What is the difference between Ultherapy and Thermage?

THERMAGE

Technology within the aesthetic treatment world is constantly changing and there are now a multitude of options when it comes to skin tightening treatments. Two popular treatments, Ultherapy and Thermage/Thermage FLX have gained recognition for their ability to provide non-invasive skin tightening and lifting effects.

In this blog, we will look at both treatments to help you make a detailed comparison about which treatment may be right for you.

Ultherapy

Ultherapy being performed by trained experts

Technology

Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound with visualisation (MFU-V) energy. This type of energy targets the deep tissue layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production.

Treatment Depth

Ultherapy is able to achieve deep penetration to the SMAS layer of the skin.

The MFU-V energy of Ultherapy is able to target deep tissue layers at precise depths of 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5mm.This depth of treatment is not matched by any other non-invasive cosmetic device.

Ultherapy can treat down to the SMAS (fibromuscular) layer of skin which sits just above the muscle tissue. As we age, this layer of skin becomes thinner which results in wrinkles and sagging. As it is able to treat multiple layers of skin, this achieves a longer lasting effect.

Procedure

Once your face has been cleansed, a gel is applied to enable the Ultherapy applicator to work. Ultherapy uses focused 3D visualisation ultrasound imaging which enables the practitioner to see deep within the skin to the SMAS layer. This helps them to achieve a highly targeted and accurate treatment. As the energy is delivered beneath the skin, a natural healing response is triggered which will lead to an increase in collagen and elastin production over time.

An Ultherapy procedure takes around 30-60 minutes to perform. The treatment is well tolerated by most patients, a warm tingling sensation is felt during the treatment that may cause discomfort, but this is temporary. Your practitioner should work with you to ensure you are comfortable throughout your procedure.

Areas Treated

Ultherapy is suitable for:

Face / Cheeks/ Jawline / Chin – Ideal for sagging skin, drooping jowls and lines and wrinkles.
Brows / Under Eye – Ideal for drooping brows or sagging/drooping eyelids.
Neck & Décolletage – Ideal for sagging or wrinkled skin on the neck and chest (turkey neck).

Downtime

There is no downtime following Ultherapy, most patients are able to return to their usual activities immediately following treatment. Slight Redness and mild swelling may occur but this should subside within 1-2 hours following treatment.

Results

Many patients feel an immediate lift following treatment but more noticeable improvements are not seen until 3-6 months following treatment. The results can last anywhere from 12-18 months. Regular treatment is required to help maintain your results.

Ultherapy treatment face before and after photo results

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Thermage / Thermage FLX

Thermage treatment being performed by trained medical experts

Technology

Thermage uses radiofrequency technology to heat the skins layers which helps to tighten existing collagen whilst also increasing collagen production.

Treatment Depth

Thermage is able to target skin at the dermis to the subcutaneous fat layer.

A Thermage treatment treats up to 3mm of skin depth, but it does cover a wide area and delivers a greater volume of energy within one session when compared to Ultherapy.

Procedure

The skin is first cleansed before a grid system is applied to the area being treated to ensure the area being treated is accurately treated. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin before the treatment tip is placed onto the skin. A mixture of cooling and heat is felt, the heat from the treatment is targeting deep tissues to firstly tighten existing collagen but also stimulate the production of more collagen.

Thermage takes around 45-60 minutes to perform, newer Thermage CPT sytems incorporate Comfort Plus Technology which helps to reduce discomfort whilst also allowing for higher radiofrequency levels to get the best results. You will feel a cooling sensation as the applicator is placed on the skin, followed by a brief deep heating sensation and then another cooling sensation. Your practitioner will ensure you are comfortable with the level of heat throughout the treatment.

Areas Treated

Thermage can effective treat;

Upper Face / Lower Face – Ideal for loose jowls, sagging skin and fine lines and wrinkles.
Eyes – Ideal for hooded or furrowed brows.
Neck / Décolletage – Ideal for sagging or wrinkled skin on the neck and chest (turkey neck).
Body / Stomach, Buttocks, Knees & Thighs – Ideal for treating areas of sagging skin, dimples and bulges including cellulite.
Arms – Ideal for smoothing dimples skin and reducing bingo wings.
Hands – Ideal for reducing crepey skin on the hands.

Downtime

There is no downtime following Thermage, many patients immediately return to their normal daily activities following treatment. Redness is common following treatment, but this should subside within 24 hours.

Results

Many Thermage patients notice plumper and smoother skin in the hours following treatment thanks to its 3D collagen contraction.

However, the best results of the treatment can take up to 6 months when the new collagen is active. The results from Thermage treatment last around 1-2 years, a yearly maintenance treatment is recommended.

Thermage treatment face before and after results

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Which treatment is best for me?

Both Ultherapy and Thermage / Thermage FLX are great treatments with many advantages and befits for those suffering with issues such as skin laxity, sagging, and wrinkles.

Both treatments are FDA approved to achieve tighter skin with minimal downtime.

Overall, Thermage is better suited to patients who are looking to predominately tighten the skin to improve the texture and quality of sagging skin. It is also ideal for patients who are experiencing problems with sagging or dimpling on the body.

Ultherapy in comparison, due to its ability to stimulate deeper layers of the skin is much more effective at providing a lifting effect to the skin along with tightening. This is ideal for patients who are looking to treat sagging jowls and drooping brows.

In conclusion, both Ultherapy and Thermage are valuable non-invasive options for skin tightening and rejuvenation. The choice between the two should be based on your individual skin concerns and goals. Ultimately, seeking guidance from a knowledgeable professional is crucial to ensure the best possible results and a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.

Where can I have Ultherapy?

We offer Free Consultations at our Ultherapy clinics in Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds and Northampton.

Where can I have Thermage?

We have Thermage clinics in London and Manchester.

Ultherapy and Thermage at The Private Clinic

We offer our patients exceptional levels of care and professionalism at our network of non-surgical skin tightening clinics. We have over 40 years of clinical experience and all treatments are performed by qualified aesthetic medical practitioners including nurses and doctors who have had extensive training and hands-on experience.