Treatment times for noninvasive procedures that treat aging skin can take less than 90 minutes and require little to no downtime.
That’s why methods like Thermage and Ultherapy are gaining ground for people who want to minimize wrinkles, tighten skin, and appear younger.
Both procedures address similar issues, but there are also key differences to be aware of when deciding which method is best for you.
Read on to learn about:
- how Thermage and Ultherapy work
- what you can expect from the procedures and results
- what the main differences are between the two procedures
What is Thermage?
Thermage is a nonsurgical procedure that uses radiofrequency (RF) to help tighten and smooth skin by promoting new collagen growth. RF waves induce heat into the skin that treats outer skin and then extends inward.
Thermage is generally recommended for:
- face
- eye area
- abdominal area
- thighs
One advantage to Thermage is its ability to treat larger areas. A single treatment takes about 30 to 90 minutes depending on the treatment area, and there is little to no downtime. https://389a64bb4f9ae5c88ebb94d9e733bb7c.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-38/html/container.html
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy uses ultrasound imaging to bypass the skin’s surface and stimulate collagen production in the desired areas.
Ultrasound is best known for targeting smaller, deeper skin layers. In this way, Ultherapy is touted as treating the skin from the inside out.
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared, non-invasive procedure for lifting and tightening the areas around the:
- brow line
- chin
- neck
- chest
The company that designed Ultherapy put protocols in place that allow it to be used on the face. It’s specifically approved for use on the lower face.
Procedures are done in a medical office and a local anesthetic can be used to help prevent discomfort. However, it’s not enough to manage the pain during treatment.
Currently, PRO-NOX, which is nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is primarily used for pain management. It doesn’t replace the anesthetic, but in combination with other pain management protocols, such as taking ibuprofen (Motrin) prior to the procedure, it helps with pain relief.
Skin may appear red and irritated immediately following treatment, but this typically resolves in a few hours. You can resume regular activities following the procedure, as no downtime is required. {thermage flx toronto}
What are the differences between Thermage and Ultherapy?
Thermage and Ultherapy are similar in many ways, but there are some notable differences to be aware of before deciding on the right treatment for you. {thermage flx toronto}
Types of energy
The main difference between Thermage and Ultherapy is the type of energy each uses to restore collagen production.
This energy difference is important because ultrasound can generally reach deeper into the dermal layer.
Treatment areas
Another key difference between the two methods is the areas treated.
If you’re looking to target the neck and décolleté area, then Ultherapy is the method of choice. These areas are not treatable with Thermage. Ultherapy is also best suited for mild to moderate skin laxity.
You may consider Thermage if you’re looking to target skin other than the face and neck.
In addition to the face, Thermage also works on sagging skin on the abdomen, thighs, arms, and buttocks — areas not approved for treatment with Ultherapy.
Timing of results
Both procedures take about the same time to perform. But in general, you can expect to see full results from Ultherapy in 2 to 3 months after treatment.
Results with Thermage can take 6 months.
