When thinking of representative procedures at a dermatology clinic for wrinkle or skin elasticity improvement, many people will likely consider Ulthera, an ultrasound lifting procedure. Today, we would like to answer some questions you might have about Ulthera.
How does Ulthera improve the skin?
Our skin is composed of the outermost layer, the epidermis, the dermis, and beneath that, the subcutaneous fat layer and the SMAS layer. For lifting procedures, stimulating this SMAS layer is important, and Ulthera is one of the few procedures that can reach this SMAS layer.
Ulthera delivers higher energy deeper into the skin compared to other procedures. Because it uses such powerful energy, excellent effects can be expected, and the duration of the effect is also known to be long.
What are the differences between Ulthera and Thermage?
Ulthera and Thermage are often compared. The two procedures differ in how they generate energy and the skin layers they target.
- Ulthera: Uses ultrasound to generate energy and primarily targets the SMAS layer deep within the skin. It may be considered more suitable for severe skin sagging or for those with more cheek fat.
- Thermage: Uses radiofrequency to generate energy and primarily targets the dermal layer of the skin. It is often used when skin elasticity is reduced.
Therefore, rather than concluding that one procedure is definitively better, it is advisable to choose the appropriate procedure based on individual skin concerns and condition.
Why is sleep anesthesia not recommended for Ulthera procedures?
Sometimes, patients request sleep anesthesia during Ulthera procedures due to pain. However, for energy-based procedures like Ulthera or Thermage, sleep anesthesia can increase the risk of side effects such as burns.
Without sleep anesthesia, if pain is felt during the procedure, one can turn their head or move to protect the skin from burns. However, under sleep anesthesia, pain cannot be detected, increasing the likelihood of skin burns.
The Ulthera manufacturer's guidelines also recommend avoiding sleep anesthesia. Generally, the use of topical anesthetic cream or pain medication before the procedure is recommended.
How is the Ulthera shot count determined?
The number of shots required for an Ulthera procedure varies depending on several factors.
- Skin elasticity and degree of sagging: The individual's skin elasticity and degree of sagging are the most important considerations.
- Main skin concerns: The shot count can also vary depending on whether the primary goal is elasticity improvement or sagging improvement.
- Face size: A larger face may require more shots, while a smaller face may require relatively fewer shots.
Should I be concerned about cheek hollowing after Ulthera?
Occasionally, some individuals may feel that their cheeks have hollowed after an Ulthera procedure. Ulthera delivers energy deeper than other procedures, and if the target area has a lot of fat, the fat may temporarily decrease, making it feel slightly hollowed.
However, if the treatment area is precisely targeted to avoid unnecessarily stimulating the fat layer, concerns about cheek hollowing side effects can be significantly reduced.
We have now addressed various questions about the Ulthera procedure.