When it comes to non-invasive skin tightening treatments, Ultherapy and Thermage are two of the most popular options. Both are designed to lift and firm the skin without surgery, but how do they differ in terms of results, cost, comfort, downtime, and safety? Below, we’ll explore the key differences between these two treatments, so you can make an informed decision about which one might be right for you.
Click the video below to listen to Dr. Peter Lee explain the differences. and provide more insight on which procedure is best for you.
In 2019, one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures was a facelift. In 2020, the number of people getting facelifts decreased partially due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the decrease can also be connected to the rise in non-surgical procedures.
Many are opting for Ultherapy and Thermage treatments because they are non-invasive options. We’ll explore Thermage vs. Ultherapy, their benefits, and how these treatments differ. Read on to decide if either option is right for you.
What is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is an FDA-approved treatment that uses focused ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin by targeting the deeper layers of tissue beneath the surface. This procedure stimulates collagen production, helping to reduce sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles over time. It’s commonly used to treat the face, neck, and décolletage, offering natural-looking results without the need for surgery.
- Results: Ultherapy gradually improves skin tightness and tone over 2-3 months as the body produces new collagen. Results can last up to a year or more with proper skincare.
- Cost: The cost of Ultherapyvaries based on the treatment area but typically ranges between $1,500 to $3,500 per session.
- Comfort: While Ultherapy is non-invasive, some patients report mild discomfort during the procedure as the ultrasound energy is delivered deep into the skin.
- Downtime: There is little to no downtime, allowing patients to return to their normal activities immediately.
- Safety: Ultherapy is FDA-approved and considered very safe when performed by a trained provider. Is Ultherapy safe? The treatment has a strong safety record, with temporary side effects such as redness or swelling being rare.
Ultherapy Treatment: Before and After Photos
What is Thermage?
Thermage is another non-invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deep layers of the skin, promoting collagen production and tightening loose skin. Thermage is ideal for treating wrinkles and skin laxity on the face, neck, abdomen, and even around the eyes.
- Results: Immediate results are often visible after just one session, with full effects becoming more noticeable over the following months as collagen builds. Results can last up to 1-2 years depending on individual skin conditions.
- Cost: Thermage costs typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 per treatment, depending on the area being treated.
- Comfort: Thermage uses cooling technology to protect the skin’s surface, making the procedure more comfortable, although patients may still feel some heat.
- Downtime: Like Ultherapy, Thermage has minimal downtime, with most patients returning to daily activities immediately.
- Safety: Thermage is FDA-approved and widely regarded as a safe option for skin tightening, with temporary side effects such as redness or mild swelling being uncommon.
| Aspect | Ultherapy | Thermage |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Ultrasound energy | Radiofrequency energy |
| Treatment Areas | Face, neck, décolletage | Face, neck, eyes, body |
| Results Timeline | Gradual over 2-3 months | Immediate, with continued improvement |
| Duration of Results | Up to 1 year | Up to 2 years |
| Cost | $1,500 - $3,500 per session | $2,000 - $5,000 per session |
| Comfort | Mild discomfort during treatment | Generally more comfortable with cooling |
| Downtime | None | None |
| Safety | FDA-approved, minimal side effects | FDA-approved, minimal side effects |
Thermage vs. Ultherapy: The Differences Explained
Both Ultherapy and Thermage are non-surgical procedures used as skin tightening solutions. The differences between the two involve how Thermage works and vice versa.
Although they have similarities, determining the difference between Thermage vs. Ultherapy can help you decide which option is right for you.
The Energy
Even though both treatments aim to make people look younger, the procedures are quite different. The main difference is the energy used.
For Ultherapy, ultrasound is used while radiofrequency technology is used for Thermage treatments. Both energies create heat during the treatment process.
Ultrasound, Ultherapy energy, has the ability to reach deep skin lasers better than radiofrequency technology. This is one of the major benefits of Ultherapy because it is safer and more effective. Since it can reach deeper skin layers, Ultherapy treatment is a more effective skin tightening treatment, providing non-invasive skin tightening in a single treatment session.
Treatment Goals
Both treatments aim to create beautiful skin, but one approach may be better at treating a specific person. This is because Ultherapy works best for skin tightening but Thermage is better for diminishing the look of bulges and wrinkles.
Depending on the individual and their skin type, one treatment may be more effective than the other to reach the desired results. Your doctor can help you develop a revitalizing treatment plan for optimal results, aimed to repair skin issues and create a more youthful appearance based on your skin rejuvenation needs. A trained medical professional can determine if you are a good candidate for Thermage and Ultherapy treatments.
See More Ultherapy Results in our Before and After Gallery
Targeting Skin Layers
The way each treatment penetrates deep layers of skin is different. Ultherapy’s energy is highly focused and can penetrate through skin layers that were not always accessible through non-invasive methods.
Thermage can penetrate deep skin layers, but not as easily. Because of this, Ultherapy provides a longer-lasting look.
Accuracy
Ultrasound technology focuses on smaller deep skin layers that produce more accurate results. Generally, radiofrequency technology aims for large areas of the skin. Because Ultherapy uses highly focused energy, the treatments tend to be more expensive compared to Thermage.
Discomfort Levels
With any procedure, non-invasive or invasive, the biggest concern for many is the level of discomfort.
Thermage often gets a bad rap because it is an older treatment. When it first came into the limelight it was incredibly uncomfortable because of the level of heat.
As technology develops, Thermage becomes less and less uncomfortable. Before the treatment, the skin is cooled which helps a lot with the level of heat. But does Thermage really work? Most people will see results in 2-4 months after one session, but it may vary for some individuals.
Most people find Ultherapy painless. You may feel a tingling sensation or small burn when the treatment begins, but nothing difficult to handle.
Everyone’s pain levels are different when it comes to skin-tightening treatments. Your doctor may offer to give you a local anesthetic or topical to ease any discomfort you feel during treatment.
Downtime and Time Commitment
For non-invasive procedures, the downtime is little to nothing. What you do after the treatment is often up to you. Some prefer to take the day off because of redness or soreness. No matter the treatment, whether Ultherapy vs Thermage, give your skin a break after any procedure.
One session of Thermage treatment is around 45 to 90 minutes long. Ultherapy is shorter as it only lasts around 30 to 60 minutes.
The duration of the treatment depends on the area being treated. For example, a large area is going to take more time than a small one.
Through Thermage treatment, you can see differences quicker. However, the results don’t last as long as Ultherapy.
After Ultherapy, you may not notice a change for weeks or months. It takes a bit longer for skin laxity to improve with this treatment.
To maintain the results of these treatments, you can schedule touch-ups each year.
It is important to note that not everyone is right for Ultherapy or Thermage. Someone who has a significant amount of laxity or skin sagging on their face may be better suited for a facelift instead. Those not in good overall health will not be considered for these non-surgical treatments.
Which One Is Right for You?
The choice between Ultherapy and Thermage depends on your specific skin concerns, pain tolerance, and desired results. Ultherapy is ideal for patients who want a non-surgical facelift with gradual improvement, while Thermage is better suited for those looking for immediate results and an overall skin-tightening effect. Both treatments are excellent options for non-invasive skin rejuvenation, but a consultation at Wave Plastic Surgery can help determine the best course of action based on your individual needs.
Ready to make a long-overdue change? Contact us today at one of our many locations to learn how we can help you with our non-invasive treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of Ultherapy varies depending on the treatment area but generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,500 per session. Pricing may vary based on location and provider expertise.
Yes, Ultherapy is FDA-approved and considered safe when performed by a qualified provider. It has minimal side effects, such as mild redness or swelling, which usually subside quickly.
The cost of Thermage typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 per treatment, depending on the area being treated. Larger treatment areas or multiple sessions may increase the total cost.
Thermage skin tightening uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and resulting in smoother, tighter skin over time.
Both Ultherapy and Thermage are non-invasive treatments with little to no downtime. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Both Thermage and Ultherapy are effective for treating wrinkles, but Thermage is generally better for skin tightening, while Ultherapy targets deeper tissue for lifting. The best choice depends on your specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals.
Give us a call today to schedule your consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons at Wave Plastic Surgery.
