Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin. It is FDA-cleared for lifting skin on the neck, under the chin, and on the eyebrow. It can also improve the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. The treatment works by stimulating the body's own collagen production, which is essential for skin elasticity and firmness.

During an Ultherapy session, a smooth handheld device is placed on the skin. This device delivers focused ultrasound energy to specific depths within the skin, targeting the dermis and the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer, a foundational tissue layer that is typically addressed during surgical facelifts. This energy creates tiny thermal coagulation points, which trigger the body's natural healing response and promote the production of new collagen and elastin over time.

The procedure is typically performed in a doctor's office and can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during the treatment, which is often described as a warming sensation or mild prickling. No special recovery time is usually needed, and most people can resume their normal activities immediately after the procedure.

Results from Ultherapy are not immediate, as collagen production is a gradual process. Patients typically begin to see noticeable improvements in skin tone and texture within two to three months, with continued enhancement over the following six months. The effects are long-lasting, with many patients enjoying results for a year or more. Ultherapy is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. Potential side effects can include temporary redness, swelling, bruising, or numbness.