Ultherapy in Adelaide: Focused Ultrasound for Skin Laxity
Non-surgical options for addressing skin laxity are among the most-searched aesthetic topics in Australia. Ultherapy is one of the most established technologies in this space — and one of the few focused ultrasound platforms with TGA clearance for specific lifting indications.
At Regenesis Aesthetic + Wellness in Kent Town, Ultherapy is part of our skin tightening and lifting treatment offering. This post explains what Ultherapy is, how it works, what a session involves, and who it may be appropriate for.
What Is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses micro-focused ultrasound with real-time visualisation (MFU-V) to deliver energy to targeted depths beneath the skin surface. It is manufactured by Merz Aesthetics.
Ultherapy is TGA-cleared in Australia for the following indications:
Brow lifting
Improving the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the neck and décolletage
Addressing laxity on the face, neck and chin
TGA clearance for specific indications distinguishes Ultherapy from many other non-invasive lifting devices on the Australian market, and is relevant for anyone comparing their treatment options.
How Does Ultherapy Work?
Ultherapy delivers focused ultrasound energy to precise tissue depths — typically 1.5mm, 3mm and 4.5mm beneath the skin surface. At the 4.5mm depth, the energy reaches the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS): the same structural layer addressed in surgical facelift procedures.
The delivery of focused ultrasound energy at these depths creates thermal coagulation points (TCPs) — small zones of controlled thermal effect. The body's wound-healing response to these TCPs stimulates collagen synthesis and tissue remodelling over the weeks and months that follow.
Ultherapy incorporates built-in ultrasound imaging, which allows the treating practitioner to visualise the tissue layers before and during treatment, guiding energy delivery to the appropriate depth for each individual.
What Is the SMAS?
The SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system) is a layer of muscle and connective tissue beneath the skin and subcutaneous fat on the face and neck. It plays a key structural role in facial support. Surgical facelifts address this layer directly. Ultherapy is designed to reach this depth non-invasively, without incisions and without surgery.
What Areas Does Ultherapy Treat?
At Regenesis, Ultherapy is used to address:
Brow position and laxity
Face and mid-face laxity
Neck and submental (under-chin) area
Décolletage
The most common combination is the lower face, neck and chin. Treatment areas and approach are confirmed at consultation based on your individual assessment.
What Does a Session Involve?
A session begins with the practitioner using the device's built-in imaging to assess and map the tissue in the treatment area. A topical numbing cream is typically applied beforehand to improve comfort during treatment.
The handpiece is moved systematically across the skin. Each pulse delivers focused ultrasound energy to the target depth. Most people describe a warming and prickling sensation with each delivery — this is generally the most noticeable part of the experience.
A full face, neck and chin treatment typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. Specific session duration varies depending on the areas treated.
There is no required downtime. Some people experience temporary flushing, mild swelling or tenderness following treatment, which generally resolves within a few days.
When Are Results Visible?
Ultherapy works through collagen stimulation and tissue remodelling, which occurs gradually. Initial changes are typically noticed from around four to six weeks post-treatment. More notable changes are generally observed over three to six months as the collagen response develops and matures.
Individual responses vary. Outcomes depend on factors including degree of existing laxity, skin quality, age, lifestyle, and the specific areas treated. A realistic picture of what Ultherapy may and may not achieve for your individual situation is discussed at consultation.
Ultherapy is not a surgical facelift. It is a non-invasive option suited to people who want to address skin laxity without surgery, with gradual and natural-looking outcomes.
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
Many people undertake a single Ultherapy session and reassess at the three to six month mark. Some elect to repeat treatment annually or as recommended by their practitioner. The most appropriate approach for your situation is discussed at consultation.
Who May Be Suited to Ultherapy?
Ultherapy may be appropriate for people who:
Are noticing laxity changes on the face, neck, chin, brow or décolletage
Are seeking non-invasive options for lifting and skin tightening
Are not pregnant
Do not have open skin lesions, active infection or cystic acne in the proposed treatment area
Do not have implanted electrical devices such as a pacemaker
Have realistic expectations about gradual, non-surgical outcomes
A full clinical assessment is conducted at consultation to confirm individual suitability.
Ultherapy vs Other Skin Tightening Options at Regenesis
Regenesis offers several non-invasive skin tightening technologies, including Exion RF, Exilis 360 and EndyMed. Ultherapy is distinct in its ability to target the SMAS layer and in its TGA-cleared lifting indications.
That said, the most appropriate treatment depends entirely on your individual skin, degree of laxity, goals and medical history. This is assessed at consultation — not determined in advance based on the device alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ultherapy painful? Ultherapy is known to be one of the more intense non-invasive treatments in terms of in-session comfort. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand. Intensity varies by area and individual. Most people manage the session comfortably with adequate preparation and clear communication with their practitioner.
Is there downtime? There is generally no required downtime. Temporary redness, mild swelling or tenderness can occur and typically resolves within a few days.
I'm searching for a non-surgical facelift in Adelaide — is Ultherapy what I need? Ultherapy is one of the more clinically established non-invasive options for addressing skin laxity, and it has specific TGA-cleared indications for lifting. Whether it is the right treatment for you depends on your individual assessment. A consultation is the appropriate starting point.
How long do results last? Individual longevity varies. Many practitioners recommend reassessment and consideration of repeat treatment at around 12 to 18 months. Sun protection, skin health maintenance and a healthy lifestyle all contribute to outcome longevity.
When will I see results? Collagen remodelling is a gradual process. Early observations are typically reported from around four to six weeks. More significant changes are generally visible at three to six months post-treatment.
Can Ultherapy be combined with other treatments? In many cases, yes. Combination approaches are discussed at consultation based on your clinical assessment and goals.
Is it appropriate for people in their 30s? Ultherapy is most commonly sought by adults who are beginning to notice laxity changes, which can begin in the mid-to-late thirties. Suitability is assessed individually rather than by age.
Is Ultherapy available for men? Yes. Skin laxity is a concern for men as well as women. Ultherapy can be appropriate for men, assessed at consultation.
Book a Consultation
If you are considering Ultherapy in Adelaide, the first step is a consultation at Regenesis Aesthetic + Wellness. Our practitioners will assess your skin and tissue quality, discuss your areas of concern, and determine whether Ultherapy — or another treatment in our range — is the most appropriate option for your situation.
We are located at Ground Level, 81 King William Street, Kent Town SA 5067. Open Monday to Friday with extended hours on Tuesday and Thursday.
Results vary between individuals. All treatments carry risk. Information on this website is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified practitioner to determine whether a treatment is appropriate for you. Regenesis Aesthetic + Wellness complies with AHPRA advertising guidelines and the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989 (Cth).