With the aging process, our tissues will slowly lose their healthy tone and elasticity. Sun damage, smoking, and extreme weight loss can further aggravate the problem. Eventually, the skin will begin to sag and develop fine lines, adding years onto the appearance. While expensive products may claim to help, there is little that can be done at home to reverse the hands of time. A facelift, while providing excellent results, can be expensive, and requires an extensive recovery period. Fortunately for patients, Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique has a nonsurgical solution designed to improve lax skin without surgery: Ulthera Lift. *
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is the only nonsurgical, cosmetic procedure that utilizes ultrasound technology to target the deep layers of facial tissues. Approved by the FDA to lift and tighten the skin on the neck, chin, and eyebrows, Ultherapy is completely safe for surrounding, healthy tissues. Ulthera is different from similar treatments, which use radio frequency, because the ultrasound waves can penetrate more deeply and precisely. Patients can see an immediate improvement with just one treatment, and as Ulthera kick-starts the body’s natural collagen production, the results will continue to improve over the next several months.
The Benefits of Ultherapy:
- Noninvasive (no incisions, no bleeding)
- In-office treatment
- No general anesthesia needed
- Takes between 30 and 60 minutes
- No downtime *
How Ultherapy Works
The Best Ulthera Candidate:
Men and women who are beginning to notice the early signs of aging, such as wrinkled and sagging skin, may find exceptional benefits from the Ulthera procedure. The ideal candidate will be in good health, have a full understanding of the Ulthera procedure, and hold reasonable expectations for their results. Prior to scheduling the procedure, a complimentary consultation will be arranged with Dr. Vitenas or one of our renowned estheticians. During this time, a brief skin evaluation will be performed and the medical history will be reviewed. The Ulthera procedure will also be explained in detail. If the treatment is right for an individual situation, a personal treatment plan will be created. *
How Ulthera is Performed
Ulthera is performed in one of the luxurious, state-of-the-art treatment rooms at Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique. A session will normally take around an hour to complete. The Ulthera treatment is not considered painful, however patients do report a mild to moderate burning or tingling sensation during each burst of ultrasound energy. A topical or local anesthetic can be applied prior to the procedure, to improve the patient’s comfort level.
At the start of a treatment, the patient is comfortably positioned, and the esthetician will determine the exact treatment area. Then, using a small hand piece, she will gently glide over the skin, proving quick pulses of ultrasound energy. Once the entire targeted area has been completed, patients are ready to return to their usual activities. *
Ulthera’s Recovery and Results
There is no downtime necessary after an Ulthera treatment. Patients are able to return to work, school, and normal activities the same afternoon. Exercise and strenuous lifting are also allowed. While there may be mild tenderness or bruising in the treatment area, these will normally resolve over the first two to three days. Most patients will require only one Ulthera treatment. On an annual basis, a repeat treatment can maintain the youthful results. *
Potential Risks from Ulthera
Ulthera is considered an extremely safe and effective procedure. As the treatment does not require any incisions, there is no risk for infection, bleeding, or scarring. Side effects of Ulthera include tenderness and mild bruising, but these will resolve in just a few days.
Patients should always choose an experienced provider for their cosmetic procedures, even non-invasive types like Ulthera. Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Vitenas has close to 25 years of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery experience. He oversees every Ulthera procedure at Mirror Mirror, guaranteeing the best results, with the lowest possible chance for complications available today. *
Ulthera FAQs
Ulthera is the only nonsurgical treatment approved by the FDA to utilize ultrasound technology to precisely reach the deep layers of facial tissue. Each burst of ultrasound energy triggers the body’s natural collagen production, plumping and smoothing the skin. Ulthera provides an effective, noninvasive way to lift and tighten skin along the neck, chin, and eyebrows. *
Once the treatment area has been determined, and the patient is comfortably positioned, the esthetician will begin the Ulthera treatment. She will gently glide the small, Ulthera hand piece over the targeted tissue, providing quick bursts of ultrasound energy. This will continue until the area is complete. *
Ulthera is not considered a painful procedure. However, a mild burning or tingling sensation is common during each burst of ultrasound energy. To keep patients comfortable during their Ulthera treatment, a topical or local anesthetic can be applied. *
All Ulthera treatments are performed in one of Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique’s luxurious treatment rooms. Our Houston office is located at the corner of Richmond Avenue and Drexel Street. Private, covered parking is available for all of our patients.
Anyone who is in generally good health, and looking to improve the signs of early aging, may make an excellent Ulthera candidate. The ideal patient will have a clear understanding of the Ulthera process and hold reasonable expectations for their results. *
Depending on the area being treated, and the extent of correction, an Ulthera treatment will take between 30 and 60 minutes to perform. *
Patients will notice an immediate improvement in the tightness and texture of their skin, after the first Ulthera treatment. As the ultrasound energy encourages the body’s own collagen supply, the results from Ulthera will continue to improve over the following three to four months. *
Will I need more than one Ulthera Treatment?
Most patients require only one Ulthera treatment. Depending on the individual’s skin condition and laxity, a second session may be needed, to reach the desired results. An annual touchup treatment is then encouraged to extend the results of treatment. *
What can I expect from my Ulthera recovery?
An Ulthera treatment does not require any downtime. Immediately after the procedure, patients are free to return to their daily activities, such as school or work. There are no restrictions on exercise or heavy lifting; these can also be resumed after treatment. If any redness, bruising, or tenderness occurs, it is usually mild, and will dissipate over the following two to three days. *
When can I return to work after receiving an Ulthera treatment?
As there is no downtime after an Ulthera treatment, patients are normally feeling well enough to return to work or school immediately after their procedure. *
What are the risks of Ulthera?
Ulthera is a safe, FDA approved treatment. Using ultrasound waves, Ulthera is completely safe for the healthy surrounding tissue. Patients may see some slight redness for the first few hours after treatment. Tingling, tenderness, and swelling are common but are generally mild. Bruising and temporary numbness may occur, although these are more rare. *
How much does Ulthera session cost?
The price for an Ulthera session will vary according to the area and extent of treatment. In general, Ulthera will range from $750-$4,000. During the Ulthera consultation, the exact price of your treatment will be determined.
Can I finance my Ulthera treatment?
Yes, patients have the option of paying for their Ulthera treatment with cash, all major credit cards, and medical financing through CareCredit. Contact our office for more information on the exact price of your Ulthera treatment, and to learn more about your payment choices.
If you have been thinking that your skin could use a refresher, consider coming into Mirror Mirror for a little ‘me time’. Our expert estheticians can perform a quick skin evaluation, explain what Ulthera can do for you, and assist in creating a personal skincare plan. Call Houston’s Mirror Mirror Beauty Boutique at 281.810.9083 to schedule a complimentary consultation.