What is the difference in Ultherapy "heads"/mm? (4.5 & 3.0 & 1.5)

Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production. When you first start, the ultrasound picture on the screen shows how deep the collagen is in the area being treated. Then you choose the appropriate transducer, 3.0 or 4.5, based on the depth of the patient’s collagen. A second pass is then done in each area to stimulate the dermis and get some superficial skin tightening. On some patients, all 3 depths may be able to be treated. This could be done in one treatment or at a latter treatment.

Hi,Thank you for your question. Ultherapy uses ultrasound to stimulate collagen.  The ultrasound energy is focused at specific depths( 4.5mm, 3.0mm and 1.5mm).  The muscle that supports the facial tissue is located at 4.5mm and 3.0mm in the average patient, as seen on the ultrasound screen during the procedure.  By targeting those depths, collagen formation will be stimulated around the muscle, lifting and tightening your tissue.    The 1.5mm head, specifically targets the fine lines and wrinkles in the skin. By stimulating new collagen 1.5mm deep, we are able to address the fine lines and wrinkles, and stimulate skin tightening better.  In some patients, particularly thin patients with little subcutaneous fat, we find there is little muscle located at the 4.5mm depth, so only the 3.0mm depth is treated.   As we get older, we lose the natural collagen in our tissue.  Ultherapy helps to replace it.   All patients can benefit from a 1.5mm depth treatment.  The provider will determine the areas needing the greatest improvement and target them.  Often times, all 3 depths are treated, but not necessary at the same time.  I hope this helps.Beverly Friedlander, MD