Skin tightening technology has been available at the Lupo Center since 2004, and since then, we have upgraded our equipment to provide our patients with the safest and most effective technology on the market.  We recently introduced a new skin tightening device into the practice called Ultherapy.

Ultherapy, also known as Ulthera, is the only non-invasive treatment approved by the FDA for lifting the skin on the neck, chin and brow in all skin types. Ultherapy uses fractional focused ultrasound to stimulate the growth of new collagen deep within the skin to lift and tighten loose skin. With age, collagen, a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness, loses its strength and its ability to stand up to the effects of gravity. Ultherapy’s ultrasound thermal effect essentially jumpstarts a repair process that strengthens existing collagen and produces stronger, regenerated collagen. Patients may notice a short-term “boost,” but the production of new collagen occurs over time, so results can become more apparent over three to six months.

A good candidate for Ultherapy is someone with skin that has some degree of laxity, to the point of looking, and often feeling, less firm. A lowered eyebrow line or sagging skin on the eyelids, for instance, is often the first sign of “maturing” skin. Loose skin under the neck and under the chin signals a patient might be a candidate. There also are younger people who want to “stay ahead of the game” as well as those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.

With Ultherapy’s ultrasound imaging, our technician is able to actually see the layers of tissue being target during the treatment and ensure the energy is deposited precisely to where it will be most effective. There may be slight redness for up to an hour or so following the treatment, and a small percentage of patients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch, but these are mild and temporary in nature.

While Ultherapy is not a replacement for a surgical face lift, there are many people who want some lifting but are not ready for surgery, either mentally, physically or financially.  The procedure takes only about 60-90 minutes for most patients and there is no downtime. Most patients only require one treatment, while others may find optimal results with additional treatments.

If you are interested in learning more about Ultherapy or to see if it is the right treatment for you, schedule a consultation today with one of our doctors.