Our faces can tell many stories, and while wrinkles might say "experience," droopiness can say "tired." Surgery has always been an option, but now, Dr. Daniel Leeman, board-certified facial plastic surgeon and medical director at Austin's NEWU Plastic Surgery, is introducing a breakthrough, non-invasive facial lifting procedure called Ultherapy. 

A combination of "ultrasound" and "therapy," the treatment is the first and only energy-based aesthetic procedure cleared by the FDA for a non-invasive lift, and it is revolutionizing the way physicians counteract the effects of time and gravity on the skin.

The beauty of the hour-long Ultherapy procedure is that it uses the body's own regenerative response to gently and gradually restore collagen to the skin and underlying support tissue.  As with other ultrasound procedures, a smooth applicator is placed upon the skin to project an image onto a screen that allows Leeman to plan exactly where the energy will be directed. This same applicator is then used to deliver low levels of focused heat at just the right depth below the skin to trigger the skin's regenerative process for a more youthful appearance, all the while leaving the surface of your skin undisturbed. 

"For the first time, we can actually see below the skin's surface to target and treat the deep support structures of connective facial tissue," Leeman says. "Because we are treating the skin with an unprecedented level of precision, we are offering unprecedented results. Ultherapy really is a game changer." Unlike other skin tightening procedures, Ultherapy gradually and gently shifts the skin back into a more youthful position, so clients achieve desired results without looking "done." With just one treatment, the regenerative process is initiated with the full effect will building subtly over the course of two to three months.

In the early days following treatment, patients commonly report a firmer skin feel, and as an added bonus, a smoothing out of fine lines. While this immediate "plumping effect" is temporary, it signals that the beneficial process of new collagen generation has begun. Those who receive Ultherapy enjoy the more "open" look of the eyes the brow lift provides, as well as a more refreshed look overall. Leeman's clients also note a softening of the creases around their nose and mouth; a sleeker, more defined jaw line; less laxity under the chin; and firmer skin in general. Reduced pore size and a more even skin color can also be welcomed benefits of the procedure.

Because the treatment affects the deep layers of tissue, it is complementary to and compatible with other cosmetic procedures addressing more superficial issues. It may also be used as the skin continues to age following surgery. According to Leeman, the best candidates for Ultherapy have a moderately lowered brow line or sagging skin on the eyelids and jaw line. The procedure is not meant to completely replace a traditional facelift for those with extreme laxity. Because Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy versus laser or light energy, the procedure is colorblind; people with all skin types can be treated safely and effectively.

While Ultherapy is currently cleared for facial treatment only, the technology is constantly evolving and improving. The procedure is being tested on other areas of the body, including thighs, buttocks, hands and upper arms. In the next few years, we may see Ultherapy receive FDA approval for other body parts that can benefit from a lift.

Ulthera by the numbers:

9 years of technical development of imaging/therapy

4 clinical locations to establish safety and efficacy

18 months of critical review by FDA (clearance received in September 2009)

86 percent success rate with just one treatment

0 adverse events reported

4,000+ treatments through spring 2010

1 and only LIFT indication granted by FDA to an energy-based device

1 and only technology that allows physicians to SEE the tissue and TREAT at precise depths (down to 4.5mm and beyond)

For more information about NEWU Plastic Surgery and the Ultherapy treatment, visit www.NEWUplasticsurgery.com.

Dr. Daniel Leeman is one of the only double board-certified facial plastic surgeons in Austin. This means he brings an extra level of expertise to the often complex nuances of facial enhancement. Using an arsenal of advanced techniques, Leeman can safely and beautifully refresh timeworn features to brighten your appearance and renew your self-confidence. Leeman is committed to providing his patients with the highest level of quality care and service.