Ultherapy After Childbirth: When Can You Have It?

A dermatologist in Gangnam, Seoul explains when Ultherapy can be considered after childbirth.

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Q. How soon after giving birth can I have Ultherapy?

There is no fixed waiting period after childbirth. We assess how well you have recovered, and recovery time varies from person to person.

After giving birth, many women notice weight gain or more facial sagging than before. During your consultation, we check whether you have recovered sufficiently from childbirth.

Q. Can I have Ultherapy while breastfeeding?

We do not recommend Ultherapy while you are breastfeeding.

According to the manufacturer's instructions, Ultherapy has not been evaluated for use in women who are breastfeeding. This does not necessarily mean it is unsafe, but its safety during breastfeeding has not been established.

We may also prescribe medication after treatment if needed, and some medications may need to be avoided during breastfeeding. For these reasons, we suggest booking a consultation after you have finished breastfeeding.

Q. I'm planning to lose weight. Should I have Ultherapy first?

Soon after childbirth, many women have gained weight and plan to lose it. We take this into account when planning your treatment.

We suggest having Ultherapy while you work on losing weight. In our clinical experience, some patients report noticing changes when Ultherapy is planned alongside weight-loss efforts. Results vary from person to person.

Q. Do I necessarily need Ultherapy if my face looks saggy after childbirth?

Not necessarily. Changes in facial appearance after childbirth may involve fullness or sagging, and these are not always the same concern. During the examination, we assess the areas with more fat and those with sagging, and discuss whether Ultherapy is appropriate and which areas may be considered for treatment.

Q. What do you check at the consultation?

We look at your face and gently examine the tissues by touch to identify areas with more fat and areas with sagging. Before treatment, we mark the proposed areas on your face and review them with you.

You can read more about our approach in the Ultherapy design guide (in Korean).

Q. What should I tell you before my consultation?

Let us know how your recovery has been going, whether you are currently breastfeeding, and whether you plan to lose weight. We consider these factors when discussing treatment timing and areas. The decision to proceed is made after an examination.

Q. Can I also have Botox or skin boosters?

Many women do not have Botox or skin boosters during pregnancy. After giving birth, many ask about them alongside Ultherapy.

We do not recommend these treatments while breastfeeding because there is not enough data on their safety during nursing. We suggest booking a consultation after you have finished breastfeeding.

Q. How long does swelling last after Ultherapy?

In our clinical experience, swelling usually lasts about 1–2 weeks. Some patients notice more swelling one or two days after treatment, while swelling may start to go down gradually after about a week. Mild swelling can linger for 3–4 weeks. Recovery varies from person to person.

Note: This article provides general medical information. Guidance may vary according to the findings of an in-person examination. Whether and when to proceed is decided after the examination. Ultherapy may cause swelling, pain, bruising and temporary changes in sensation.