I paid for Ultherapy, but did I really get Ultherapy?

Question

Went to aesthetician. She recommended Ultherapy. She said, "I've a doctor who both sells the equipment in the region, teaches other doctors, does it himself". I paid $3, 500. The doctor is a real Dr, I did look him up, had the machine w/in a large briefcase-ish thing. The screen did not show the cartoon woman; I saw a big numeral in/decreasing (i.e.81) It did not hurt at all-felt VERY mild tingling. I see a little result in my eye lids, but elsewhere on my face-nothing. Did I even get Ultherapy?

Frank P. Fechner, MD · Answer

If the doctor who treated you used an authentic Ultherapy machine, you should find his name on the Ultherapy website listed as a certified provider.  Generally, our patients do experience discomfort and/or pain and we always suggest pre-medicated.   Good luck.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your description it sounds like you didn't really get treated with Ultherapy. You will definitely feel an Ultherapy treatment. Calling Ultherapy or checking their website to see if your practitioner is a certified provider is a good idea. Best of luck.

Kent V. Hasen, MD · Answer

From your description, I would question if you had an authentic Ulthera treatment.  The screen during a treatment should show the outline of a woman, as you described, the ultrasound image, and indicate which transducer is being used and how many lines are left on that transducer.  Typically, patients experience more than a tingling sensation.  I would suggest following up with your provider to see if they can provider further information.  You can also search the Ulthera physician finder, and see if that practice is listed.  Best of luck as you sort this out!

Edwin Ishoo, MD · Answer

Based on your description, it sounds highly suspicious. You saw an esthetician and then a doctor came? Did you consult the doctor in his office? there may be kick back and fee splitting between the esthetician and the doctor which is illegal. Also, the description of the machine is not consistent with Ultherapy. You may have been treated with a non-FDA approved machine which is illegal. Lastly, if the doctor did not need to inject to numb you and you felt no pain, it was not ultherapy. Best way is to demand to see the machine and the serial number and request the print out of the treatment you received. You can also check on the manufacturer's website if your doctor is a registered provider of Ultherapy. If you feel you were misled, file a complaint with your state medical board.

Matthew Elias, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately, from your description while it does not sound like you had Ultherapy, it is best to check with Ulthera if your physician is a licensed provider of the treatment.  This can be done by searching on their website or calling the company.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias

I paid for Ultherapy, but did I really get Ultherapy?

Answers (6)