Non-surgical lifting

Ultherapy

Focused ultrasound that reaches the same tissue layer a surgeon addresses in a facelift, without an incision. One appointment, no downtime.

Minutes
60–90
Session
1
Downtime
None
Treatment room at MMC Wellness North Shore, daylight through a tall window

What it does

Ultherapy delivers focused ultrasound to the SMAS — the layer of connective tissue a surgeon lifts during a facelift. The heat prompts your body to build new collagen over the following months, so the change appears gradually rather than immediately. Imaging lets the practitioner see the tissue while treating it, which is what separates it from devices that treat blind.

Reaches the surgical plane

The SMAS layer, without an incision or anaesthetic.

You see the tissue

Ultrasound imaging during treatment, not guesswork about depth.

Nothing to recover from

Most people return to work the same afternoon.

Usually a good fit

  • Mild to moderate laxity along the jawline, brow or neck
  • Skin that still has reasonable elasticity
  • You would rather not have surgery, or are not ready for it
  • You can wait two to three months to judge the result

Usually not

  • Significant loose skin — a surgical consultation is the honest answer
  • Open wounds or active infection in the treatment area
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • You need to look different by next week

Before

  • Come with clean skin and no makeup if you can
  • Tell us about any recent fillers, threads or neuromodulator in the area
  • Eat beforehand — the treatment is easier on a full stomach

On the day

  1. 01MappingWe mark the treatment areas and set depths using the ultrasound image.
  2. 02TreatmentThe applicator delivers energy in lines across the area. You feel heat in short bursts.
  3. 03FinishSkin may look slightly flushed. You leave without a dressing.

After

  • Mild tenderness or swelling for a few days is normal
  • Sunscreen, as always
  • Changes build over 2–3 months; we photograph at your review so you can compare

$1,800 – $3,200

per area

The range reflects how much area is treated. You will have an exact quote before anything begins.

Questions we get

Does it hurt?

There is heat, and it is sharper over bone along the jaw and brow. It lasts seconds at a time and most people manage without medication. Tell your practitioner if it is too much — the settings can be adjusted.

When will I see something?

A little tightening early on, then gradual change over two to three months as new collagen forms. It is not an overnight treatment.

How long does it last?

Typically around a year, though this varies with age, skin quality and sun exposure. Your skin continues to age; the treatment does not stop that.

Is this instead of a facelift?

No. It treats the same layer but does not remove skin. If you have significant laxity, a surgical consultation is the more honest conversation, and we will say so.

Can I combine it with injectables?

Often yes, with a sensible interval. Bring what you have had recently to your consultation so timing can be planned.

Book an assessment

Book online