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Our outlets will be closed from 26 Mar (Tue) to 27 Mar (Wed) for our annual team bonding event. We will resume operations on 28 Mar (Thu).

Swelling after Ultherapy: Is it normal?

Swelling after Ultherapy - Is it Normal

TL;DR 

  • Side effects can happen after Ultherapy; these include 
    • Redness 
    • Swelling 
    • Pain
    • Bruising 
    • Welting
    • Tingling and itching 
    • Muscle fatigue and sensitivity to touch 
  • These side effects are mild and transient in nature 
  • No serious adverse events including nerve injuries have been reported

Table of Contents

Are there risks to Ultherapy?

Side effects of Ultherapy are uncommon, and most of them are easily managed with good outcomes. 

Some risks of Ultherapy include:

Side Effect
Appearance
Duration
Mild edema
Swelling on the face
Typically resolves within three to 72 hours of treatment
Erythema
Redness that resembles inflammation
May present immediately following treatment; typically resolves within a few hours
Mild bruising
Caused by damage to soft blood tissue vessels
Typically resolves within two days to two weeks
Soreness and tenderness
Some tenderness may occur
Typically resolves within two days to two weeks
Welting
Superficial, localised swelling of the skin that resembles hives
Typically resolves within one day to three weeks of treatment
Burns/scarring
Burns may occur if incorrect treatment technique is used.

An experienced provider can prevent this.
Some scars may respond to medical treatment and resolve fully
Transient sensory nerve effects
These include tingling, itching and some numbness.

No permanent nerve injuries have been reported.
Burns/scarring
Axillary folliculitis
An inflammatory reaction of one or more hair follicles in the armpit. Only at risk if treating excess underarm sweating (axillary hyperhidrosis)
Typically resolves within five weeks

Any mild discomfort experienced during Ultherapy treatment is generally manageable. Our doctors will prevent unnecessary discomfort during treatment with a variety of pain relief measures. Any post-procedure discomfort should resolve quickly, typically within hours or a few days. 

Many of our patients have commented that doing Ultherapy with us has been more comfortable than at other clinics. Whatever other queries you have, we are here to help.

Why does Ultherapy cause side effects?

If Ultherapy is so safe, why does it cause any swelling or bruising in the first place? 

As the ultrasound waves pass over the skin, the waves cause a vibration of tissues, producing heat that stimulates collagen production. This heat and vibration make Ultherapy so effective at tightening skin, but it is also what may cause swelling and bruising.

  • It’s important to remember that any swelling or bruising is temporary, and does not affect treatment outcomes
  • There are no reported long-term side effects from Ultherapy
  • Swelling is a common side effect that will resolve within three to 72 hours of treatment.

There is no downtime after treatment. You may resume your regular skin care routines (including applying makeup immediately after Ultherapy) and your routine exercise.

Read: Why does the price of Ultherapy vary so much?

Things to take note of before and after Ultherapy

We take significant measures to ensure our patients know the proper Ultherapy treatment protocol.

Before: 

  • Do not use blood-thinning medications and supplements 
  • Avoid direct sun exposure three to five days before treatment
  • Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid and salicylic acid


After:

  • If your doctor permits, you may stop taking blood-thinning medications a few days prior to treatment.
  • Take Arnica Montana, a supplement that can reduce bruising or swelling.
  • Take Reparil, an OTC medication that can help with the swelling.
  • Painkillers such as ibuprofen or Arcoxia may be given prior to treatment (it helps with mild discomfort during treatment).
  • Apply a cold pack to the treated area following treatment and over 24 hours.
  • It is possible to receive local anaesthesia to mitigate pain during Ultherapy. Separate charges for anaesthesia apply. 

 

Taking good care of your skin during this time (e.g. moisturising regularly and eating well) will ensure you get the best results from Ultherapy and see marked improvements in your skin in the long run.

Why Ultherapy is a safe treatment

At our clinic, we practise Ultherapy with a commitment to safety, excellence and patient satisfaction. Our doctors prioritise top-notch care tailored to your unique needs. 

Ultherapy is a complex technology, but with experienced professionals who prioritise your well-being and aesthetic goals, you can rest assured that things become simple.

As doctors, we recognise that low risk does not mean no risk. Through keen and unrelenting safety procedures, we have consistently helped our patients restore the collagen in their skin with near-zero downtime.

Contact us now to book your Ultherapy consultation and take your first step towards enhancing your natural beauty.

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