Ultherapy is a nonsurgical technique for tightening, toning and lifting loose skin. It utilizes ultrasound, the same safe technology that is used to capture images of a baby in the womb. The device is tested, proven, and FDA cleared for lifting skin on the cheeks, under chin, neck, eye brow, and chest. It works by stimulating deeper layers of tissue, including the structural support layers that are normally adjusted during a surgical facelift. Yet, there is no disruption to the surface layers of skin.

The results of Ultherapy treatment develop gradually, over a period of about three to six months. Although the results of non-invasive Ultherapy treatment will not replicate those of a surgical facelift, it is an excellent alternative for patients who are not yet ready for surgery.

Ultherapy FAQs

What is Ultherapy?
It is a completely new solution for noninvasive tissue tightening. It works with ultrasound energy to tone and lift the neck, face, and other tissues. The procedure is completed in about 60 minutes, with no downtime.

Is the procedure painful?
Every individual has different comfort thresholds; however, we have found this treatment to be well tolerated by most patients. You may experience some discomfort as the energy is delivered, but the feeling is fleeting and it signals that collagen development has been triggered. We make every effort to ensure patient comfort, and we’ve received wonderful feedback regarding this procedure. Dr. Z’s emergency medicine background makes her uniquely able to administer medications to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

How long will it last?
It sets back father time and then he starts ticking again. We teach you how to make him tick slower with our maintenance regimen. A year after treatment, collagen will still be fresh and youthful though skin will continue aging. Results can be maintained with annual touch ups.

Will there be side effects?
You may notice some mild redness in the treatment area, but it should fade within a few hours. Other mild and temporary effects, such as tenderness, tingling, or swelling, may linger for a few weeks. Less common effects such as numbness and bruising are also temporary.

What differentiates Ultherapy from the multitude of other cosmetic treatments available?
This is the only noninvasive aesthetic procedure that utilizes ultrasound energy specifically targeted at the foundation layer of facial tissue. It acts on the same layer that plastic surgeons work with when performing a facelift. The imaging capabilities of ultrasound allow us to see the skin layers, to optimize the depth of treatment for each patient. The energy is delivered by gliding a smooth-tipped applicator over the surface of the skin, similar to that used in other ultrasound procedures. It deep-heats tissues at a precise level, initiating the collagen remodeling process, which improves skin from the inside out.

How many treatment sessions are needed?
For most patients, one treatment can achieve the desired results. However, depending on the amount of laxity, we may recommend a follow-up. Annual touch up appointments can help you maintain those results.

How long will it be before I see results?
You may see some visible improvement immediately, but the full results develop gradually over several months.

Am I a good candidate?
A wide range of individuals can benefit from Ultherapy tissue tightening, particularly those over the age of 30. This treatment is not intended to be a replacement for a surgical facelift. However, many people want to lift and rejuvenate their faces, but they may not be logistically, financially, or emotionally ready to undergo surgery. Additionally, there are younger people who want to “stay ahead of father time” as well as those who want to prolong the effect of surgery.

Can Ultherapy be used on other areas of the body?
Most likely the answer is yes, but to date it has only been approved for the face and neck. Currently, the company that manufactures the device is conducting a series of clinical studies in cooperation with aesthetic physicians around the world. We look forward to offering expanded Ultherapy treatment if and when it is proven safe and effective.

What is the function of collagen?
It is a naturally occurring protein, which keeps skin firm, toned, and youthful. Over time, collagen begins to lose its strength, inhibiting its ability to fight the force of gravity and skin begins sagging. Ultherapy is a way to jumpstart the natural remodeling process that repairs existing collagen and produces new collagen.

Is Ultherapy treatment appropriate for men?
Yes! It is an excellent solution for men or women who want to look younger and feel better about themselves.

To schedule a consultation, call our Baton Rouge, LA or Prairieville, LA dermatology office at (225) 778-7540 today!