- Non-Surgical Procedures
- Ultherapy
Before and After
Firmer, Tighter Skin in Just 30 Minutes
Ultherapy™ Scottsdale
What is Ultherapy™?
Ultherapy™ is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure we utilize at our Scottsdale facial plastic surgery practice. It uses ultrasound imaging to visualize the layers beneath the skin surface we want to treat and ultrasonic energy delivered at these targeted levels to stimulate collagen production. Although it does not replace surgical results, the effect is to lift and tighten the skin of the face and upper neck. It is the first and only energy based device for aesthetic use which is FDA indicated for lift. In a pivotal trial, 86% of patients had measurable browlift with study patients noting lifting, tightening and firming in other areas of the face and neck as well.
Who is Ultherapy™ for?
Ultherapy™ is for the patient who is not ready for surgery for reasons that may be related to age, cost, downtime or psychological factors. It is also for those who have already had surgery who may want to improve on their results or extend the time between procedures. By stimulating collagen production, patients often think of this as “collagen in the bank” that can not only improve on their current appearance but may help to delay future aging by maintaining healthy collagen.
To find out if Ultherapy™ is right for you, contact Dr. Henderson and the professionals at New Image Plastic Surgery today.
How is it different from other non-surgical procedures?
Because of the ultrasound imaging, visualization of the layers beneath the skin surface is possible. In addition, unlike other non-surgical procedures that force the energy through the skin surface and therefore require cooling of the skin surface to avoid surface injury, Ultherapy™ allows for penetration of the energy through the skin surface to be deposited at a targeted depth below the surface.
How is the procedure performed?
Ultherapy™ is performed as an in-office procedure at our Scottsdale practice, taking between 30 and 60 minutes depending on the areas treated. Two passes are performed in each area using transducer handpieces with different depths of treatment. Because it is common to experience temporary discomfort during the procedure, Dr. Henderson can prescribe pre-treatment oral medications which will require that the patient have a ride home.
Where can it be used?
Ultherapy™ is designed to treat the entire face and upper neck but limited areas of treatment can be performed to include just the upper face (forehead and temples) or just the lower face and upper neck.
How soon before I see results?
Initial tightening of the skin may occur due to collagen contracture but there is continued tightening and lifting over the next 2 to 3 months as collagen stimulation occurs.
Is there any downtime?
Because the energy penetrates the skin but does not affect the epidermal surface, there is essentially no downtime. Slight redness for a few hours and mild swelling, tingling and tenderness to touch may be present for a few weeks but are generally mild and temporary. Very occasionally, bruising and small areas of numbness may occur, which also tend to be mild and temporary.
How long do the results last?
Although results vary by individual, longevity has been found to be a year or longer. Yearly touchup treatments may be desired to keep pace with future aging.
How many treatments are required?
Most patients require a single treatment but occasional patients with more significant aging changes will require a second treatment for optimal results.
What are the risks?
Ultrasound energy has been used for medical indications for over 50 years. In addition, tens of thousands of these procedures have been performed worldwide since 2009 with no significant adverse effects.
Am I a good candidate?
Optimal results are seen in patients with mild to moderate skin laxity. Although there are no definitive predictive factors for clinical responsiveness, general characteristics include a lowered brow, descent of the cheek with deepening of the folds around the mouth, jowls and laxity under the chin. Those who are not as good of a candidate include patients with severe sun damage or skin laxity or those with excess subcutaneous fat but no skin laxity.
Is there anything I should or shouldn’t do after the treatment?
After treatment, wash the face with cool water and a gentle cleanser. Avoid using hot water until any redness subsides which usually occurs within 2 hours. Exfoliation including use of isotretinoin (eg., Retin-A®), glycolic and salicylic acid products should be avoided for one week although use of makeup and moisturizers is not prohibited. Avoidance of sun exposure and use of a sunblock is advised to help prevent future sun damage.
Learn More about Ultherapy™
If you are interested in Ultherapy™, contact our practice in Scottsdale to speak to Dr. Henderson and learn more about this fantastic treatment.
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