Ulthera - can it age you?

Question

I am thinking about getting Ulthera but I am a bit scared after reading some of the reviews on here. A lot of reviews are great - but others are pretty terrifying with people posting pictures showing that they clearly look a lot worse after treatment. What has caused this? Is it a case of operator error with the machine? Thank you

Laurie A. Casas, MD, FACS · Answer

In our practice we have seen fantastic results from Ultherapy treatments.  However, the treatment is technician dependent so please ensure you see an Ultherapist that is very experienced in the procedure.  Also, it is important to have a consultation to ensure that you are a good candidate.  Good candidates for Ultherapy have mild to moderate skin and soft tissue laxity. Ultherapy can target three different depths: the Dermis (deeper skin), Fat + Connective tissue (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System-SMAS) and Muscle. The Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) is located below the fat and is a strong tissue that envelops the face. It is made up of collagen, elastic fibers, muscle fibers and fat cells. The ultrasound energy produced during an Ulthera treatment, precisely and consistently heats the targeted tissue to 60-70 degrees centigrade, which is the optimal temperature for contraction and denaturation of collagen. This is why you need to have a good Ultherapist that is visualizing the ultrasound during treatment to ensure good results.  The results from an Ultherapy treatment work in a two-step process. The first stage is the contraction and denaturing of collagen, which causes an immediate tissue tightening, and resultant lift. The second stage occurs over time while the body’s healing response builds new collagen (neocollagenesis). New collagen production is generated over 2-3 months and often continues for 6 months after the treatment. Full results are visible after 3 to 6 months.Ultherapy treatments are always tailored to each individual.

Kally Papantoniou, MD, FAAD · Answer

I have treated many women and men with the Ulthera, and have never seen an adverse effect as reported by some users as skin laxity and aging, it in fact results in the complete opposite--tightening and rejuvenation. I do, however think that the Ulthera is operator dependent. I tailor my treatments based on the needs of the patient to safely ensure skin tightening and rejuvenation. I would not let a review like that deter you, but I do recommend having this done by a physician. I do all my cases personally. Best, Dr Papantonioul

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Ultherapy is a great device, but works best in combination with other treatments like lasers, RF treatments, microneedling/PRP or sculptra to get increased collagen, tightening and improve skin tone. I recommend getting a formal consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

In over 5 years of providing Ultherapy as a treatment for our patients (and even for many of our own office team), I've yet to see someone get worse, as you mention.  There are certainly patients who don't achieve as much as they are hoping, but those are usually the folks that would likely benefit more from a more serious treatment (like facelift or neck lift).  Whether they would consider that as an option is a personal choice of course.  I've attached a link for you.

Lisa Vuich, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Ultherapy is a procedure which should be performed by highly experienced technicians as there can be complications if it is done incorrectly. This is true of ANY procedure really. However, regardless of how it is done, Ultherapy does not cause significant facial fat loss. This has been studied specifically, and even reviewed in detail by the FDA, with no warning issued as a result. I have seen quite a few "supposed" before and after photos posted on this site where I can tell (because I know how to look for the skeletal signs of aging) that the before and after images were literally DECADES apart. In others it was clear that there had been a substantial change in body weight. In the end, nothing will ever have 100% positive reviews in aesthetics. When it comes to reviews, you don't know the background, integrity, motivations, prejudices etc.. of the writer. Most important is for you to find a provider with the proper experience and reputation to perform an advanced level service- that will be your best insurance against an unsatisfactory outcome.

Best,

Lisa Vuich, MD

Best,

Lisa Vuich, MD

Ulthera - can it age you?

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