Ultherapy treats the deep foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery, but won’t duplicate the results of a surgical facelift. Ultherapy is a great alternative, however, especially for those not ready for surgery or for patients looking to extend the effects of cosmetic surgery.

Ultherapy uses sound energy — tried-and-true ultrasound — which has unique properties that allow it to bypass the surface of the skin to treat depths not matched by any other non-invasive cosmetic device. Ultherapy ultrasound stimulates collagen production in the skin’s foundation, resulting in a clinically significant lift of tissue over two to three months. Some lasers rely on light energy, which cannot reach deeper skin layers. Typically, laser treatments also only treat superficial skin and are not FDA-cleared to lift skin

Since the procedure stimulates a person’s own collagen production, how long the results last depends on the individual. The treatment produces new collagen on the inside, but the individual’s natural aging process will dictate how long that translates into visible results on the outside. Future touch-up treatments can help provide more control over the aging process, which varies by individual

These are both important building blocks within our skin. Collagen is a protein that is abundant in our skin and is important in providing strength and stability. It is produced by special cells (called fibroblasts) but over time our skin loses some of its collagen, contributing to skin laxity and sagging. Elastin is a highly elastic protein in skin and allows many tissues in the body to resume their shape after stretching or contracting. Elastin helps skin to return to its original position when it is poked or pinched. Again, as we age, our skin loses some elastin which also contributes to sagging and laxity. Since our faces are constantly subjected to movement & pressure (when we smile, sleep, talk, shout, cry, laugh or sing) the loss of elastin and collagen really can take its toll.

As the ultrasound energy is delivered, you may feel tiny amounts of energy being deposited to precise depths, stimulating the collagen-building process. Comfort levels vary from person to person, but the sensation only lasts while the ultrasound energy is being delivered.

There may be slight redness that typically resolves within a few hours following the treatment. Some patients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to the touch, but these are mild and temporary in nature.

With Ultherapy, there is no downtime. After your procedure, you can resume your normal activities immediately, without having to follow any post-treatment measures.

The Ulthera® System is currently marketed worldwide in more than 60 countries, and over 1 million treatments have been performed globally. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.

The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment, depending on how much skin laxity they have and their body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and the collagen-building process.

A good candidate for Ultherapy is someone with some degree of laxity, to the point of looking, and often feeling, less firm. Loose skin under the neck and under the chin, or lines and wrinkles on the chest, are signals a patient might be a candidate. Typically, those in their 30s and older who have mild to moderate skin laxity are candidates. While Ultherapy is not a replacement for a surgical facelift, there are many people who want some facial lifting but are not ready for surgery, whether mentally, physically or financially. There also are younger people who want to "stay ahead of the game," as well as patients wanting an aesthetic maintenance option.

Ultherapy and anti-wrinkle injectionsare different treatments with distinct purposes, so determining which is "better" depends on individual needs and goals. Here's a comparison:

Ultherapy

• Purpose: Non-invasive treatment using ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production, lifting and tightening the skin.
• Best For: Sagging skin, mild to moderate skin laxity on the face, neck, and décolletage.
• Duration of Results: Effects can last up to a year or more, with optimal results appearing over 2-3 months as collagen regenerates.
• Procedure: Typically requires one session, with some individuals needing touch-ups.
• Downtime: Minimal to none, with some very temporary mild redness or swelling.

Anti-Wrinkle injections 

• Purpose: Injectable treatment using botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze/relax muscles, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Best For: Dynamic wrinkles caused by facial expressions, such as forehead lines, crow's feet, and frown lines.
• Duration of Results: Results typically last 3-6 months, requiring regular maintenance treatments.
• Procedure: Quick, usually completed within minutes, often requiring multiple sessions per year for maintenance.
• Downtime: Minimal, with potential for slight bruising or swelling at injection sites.

Comparison

• Effectiveness: Ultherapy is more effective for lifting and tightening skin, while Botox is better for smoothing out dynamic wrinkles.
• Longevity: Ultherapy generally offers longer-lasting results, but the time to see optimal results is longer.
• Cost: Ultherapy is typically more expensive per session compared to botulinum toxin, but fewer sessions are needed over time.
• Treatment Areas: Anti-wrinkle injections are limited to areas where muscle activity causes wrinkles, whereas Ultherapy can address overall skin laxity.

So what is the best?! 

• Best For Ultherapy: If you want a non-invasive procedure for lifting and tightening sagging skin and are willing to wait a few months for full results.
• Best For Botox: If you need quick and effective treatment for dynamic wrinkles with minimal downtime and are prepared for regular maintenance treatments.

Choosing between Ultherapy and anti-wrinkle injectionsdepends on your specific skin concerns and desired outcomes. Some people may use both in conjunction to treat their dynamic lines but also looking for the lifting/tightening benefits of Ultherapy. Consulting with a qualified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon can help determine the best treatment plan for your needs.