Ultherapy in Bellevue

Ultherapy and laser skin rejuvenation each offer unique benefits. In the case of Ultherapy, these benefits result from the introduction of ultrasound waves into the deeper layers of the skin. There, the energy causes existing collagen to strengthen and also invites the production of healthy new collagen, something that the body doesn't do on its own to an ideal extent. Laser treatments can also stimulate collagen remodeling and production but these tend to work by obliterating at least a fraction of the skin's surface. Ultrasound passes through the skin without causing surface wounds.

Your Ultherapy session may take just a few minutes if your area of focus is very small. For example, if you receive an Ultherapy brow lift alone, your treatment may last less than 20 minutes. If you prefer to undergo full face and neck treatment for all-over tightening and lifting, your treatment may take about 90 minutes. This is active treatment time. Your appointment may take longer based on the anesthetic your provider applies.

For the most part, Ultherapy is known as a one-treatment process. The delivery of ultrasound energy has a powerful effect on the dermis, resulting in visible improvements over time. That said, the process works through collagen proliferation. If you have more severe signs of aging and collagen degradation, you may benefit from a second treatment scheduled months after the first. We'll be able to discuss our recommendations with you after a thorough conversation and assessment of your facial tissue.

There are few side effects associated with Ultherapy treatment, which is why you might not need to schedule any downtime for recovery. Still, it's important to know what to expect so you can plan accordingly. For a few hours after your Ultherapy treatment, you can expect your skin to look puffy and red. The redness should resolve relatively quickly. Minor swelling, however, can last up to a few weeks. You may also notice subtle bruising and small areas of welts. Your skin may feel tender and tingly for up to a few weeks, as well.

We're aware that Ultherapy has a reputation for being painful. This is subjective and also manageable. If you have a relatively strong pain threshold, you may be made comfortable with ibuprofen taken before your procedure. If your pain threshold is much lower, you may also want to have your provider apply a topical numbing medication to the treatment area. During your consultation, we'll discuss how Ultherapy feels, how long the sensations can last, and how we can keep you as comfortable as possible.

One of the things that make Ultherapy unique is that this treatment delivers strong ultrasound energy into deeper layers of tissue, including the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS). This is the layer of tissue that a surgeon would alter during facelift surgery. During a facelift, a surgeon trims excess tissue and secures the SMAS layer to a higher position beneath the skin. Excess skin is also trimmed to create smooth contours. Ultherapy tightens the SMAS and deep layers of the skin through collagen remodeling, not cutting. This makes Ultherapy a good treatment choice for mild to moderate age, including a descending brow, jowls, undereye bags, and wrinkles.

Is Ultherapy a good alternative to a facelift? This depends on your goals and preferences! We can explore the benefits and drawbacks with you during your personal consultation.