By Dr. Olga González · Aesthetic Medicine Specialist · Updated April 2026 · 9 min read
Ultherapy was for years the only HIFU treatment with FDA approval. It established the standard of non-surgical lifting. But the technology evolved, and today there are options that offer the same effectiveness with less discomfort and lower cost. Ultraformer MPT is the most relevant evolution.
Both Ultraformer MPT and Ultherapy use the same physical principle: high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) that generates thermal microlesions in the SMAS layer to stimulate collagen. The difference is in how they deliver that energy.
| Feature | Ultraformer MPT | Ultherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Generation | 4th (most recent) | 1st-2nd generation |
| Energy delivery | Pulsed (intelligent) | Continuous |
| Available depths | 1.5, 3.0, 4.5mm + body | 1.5, 3.0, 4.5mm |
| Coverage per shot | Macro + Micro | Micro only |
| Session time (full face) | 45-60 minutes | 60-90 minutes |
| Pain | Mild-moderate | Moderate-high |
| FDA Approval | Yes (2018) | Yes (2009) |
| Manufacturer | Classys (Korea) | Merz (USA) |
This is the most differentiating point. Ultherapy has reputation for being painful — many patients describe it as "deep, repetitive heat that hurts." Ultraformer MPT, with its intelligent pulsed technology, distributes energy in shorter pulses that the body tolerates much better.
In our clinic, more than 80% of patients who have had both treatments report Ultraformer MPT is significantly more comfortable.
Both produce measurable lifting in the SMAS layer. Studies don't show statistically significant differences in absolute lifting (mm of skin elevation). What does change is the experience:
The clinical result depends more on the doctor's protocol than on the brand.
| Treatment | Approximate price (COP) |
|---|---|
| Ultraformer MPT 1 zone (Medellín) | $2,500,000 |
| Ultraformer MPT 2 zones (Medellín) | $3,800,000 |
| Ultherapy 1 zone (Bogotá) | $5,000,000 - $7,000,000 |
| Ultherapy full face (Bogotá) | $7,500,000 - $9,500,000 |
Ultherapy is approximately 2-2.5x more expensive than Ultraformer MPT in Colombia, for similar results.
Choose Ultraformer MPT if:
Choose Ultherapy if:
Dr. Olga González evaluates your case and recommends the best treatment without pressure. El Poblado, Medellín.
Free consultation · WhatsAppFor comfort, speed and price-quality ratio, Ultraformer MPT. Final lifting results are similar.
Ultherapy is 2-2.5x more expensive in Colombia.
Limited availability. Most clinics in Medellín use Ultraformer MPT.