Ultraformer vs. surgical facelift - what's the difference?
Ultraformer vs. surgical facelift - what's the difference?
Dental & Dermal in Oslo offers Ultraformer III - a non-surgical lifting treatment that uses focused ultrasound (HIFU) to tighten skin and stimulate collagen production. The clinic is run by Chenxiao Li, who combines dental expertise with aesthetic treatment for precise results in the facial area.
What is Ultraformer III?
Ultraformer III is a HIFU-based (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) device that delivers focused ultrasound energy to deep skin layers - all the way down to the SMAS layer (the same layer surgeons manipulate during a facelift). The treatment:
- Requires no anaesthesia or incisions
- Takes 30–90 minutes depending on the area
- Has zero to minimal downtime
- Stimulates the body's own collagen production over 2–6 months
What is a surgical facelift?
A surgical facelift (rhytidectomy) is an operation where a plastic surgeon:
- Makes incisions along the hairline and in front of the ears
- Lifts and tightens the SMAS layer manually
- Removes excess skin
- Sutures with minimal scarring
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and requires significant recovery time.
Direct comparison
| Ultraformer III | Surgical facelift | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | From 6,500 NOK per area | 80,000 – 150,000 NOK |
| Treatment time | 30–90 minutes | 3–5 hours |
| Anaesthesia | None / light numbing cream | General anaesthesia |
| Downtime | 0–2 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Results visible | Gradually over 2–6 months | Immediately (final after 3–6 months) |
| Duration | 12–18 months | 7–10 years |
| Risk | Minimal (redness, slight swelling) | Infection, nerve damage, scarring |
Who is Ultraformer right for?
Ultraformer III is ideal for:
- Patients aged 30–55 with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Those seeking preventive anti-ageing treatment
- Those who cannot or do not want surgery
- Patients who want gradual, natural improvement without others noticing
- Those with limited downtime (busy professionals, parents)
Who should consider surgery?
A surgical facelift may be the better choice for:
- Patients with significant skin excess that Ultraformer cannot correct
- Those over 60 with advanced ageing
- Patients who want dramatic, long-lasting change and accept downtime
- Those who have already tried HIFU/fillers without sufficient results
Can they be combined?
Yes. Many patients use Ultraformer as maintenance after a surgical lift, or combine Ultraformer with fillers for optimal effect without surgery. At Dental & Dermal, Chenxiao Li creates individual plans based on your goals, budget, and life situation.
What happens during an Ultraformer treatment at our clinic?
- Consultation: We assess skin quality, elasticity, and your goals.
- Marking: The treatment area is mapped out.
- Treatment (30–90 min): The ultrasound handpiece is moved across the skin. You'll feel a warm, prickling sensation - uncomfortable for some, but manageable.
- Afterwards: You can apply makeup and return to your daily routine immediately.
- Follow-up: Results build over 2–6 months. Optional top-up after 12–18 months.
Prices at Dental & Dermal
- Single area (e.g. chin or jawline): From 6,500 NOK
- Full face: From 12,000 NOK
- Face + neck: From 15,000 NOK
Exact pricing is agreed upon after consultation based on the number of lines and treatment area.
Take the first step
Unsure whether Ultraformer or surgery is right for you? Book a no-obligation consultation at Dental & Dermal. Chenxiao Li provides an honest assessment of what's realistic for your skin and expectations - no pressure.