Ultrasound Skin Tightening (Ultherapy®)

Non invasive ultrasound skin tightening, commonly referred to as Ultherapy, is an effective method for firming the face and neck area for a younger, more rejuvenated appearance. Ultrasound waves penetrate the face at varying depths to encourage collagen and elastin production over time, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.

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The Skinny

avg. recovery: 1 days
permanence: Temporary
Type: Topical
surgical: No
cost: $175 - $5000

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 08.05.2021

For those who are experiencing early signs of aging and desire a non-surgical approach to reducing fine lines and wrinkles, ultrasound skin tightening offers patients an alternative to a more invasive procedure. Ultrasound skin tightening, also referred to as Ultherapy, utilizes concentrated ultrasound waves to create heat deep within the dermis and SMAS muscle. Ultherapy is different than radiofrequency or laser skin tightening methods since the ultrasound energy does not affect the outer layers of skin. Ultrasound waves are targeted to heat up underlying tissue to elicit the body’s healing response which then encourages collagen and elastin production. Collagen and elastin help to firm and tighten skin, allowing for a noticeable lift in the skin. Before treatment, the face will be marked to denote where facial nerves are located so they are not damaged during the procedure. Ultrasound gel will be applied to the treatment area and then the session will begin. The ultrasound handpiece will be applied to the treatment area and held for a series of pulses. Depending on the treatment area, the skin will be treated at varying depths from 1-4.5mm.

The goal of ultrasound skin tightening is to tighten mild to moderately loose skin on the face and neck.

Concerns

Ultrasound Skin Tightening (Ultherapy®) addresses concerns such as:

What to Expect

Ultrasound skin tightening uses ultrasound waves to penetrate the face at varying depths to encourage collagen and elastin production over time, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an Ultherapy treatment.

Before Treatment

An antiviral medication may be prescribed
Men with facial hair will be asked to shave their face

During Treatment

Face will be marked to denote facial nerves
Ultrasound gel applied to the treatment area
Ultrasound hand piece applied to the treatment area
Ski treated at varying depths from 1-4.5mm

Recovery Notes

Most patients require no recovery time after an ultrasound skin tightening treatment and can resume normal activity almost immediately. Some patients may experience some minor bruising.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for ultrasound skin tightening desires a skin tightening procedure, but is aware that it will not change the surface of the skin. Ideal candidates can be of any skin tone and will have mild to moderate skin and soft tissue laxity.

Not Recommended For

Ultrasound skin tightening is not recommended for patients with more severe skin laxity issues that would benefit from a more invasive procedure.

Side Effects

Side effects from ultrasound skin tightening may include redness, slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to the touch. Other, less common post-procedural effects may include temporary bruising or numbness on small areas of skin.