Ultherapy Prime for Jawline Lift & Double Chin Reduction

The jawline and area under the chin can lose their firm shape due to natural skin laxity as we age. Ultherapy Prime is a non-invasive treatment that uses microfocused ultrasound energy to target the deep tissue layers typically addressed in surgery. By stimulating your body’s natural collagen and elastin production, it gradually lifts and firms the skin from within for a more defined contour — without the need for incisions.

At Glowwis, your journey is guided by Dr Sam, whose 10+ years of clinical experience in aesthetic medicine mean every treatment is shaped by both science and a deep understanding of what naturally suits each individual.

The team is committed to keeping you well-informed throughout your journey — from your initial consultation through to your follow-up care. 

How Ultherapy Prime Targets the Jawline and Submental Area

Ultherapy Prime is a U.S. FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses microfocused ultrasound energy to the deep SMAS layer — the foundational tissue typically addressed in surgical facelifts.

  • Deep Structural Targeting: The treatment reaches the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) to address the root causes of laxity that surface-level treatments cannot access.
  • Precision Jawline Refinement: By focusing energy along the mandibular border, the device helps firm the tissue to reduce the appearance of jowls and restore a more defined contour.
  • Submental and Neck Contouring: Ultrasound energy is delivered to the deep tissue layers beneath the chin and along the neck, stimulating the process called neocollagenesis to tighten the skin and improve overall submental definition.

Transducer Technology and Treatment Depths

The Ultherapy Prime system uses interchangeable transducers that deliver energy to distinct depths beneath the skin surface. A transducer is the component of the handpiece that produces and focuses the ultrasound waves. For jawline lift and double chin treatment, practitioners typically use a layered approach across multiple depths:

  • 1.5mm transducer: Targets the superficial dermis for fine line and wrinkle reduction, and improvement in skin texture. 
  • 3.0mm transducer: Targets the deep dermis and superficial fat layer for intermediate tissue stimulation and collagen induction. 
  • 4.5mm transducer: Designed to reach the SMAS and deep fibromuscular tissue layers, providing the foundational lifting effect. 

This multi-depth approach is what distinguishes Ultherapy Prime from devices that can only treat surface tissue.

Real-Time Visualisation During Treatment

The Ultherapy Prime system features real-time ultrasound imaging, allowing Dr Sam to visualise your unique tissue layers at the jawline and neck before delivering any energy. This “See, Plan, Treat” (SPT) protocol ensures that the treatment is precisely targeted to the correct depth while avoiding critical anatomical structures.

Dr Sam personally conducts the ultrasound mapping as part of the standard SPT protocol, ensuring that treatment planning is tailored to each patient’s individual anatomy at no additional charge. This hands-on approach ensures you receive a truly personalised experience from the moment your journey begins.

By personalising the procedure to each patient’s specific facial anatomy, the technology supports a more consistent lifting effect that works in harmony with your natural features.

The Collagen Remodelling Timeline

Ultherapy Prime produces both immediate and progressive results through distinct biological mechanisms. Initial tissue tightening occurs during treatment as collagen fibres contract in response to thermal energy. This immediate effect provides a modest visible improvement straight away.

The more meaningful changes develop over subsequent months as your body’s natural renewal response produces new collagen. This follows a predictable timeline:

  • Weeks 1–4: Your body’s natural healing response is activated, signalling fibroblast cells — the cells responsible for collagen production — to begin the collagen-building process.
  • Months 1–3: Active collagen synthesis begins; you may notice gradual firming along the jawline and submental area.
  • Months 3–6: Collagen maturation and cross-linking occur; peak results typically become visible during this window.
  • Months 6–12: Continued remodelling with maintenance of achieved improvement.

Most patients notice progressive improvement starting around the 2–3 month mark, with peak results typically developing between 3–6 months post-treatment. Because these changes occur gradually, results appear refreshed and natural rather than sudden.

A note on expectations: Results develop gradually over 3–6 months. Patients who prefer an immediate, dramatic change may find the timeline requires some patience, which is why Dr Sam takes care to discuss realistic expectations with you during your consultation, so your journey is a confident one from the very start.

Treatment Experience and Sensation

Ultherapy Prime treatment involves distinct sensations as ultrasound energy is deposited into tissue. Most patients describe feeling brief pulses of warmth and tingling, with intensity varying by treatment area. The jawline and submental region tend to produce moderate sensation — less noticeable than the forehead and more so than the cheeks.

The number of ultrasound energy lines is personalised to your anatomy and treatment goals — Dr Sam determines this as part of your tailored SPT plan. Sessions typically take approximately 45–75 minutes to complete.

Comfort measures available at Glowwis include:

  • Topical numbing cream applied approximately 20–30 minutes before treatment 
  • Comfort medication taken prior to the session, where appropriate
  • Cooling breaks between treatment zones
  • Adjusted energy settings based on your individual comfort level

Immediately after treatment, mild redness typically resolves within a few hours. Slight swelling may also occur and, while often short-lived, can persist for several days in some patients. You may notice mild sensitivity along the treated area for several days. Temporary skin changes are uncommon but may occasionally occur, particularly in the submental area where tissue is thinner.

Ideal Candidates

Ultherapy Prime may be a suitable option for those with mild to moderate skin laxity who are not yet ready for — or prefer not to consider — surgical intervention. You may be a suitable candidate if you have experience:

  • Early jowling along the mandibular border
  • Loss of jawline definition creates a less angular appearance
  • Mild to moderate submental fullness (double chin) with reasonably good skin quality
  • Skin that still retains adequate elasticity and thickness

Who May Not Be Suitable

While Ultherapy Prime is versatile, certain factors may mean a different approach could serve you better:

  • Heavier Volume Concerns: If there is more substantial volume in the neck or jawline, a combination approach may provide more comprehensive outcomes.
  • Medical Considerations: The treatment may not be suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for those with certain medical conditions affecting the skin.
  • Those with metal implants in the treatment area, or certain medical conditions affecting the skin — all of which will be reviewed during your consultation with Dr Sam.

Understanding Ultherapy PRIME and Other Skin Tightening Treatments

Not all jawline and double chin treatments work the same way — the right approach depends on the depth of concern, the amount of laxity present, and whether fat, skin, or both are contributing factors. The table below compares Ultherapy Prime with commonly considered alternatives to help set realistic expectations.

 

Treatment How It Works Good For What to Expect
Ultherapy Prime Microfocused ultrasound stimulates collagen deep in the SMAS layer Mild to moderate laxity; jawline and submental lifting Results begin to develop from 2–3 months and continue improving, with peak effects typically visible at 6 months
Radiofrequency (RF) Devices Heats tissue to encourage collagen in the dermis Surface skin tightening Typically targets the dermis rather than the SMAS layer; depth varies by device and protocol
Injectable Fat Reduction Reduces fat cells beneath the chin Submental fullness with good skin elasticity Does not address skin laxity; suitable for submental fat rather than loose skin
Thread Lifts Dissolvable sutures lift tissue immediately Those seeking a more immediate, visible lift Results vary depending on thread material; dissolvable PDO threads typically last 6–12 months, while PLLA or PCL threads may provide results lasting up to 12–18 months in some patients
Surgical Facelift / Neck Lift Surgical repositioning of all tissue layers, including the SMAS More advanced laxity or significant volume concerns Requires anaesthesia and a recovery period; may be considered when non-invasive options are insufficient

 

Expected Results and Longevity

You may notice visible lifting and tightening along the jawline alongside a reduction in submental fullness. The degree of improvement varies based on starting tissue quality, treatment parameters, and individual healing response.

Results commonly last between 12 and 18 months, depending on your skin quality and natural ageing process. Individual results vary. Factors that influence longevity include:

Ongoing collagen changes from natural ageing, sun exposure, and lifestyle factors that affect skin quality. Your body’s individual collagen production capacity, weight changes, and their effect on facial contour.

Many patients choose maintenance treatments at 12–18 month intervals to preserve and build upon initial results. Because Ultherapy Prime stimulates your body’s own collagen production, repeated treatments may create cumulative benefits over time.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Your preparation is straightforward — Dr Sam will walk you through everything you need to know during your consultation. Inform Dr Sam of any medications or supplements you are taking, and discuss your comfort preferences so the session can be fully tailored to you. This allows for any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan before you begin.

Post-Treatment Care and Recovery

Recovery from Ultherapy Prime requires minimal intervention. Most patients return to normal activities immediately, including work and social engagements. Specific post-treatment guidance includes:

  • Apply a gentle moisturiser if your skin feels dry or tight
  • Avoid excessive heat exposure — saunas and hot yoga, for example — for 24–48 hours
  • Resume your normal skincare routine gradually, as advised by Dr Sam.
  • Protect your skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen during the healing phase
  • Stay well hydrated to support the collagen synthesis process

No specific downtime is required, though mild swelling or sensitivity may make some patients prefer scheduling treatment before a quieter day. Makeup can be applied immediately if desired.

When to Seek Professional Advice

Please reach out to the clinic if you notice any of the following after your treatment:

  • Persistent numbness lasting more than several weeks
  • Significant swelling that worsens rather than improves
  • Skin texture changes or irregularities that develop post-treatment
  • Prolonged sensitivity that does not ease with standard comfort measures
  • Any unexpected changes in facial movement or sensation

Commonly Asked Questions

How many sessions are needed for jawline and double chin improvement?

Most patients achieve visible results from a single session, though those with more significant laxity may benefit from a second treatment after 6 to 12 months. Dr Sam will assess this during your consultation.

Can it completely eliminate a double chin?

Ultherapy Prime effectively addresses skin laxity beneath the chin; however, it does not remove fat. Those with more significant submental volume may benefit from a combination approach for more comprehensive outcomes.

Is the treatment comfortable?

Most patients describe the sensation as a brief warmth and tingling at the moment each pulse is delivered. Comfort measures including numbing cream and adjusted settings are used throughout the session.

How long until I see results?

Visible improvements typically begin at 2–3 months as new collagen forms, with peak results developing at 6 months. Some patients notice continued improvement for up to 12 months. 

How long do the results last?

Results commonly last between 12 and 24 months, depending on your individual ageing process and skin quality.

Is there any downtime after the procedure?

There is virtually no downtime, and most patients return to their regular activities immediately, though mild redness or slight sensitivity may occur for a few hours.

What is the difference between Ultherapy and Ultherapy Prime?

Ultherapy Prime features an upgraded platform compared to the original system, including a 35% larger, higher-resolution screen, a faster dual-core processor for improved treatment delivery, refined energy delivery for a more comfortable experience, and the structured SPT (See, Plan, Treat) protocol with real-time tissue visualisation.

Can it be combined with other treatments?

Yes. Ultherapy Prime may be combined with other treatments — such as dermal fillers, skin boosters, neurotoxins, or Liquid PDO Threadlift — depending on your clinical goals. Dr Sam will advise on appropriate combinations and timing based on your individual assessment. 

Next Steps

Ultherapy Prime targets the deep foundational layers of the face to provide structural lifting of the jawline and submental area, with results that commonly last 12 to 24 months.

While peak improvements develop gradually over three to six months, a clinical assessment with Dr Sam is the recommended first step — allowing him to evaluate your skin quality, laxity levels, and individual goals before outlining a treatment plan suited to your anatomy. If you have been noticing changes in jawline definition or submental fullness, the team at Glowwis is available to assist you.