SMAS lifting Ulthera therapy
Unfortunately, as we age, facial skin undergoes changes. It loses its tone, sags, and the facial contour becomes less defined. It's impossible to halt this process, regardless of the skincare regimen you use. That's why, after the appearance of wrinkles, some people consider a facelift or neck lift. Now, there's no need to undergo surgery for this. Modern cosmetology offers a safe and effective SMAS facelift with Ulthera therapy.
If you experience symptoms of an illness, please consult a doctor.
What is SMAS lifting?
SMAS lifting is a cosmetic procedure that involves non-surgical facial tightening using a modern ultrasound device without any surgical intervention.
The abbreviation SMAS stands for Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System, which refers to the superficial muscle aponeurotic system. This is the primary focus of the procedure.
The depth of penetration during the classic lifting procedure is 1.5 mm, involving only the skin and the upper layer of fatty tissue. SMAS lifting reaches much deeper layers of the epidermis, up to 4.5 mm, allowing for an increase in muscle tissue tone, stimulating the production of elastin and collagen, and achieving rejuvenation.
Previously, similar facial manipulations were performed only through surgical intervention. Today, it's possible to effectively eliminate age-related, expression wrinkles, sculpt a clear facial contour, and improve the overall skin condition through non-invasive methods. For instance, the Leoderma Medical Center achieves this using innovative Ulthera System equipment.
Features and Advantages of SMAS Lifting
SMAS lifting has its specific features and advantages.
The main feature of Ulthera lifting is its painless procedure. Narrow-focused ultrasound initiates the synthesis process of collagen and elastin. Ultrasound waves penetrate through the superficial layers of the skin into the muscular-aponeurotic layer, heating them. The tissues contract, initiating the process of regeneration.
The cosmetologist can regulate the depth of ultrasound penetration into the skin. Similarly, controlled and targeted heating is applied only to problem areas. The temperature can reach up to 70°C. This kind of indicator is most effective for contracting collagen fibers and producing new protein. The degree and intensity of the impact are determined by the doctor based on the initial condition of the skin and set objectives.
The main advantage is that the Ulthera procedure shows an immediate effect that lasts long. In most cases, it's a one-time procedure, but if necessary, a touch-up can be done, not earlier than 4 months after the initial session.
Among the advantages are the following:
- Facial lifting without surgical intervention;
- The ability to adjust the depth of ultrasound impact based on existing issues;
- Correction of problematic facial areas;
- Speed and simplicity of the session;
- No need for prolonged recovery, no scars;
- Can be performed at any time of the year;
- Accumulative effect lasting for several months;
- Possibility of combination with other cosmetic procedures.
The price for SMAS lifting varies depending on the facial area and the number of impulses. For instance, working on the temples (70 impulses and more) costs from 5,250 UAH. The cost per one impulse is 75 UAH.
Indications and contraindications for SMAS Ulthera lifting
This type of lifting effectively combats aging problems. The procedure is prescribed by a doctor who takes into account the presence of indications and contraindications.
Indications for performing the lifting procedure are:
- Deep expression lines, pronounced nasolabial folds;
- Appearance of a double chin;
- Drooping cheeks, eyelids;
- Facial puffiness;
- Prominent bags under the eyes;
- Premature skin aging;
- Unclear facial contours;
- Prevention of certain skin problems (for example, ptosis).
The medical experts at LeoDerm Medical Center in Lviv recommend SMAS lifting for clients who have contraindications for any surgical interventions or are prohibited from undergoing general anesthesia.
Some categories of people are prohibited from having a lifting procedure. If a doctor identifies one or several of the issues mentioned below in a patient, they will have to postpone the procedure until complete recovery or cancel it entirely. The main contraindications are:
- Pregnancy (any trimester), lactation period;
- Diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus;
- Oncological diseases;
- Cardiovascular diseases;
- Some endocrine pathologies;
- Psychoneurological disorders;
- Acne, acne vulgaris;
- Tendency of the skin to form scars, keloid scars;
- Epilepsy;
- Presence of a cardiac pacemaker;
- Any metal implants, except dental;
- Taking medications that affect blood clotting.
Stages of procedure and care after the treatment
Skin tightening is performed using a high-quality ultrasound device, Ulthera System, so the patient does not feel pain during it, only slight tingling, tightening, and warmth. The procedure does not require anesthesia.
How does it all happen? Before conducting cosmetic manipulations, the doctor carefully examines the skin, cleanses it from makeup and impurities. Then, the doctor marks the areas to be worked on with lines. The number of these areas is individual and determined after consultation with the doctor. Before starting the device, the optimal depth of ultrasound wave penetration is set up.
The duration of one session depends on the complexity level of the issue. On average, it takes 30-90 minutes. The device's screen continuously displays the structure of the SMAS layer, allowing the specialist to carefully monitor the effectiveness of the process and make adjustments if necessary. After Ulthera lifting, a soothing cream is applied to the patient.
After the procedure, there might be redness and swelling on the face, but it's temporary. The swelling typically subsides within 1-3 days, while the redness disappears within a few hours.
There's no need for a long recovery period. There are just a few limitations recommended for the patient:
- Avoid visits to saunas, steam rooms, and similar places;
- Minimize sun exposure;
- Use sunscreen with SPF 50-100 to reduce UV exposure;
- Avoid other facial cosmetic procedures for a certain period;
- Avoid tanning beds.
You can undergo SMAS lifting Ultherapy in the LeoDerm Medical Center in Lviv. Appointments can be scheduled via the phone numbers provided on the website's main page. Responsible and experienced specialists, quality service, modern equipment, and reasonable pricing are available. Welcome!