Non-Surgical Facial Skin Tightening with Ulthera

Dr. Leverett Serving Phoenix and Chandler, Arizona

What is Ultherapy™?

Ultherapy™ is a new type of nonsurgical procedure that uses medical ultrasound for cosmetic improvement of the skin. Ultherapy works deep below the surface—without harming the outer layer of skin—for firming, tightening and lifting. Improvements include a sleeker, more defined jawline and tighter skin on the neck under the chin. Sagging skin on the cheeks can be tightened and lifted, which in turn can improve folds from the nose to mouth, folds from the mouth to jaw, and drooping corners of the mouth. Tightening of skin on the forehead can reduce the sagging skin on the eyelids and promote a more open, refreshed look in general. Overall improvements in skin texture and evenness of color — as well as strengthening and adding more collagen "cushion" — can be additional benefits.

How does it work?

As with other ultrasound procedures, a smooth applicator placed upon your skin projects an image onto a screen. This same applicator is then used to deliver low levels of focused heat at just the right depth below the skin to achieve a positive effect, leaving the surface of your skin undisturbed.

Your skin's response to the energy is to stimulate the growth of new collagen. You will observe some immediate tightening and lifting that will ultimately result in a natural lift and conditioning of the skin over time.

How is this procedure different from other non-surgical skin tightening procedures?

Ultherapy is the only skin rejuvenation procedure that uses ultrasound to image and treat the skin. The ability to utilize an established technology — to both see below the skin and then treat it with great precision — helps ensure both safety and satisfying results.

How many treatments will I need?

This will be determined by your doctor, but we have had good clinical results based upon just one or two treatments. In addition, we like to schedule a follow-up visit to take photographs and track your progress.

What does it feel like?

Comfort levels vary from person to person, but you do not need anesthesia during the procedure. Many patients describe the sensation as momentary prickling or heat beneath the skin. This is the ultrasound energy being delivered into the tissue, which is how Ultherapy lifts and tightens the skin.

What areas of the face and neck are treated?

The Ulthera System is designed to treat the entire face and upper neck, or specific regions of interest. We can treat the lower face and neck, or just the forehead and temples, or both. Your practitioner can tailor a treatment plan for you at the time of your consultation.

What kind of results can I expect?

The regenerative process is initiated right away, but the full effect will build gradually over the course of two to three months or so. In the FDA clinical trial, nine out of ten patients had a noticeable, significant lift of the brow line. This resulted in a more open look to the eyes and a more youthful appearance overall. Patients also reported firmer, tighter, better-fitting skin in other areas of the face and neck as well. A smoother texture and more even skin color are also possible side benefits.

Cervicomandibular and Submental Improvements

Lower Face Slimming and Ovaling

Brow Elevation, Periorbital and Lid Laxity Improvements

*These photos are examples of the Ulthera treatment provided by the Ulthera corporation. They are not actual patients of Dr. Leverett.

What can I expect afterwards?

You are able to return to your normal activities right away, and there are no special measures you need to take. Your skin may appear a bit flushed immediately after the treatment, but any redness should disappear in a matter of hours. You may also feel mild tenderness under the treated areas, which is normal. This indicates that the healing process is underway and that new, healthier collagen is being generated.

How long do the results last?

Of course, your skin will continue its natural aging process, so you may need to schedule an annual touch-up visit to maintain your results. The Northwestern University study followed patients up to 10 months, and improvement was still noticeable.

Can anyone have the treatment?

A good candidate is someone with skin that has 'relaxed' to the point of sagging and feeling less firm. A lowered brow line or loose skin on the eyelids, for instance, is often the first sign of "maturing" skin. We will evaluate if you are an appropriate candidate at the time of your consultation.

Is Ultherapy safe?

Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy, which has been used in medical imaging and therapeutics, such as sonograms, for over 50 years, and clinical studies have confirmed the safety of this latest application. As with any medical procedure, there are general safety considerations, which your physician will review with you.

*Content and photos provided by the Ulthera corporation.

To learn more about Ulthera or to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Leverett, contact us by calling (480) 706-5830 or clicking on the Contact Us link on this page.

For patients who require a more aggressive facial rejuvenation treatment or who are unhappy about other areas of their face, Dr. Leverett offers a range of facial plastic surgery procedures, including neck lift surgery. He is also a skilled Phoenix rhinoplasty surgeon and has helped many eyelid lift Phoenix patients restore the vibrancy and natural beauty of their eyes. His facial cosmetics team also provides Phoenix permanent makeup patients with long-lasting, beautiful results.