How do you determine which transducer (1.5mm, 3.0mm, or 4.5mm) is best for a patient and their needs?
In most patients, we will use a combination of all 3 transducers. For areas of thicker skin (e.g the cheeks), the Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System (SMAS) layer lies deeper, and may require the 4.5mm transducer. In areas of thinner skin (e.g. jawline or around the eyes), the SMAS layer may lie at 3mm. Knowing that the skin is different from area to area even on just the face, it is important to be able to see what's underneath the skin. This is why ultherapy is a great treatment - with real-time ultrasound visualisation of the layers of skin, we can target the specific layer accurately.
What makes the 1.5mm transducer (Ultherapy Prime) unique, and how does it compare functionally to the 3.0mm and 4.5mm options?
The target for the 1.5mm the dermis of the skin (as compared to the SMAS layer). When the dermis is targeted, it helps with fine lines, wrinkles, pores and quality of the skin. You can think of targeting the SMAS layer for a “deeper” planal lift.
In what cases or treatment areas is the 1.5mm transducer most effective?
The 1.5mm transducer can be used on most of the face, everywhere from the forehead, to the temples, to the cheeks, to the chin. The areas that I feel are best suited for the 1.5mm transducer are areas of thinner skin, like the periorbital/under eye areas and forehead.
How do results differ when treating superficial layers with the 1.5mm transducer versus deeper layers like the SMAS with the 4.5mm transducer?
The effects are different. The 1.5mm transducer stimulates the dermal layer and can result in improvement of fine lines, wrinkles and pores. The transducers that go deeper (3/4.5mm) result in a “lifting” effect by stimulating the SMAS layer. More often than not, we will use multiple transducers in the same treatment session.
Are there cases where multiple transducers are used in a single session for layered treatment?
We do this virtually all the time! Of course every patient's skin is different and everyone's area of concern can be different. We will plan the treatment according to what your concerns are, and adjust as necessary.
How does the combination of different depths enhance overall results?
By targeting the multiple layers of skin, we not only get a skin tightening effect, but an improvement in skin quality as well. We want to build up collagen in all layers of the skin, and Ultherapy allows us to do just that.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Harold Ma, and Dr. Chester Lan.