Ultherapy is a noninvasive skin procedure where the doctor uses small bursts of ultrasonic energy to disrupt collagen under the skin. The process smooths wrinkles and removes small imperfections in the skin.

It is the only treatment that can specifically target the deep foundation below the skin that is addressed in cosmetic surgery without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. It is also the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, which allows us to actually see the layers of tissue we target during treatment and ensure the energy is delivered precisely to where it will be most effective.

Ultherapy delivers heat below the surface of the skin to stimulate the body’s natural renewal of existing collagen and creation of new collagen which is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping it firmed and toned. As we age, collagen loses its strength and its ability to stand up to the effects of gravity that pull the skin downward. Ultherapy jumpstarts a repair process that strengthens your existing collagen and produces fresh, new collagen.

Generally, the answer is two years, but differing conditions of the skin may alter that. Some people can enjoy many years without needing further treatment, but others may only have a few months. Still others can get by with simple touch-ups instead of full treatments.

Thermage uses laser energy instead of ultrasonic energy and heats the skin to roughly 131 F. Thermage also only affects the upper layers of skin. The ultrasonic therapy reaches much deeper for a greater effect. Both treatments last upwards of two years before needing rejuvenation. Thermage is good for mild sagging whereas the ultrasoninc therapy is good for both mild and severe sagging.

FaceTite involves going under the top layer of skin to deliver radio pulses that strive to achieve the same effect as the ultrasonic therapy. The period of discomfort with FaceTite is longer than that involved with the ultrasonic therapy, however.

All of these procedures are safe, but only the ultrasonic therapy combines effectiveness with the shortest-lasting side effects, making it the No. 1 option for people looking to take five to 10 years off of their appearance.