Ultherapy®

Areas of the face, neck, and chest can be especially difficult to tighten and build healthy collagen using traditional methods like diet and exercise. As a result, patients of all skin types and ages can experience skin laxity in these regions. In the past, nonsurgical and surgical treatments with significant downtime, like deep peels, full face laser resurfacing, or even surgical facelift and neck lift, were the only effective solutions. Today, minimally invasive Ultherapy can provide long-lasting (average of two years) and noticeable lifting and firming without the incisions, scars, and downtime associated with more aggressive skin tightening procedures. Dr. Mark Richards, a top plastic surgeon in Washington, DC, uses this innovative technique to help individuals achieve a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a very high-tech non-surgical soft tissue enhancement solution that uses high-intensity ultrasound energy (HIFU) to tighten and lift the skin in the treated area. The ultrasonic technology is designed to stimulate collagen production by heating a precise layer of the dermis and surrounding tissues, which are visualized during treatment on a large screen. This allows pinpoint accuracy of the treatment, leading to better contoured and more youthful-looking skin on the face, jawline, chin, neck, and chest without the discomfort of earlier versions of this therapy.

What Concerns Can Ultherapy Treat?

Some of the most difficult areas to treat effectively and non-surgically with no downtime are on the face and surrounding zones. Ultherapy can be used to tighten and tone the following regions:

  • Face
  • Jowls/Jawline
  • Chin
  • Neck
  • Décolletage/Chest

In addition to smoothing and tightening the treated area, Ultherapy often can soften the appearance of fine lines that have developed due to skin laxity and the effects of gravity over time.

What Happens During the Ultherapy Treatment?

Before treatment, Dr. Richards will determine if Ultherapy is the right approach for your needs and goals. After discussing your concerns, together you will evaluate the areas you are considering treating in order to review your options. The Ultherapy treatment process is quite simple and easy, according to most patients. A handheld wand is gently drawn across the targeted areas after the operator has verified the precise depth to send the ultrasonic energy pulses that stimulate the collagen contraction and build up. While you may occasionally feel some heat during this application you should not experience much discomfort. The procedure typically takes anywhere from between 30 minutes for brow elevation treatment to several hours for a full face and neck treatment. Some redness in the area is normal and fades quickly. Most individuals return to normal activity immediately following their appointment.

When Will I See My Ultherapy Results?

After a few weeks you may notice the first benefits of treatment, with full effects visible between approximately 90 days and 180 days. Usually one treatment gives lasting improvements for up to two years. In cases that are more challenging regarding the amount of lift desired, you may wish to have repeat treatment sessions to achieve more dramatic effects in about 12 to 20 weeks. Dr. Richards will discuss the ideal number of treatments to best create the effect you are hoping for during your first visit.

How Much Does Ultherapy Cost?

The price of Ultherapy will depend on the number of areas treated. In general, the cost of the most common Ultherapy treatments range from $1,200 to $4,700. Dr. Richards will review your treatment plan in full, and our medical team will discuss the cost in detail with you prior to beginning, including whether an extra pass might benefit you noticeably, for a slight add-on charge. We want you to be well-informed about your choices, including the cost of the procedure and payment options. The ultimate goal is to give you a result that makes you happy and us proud.

Ready to learn more about Ultherapy? Contact our practice to schedule a consultation for personalized information about how this non-surgical skin tightening treatment may be able to help you.