ULTRALIFT

ULTRALIFT: a non-surgical face lifting, skin tightening and firming treatment.

The doctors in SW1 Clinic are experienced with the ULTRALIFT procedure which is FDA-approved for treatment of the upper face.

ULTRALIFT is a breakthrough procedure that uses medical ultrasound for non-surgical cosmetic improvement of the skin. It works deep below the surface – without harming the outer layer of skin-for dramatic and long-lasting benefits of facial firming, skin tightening and lifting.

Improvement around the eyes include lifting of the brow line to reduce droopiness on the eyelids, smoothing of crows’ feet, and a more open, refreshed look to the eyes in general.

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. Often, a more defined jawline and overall improvement in skin texture and evenness of colour are known additional benefits.

To understand this better, let’s first discuss what Ultherapy is.

What is Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT)?

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is a non-surgical and non invasive procedure that lifts and tightens the skin of your face, neck and even décolletage with no downtime. This procedure uses ultrasound energy to boost your skin’s natural production of collagen and elastin which will give you very natural looking results.

How does Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) work?

By using ultrasound waves, Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) boosts the production of collagen in both the skin and superficial muscular aponeurotic system, which is the layer of fibrous tissue that surrounds your facial muscles. This will not only lead to a tightening of the skin and a lift in facial features too.

The procedure is a comfortable one, without any anaesthetic injections required. Patients may feel a warm prickly sensation beneath the skin when the ultrasound energy is being delivered into the target tissue. This is how ULTRALIFT tightens and lifts the skin from deep within, delivering dramatic and long-lasting results.

The entire treatment takes approximately 60 minutes. You are able to return to your normal activities right away, and you can apply makeup if needed. Your skin may appear slightly flushed immediately after the treatment, but any redness will subside within a few hours.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT)?

While Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) can provide noticeable improvements for many individuals, not everyone is an ideal candidate for the procedure. Here are some factors to consider when considering if Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is the right treatment option for you.

#1 Mild to Moderate Skin Laxity

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is most effective for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity, meaning they have some sagging skin but still retain a degree of elasticity. It is not typically recommended for individuals with severe skin laxity, as such instances may require more invasive procedures to achieve better results.

#2 Desire for Non-Invasive Treatment

If you’re looking to address signs of aging without undergoing surgery, Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) may be an ideal option. It offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional facelifts, with zero to little downtime and fewer risks.

#3 Realistic Expectations

While Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) can produce noticeable improvements in skin tightness and texture, it’s essential to have realistic expectations about the results. The full effects of Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) may take several months to manifest fully, and individual results can vary.

#4 Good Overall Health

Ideal candidates for Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) are generally in good overall health without any significant medical conditions that could interfere with the healing process. It’s essential to discuss any medical concerns or conditions with your aesthetic doctor before going for treatment.

#5 Aging Skin Concerns

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is usually used to address common signs of aging, such as sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles, particularly in areas like the face, neck, and décolletage. If you’re bothered by these concerns and looking for a non-invasive solution, Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) may be a suitable treatment option for you.

#6 Willingness to Follow Post-Treatment Care

After completing your session, it’s crucial to follow any post-treatment care instructions provided by your doctor. This may include avoiding excessive sun exposure, using sunscreen, and practicing good skincare habits to maintain and prolong the results of the procedure.

Considerations Before Choosing Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT)

#1 Realistic Expectations

While Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) can provide noticeable improvements, it’s essential to have realistic expectations. The results are gradual, and the extent of improvement varies among individuals. Patients should understand that the procedure may not replicate the dramatic effects of a surgical facelift.

#2 Qualified Practitioner

Choosing a qualified and experienced practitioner is paramount to a successful Ultherapy experience. Ensure that the professional performing the procedure is trained in the use of ultrasound technology and has a proven track record of successful treatments.

#3 Consultation and Assessment

Before undergoing Ultherapy, a thorough consultation and assessment are crucial. A qualified practitioner will evaluate your skin condition, discuss your goals, and determine if Ultherapy is the most suitable option for you. Honest communication about your expectations and medical history is essential during this process.

#4 Potential Discomfort

While Ultherapy is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience mild discomfort during the procedure. The sensation is often described as a tingling or prickling feeling as the ultrasound energy is delivered. Discuss any concerns about pain tolerance with your practitioner, who may offer options for managing discomfort.

#5 Downtime and Recovery

While Ultherapy is non invasive, some patients may experience minor side effects such as redness, swelling, or tingling after the procedure. Understanding the potential downtime and recovery period is crucial for planning, especially if you have social or professional commitments.

#6 Longevity of Results

The longevity of Ultherapy results varies among individuals. Factors such as age, skin quality, and lifestyle can influence how long the effects last. It’s important to discuss expectations regarding the duration of results with your practitioner.

Potential Side Effects

#1 Temporary Redness and Swelling

Mild redness and swelling are common immediately after the procedure but typically subside within a few hours to days.

#2 Tingling or Tenderness

Some individuals may experience tingling or tenderness in the treated areas, which is usually temporary.

#3 Rare Complications

In rare cases, more serious complications such as bruising, nerve injury, or changes in skin pigmentation can occur. However, these instances are uncommon when the procedure is performed by a skilled and experienced practitioner.

(below section taken from: https://sw1clinic.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-undergoing-ultherapy-treatment/ )

Pros and Cons of Ultherapy

When it comes to the advantages of undergoing Ultherapy, its ability to provide a non surgical facelift with zero downtime is a big positive. Versatile in nature, this procedure can be done anywhere on the face thereby allowing doctors to work on any skin laxity issues their patients may be facing.

Ultherapy stimulates deep skin tissues to regenerate new collagen levels in the skin. This process allows your body to provide a good lift for visibly tighter and firmer looking skin. For a treatment that gives visible results in just 1 treatment, the pros of getting Ultherapy are plenty.

It is also a relatively comfortable procedure in comparison to a surgical facelift. With no anaesthetic injection needed, Ultherapy feels like a warm, prickly sensation passing through the skin – one that is not painful or unbearable.

Results of Ultherapy are also long(er) lasting than other non surgical treatments. The regenerative process is initiated right away so patients may be able to see lifting of the skin immediately. However, the full effect gradually builds over the course of two to three months with some users seeing optimal results only after a few months. Of course, as skin continues its natural aging process, additional treatments will be needed over time to maintain the results.

As many advantages as Ultherapy has, it is equally important to manage expectations and know that it cannot replace a surgical facelift for certain cases. Any patient who has experienced some sagging of their skin will benefit from this treatment. Whether you need repeat treatments will be based on how much sagging one has. A good candidate for Ultherapy is someone with skin that has ‘relaxed’ to the point of looking less firm.

But, if you are in the advanced stages of ageing and have severe sagging, you may need a combination of treatments that may or may not include using surgical methods. A qualified doctor would be the best person to evaluate your next steps with achievable and visible results.

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

ULTRALIFT, a non-surgical facelift treatment, 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.

What is the procedure like?

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is a comfortable procedure. No anaesthetic injection is required. Patients may feel a warm prickly sensation beneath the skin when the ultrasound energy is being delivered into the target tissue. This is how ULTRALIFT tightens and lifts the skin from deep within, delivering dramatic and long-lasting results.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients will see visible results after 1 to 2 treatments. This will be determined by your doctor. In addition, your doctor at SW1 Clinic will schedule follow-up visits to photograph results and track your progress.

What areas of the face and neck are treated?

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) can be done on any part of your face including the forehead, temples, mid and lower face, and jawline. In some cases, the neck is also treated. During your consultation at SW1 Clinic, your doctor will tailor a treatment plan for you.

Read More: Differences between Anti-Aging Treatments

What kind of results can I expect?

The regenerative process is initiated right away so some patients may be able to see lifting of the skin. However, the full effect will build gradually over the course of two to three months and some patients will see optimal results only after a few months.

In the FDA clinical trial, nine out of ten patients had a noticeable, significant lift of the brow line. This resulted in opening up of 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. Smoother texture and a more even skin colour are also possible side benefits.

What can I expect afterwards?

The Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) treatment takes around 60 minutes to perform. You are able to return to your normal activities right away, and you can put on makeup if needed. Your skin may appear a bit flushed immediately after the treatment, but any redness should disappear in a matter of hours.

How long do the results last?

Of course, your skin will continue its natural aging process, so you may need to schedule additional Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) treatments over time to maintain the results. Some patients may want to repeat their treatments every year; others may want to repeat the treatment after a longer interval. Your doctor at SW1 Clinic will be able to advise you on that decision during your follow-up visits.

Can anyone have the treatment?

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) is safe for all skin types. Any patient who has experienced some sagging of their skin will benefit from this treatment. It is likely that if your sagging is severe, you may need a repeat treatment for optimal results. A good candidate is someone with skin that has ‘relaxed’ to the point of looking less firm. A lowered brow line or sagging skin on the eyelids, for instance, is often the first sign of “maturing” skin. The doctors will evaluate if you are an appropriate candidate at the time of your consultation.

Is Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) safe?

Ultherapy (ULTRALIFT) 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.