Ultherapy: Is it the Right “Facelift” for You?
- Posted on: Jul 30 2020
The signs of aging extend beyond the formation of lines and wrinkles. What we often don’t realize until it happens is that the structural foundation of the face changes over time. We’re so worried about those worry lines that we don’t see how the jawline softens and sags and how the creases around the mouth grow progressively deeper. Why does this happen? It all comes down to collagen.
If you’ve heard of collagen at all, you may know it as the protein that heals cuts and scrapes. This protein is also what makes the skin smooth and firm. It is the very structure of the face, and it starts to decline in early adulthood. We’re talking twenties here. After that point, with little active collagen production, the signs of aging are inevitable. However, they are not irreparable. This is where Ultherapy comes in.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is an innovative cosmetic device that utilizes ultrasound in two ways. First, ultrasound is used diagnostically just as it would be to obtain images of a fetus. In this instance, ultrasound sends sound waves into tissue to identify depth. Then, the Ultherapy device is adjusted to deliver ultrasound to the targeted layer of tissue, the same layer Dr. Flaharty would adjust during a surgical facelift. The treatment process takes between half an hour and 90 minutes and results in prolonged fibroblast activity. Fibroblasts are the cells that produce collagen. Without stimulation, they produce little to no skin-firming protein.
What Happens After Ultherapy?
One of the prominent benefits of Ultherapy is that this treatment does not require any downtime. Patients may want to schedule their appointment at the end of the day or before they have a day or two off only because some people develop redness and mild tenderness from their treatment. These side effects are generally minor and typically do not prevent normal activities. There are no post-treatment instructions to follow, just good skincare and sun protection, and waiting for those amazing results to develop!
So how long does it take to see results?
Every person produces collagen at their own rate. Also, people with vastly different degrees of cosmetic aging get Ultherapy. Most people notice an immediate improvement after their appointment because the heat from the ultrasound causes collagen fibers to contract. This initial effect fades within a few days, though. This doesn’t mean the treatment didn’t work; it just takes time for lasting collagen remodeling and gradual tightening of the skin to occur.
Are you interested in looking younger without surgery? See what all the Ultherapy hype is about! Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
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