How Does the Discomfort Level from an Ulthera Ultrasound Face Lift Compare to Other Procedures?

What level of pain should be expected during the Ulthera treatment and afterwards? Is the pain from a traditional face lift completely different? Is there more discomfort while recovering from a traditional facelift?

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face pain sensitive skin sensitivity amount comparison discomfort lift recovery technique

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by anon

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Ulthera works but it's not a facelift

You will note on Real Self that Ulthera remains one of the highest-rated procedures on the Worth It Ratings. However, while the results can be good in properly selected patients, it is an exaggeration to call anything nonsurgical a "facelift." Most of our patients do well without any medication for discomfort but there may be some mild achiness in the treated area for a few days.

Facelift, Ultrasound

Unfortunately there are no shortcuts to good results. I doubt you will find many plastic surgeons that would tell you there can be a good facial rejuvenation without a surgical procedure IF you have descent of the skin and fat of the face. That may not be true if the only change you want is reduction of the depth of wrinkles. Go see some real plastic surgeons (Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery). Unfortunately too many... more

Buyer Beware of Nonsurgical "Facelifts"

I agree with Dr. Rand. Ulthera is a proprietary name used to hype the idea that this alternative means of getting a facelift is equivalent to what a fully qualified and board certified plastic surgeon could do for you. Facelifts are generally well tolerated with little pain past the first one to two days. If a facelift is what you want Ulthera is not the answer.

Pain can be managed, but efficacy is the question

Before you go ahead, talk to some patients or at least see photos that are at least six months out and have been done by the treating physician! Even beating the face with a fly swatter will improve its look short term. The none invasive centers seldom show a variety of photo results at longer than three months and several may show those just on the completion of the technique. Photos also have to be examined as to the same lighting and background so they are truly comparable... more

Nathan Mayl, MD

7 reviews

Fort Lauderdale Plastic Surgeon

Please don't call Ulthera a "facelift"

A properly done facelift by a real plastic surgeon (PLEASE see USA Today, 9/14/11) in the well selected patient will never be approached in results by Ulthera, Thermage or any other non-surgical treatment. I have operated on several patients who have tried non-surgical tightening and "got nothing from it" other than a high cost and lots of pain during the procedure. The pain from a facelift is usually minimal, Tylenol generally is all they need for relief, and the patients... more