Frequently Asked Questions About Ultherapy
What is ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a non‑invasive skin tightening and lifting treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep beneath the skin. It is the only non‑surgical lifting procedure cleared by the U.S. FDA to lift skin on the brow, neck, and under the chin, and to improve lines and wrinkles on the décolletage, according to the device manufacturer’s FDA clearance information. Unlike laser treatments, which target the surface layers, ultherapy delivers ultrasound energy to precise depths to trigger the body’s natural neocollagenesis (new collagen formation).
How does ultherapy work?
Ultherapy uses micro‑focused ultrasound with real‑time imaging to deliver controlled heat (typically up to about 60–70°C) to specific layers of tissue under the skin, including the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), which is the same layer targeted in many surgical facelifts. This thermal effect creates “coagulation points” that stimulate a wound‑healing response and gradual collagen remodeling over several months, as described in a clinical review of micro‑focused ultrasound with visualization. Because the surface of the skin is not ablated, there is usually minimal downtime.
What are the common treatment areas for ultherapy?
Because “ultherapy” refers to the technology rather than a specific body area, it can be used on multiple regions of the face and upper body. Common treatment areas include:
- Brow and forehead (for a subtle brow lift)
- Upper and lower eyelids (to improve hooding and crepiness)
- Midface and cheeks (for mild lifting and contour refinement)
- Jawline and jowls
- Under the chin and submental area (double chin region)
- Neck (to improve laxity and “turkey neck” appearance)
- Upper chest or décolletage (to soften lines and wrinkles)
Clinical studies have shown that ultherapy can provide measurable lifting of the brow and lower face with high patient satisfaction in appropriately selected candidates (clinical outcome data).
Who is a good candidate for ultherapy?
Ideal candidates are typically:
- In their 30s to 60s with mild to moderate skin laxity
- Not ready for or not interested in surgical facelift or neck lift
- Seeking subtle, natural‑looking lifting and tightening
- In generally good health, with realistic expectations
According to expert consensus on noninvasive skin tightening, patients with very advanced sagging, significant excess skin, or severe platysmal banding may achieve more predictable results with surgical procedures and may not be ideal candidates for ultherapy alone. A face‑to‑face consultation and skin assessment are essential to determine suitability.
What happens during an ultherapy treatment?
A typical ultherapy session involves:
- Consultation and marking – Your provider evaluates your skin, reviews your medical history, and marks treatment zones.
- Cleansing and ultrasound gel – The skin is cleansed and a conductive gel is applied.
- Ultrasound imaging – The handpiece is used to visualize underlying tissue layers, helping the provider target precise depths, as described in ultrasound visualization protocols.
- Energy delivery – Focused ultrasound pulses are delivered along planned treatment lines. You may feel brief bursts of heat and tingling.
- Post‑treatment – The skin may appear slightly red or swollen immediately after but usually returns to normal within hours.
Depending on the areas treated, the procedure can take 30–90 minutes, and most people return to normal activities the same day.
Does ultherapy hurt? What does it feel like?
Most patients describe ultherapy as uncomfortable rather than painful. During each ultrasound pulse, you may feel a brief sensation of heat, tingling, or “zapping” deep under the skin, which indicates that collagen‑stimulating temperatures are being reached. In clinical practice, discomfort is typically transient and manageable with oral pain medication, topical anesthetic, or other comfort measures. Sensitivity varies by individual and by treatment area; bony areas and the jawline are often more tender.
Discuss pain management options with your provider before the procedure. Adjustments to energy settings, treatment speed, or breaks during the session can also help.
What results can I expect, and how long do they last?
You may notice a slight immediate “tightening” effect due to tissue contraction, but the true results develop gradually as new collagen forms. According to a prospective clinical study on ultherapy outcomes:
- Collagen remodeling typically begins within several weeks
- Visible lifting and tightening become more apparent over 2–3 months
- Improvements can continue for up to 6 months after treatment
Results usually last about 1–2 years, depending on your skin quality, age, lifestyle, and how quickly you naturally age. Because the aging process continues, many patients opt for maintenance treatments every 12–24 months. Ultherapy can also be combined with other modalities—such as fillers, neuromodulators, or resurfacing lasers—for more comprehensive facial rejuvenation, as supported by multimodal aesthetic treatment guidelines.
What are the possible side effects and risks of ultherapy?
Ultherapy is generally considered safe when performed by trained professionals, with a low rate of serious complications reported in clinical safety reviews. Common, usually mild and temporary side effects include:
- Redness immediately after treatment
- Mild swelling or tenderness
- Tingling or sensitivity to touch
- Temporary bruising in some areas
Less common side effects can include temporary numbness, welts, or very rarely, nerve irritation causing transient weakness in a small muscle group, which typically resolves over weeks to months, according to published safety data. Burns or scarring are rare but possible if energy is delivered incorrectly.
Inform your provider of any medical conditions, metal implants, or active skin infections in the treatment area, as these may affect your suitability for ultherapy.
How much does ultherapy cost in Salt Lake City?
The cost of ultherapy in Salt Lake City varies based on:
- The number and size of areas treated (e.g., full face and neck vs. brow only)
- The number of treatment lines required
- The experience and credentials of the provider
- The type of facility (medical spa vs. plastic surgery or dermatology clinic)
In many U.S. markets, average pricing ranges from several hundred dollars for a small area (such as the brow) to several thousand dollars for full face and neck, as reflected in typical ranges reported by cosmetic cost surveys. For accurate pricing in Salt Lake City, schedule an in‑person consultation; many practices offer customized quotes and occasional package pricing or financing options.
Who can administer ultherapy in Salt Lake City?
Regulations vary by region, but ultherapy is a medical‑grade device that should be operated under appropriate medical supervision. In many jurisdictions, including most U.S. states, noninvasive energy‑based procedures fall under state medical board and cosmetology board rules, as summarized by the American Med Spa Association’s regulatory guidance.
In Salt Lake City, ultherapy is typically:
- Owned and overseen by a licensed physician (such as a board‑certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, facial plastic surgeon, or cosmetic physician).
- Performed either by the physician or by a licensed and properly trained delegate, such as a registered nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, depending on local laws.
- Subject to requirements for documented training from the device manufacturer or equivalent hands‑on certification in micro‑focused ultrasound with visualization.
When choosing a provider in Salt Lake City, look for:
- A medical director who is board‑certified in a relevant specialty
- Clear documentation of ultherapy‑specific training and experience
- Before‑and‑after photos of actual patients
- A consultation that includes a full medical history, skin assessment, and discussion of risks, benefits, and alternatives
Always verify that the clinic is using authentic, FDA‑cleared Ultherapy equipment and not an unregulated “copycat” device, as recommended by the Ultherapy manufacturer’s safety guidance.
How should I prepare for my ultherapy treatment?
Preparation is usually simple, but following these steps can help minimize side effects:
- Avoid blood‑thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, high‑dose fish oil, or vitamin E) for about a week beforehand if your prescribing doctor approves, to reduce bruising risk, consistent with cosmetic procedure pre‑care recommendations.
- Discontinue retinoids or strong exfoliants on the treatment area for several days before treatment if your provider advises.
- Inform your provider about any history of cold sores, metal implants, pacemakers, or recent cosmetic procedures in the area.
- Arrive with clean skin free of makeup, lotions, or sunscreen.
- Arrange to take any recommended oral pain medication before the session, if advised.
Your provider will give you specific instructions tailored to your health status and treatment plan.
Is there any downtime after ultherapy?
One of the main benefits of ultherapy is minimal downtime. Most people return to work and normal activities immediately after treatment. You may notice:
- Mild redness for a few hours
- Slight swelling or tenderness for a few days
- Rarely, temporary bruising or numbness
You can usually apply makeup the same day and resume your regular skincare routine quickly, following your provider’s post‑care instructions. Avoid excessive heat (saunas, very hot showers) and aggressive facial treatments for several days, in line with standard post‑treatment care recommendations.
Sources
- Ultherapy – Official Patient and Safety Information
- Fabi SG. “Microfocused ultrasound with visualization for skin tightening and lifting.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015.
- Alam M et al. “Efficacy and safety of microfocused ultrasound for lifting and tightening of the face and neck.” Dermatol Surg. 2014.
- American Academy of Dermatology – Nonsurgical Skin Tightening Overview
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons – Nonsurgical Skin Tightening Cost and Overview
- American Med Spa Association – State Law and Regulations for Medical Spas
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Garcia, May 1, 2025