What is ULTHERAPY?

Ultherapy is a non-surgical alternative to a face lift. It is used to prevent signs of skin aging such as sagging and wrinkles on the face, neck and chest as well as sinking of the eyebrows. The technology stimulates collagen production, which should lead to a more youthful appearance overall.

How does Ultherapy work?

Ultherapy is a non-invasive way to tighten areas such as chin, neck, forehead, and décolleté. It is based on the same technology used in radiology for ultrasound scans (e.g. during pregnancy): The device uses the energy of sound waves that penetrate the skin into the muscle of the area to be treated. The device has several attachments that allow superficial, medium and deep treatment. The collagen-based septa contract and shrink, resulting in aesthetic tightening, wrinkle smoothing and contouring.

Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy to target areas under the skin and uses the right temperature to support collagen regeneration. The heat energy of the applicator is directed to various depths and acts on three layers:

• Deep collagen (subcutis)
• skin (subdermis)
• superficial wrinkles (dermis)

Ultherapy for aging face

Non-surgical skin tightening with Ultherapy is often combined with dermal fillers to add volume to the face, including temporal hollows and midface/perioral irregularities. A more dramatic improvement in skin sagging and appearance can be achieved through a surgical procedure such as a face lift or neck lift. Based on his findings and the patient's goals, Dr. Niehus advises his patients whether a non-surgical skin tightening such as Ultherapy is appropriate or whether a surgical procedure is the better option.

Surgical procedures almost always produce longer-lasting results for patients than non-surgical methods. On the other hand, non-surgical lifts with Ultherapy and volume replacement treatments with autologous fat may offer an alternative approach for further facial rejuvenation.

Target areas for Ultherapy

It is most commonly used on the face, neck and chest. Other target areas include:

• eyebrows
• under the chin
• décolleté (chest area)

Individual treatment plans will be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Niehus.

Are there any risks or side effects?

The feeling of warmth and tingling usually subsides soon after treatment.

The treated areas of skin may sometimes be red or swollen in the hours following the procedure, and there may be brief sensations such as tingling and tenderness. In rare cases, bruising or numbness may occur, but this usually subsides within a few days after the procedure.

What to expect after Ultherapy

An Ultherapy treatment lasts around 30 to 60 minutes and uses the body's own subtle healing response to tone the skin again and stimulate the underlying collagen. Ultherapy requires no special preparation or downtime after the procedure and usually only one treatment is required to achieve a significant response. Comfort varies from patient to patient, but you don't need anesthesia to undergo this procedure.

Ultherapy usually does not involve any downtime. Regular activities such as work, sport or social contacts can be resumed immediately after treatment.

Depending on your body's ability to produce new collagen, you may notice the first results of Ultherapy after just a few days. The improvement usually lasts for 2 years. However, the results last as long as your body produces new collagen and until the natural aging process starts again. Depending on how your skin responds to Ultherapy, you can decide whether further sessions are needed.

When can you see results?

Most patients only need one treatment to achieve the desired result. The effects of Ulthera treatment can be seen after around 2 to 3 months when the underlying collagen is formed. Although results usually last up to 2 years, treatment can be repeated after 12 months to maximize the benefits of Ultherapy.

Who is an ideal candidate?

Most healthy adults whose skin has begun to sag or who feel a loss of skin firmness are good candidates for Ulthera treatment. The best way to find out if this procedure is right for you is to meet us in person and discuss your aesthetic goals with our staff.

Remember that there is no substitute for surgical intervention, but Ultherapy treatment provides those who are unready or ineligible for a surgical procedure an approach to improve sagging skin and restore its youthfulness without downtime.

Ultherapy can also often be combined with other treatments, such as fillers and laser treatments, for optimal results.

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