Ultherapy® uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten skin. The ultrasound energy is used to heat the deep skin layers to promote new collagen growth. As with any collagen remodeling procedure, it can take several months to observe improvement, but the results with Ultherapy® can be far more substantial than other collagen remodeling treatments. Ultherapy® is the only device that has a lifting indication and is FDA-approved. Other non-surgical treatments are unable to provide a true “lifting” effect as they are unable to penetrate as deep. The ultrasound energy is used to heat the same layers that a surgeon cuts and lifts during a surgical procedure. The heating of these deep layers allows for new collagen production. Visualization is used throughout the treatment to determine the precise depth to deliver the ultrasound energy. Heating at multiple depths can provide greater efficacy.

Individuals who undergo Ultherapy® may notice the following: firmer skin, less sagging, and fewer wrinkles.  Common treatment areas include brows, face, neck, and chest.

Ultherapy® is a non-invasive procedure. While the treatment is generally well-tolerated, over-the-counter pain medications and topical anesthetic may be used to minimize discomfort. Pronox (50% nitrous oxide and 50% oxygen) may also be offered for patient comfort.

During the treatment, your provider will glide the ultrasound applicator over each region, targeting the problem areas discussed in your consultation. Some patients describe a “tingly” type of discomfort which is short-lived.

You should avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen 7-10 days prior to treatment to minimize the risk of bruising. If you are taking aspirin under the direction of a physician, please do not discontinue the medication.  Contact our office for further instructions.

You should also avoid supplements including ginkgo biloba, garlic, cod liver oil, coQ10, flax oil, fish oil, vitamin E, St. John’s wort, as well as other omega supplements.

You should let us know if you are taking any blood thinners (i.e. Coumadin®, Plavix®, Xarelto®, Lovenox®, Eliquis®, etc) but do not stop these medications. If you are taking Coumadin® and regularly get your INR checked, please report any abnormalities to us prior to your appointment.

If you develop an infection, rash, or cold sore prior to your appointment, please call the office to speak with our medical staff.

You should avoid alcohol consumption 2 days prior to treatment as alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bruising.

Patients can return to work or other activities immediately after treatment.  You may experience mild swelling, tenderness, and/or bruising which typically resolve within a few days.

Brow lift from Ultherapy® can be observed 90 days after treatment, and lifting and firming effects in other treatment areas can take 4-6 months to fully observe.  These results are long-lasting and often last up to 2 years.

Ultherapy® is contraindicated for patients who have:

• open wounds or lesions in the treatment area
• severe or cystic acne in the treatment area
• active implants (e.g., pacemakers or defibrillators), or metallic implants in the treatment area