Morpheus8 Vs. Ultherapy 

The Core Differences Between Two Of The Most Popular Skin Tightening Treatments 

Morpheus8 and Ultherapy use different technologies to address some of the most common skin aging concerns. Morpheus8 utilizes radiofrequency energy combined with a less intensive form of microneedling to safely heat the deep layers of the skin and emulsify fat, promoting collagen production and improving skin texture and tone. Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy to heat deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, resulting in a lift of the skin over time.

What Does Morpheus8 Treat?

Morpheus8 is used to effectively treat a large spectrum of skin concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture and tone, acne scars and hyperpigmentation. It can also tighten loose skin and while improving the appearance of sagging jowls and neck skin.

What Are The Advantages Of Morpheus8?

One of the main advantages of Morpheus8 is that it can treat multiple skin concerns with minimal downtime when performed in a series of treatments. It is also highly customizable, allowing our team at Donaldson Plastic Surgery to dial in exact frequencies and tailor the treatment to each patient’s specific needs. 

Additionally, Morpheus8 is safe for all skin types and can be used on various parts of the face, neck and body.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Morpheus8?

Perhaps the only issue we have encountered with this treatment is the discomfort some patients feel during the procedure. However, we offer a number of solutions to make the experience more pleasant, including topical numbing, pre-medication (per patient request) and Pro-Nox — a temporary pain management solution that is inhaled and administered as necessary. 

What Does Ultherapy Treat?

Ultherapy is primarily used to lift and tighten sagging skin on the face and neck. It can also be used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What Are The Advantages Of Ultherapy?

One of the greatest advantages of Ultherapy is that it is a non-invasive treatment that can provide some lift without a facelift or neck lift surgery. The treatment is also relatively quick, taking only 30-90 minutes depending on the area (or areas) being treated and requires little-to-no downtime. Ultherapy results can last up to five years or more and can be maintained with follow-up treatments.

What Are The Drawbacks Of Ultherapy? 

While Ultherapy is generally safe and effective, some patients may experience discomfort during the treatment that isn’t always masked by topical numbing. This discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with additional pain medication or local anesthesia.

Ultherapy is limited in its ability to address multiple skin concerns at once and is typically only used on the brow, chin, chest and neck areas. Its primary function is to lift and tighten skin; it may not be as effective for addressing issues such as fine lines and wrinkles or hyperpigmentation. Morpheus8 is the superior treatment when it comes to tackling those cosmetic concerns. 

When Is Ultherapy Preferred To Morpheus8? 

Ultherapy is a better option when a patient has experienced previous Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation with a skin treatment. However, a patient may still be at risk of PIH with an Ultherapy treatment — the risk would just be lessened because we are not simultaneously injuring the skin surface.

Is There Anything Better Than Ultherapy? 

Yes! We used to offer Ultherapy in our office but have since sunset that treatment in favor of Morpheus8 due to the versatility of the procedure, the ability to customize the treatment to address unique skin concerns and the consistently excellent results our patients have achieved. 

About The Author

Adrienne Yanich, RN is an experienced aesthetic services provider at Donaldson Plastic Surgery. She has performed an abundance of successful Ultherapy treatments during her tenure. Adrienne was also critical in our decision to adopt Morpheus8 skin tightening at our office. She performs these treatments on a weekly basis and continues to educate patients everywhere about the advantages of this advanced technology.