Does Ultherapy Really Tighten Skin?
What is it?
Ultherapy is the only FDA approved non-surgical procedure done to lift the skin of the neck, chins and brow. It is not a surgery; it is not an injection or laser. It is an ultrasound therapy. This technique uses ultrasound to guide the clinician to the directed are of the skin where they want to treat. Using ultrasound helps to locate the exact area of the tissue underlying the skin where they want to treat.
How does it work?
This procedure uses ultra sound energy which is non-invasive. In other words there is no outside effect on the skin whatsoever. It bypasses the skin and heats the deep tissues. The heat generated in the deeper tissues stimulates the growth of new collagen and by doing so it lifts the skin and tightens the skin over time. This is a natural regenerative response.
How is Ultherapy different from other treatments?
The temperature used in Ultherapy is in the optimal range between 60 – 70 degrees Celcius. Laser treatment uses a higher temperature of 100 degrees Celcius whereas radio frequency uses a suboptimal temperature of less than 55 degrees Celcious. Ultherapy can target deeper tissues compared to Radiofrequency and laser therapy methods. Laser can only be used to treat layers just below the skin.
Who is an Ultherapy candidate?
People of all ages can undergo Ultherapy. Patients who have some skin elasticity issues, wrinkles, sagging skin, uneven fat distribution, or some sun damage to the skin are all candidates for Ultherapy. This is a good option for people who do not wish to undergo a surgery or those who smoke or have other health issues. The other most important thing is for your physician to agree that this procedure would be beneficial and offer you the results you are looking to achieve.
What are the benefits of Ultherapy?
The benefits of using Ultherapy include:
• It is a non-surgical and non-invasive procedure- no down time.
• It is a proven ultrasound technology. There is no radio frequency or radiation used. It is purely done with ultrasound energy.
• It gives natural and gradual results over 3 to 6 months.
• It is convenient and the procedure is done over a period of 1 to 2 hours.
• No after care or restrictions.
• Usually requires only one treatment.
How long does it last?
The collagen that is replaced is permanent but how everyone age is different from person to person. So how long the effect will remain depends on the patient. Yearly touch ups can help to keep the pace.
Is improvement guaranteed?
Since it is not a surgery, we depend on the body’s response to build collage. When we do a surgery, the results are more predictable, but in ultherapy the results are less predictable. The vast majority of patients see an improvement. A small or minority may see no or little improvement.
Does it hurt?
The comfort threshold varies from person to person. However, discomfort means that you are actually getting energy to your deeper tissues. Pain or discomfort is a sign that the collagen building has initiated. No pain, No gain!
How much does it cost?
The cost depends on the extent of your treatment. The prices may range from $750 to $4000.
