Technology is running wild in every direction, especially in the beauty industry. The latest device seemingly targets sagging skin at multiple levels, using focused ultrasound energy to visibly lift and tighten skin, providing incisionless treatment for hooded lids, falling cheeks and sagging jaw lines.

Here’s how the device (Ulthera) works: thermal energy bypasses the upper layers of the skin (layers targeted by Fraxel and Thermage), safely heating the underlying connective tissue that lines the facial muscles, so that it contracts. That underlying connective tissue, known to plastic surgeons as the SMAS, is the same tissue cosmetic surgeons pull tighter in a facelift. The contraction of the SMAS results in an immediate tightening and a visible lift.

As if that were not enough, the device can then be set at a shallower depth. A second pass is made with the hand piece, this time aiming its heat at the skin’s upper layers to stimulate collagen growth. Self magazine, April 2011, quotes a well known Manhattan doctor with the best one-liners in town who calls this the “Spanx effect.” The cheeks lift back toward their apple position, the jaw line tightens and the brow no longer sags.

Plastic surgeons are excited about this multilevel treatment, which works on muscle and skin. Don’t be too excited though – Ulthera is not an adequate facelift substitute for tissue that is very lax. It is perfect for people who maintain a youthful appearance with Botox and fillers but are looking for a minimally invasive facial uplift.

It takes about one hour to treat the entire face and neck. Because Ultherapy is performed using ultrasonic imaging, doctors can view each layer of skin and muscle as they work, resulting in precision and safety. Possible side effects include bruising, swelling and a feeling of tightness days after the procedure. The greatest drawback is that treatment may hurt, ranging from a hot pricking sensation to short but intense bursts of discomfort.

A board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist can assess your skin quality to see if this treatment will be effective for you. Contact a plastic surgeon in your area through the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.