For years, facelifts have been the gold standard for obtaining a younger, tighter face. But now Ulthera, a non-invasive ultrasound procedure promises to provide results for almost everyone, and can be performed during a simple office procedure lasting about 20 minutes to one hour!
Check out what Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon Dr. Gregory Wiener had to tell us about the new treatment:
Isn't an ultrasound used for women who are expecting?
Traditionally, ultrasonic waves have been used as a tool to monitor the fetus during pregnancy. While ultherapy has many of the same elements as traditional ultrasounds, the technology differs by focusing the energy on the outer skin and targeting problem areas.
How is this like a facelift? How is it used?
This procedure will lift, tighten and tone areas of the face in a similar manner as a facelift. Through the procedure, ultrasound technology stimulates the deep structural support layers of the skin and boosts collagen to increase and the skin's elasticity.
Does it really lift your face?
While there is noticeable lifting and tightening over a period of months, it is important to remember that a non-invasive procedure will not deliver replica results as a surgical facelift.
Who is the ideal patient for the procedure?
Ultherapy is a great alternative for patients who seek results, but are worried about the surgery and fiscal aspects that come with a facelift.
Any pain involved? Any celebs who undergo the treatment?
Due to the non-invasive nature of this procedure, the bruising, swelling and downtime that is typical during the recovery of invasive facelift procedures is nearly nonexistent! If there is some mild discomfort during the procedure, that can be treated with non narcotic pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil.
How long does it take and how long does it last?
The procedure can be performed during a simple office procedure lasting anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour. Patients may notice a short-term "boost" but the natural process of creating new, more elastic, collagen builds over time-much like the effect that exercise has on building muscle. Over a course of 2-3 months, patients will see results unfold as their skin continues to improve. Some patients have reported continued improvement for up to 6 months.
Any touchups ever needed?
Much like other non-invasive procedures, the results are not permanent. The procedure can be touched up to get better results, or to keep results stable, but this would usually be done 6 months to a year after the initial procedure, and doesn't need to be done multiple times throughout the year.
