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Ultherapy® vs. Facelift: Which Option Is for You?

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September 15, 2025 | Facial Aging
4 minute read


Beautiful mature woman with gray hair

As we age, skin loses its elasticity and facial contours begin to soften. The Deep Plane Facelift and the next-generation Ultherapy® treatment are two popular solutions that can help restore a youthful appearance. At Facial Plastic Surgery Associates in Houston, TX, we specialize in both non-invasive and surgical options. This guide will help you understand the benefits of each so you can make an informed decision.

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure designed to address signs of aging, such as sagging skin, jowls, and loss of volume. While there are several different facelift approaches, such as Dr. Sean Delaney’s Deep Plane Facelift, the surgery generally involves tightening underlying muscles, repositioning the facial tissues, and removing excess skin to create a smoother, firmer appearance. 

Facelift Benefits

A Deep Plane Facelift at FPSA works beneath the surface to help lift sagging skin and restore definition along the jawline, cheeks, and neck. Other key benefits include:

  • Dramatic rejuvenation: A Deep Plane Facelift addresses deep wrinkles, jowls, and loose skin that non-invasive methods simply cannot correct.
  • Long-lasting results: Outcomes often last ten years or longer, making it a worthwhile investment for significant aging changes.
  • Comprehensive improvement: Tightens multiple layers of tissue for balanced, natural-looking contours and an overall rested look.

Facelift Candidates

Ideal Deep Plane Facelift candidates are generally healthy, non-smoking adults with moderate to advanced facial sagging who want noticeable, lasting improvement. Candidates should also have:

  • Good skin elasticity
  • Realistic expectations about results
  • A willingness to undergo surgery and recovery


A consultation at FPSA allows Dr. Delaney to evaluate your facial structure and concerns and recommend the right surgical plan.

What Is Ultherapy®?

Ultherapy® is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. Unlike laser or radiofrequency treatments, ultrasound energy penetrates deeper layers of tissue without damaging the skin’s outer layer. Over several months, new collagen tightens and lifts the skin, improving the brow, jawline, and neck without incisions or downtime.

Ultherapy® Benefits

One of the main benefits of Ultherapy® is that it is non-surgical, and appointments are quick, usually lasting 30–90 minutes with no recovery time. Other benefits include:

  • Natural collagen stimulation: Results develop gradually, so improvements look subtle and authentic.
  • Convenient maintenance: Many patients repeat Ultherapy® every 12–18 months to keep collagen production active.
  • Great for early aging: Ideal for patients not yet ready for surgery or seeking to refresh between facelifts.

Ultherapy® Candidates

Ultherapy® is best suited for individuals who:

  • Have mild to moderate skin laxity
  • Prefer a non-invasive facial rejuvenation option
  • Have early signs of aging
  • Want to extend the results of a previous facelift

Patients seeking dramatic correction or with significant sagging may find a Deep Plane Facelift to be a better solution.

Which Is Right for Me?

Choosing between Ultherapy® and a Deep Plane Facelift depends on your goals, the degree of aging, and your lifestyle. If you want subtle tightening without downtime, Ultherapy® offers a convenient, non-surgical solution. If you’re ready for a transformative, long-lasting result, a Deep Plane Facelift delivers comprehensive rejuvenation. Many patients even combine treatments over time, using Ultherapy® to maintain or enhance surgical outcomes.

The best way to determine which is right for you is to consult with a highly qualified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Sean Delaney of Facial Plastic Surgery Associates in Houston is double board-certified and is highly experienced in helping patients achieve their aesthetic desires. At a consultation, our team can evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, create a treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have. 

Learn More About Ultherapy® and Facelift Surgery in Houston, TX

If you’re interested in Ultherapy® or a facelift, the most important decision you’ll make is which surgeon to trust with your treatment. Dr. Delaney is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon who specializes in facial rejuvenation procedures to help patients feel confident and refreshed. To schedule a consultation, call FPSA at (713) 526-5665 or complete our online contact form

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