ULTHERA is the first aesthetics device to combine ultrasound imaging with focused ultrasound energy for non-invasive skin lifting. The ultrasound enables visualisation of tissue beneath the skin's surface and Ulthera is the first and only non-surgical procedure to be able to focus energy at prescribed levels. This enables significant lifting of skin tissue while leaving the top layers including the epidermis completely unaffected.

One of the key features of Ulthera is that it actually triggers the body's natural healing response which results in regenerated supportive collagen fibres - gradually lifting and tightening skin tissue over time. In clinical trials, 89 percent of patients have noted lifting, tightening and firming in the eyes, general face area, neck, cheeks and along the jaw line. Over a 90-day period, the skin takes on a noticeably refreshed appearance that lasts for 10 months up to a year after the first treatment.

As my face was not sagging yet, I was concerned that I would look too stretched and lifted after Ulthera. Dr Loh reassured me that this would not be the case."Ulthera is suitable for everyone as the treatment stimulates collagen and makes you look more refreshed. After Ulthera, you will get a more defined jaw line, your lines will get pulled up and collagen stimulated within your skin. In fact, Ulthera will make you look five years younger!"

Numbing cream is first applied and left on for 20 minutes. This was then wiped off and a cold gel spread liberally over my cheeks down to my neck. Using a handheld device, Dr Loh fired shots section-by-section around my cheeks down to my jaw. He focused on my jaw line and chin to firm those areas and also applied some shots at my temple for my crows' feet and to lift my eyes. Ulthera's ultrasound energy felt like an electrical sewing machine stitching my skin from deep within.

Some parts, especially around the bony areas like cheekbones and temples, felt more sensitive. To relieve the pain, I gritted my teeth and focused my thoughts on looking five years younger.

My face felt really tight after the Ulthera treatment and when I tried to smile, my lower face, where Dr Loh focused the ultrasound energy, felt stretched. There was some mild rednesswhich went away in 30 minutes and the tight feeling also eased to a gentler tightness soon after. Before Ulthera, I was able to pinch the soft and loose skin underneath my chin easily.

After Ulthera, the skin underneath my chin firmed up and became more difficult to pinch.

One treatment is enough to achieve your desired effect. The effects of Ulthera is said to last up to five years. It is likely that if your sagging is severe, you may need a repeat treatment for optimal results.