Facelift vs. Ultherapy^®: Which is Right for Me?

Posted in Facelift, Facial Rejuvenation, Latest News, Ultherapy®

A facelift is one of the most popular and effective treatment options to address wrinkles, jowls, and other signs of age in the mid- to lower face and upper neck; however, there have been numerous advances in non-surgical cosmetic enhancement over the years that give some patients the opportunity of renewing their appearance without the need for invasive surgery. One of these advances is a treatment known as Ultherapy^®. Dr. Daniel C. Mills offers both of these procedures here at Aesthetic Plastic Surgical Institute, and each option offers significant benefits. With this in mind, they also have important distinctions that can make one a more ideal treatment than the other for certain patients.

Let’s start with facelift surgery. This procedure is designed to reduce excess, lax skin and other signs of aging that commonly develop in the middle area of the face down to the upper region of the neck. A facelift surgically tightens underlying facial muscles, removes excess skin, and smoothes the remaining skin for a more youthful and firm appearance. With proper skin care, the results of facelift surgery can last for many years. Since facelift requires surgery, there is a recovery period necessary for this procedure.

One of the biggest differences between a facelift and an treatment is that a facelift is a surgical procedure and Ultherapy^® does not require surgical intervention. Ultherapy^®, sometimes called “Ulthera^®,” utilizes ultrasonic energy waves to rejuvenate facial skin. This innovative technique involves the application of a device that delivers the ultrasonic waves deep within the dermal layers, creating a stimulation of collagen in the treatment areas. This can ultimately produce a “lifting” effect, giving the skin a firmer look and feel. For patients with mild to moderate signs of age, including wrinkles, jowls, and under-eye puffiness, Ultherapy^® may be an effective alternative to facelift surgery. The results will not last as long as facelift surgery; however, the effects may last up to one year for many patients. Plus, Ultherapy^® does not require an extensive period of downtime following treatment.

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