Curt Samlaska, MD

I had a great ultherapy procedure! Almost painfree...no worse than the dentist. I was given numbing shots in different areas of my face and neck, so by the time the procedure started all I felt were some tingles. I was so well informed about everything to expect during and after the ultherapy and that made me very comfortable with the whole experience. Ultherapy does not have to be painfull...find a practice where they give you the numbing shots and it won't hurt much at all! Worst part is the shots.

I personally think there are other machines out there that can produce somewhat the same result for much less.

I feelthat because this procedure is somewhat new and because the technique is Ultra Sound then the initial price is inflated.

I was one of the first to try the photo lite (highly recommend for dark spots), thermage (not impressed at all waste of money)

Fraxel (3 times loved result but pain is the only thing keeping me from going back). Topical medication really doesn't mask any amount of pain that these machines put out.

Pixel (1 time and had an allergic reaction to something the doctor gave me to put on my skin to comfort).

The Ulthera was by far the most pleasant experience due to the doctors shots to my face to numb the pain. I only wish every doctor did this with all these types of machines. As the pain can be more than a bit to bear and actually makes you think twice about doing it again. Kind of like child birth.

The technician Judy that performed the procedure was experienced and knowledgeable on a bunch of machines as this is all she does.

I had posted on another person's review that in my opinion all these machines are temporary ways to put off going under the knife.

Although I initially loved the Ulthera, I still think the cost for it, especially if in some of the comments it says that Doctors recommend a second passing is priced too high.

I think it should be sold for between $1000-$1500 because it is new and eventually when other newer machines come out then dropped to $750-$900

I only decided to look for reviews after the procedure to see what other people had to say regarding their treatments and happened upon RealSelf.

I know this post is 5 months after my procedure so bear with me my home photos as I wanted to at least show before and after photos of myself.

Out of all the machines I tried I would push for the Fraxel which cost $800 where I am from. The Ulthera where I am from was offered at $4500 so I chose to get it in Las Vegas for $3100 since I was going to be there anyway.

I went to the Ulthera site and saw some before after photo's plus the local doctor where I am from provided me a couple of his patients photos, even his own. His area was under his chin. He showed me before/after pictures and the results were immediate for his 2 patients and his own. Mind you I think they were all in their 40's. Maybe the older you are the results may take longer.

For me I could see results immediate.

In the end, after doing many types of machines wanted to express to people that if you can afford to have these refreshers here and there then great, however, If you are the budget minded then Fraxel is a good alternative for less.

If you need to get any of these procedure's done more then once then the cost should not exceed $1000, since Ulthera is new then $1500 but not $3100.

Of course this is only my oppinion.



Updated on 20 Oct 2011:
Oh I forgot to mention that I am 46

I had severe acne on my back for several years. I went to many dermatologists. No one could quite help me. I tried every cream and every pill you can take before Accutane. I lived with this for 7 years!

My back acne was very embarrassing, it was like a pepperoni pizza back there. I couldn't wear dresses that showed my back. I was very uncomfortable with my back. Finally, I went to one last dermatologist and she asked me if I had heard of Accutane, I had not and she clearly explained to me the benefits and side effects. As far as I was concerned, I was willing to take the risk if it meant ending this, I would have tried anything.

Thank goodness it worked! The immediate side effect was dryness of my hands, lips and scalp. My acne disappeared in less than 2 weeks. I have only been off Accutane for 4 months now, but my back is still clear and my skin, scalp and lips are no longer dry! I would do it all over again if I had to. Trust me, I tried it all! I am very satisfied with the results.

Great consult with Judy...This was my second Ultherapy treatment in about two years and Judy was far more knowledgable than my previous provider in Seattle. She customized the treatment for me and my unique trouble spots. I had quite a bit of swelling for about three days afterward, but saw this as a testament to a powerful and effective treatment. I started seeing some results in about a month with full results at about 3 months.