By Dr Thanisorn Thamlikitkul

I am 48 years old and my face seems to be drooping. I really need a facelift but I'm afraid that if I opt for surgery, the outcome won't look natural. I recently read in newspaper that there is a non-surgical facelift that uses ultrasound. Can you tell me more about this?

Ulthera uses high intensity focused ultrasound energy to tighten the facial superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) which is located under the dermis. The result: lax skin becomes firmer, there's a significant lift of the brow, less hooding on the upper eyelid and a more defined jawline. This helps create a more youthful, refreshed appearance overall.

Ulthera is different from other non-surgical facelift devices because it targets not the facial skin but the fibromuscular layer beneath the skin-without damaging intervening tissue. This approach is said to achieve an effect close to a mini facelift. No recovery time is required with the procedure as there is no breakage of skin. There can be some redness of the skin and swelling following the treatment but this usually disappears within one or two days.

Result are seen gradually over a period of three months and it can last up to either one or two years. How well it works and how long it lasts depends on a number of factors including age, skin type and condition.

The US Food and Drug Administration approved Ulthera technology last year.

Thanisorn Thamlikitkul MD is a member of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery and certified in dermatological laser surgery.