Ultrasonic SMAS lifting Ulthera

Many people strive to maintain their youthful appearance, but only a small percentage of them decide to undergo plastic surgery procedures due to the potential risks of the operation. In modern medicine, there is a tendency to move away from surgical methods in favor of hardware techniques. This is why Ulthera procedures are popular in the United States and Europe.

Ulthera Therapy is a unique procedure that uses microfocused ultrasound technology with real imaging to lift skin and has received FDA approval. The use of Ulthera makes it possible to tighten and firm the skin of the face, neck and décolleté, as well as to reduce wrinkles. Most clinical studies confirm the high effectiveness and safety of this procedure.

How Ulthera works.

The mechanism of action of Ulthera therapy is that with the help of safe ultrasound radiation, focused by a sensor on various layers of the skin up to the SMAS (muscle and aponeurosis system), local tissue heating occurs without damaging the top layer of skin. As a result of this effect, the active production of new collagen and elastin begins, which helps tighten the skin, as well as correct wrinkles.

The advantages of this technique:

1. Targeted impact to a certain depth. During Ultherapy, ultrasound energy is precisely directed to a specific depth of the skin and heats it, stimulating the formation of new collagen and elastin without damaging the surface layers.

2. Ideal temperature conditions for collagen production.

During the procedure, the temperature is maintained within 60-70°C, which is the optimal condition for activating the processes of synthesis of new collagen and elastin. Below this range the effects may be incomplete and higher temperatures will not enhance the results but may be dangerous.

3. Surgical precision and visual control.

Ultherapy delivers precise and targeted application of ultrasound energy to the desired depth, resulting in noticeable lifting and firming of the skin without the need for post-treatment recovery.

At the same time, during Ultherapy it is possible to observe in real time the depth of penetration of ultrasonic waves and the structures being treated. This is critical due to individual differences in skin thickness and the location of internal layers such as SMAS, subcutaneous fat, and blood vessels. Ulthera’s DeepSEE imaging technology allows for accurately determining the depth of ultrasound down to 8 mm, monitoring the correct application of the transducer to the skin and avoiding large vessels and bone structures. Inadequate control may result in skin burns or bone exposure, which can be painful and harmful.

Ulthera procedure process.

Ulthera Therapy is a unique skin tightening treatment that uses micro-focused ultrasound with real-time imaging and is FDA certified to improve skin tone, to reduce wrinkles and provide lifting.

Before starting the SMAS lifting procedure, a consultation with a cosmetologist is necessary. During the first visit, the doctor collects anamnesis and identifies contraindications. Based on anamnesis and skin examination, the specialist determines the cost of the procedure and discusses the patient’s goals and expectations. After confirming the possibility of the procedure, the doctor and patient proceed to the non-surgical lifting method.

The procedure includes the following steps:

• The cosmetologist cleanses the skin in the area of the upcoming treatment.
• A special gel is applied to the area to ensure effective penetration of ultrasonic waves.
• During SMAS therapy, a specialist applies a handpiece with a sensor to an area of skin and activates it to focus ultrasound waves on different layers of the skin to a depth of 4.5 mm, without damaging the surface.
• The patient may feel warmth and a slight tingling sensation; no anesthesia is required.
• The duration of the procedure depends on the size of the treated area and clinical needs.
• Upon completion, the patient is given personalized care recommendations.

Indications for the procedure:

• Age-related changes, loss of skin elasticity, folds on the neck and décolleté, wrinkles;
• Gravitational ptosis, especially noticeable in the middle third of the face and chin area;
• Drooping eyebrows, ptosis of the upper eyelid, ‘painting bags’;
• Blurred contours of the lower jaw (‘jowls’);
• Deterioration of facial skin elasticity.

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• Oncological diseases;
• Skin infections;
• Metal implants in the intended treatment area;
• Epilepsy;
• Cardiovascular diseases;
• Tendency to form keloid scars;
• Diabetes.

Preparing for the session.

Before undergoing the procedure, you must visit a specialist for consultation. Usually there is no need for special preparation, but the doctor can offer recommendations that will increase the effectiveness of treatment and prevent possible complications.

During a consultation at the Era Esthetic Avenue medical center, the doctor will answer the patient’s questions, explain the essence of Ultera Therapy, and talk about the course of the session and the expected results. It is important that the intended treatment area is free of signs of irritation and inflammation, as well as free of any damage. 1-2 weeks before the procedure, you should apply sunscreen, refrain from using aggressive skin care products, and avoid damaging the skin in any way.

Care after the procedure.

Altera’s non-invasive SMAS facelift is easily tolerated. Immediately after the procedure, slight redness or barely noticeable swelling may occur, which will subside within a few hours. After the session, the skin should not be very red, swollen, there should be no bruising or pain. If such symptoms occur, you should consult a doctor immediately. Complete skin restoration occurs within 1–2 weeks. During this period, you must adhere to the following instructions:

• Avoid using cosmetics with aggressive effects;
• Do not sleep face down;
• Do not overheat or steam your face (avoid visiting saunas and swimming pools);
• When going outside, use protective creams or emulsions with SPF 50+.

After treatment, the specialist can provide individual aftercare instructions that should be strictly followed to speed up recovery and improve results.

Results from the procedure. Altera lifting allows you to achieve a quick effect without severe pain or damaging the skin.

With this procedure you can:

• Reduce visible signs of aging;
• Remove ‘malar bags’;
• Shape the contours of the face;
• Get rid of double chin and other local fat deposits;
• Provide long-term therapeutic effect up to 1.5 years.

Advantages of ultrasonic lifting using the Ulthera device at the Era Esthetic Avenue medical center.

• High performance. Usually one session is enough to achieve noticeable results;
• Possibility of visualization. While using Ulthera, the doctor sees the treated area on the monitor, can adjust the depth of treatment, avoid problem areas (for example, blood vessels), and change attachments during the treatment process. The pulses are focused to the desired depth and structure;
• High level of security. Ultrasound has proven itself to be a safe method in medicine and cosmetology, as well as a minimal risk of complications, specialist errors, reactions to anesthesia and psychological stress;
• Compatibility with other cosmetology techniques;
• All equipment is certified;
• Doctors from the Era Esthetic Avenue medical center network are members of international dermatological societies and act as speakers at Russian and international congresses.