Ultherapy: Non-Surgical Ultrasound Lifting
Overview: Ultherapy by Merz Aesthetics
Ultherapy is a non-invasive ultrasound-based skin lifting and tightening system from Merz Aesthetics (acquired from Solta Medical). FDA-cleared in 2009 for brow lifting and subsequently for non-invasive neck and chin lifting and décolleté lines — making it the first FDA-approved non-invasive treatment to lift brow, neck, and chin. Available in over 70 countries worldwide.
Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V)
Ultherapy uses MFU-V — micro-focused ultrasound with real-time ultrasound visualization. The imaging allows the physician to see the tissue layers being treated and precisely target the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System), the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts. Ultherapy delivers focused ultrasound energy to depths of 1.5 mm (dermis), 3 mm (deep dermis/superficial SMAS), and 4.5 mm (SMAS), creating focal coagulation zones (FCZ) that trigger neocollagenesis without damaging the overlying skin.
Indications
FDA-cleared: brow lifting, non-invasive submentum and neck lifting, décolleté line improvement. Off-label: cheek lifting, midface, nasolabial folds, jawline definition, body areas (inner arms, abdomen, knees). Particularly suitable for SMAS-level treatment that goes deeper than other devices.
Treatment Protocol
Single session typically sufficient, with optional repeat at 12 months. 60 to 90 minutes for full face and neck. Oral analgesics or nerve blocks recommended (treatment can be uncomfortable). No downtime. Results develop over 3 to 6 months as neocollagenesis progresses.
Costs
Full face and neck: €2,000 to €4,500. Partial treatment: €800 to €2,000. Not covered by insurance.