06 May New Beauty Lists Ultherapy As One of a Handful of Procedures that Actually Make Patients Look Younger
There are so many treatments available that boast the ability to make clients look younger—but what really works? According to plastic surgeons interviewed by New Beauty, Ultherapy is one of the few treatments that works exceptionally well (so well that the surgeon who recommended it gets it herself!). So, what exactly is Ultherapy and why do the professionals love it? It’s a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to kick-start collagen production. Ultherapy is dubbed the “facelift alternative” because results really are (nearly) that dramatic. Although it was originally designed to be used on the lower half of the face and the neck (same as a facelift), it can be used anywhere you want to see toning, tightening, and lifting.
Focused, pulsating heat energy is delivered to the target site. The result? Not only skin that is tightened and lifted but also minimized lines and wrinkles. Ultherapy can also help contour the jawline. It’s been cleared by the FDA since 2009 as a non-invasive neck, submental (under-chin), and eyebrow lift as well as a treatment to improve wrinkles and lines on the chest. To date, hundreds of thousands of such treatments have been performed around the world and there are no systemic side effects reported.
Benefits of Ultherapy
One of the biggest perks of this treatment is that it’s quick (less than an hour in most cases) and requires little to no recovery. Plus, since it’s non-invasive, there are no incisions needed or anesthesia. Little preparation is needed, too, as skin will be cleansed and a numbing cream applied at the start of your treatment. Although it’s (always) a good idea to avoid UV exposure after your treatment, skin is not as vulnerable post-procedure with Ultherapy when compared to other treatments like laser skin rejuvenation.
According to one study, the majority of patients found improvement 60 – 180 days after their treatment and the majority were also satisfied or very satisfied after 90 days. Ultherapy is a slow and steady treatment, given that it’s a form of collagen induction approach. Collagen isn’t made overnight, which is why you’ll see continued improvement up to six months post-treatment. Take before and progress photos to really track how well it’s working. You can also complement it with other anti-aging treatments like Botox, fillers, lasers, peels, and more.
Below the Surface
Ultherapy focuses on areas below the skin, heating these areas to just the right temperature to regenerate collagen. It does this without harming the surface skin. There are three layers affected, including the skin, muscles, and wrinkles. The more collagen you have, the younger you look. We produce less as we get older, but with methods like Ultherapy you can synthesize new collagen right where you want it.
During the treatment, the numbing cream is removed an ultrasound gel is applied. This is to allow your provider to see exactly where they are sending the energy (identical to an OBGYN visit that uses ultrasound to see the baby). The sensation is often described as hot or tingling, and the energy is delivered in fast, intermittent pulses. For those who are sensitive, talk to your provider during your consultation about appropriate OTC meds that may help increase comfort.
Ultherapy and You
The results of Ultherapy can last for several months, and it’s mostly considered a “one and done” treatment. Maintenance sessions can be scheduled several months later. Although it is not quite as dramatic as a facelift, for many clients it provides results impressive enough to delay a mini lift for a few years. If you’re not ready for a surgical intervention but have noticed signs of aging on the face, Ultherapy might be for you.
Since there is no downtime, you can immediately get back to your day. Skin may be pink for a few hours after the appointment, but this side effect doesn’t linger. You may also notice that the treated areas feel “bruised” (without signs of bruising) and/or numb. The numbness may last a few weeks, but don’t worry—it is not permanent. These are the most common side effects, and all are temporary. To learn more about Ultherapy and find out if it’s for you, get in touch. Contact RefinedMD today or complete the online contact form right now.