Ultrasonic face lifting - indications for a non-surgical technique and mechanism of action on the skin

Ultrasonic lifting is a non-surgical facial tightening and rejuvenation using an ultrasound machine. The essence of all anti-aging procedures is to influence the superficial and middle layers of the epidermis and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin - the main components of firm and elastic skin.

Essence of the procedure
Indications and contraindications for the procedure
The procedure for carrying out the ultrasound procedure
Facial care after the procedure
The required number of procedures and how long the effect lasts
Advantages and disadvantages of SMAS lift
The possibility of combining ultrasound lifting with other anti-aging techniques
Ultrasound for tightening at home

Essence of the procedure

The main difference between ultrasound rejuvenation and other non-surgical hardware techniques is the deeper penetration of ultrasound waves down to the muscle fibers of the subcutaneous layer. This is a unique alternative to plastic surgery with less tissue trauma.

Similar procedures are carried out using special devices of the Altera system. In this regard, rejuvenation using ultrasound is called “Altera Ultrasonic Lifting”. An ultrasonic lifting device directs ultrasound into the muscular aponeurotic layer (SMAS) up to 4.5-5 cm deep. SMAS is the same muscular frame for the skin tissue of the face, where the bulk of collagen and elastin accumulate in the form of fibers.

With age, the frame weakens, the aging process begins - the oval of the face changes, the eyebrows and eyelids droop, the chin “floats”. To eliminate such defects, simple exposure to epidermal tissue is not enough.

Not everyone knows what lifting is and what its essence is. A cosmetologist will answer all questions about the effects of the Ulthera System device:

Correction of facial contours and rejuvenation of the skin tissues of the face and décolleté are achieved through the active influence of high-frequency ultrasonic waves. Epidermal fibers are tightened as a result of heating and a kind of tissue massage, during which the vital activity of skin cells is stimulated by improving blood microcirculation and saturating them with oxygen and nutrients. Metabolism at the cellular level accelerates, natural regeneration of the epidermis is restored, scars and seals dissolve, pores narrow and fat plugs come out, dead skin cells fall off.

Ultrasonic face lifting involves heating certain points of the muscular aponeurotic layer. In the pulsed mode of the ultrasound device, short and long ultrasonic waves are simultaneously exposed to one point, which is heated. As a result, a micro-pinch effect is achieved. When there is a lot of “pinching” in this area of the SMAS, the muscle fibers begin to twist and contract. In this case, the upper layers of the epidermis are tightened and an immediate effect of strengthening the skin “framework” occurs. The subsequent effect will be noticeable within 3-4 months as collagen and elastin accumulate in the dermal layers.

Pros and cons of the method

Ultrasound has made a huge contribution to non-surgical anti-aging cosmetology. This discovery dissuaded the priority and advisability of resorting to facial plastic surgery to solve age-related skin changes. A number of factors contributed to this:

deep exposure to ultrasound (up to 4.5 mm) guarantees improved results;
the versatility of the technique - it affects all parts of the body, regardless of the degree of skin sensitivity. Used to eliminate imperfections in the eye and lip areas;
the impact is focused on the problem, the surface tissues and blood vessels are not affected at all and are not injured;
The gentle action of sound vibrations guarantees the absence of a rehabilitation period and does not limit the patient’s lifestyle. However, a healthy diet and properly organized facial care even after the procedure are mandatory;
the result is noticeable immediately and only intensifies over time;
safety, harmlessness of the procedure allows repeated exposure;
minimal number of contraindications;
duration of the achieved effect.

Ultrasonic face lifting is an effective and harmless technique without any disadvantages.

Indications and contraindications for the procedure

Ultrasound lifting is indicated in the following cases:

decreased skin elasticity due to tissue aging;
networks of wrinkles in the corners of the eyes, in the nasolabial area, neck and décolleté;
changes in facial contour, sagging cheeks and chin;
loose and sagging skin;
ptosis of the upper eyelids, brow ridges, abdomen, buttocks, etc.

Contraindications:

violation of the integrity of the epidermis - wounds, scratches, cuts;
inflammatory processes on the skin - acne, acne, furunculosis;
pacemaker in the heart muscle;
period of bearing a child or breastfeeding;
diabetes;
the presence of keloid growths at the site of exposure;
infectious diseases;
neuropsychic pathologies;
tumors of various etiologies;
after 55 years, since the procedures no longer give the desired result.

Indications for the procedure

Ultrasound lifting is recommended for those with wrinkles in the face and décolleté, decreased skin elasticity, sagging upper eyelids and the presence of hernia sacs in the lower eyelids (ultrasound will not get rid of hernias, but will camouflage them well). The procedure will be needed for people who want to restore skin elasticity, get rid of sagging and sagging (double) chin.

A positive side effect of the procedure is that fat deposits on the face are reduced, and the result is a “thinner” face.

The procedure for carrying out the ultrasound procedure

It is necessary to immediately make a reservation that the final effect of the ultrasound treatment on the epidermis will be noticeable after 4-6 months. The production of the required amount of new collagen and elastin is possible within 3-4 months. In the process, the skin fibers are gradually tightened and strengthened. Before the session begins, the skin is treated with an anesthetic (anesthetic gel is applied), then the area is disinfected with chlorhexidine.

Points of influence are marked on the face using a ruler. First, one half of the face is treated. This is done so that the client can compare both halves of the face and note the first positive effects of ultrasound lifting.

Video of ultrasound lifting using the Doublo device in the salon:

During the session, warmth and tingling are felt in the treated areas, pain is moderate. Sometimes there is a feeling of skin tightness.

The session lasts from 30 to 60 minutes. In normal skin conditions, slight redness is observed, which goes away after 2-3 hours. Sometimes swelling may appear during the first 2 days.

Operating principle of ultrasound

The lifting technique using ultrasound is based on the principle of deep heating of the muscular aponeurotic frame of the face: focused ultrasound waves easily pass through the surface layers of the skin, reaching the depth necessary for correction of the skin, and produce local heating of the tissues. Due to this thermal effect on the deep layers of the skin, collagen fibers are compressed and tightened, soft tissues contract, which provides an instant tightening effect.

In addition, ultrasound exposure on the muscular aponeurotic layer stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers, so skin tightening becomes more noticeable several months after the procedure. Ultrasound also produces an internal micro-massage of the muscles, saturates them with oxygen, activates cellular metabolism and energy, promotes the resorption of small seals and sebaceous plugs, therefore, after the ultrasound lifting procedure, the skin is not only noticeably tightened, but also acquires a healthy appearance.

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Facial care after the procedure

After this lifting procedure, you must refrain from the following actions for 5-7 days:

do not allow the treated areas to heat up for 3-5 days - avoid direct sunlight, wash only with warm water, do not visit the sauna and baths;
do not sunbathe or visit a solarium;
Intense physical exercise and stress that causes increased sweating are not recommended;
do not use cosmetics.

Rehabilitation after SMAS - body lifting

Light redness after the procedure will disappear within a couple of hours, but you must follow the following recommendations:

Limit physical activity for 10-12 days
Do not use scrubs or peels in the treatment area for 14 days
In the first two weeks, do not visit baths and saunas
Do not expose your skin to sudden temperature changes
Follow all individual recommendations

Remember that a high-quality result depends not only on the skill of the specialist performing the procedure, but also on you! Compliance with all recommendations guarantees the absence of negative consequences.

Find out more about SMAS facial lifting!

The required number of procedures and how long the effect lasts

The procedure can be performed once a year, not more often. Ultrasonic face lift improves skin texture and reduces sagging in various areas of the face (eyebrows, eyelids, cheeks). The procedures are carried out not only to eliminate existing defects, but also to prevent sagging soft skin tissues. The maximum age at which ultrasonic lifting will have an effect is up to 50 years. As a rule, when lifting the skin of the face, the rejuvenating procedure is also applied to the cervical area so that there is no sharp contrast.

The lifting effect from eliminating eyebrow ptosis lasts for 6-9 months. In the case of particularly sensitive skin, redness, swelling, bruising or hematomas may occur at the site of exposure to ultrasonic waves, which quickly disappear (maximum after 1-3 weeks).

Indications and positive effects

The latest equipment allows you to carry out ultrasonic smas lifting without pain, quickly, but efficiently. Age-related and gravitational problems of the skin are solved.

Indications for lifting:

the need for tissue tightening;
loss of clarity of contours, double chin;
decreased tone, turgor;
age-related, facial wrinkles, uneven surface relief;
asymmetry of individual areas;
age-related drooping of the corners of the eyes, lips, eyebrows;
preventive measures to prevent aging.

The effect is observed in two stages:

directly during the manipulations - it is enough to compare the area treated and not. Freshness of the face, smoothing of the relief and imparting elasticity to the epidermis are noticeable to the naked eye;
prolonged – several months are required to achieve maximum results. This is due to the intensive synthesis of elastin and collagen fibers. This result lasts for a long time (1-5 years) and does not require additional adjustments in the first 1.5 years. It is possible to supplement the results obtained with other non-surgical interventions, but their frequent use is not recommended. Pay more attention to age-related cosmetics, masks based on natural ingredients (kelp mask).

Advantages and disadvantages of SMAS lift

SMAS ultrasound lifting has a lot of advantages that have made this procedure popular among women and men.

These include the following:

with ultrasound exposure, all layers of the epidermis are affected - superficial and middle, fatty layer, muscular aponeurotic, deep tissues of the dermis;
You can lift any parts of the face and neck;
high effectiveness of procedures;
short rehabilitation process;
no marks or scars remain after treatment;
during the procedure, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells increases due to increased blood flow;
pores become significantly narrower and the “orange peel” disappears;
acne is effectively treated;
Only 1 session is performed, no need to visit a cosmetologist for a long time;
can be carried out in any season;
the effect lasts 1-3 years;
safety of the method.

After ultrasound rejuvenation, all facial features are tightened, the shape of the face is restored, and the double chin disappears.

Disadvantages of ultrasound procedures:

the presence of a large number of contraindications;
the appearance of bruises and hematomas;
some pain during manipulation.

This is where the disadvantages of the SMAS lift end, which makes this rejuvenation method almost indispensable in modern cosmetology.

Features of ultrasonic lifting Ulthera System

Altera System ultrasound rejuvenation equipment is manufactured in the USA and is the world's first device for non-surgical tightening of the muscular aponeurotic layer. A special feature of this ultrasound device is a special computer program that helps the cosmetologist accurately determine the thickness of individual layers of skin and adjust the radiation parameters so that the impact on collagen fibers occurs at a given depth. Thanks to such a complex design that converts ultrasound waves into an image, the entire lifting process occurs under the supervision of a specialist.

The possibility of combining ultrasound lifting with other anti-aging techniques

To obtain a greater and longer-lasting Altera-lifting effect, many cosmetologists successfully combine it with the following techniques:

injection rejuvenation (subcutaneous administration of Botox, Xeomin, Dysport);
bioreinforcement;
introduction of biological products under the skin using biorevitalization and mesotherapy;
microdermabrasion - peeling facial cleansing with the application of special aluminum oxide crystals under high pressure.

Stages of the procedure

At the beginning of the procedure, the cosmetologist assesses the condition of the skin and decides on the intensity and depth of exposure to ultrasonic waves. Next comes the procedure itself, lasting 1-2 hours.

Sequence of actions during ultrasonic face lifting:

Cleansing . Particles of dirt, dust, dead cells and fat accumulations are removed from the skin with a special cleanser.
Disinfection . Wipe with an antiseptic with chlorhexidine or another suitable one.
Marking . The specialist draws lines dividing the face into areas. Each zone requires a specific wavelength, frequency and duration of exposure.
Applying the gel . It moisturizes, reduces skin sensitivity, increases impulse conductivity. Promotes better glide of the device. The gel additionally has a lifting effect. It contains hyaluronic and fruit acids.
Impact of the device . The specialist processes each marked area. Often, it first affects one half of the face, and then proceeds to the second. This is done for comparison. The result is immediately visible in the form of noticeable tightening and reduction of sagging.
Ending . The specialist removes any remaining gel and moisturizes the skin with a softening cream.

If a tingling sensation occurs in sensitive areas in the eye area, above the upper lip and on the neck during the procedure, the cosmetologist reduces the depth of penetration of the waves.

We invite you to watch a video about the stages of ultrasonic lifting:

Ultrasound for tightening at home

At the first signs of the gravitational type of aging of the skin, you can perform ultrasound facial lifting at home. Compact ultrasonic devices are commercially available for these purposes.

To carry out an ultrasonic facelift at home, you need to have an ultrasound device Gezatone KUS-2000, a special lifting serum and a conductive gel. Before carrying out the procedure, you must carefully study the instructions and recommendations.

In general, ultrasound lifting is simple. Serum is applied to a cleansed and disinfected face. After it is absorbed, a thin layer of gel is applied. The device must be set to pulse mode. The treatment is carried out with light massaging movements along the contours of the face.

In 1 year, you can conduct no more than 3 courses of ultrasound massage. The course includes 15 procedures, the interval between each session should be 3-4 days.

Thus, today lifting using ultrasonic waves is the only method of influencing the deep layers of the skin and muscle fibers of the dermis. The procedure has a double effect - an instant facelift and a gradual increase in the elasticity and firmness of the skin due to collagen and elastin. This is the most reliable way to get rid of the signs of gravitational aging and the effect of sagging facial skin, “throw off” 5-8 years, and feel like a young and confident woman.

How is the procedure done in the salon?

Ultrasonic facelifts are usually performed in beauty salons and clinics, but plastic surgery centers often provide this service. There are two devices for ultrasound rejuvenation - the Korean Doublo System and the American Ulthera System. In appearance, both devices resemble a laptop computer equipped with an ultrasonic sensor and several attachments for treating the skin. There are some differences in the design and operation of these two types of equipment, but the lifting procedure is performed according to the same scheme and takes from 40 to 60 minutes:

Skin preparation: cleansing of makeup and dirt, local anesthesia with local anesthetics, treatment with an antiseptic (usually chlorhexidine).
Marking the skin along the lines of which the tightening will be performed.
Covering the treated area with a gel, the effect of which is aimed at improving the transmission of ultrasound vibrations from the device nozzle into the deep layers of the dermis and achieving maximum tissue visualization.
Performing ultrasound lifting: generating ultrasonic pulses using a special sensor, creating a thermocoagulation zone in certain layers of the dermis at the depth necessary for tightening collagen fibers.
Wash off the gel composition, treat the skin with a moisturizer.

Contraindications

Like any other cosmetic procedure, SMAS lifting using the Ultraformer also has its contraindications. They are divided into relative and absolute, so the decision to use the device in a particular case is made by a cosmetologist after examining the patient and studying his clinical chart. Additional tests may be required.

Among the contraindications of SMAS lifting, the following should be highlighted:

Severe form of acne with inflammation;
Implants or stents placed in the facial area or area of the body where the procedure is planned;
Herpes is in the acute stage, before the procedure you will need to take a course of antiviral drugs;
Diabetes;
Oncological diseases (benign and malignant tumors);
Open wounds, hematomas or injuries in the area affected by the device;
Dental implants, if they were installed less than 1 year ago;
Epilepsy and other neurological diseases.

It is not advisable to carry out lifting during pregnancy or lactation. The client's age may also be a contraindication.

Cost of procedures

Ultrasonic facelift is not a complex surgical method. However, it uses an expensive device, so prices vary. How much the procedure will cost depends on the reputation of the clinic and the professionalism of the cosmetologist who will perform the procedure.

Interesting! Two ultrasound devices are popular in Russia: Ulthera System and Doublo System. The second device from the Korean manufacturer, therefore more affordable. However, the action and effectiveness of each of them is no different. As a result, the cost of a lift will vary.

Moscow clinics and beauty salons offer their rejuvenation services using ultrasound machines:

neck area – from 25,000 to 90,000 rubles;
neckline – from 34,000 to 75,000;
area around the eyes – from 17,000 to 38,000;
upper or lower part of the face – from 50,000 to 97,000;
full face lift – from 80,000 to 120,000.

Prices for procedures in other cities and regions of the country differ slightly from Moscow. When choosing a clinic or salon, do not chase cheaper services, trust professionals with good equipment.

We recommend: read about the innovative SMAS face lifting.

Preparation for SMAS lifting using the Ultraformer device and stages of the procedure

No special preparation is required for the procedure. It is allowed to be held at any time of the year. There is no long recovery period, so you can return to your normal lifestyle almost immediately.

The only thing that is required before the procedure is a consultation with an experienced cosmetologist. He will assess the condition of the skin and ask the patient about the presence of implants or taking certain medications. Some medications that affect the composition and quality of the blood lead to bruising or increased swelling. During the examination, possible contraindications to lifting using the Ultraformer device are identified.

Before starting the procedure, the cosmetologist sets up the equipment, setting the desired depth of the waves. Thanks to this, the device does not affect all layers of the skin, but works specifically only where it is required. The upper layers of the epidermis do not receive any damage, so the risk of infection is eliminated.

The lifting procedure using the Ultraformer device consists of the following steps:

Skin cleansing. Contaminants and remnants of skincare or decorative cosmetics are removed.
Marking. Using a special pencil, the areas that will be affected by the device during lifting are highlighted.
Application of gel. It will eliminate any discomfort and help the waves penetrate the layers of the dermis more easily.
Applying a soothing cream

The procedure ends with the cosmetologist’s recommendations for caring for the areas where the procedure was performed. He will answer all the patient’s questions in detail and tell you how to prolong the effect of the Ultraformer device.

Lifting takes 30-60 minutes depending on the size of the treated area. It is recommended to repeat it every 1-2 years.

The result of the procedures performed

SMAS-lifting Ultraformer

What are the main effects of the Ultraformer device?

I.R.: I was always sad at some stage of working with a patient to realize that I could no longer help him, and his face shape was changing.

We tried to inject fillers under gravitational ptosis, filling the medial fat bags, creating a slightly different, heavier face, but supposedly without the loss of the labiomental and nasolabial folds.

In fact, very often there is no retraction, the zygomatic and mandibular ligaments simply hang down, and it seems that the patient has a labiomental fold.

Using the Ultraformer device (ed. - in Ukraine) I return a person to normal facial geometry when the ligaments fall into place, the upper eyelid rises and the gaze opens.

Despite the fact that I have been working in a site absolutely equipped with the latest technologies for 14 years now, and I have something to compare with, I have never had such an anti-aging weapon in my hands before, and with the help of the Ultraformer device I am able to achieve very many questions.

I.R.: If earlier, due to the flow of patients, I brought my skills to the point of doing volumetric modeling of the face with four syringes for an hour, despite the fact that these were complex areas, for example, the nasolacrimal and nasobuccal grooves, now I am almost I don’t pick up syringes, and I’m even sad that I’m losing these well-practiced skills.

I used to insert 60 long threads in 30-40 minutes, but I haven’t picked up my favorite threads for almost a year now. I am not disappointed in this technique, it tightens the skin and stimulates the formation of type 3 collagen, but it is under the skin. And when it sags

SMAS – it still gets more and more difficult for him to resist thicker, improved and higher-quality skin with age. And all our patients, together with us, go in the same direction. But there is a miracle, and today there really is every opportunity to not live with a cosmetologist, stop time and be happy.

You may be interested in: Dr. Bong on the benefits of using Teosyal Pen in a cosmetologist's practice.

Recovery after the procedure

Immediately after SMAS lifting performed using Ultraformer equipment, slight redness of the area of its action may be observed. It takes place literally in 30-60 minutes, depending on the patient’s skin type.

Among the complications that do not require treatment are mild swelling. Usually it has limited localization and is practically invisible. The swelling will go away on its own within 5 days.

During the recovery period, it is recommended to avoid visiting public swimming pools and saunas. Don't put too much strain on your body with workouts in the gym. It is better to refrain from drinking alcohol, it retains water in the body, the excess of which is the cause of swelling.

Repeated procedure

The full effect occurs after the first procedure. If it is barely noticeable or additional tightening is required in advanced cases, then the decision to repeat the procedure is made by a cosmetologist. If necessary, the procedure is repeated no earlier than a year or a year and a half later.

Each zone can have its own facelift techniques. Read about how to tighten the middle and lower part of the face, as well as what constitutes an endoscopic and circular facelift.