Ultherapy: Non-Surgical Skin Tightening with Focused Ultrasound

Ultherapy is the world's only FDA-cleared non-invasive procedure using microfocused ultrasound (MFU) to reach the deeper skin layers and stimulate natural new collagen formation. The result: visible tightening of the face, neck and décolleté — without scalpel, without anaesthesia and without downtime. Since its market launch in 2009, Ultherapy has established itself as the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening, used in over 80 countries worldwide.

How Ultherapy Works

Ultherapy uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualisation (MFU-V) to deliver targeted thermal energy to precisely defined tissue depths. Unlike laser or radiofrequency treatments that primarily act on the skin surface, focused ultrasound penetrates to the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) — the same tissue layer tightened during surgical facelifts.

The ultrasound energy creates small, controlled thermal coagulation points at 60–70°C. These micro-thermal injuries trigger the body's natural healing response, forming new collagen and elastin. The skin surface remains completely undamaged.

Treatment Areas

Brow lift: Non-surgical brow lifting, opening of the upper face
Cheeks and midface: Tightening of sagging facial contours
Jawline and jowls: Definition of the jawline
Neck and submentum: Tightening of the neck and under-chin area
Décolleté: Improvement of skin texture and fine lines

Procedure

Consultation and treatment planning (which depths / transducers)
Ultrasound gel applied to treatment area
Real-time ultrasound imaging for precise targeting
Delivery of focused ultrasound energy (60–90 minutes)
Immediate return to normal activities

Results and Timeline

Initial lifting effect immediately after treatment
Progressive improvement over 2–6 months as collagen forms
Optimal result at 3–6 months
Duration of result: 12–18 months; repeat treatment recommended

Costs

Area	Costs
Full face	€2,000–€3,500
Face + neck	€2,500–€4,500
Brow lift (forehead only)	€800–€1,500
Neck only	€1,000–€2,000
Décolleté	€800–€1,500

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Ultherapy painful?

Most patients describe a warm, tingling or stinging sensation during the energy delivery, particularly at bony areas (jawline, chin). Topical numbing cream or oral pain relief can be used. Intensity varies depending on individual pain threshold and treatment depth.

Who is Ultherapy suitable for?

Ultherapy is ideal for patients aged 30–65 with mild to moderate skin laxity who prefer non-surgical options. It is not a replacement for surgical facelift in cases of severe skin excess. It complements injectable treatments (Botox, fillers) well.