Ultherapy and RF microneedling, how do you know which one is best for your skin goals?
Here are the benefits of each treatment, how they work, and what you can expect from the experience.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a noninvasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin by stimulating collagen production deep beneath the surface. It targets the same foundational layer that is typically addressed during a facelift surgery—without disrupting or disturbing the skin.
Key Benefits of Ultherapy:
- Noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment
- No downtime or needles
- Ideal for lifting and tightening the face, neck, and décolletage
- Boosts natural collagen production over time
Who Ultherapy is Best For:
Ultherapy is ideal for individuals experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity, particularly in the brow, chin, neck, or décolletage. If you’re looking for a subtle lift without surgery, this might be your best option.
What is RF Microneedling?
RF microneedling (radiofrequency microneedling) combines two skin-rejuvenating technologies in one: tiny needles create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, while radiofrequency energy is delivered deep into the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Key Benefits of RF Microneedling:
- Improves skin texture and tone
- Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars
- Firms and tightens skin
- Minimal downtime
Who RF Microneedling is Best For:
This treatment is great for those looking to enhance skin quality overall—think smoother texture, improved tone, reduced scarring, and firmer skin. It’s also effective for early signs of sagging.
How do Ultherapy and RF Microneedling Differ in Technique?
While both treatments stimulate collagen and aim to firm the skin, they work in very different ways:
- Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to heat tissue at a deeper level—reaching the SMAS layer (superficial musculoaponeurotic system)—which is also targeted in surgical facelifts. It bypasses the skin’s surface entirely.
- RF microneedling, on the other hand, uses microneedles to create microchannels in the skin and delivers radiofrequency heat at various depths. This dual approach remodels collagen and elastin more broadly across the skin and can improve the texture on the surface of the skin.
The main difference lies in how deep each technology goes and what skin layers they target. Ultherapy is about deep lifting; RF microneedling is more surface rejuvenation.
Treatment Areas and Benefits
Ultherapy is best for:
- Lifting sagging skin around the jawline, chin, neck, and brow
- Tightening the décolletage
- Those wanting to avoid downtime and needles
RF Microneedling is best for:
- Improving skin texture and tone
- Smoothing fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars
- Subtle firming and tightening, especially in the face and neck
If you’re looking to address loose skin, Ultherapy might be more effective. If you’re more focused on surface texture, pores, and scarring, RF microneedling is better. You can also consider doing both to get both superficial and deep collagen stimulation.
Pain And Recovery
Ultherapy
Some patients find Ultherapy uncomfortable due to the deeper energy delivery. We can provide medications to help with the treatment. There is no downtime, and patients can resume normal activities immediately.
RF Microneedling
RF Microneedling is generally well-tolerated, especially with topical numbing. Treatment may cause temporary redness and swelling for 1–2 days.
While both treatments are nonsurgical, Ultherapy tends to be more intense during the procedure, but with without recovery time. RF microneedling is gentler during the treatment but may involve mild post-treatment redness.
Results and Longevity
Ultherapy
- Results appear gradually over 2–3 months as new collagen develops.
- Effects can last many years depending on your age and skin condition.
RF Microneedling
- Initial results visible after a few weeks.
- Continued improvement for 3–6 months post-treatment.
- Results typically last years with maintenance sessions.
Both treatments offer long-term benefits, but Ultherapy may require fewer sessions for lifting results, while RF microneedling is often performed in a series for optimal skin rejuvenation. The two treatments can also be combined for maximum collagen stimulation.
Cost Comparison
Ultherapy
- Cost per session typically ranges from $1,000 to $4,000, depending on the number of treatment areas.
- Usually requires only one session for visible lifting.
RF Microneedling
- Each session ranges from $800 to $1000 depending on the number of treatment areas.
- Most patients need a series of 3 to 4 treatments for best results.
While Ultherapy may have a higher upfront cost, it may be more cost-effective long-term for those seeking lifting. RF microneedling is more affordable per session but may require ongoing maintenance for lasting benefits.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Choose Ultherapy if:
- You want a noticeable lift in specific areas like the brow, chin, or neck
- You prefer a single, noninvasive session with long-lasting results
- You prefer less downtime
Choose RF Microneedling if:
- You’re focused on improving skin texture, fine lines, or acne scars
- You prefer a gradual, cumulative effect with several gentler treatments
- You want to enhance your overall skin quality and tone
When comparing Ultherapy and RF microneedling, it’s clear that both treatments offer powerful, nonsurgical ways to revitalize your skin—but in slightly different ways. Ultherapy is ideal for deep lifting and tightening, while RF microneedling is the classic treatment for surface rejuvenation with a small amount of skin tightening and lift.
Still unsure? The best way to determine the right treatment for your skin goals is to schedule a personalized consultation. Our team will assess your needs and help you choose the best option for refreshed, youthful skin—without the downtime of surgery.
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