Should I have ultherapy after being diagnosed with scleroderma?

Question

Recently diagnosed with limited scleroderma, mostly noticeable in my hands which are slightly puffy and tight. No other visible symptoms. I did Ultherapy back in 2012 and had a great result. Was hoping to go back in for a touch up, but now that I have this diagnosis, should I not get the procedure done? Have a little Jowl and eyelid sag I was hoping to rectify. Thx!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

We would not encourage patients with autoimmune patients to undergo elective treatment unless a medical examination is made and/or clearance is obtained from a physician. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Scleroderma is a disorder in which a patient's own immune cells can cause increased production of collagen in the dermis to an excessive degree.  This often induces a limitation of how the mouth can open, and there is less expressivity and the mouth develops vertical creases above and below the lips.Ultherapy might then induce even more collagen in such patients so it is ill-advised for patients with focal or more widespread scleroderma or to have such a procedure.The information provided in Dr. Shelton's
answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended
to constitute medical advice.  The information provided should
not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified
health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I wouldn't suggest getting any procedure that increases collagen since you have a condition that causes worsening fibrosis / collagen production.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Shauna Kranendonk, MD · Answer

Ultherapy is not advised in patients with autoimmune conditions, including scleroderma.  I am unaware of any specific studies using ultherapy in patients with scleroderma.  However, since ultherapy stimulates collagen, the concern is you would be at risk for developing scleroderma in your face, or other treatment sites.  A safer option would be using hyaluronic acid fillers or fat grafting to replace volume.  An experienced cosmetic dermatologist can minimize the appearance of the jowls and eyelid sags through the use of hyaluronic fillers or fat, while providing a natural looking result.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

I do not recommend that you get this type of procedure. Patients with scleroderma often have facial features where the skin is quite tight, a characteristic appearance, and therefore I do not recommend a collagen stimulating procedure. Read my Ultherapy ebook.

Should I have ultherapy after being diagnosed with scleroderma?

Answers (5)