They Work Differently & Have Different Results

Kamran Jafri, MD answers: Botox brow lift vs Thermage for the eyes?

What is the difference between a Botox brow lift and Thermage for the eyes?


Kamran Jafri, MD
14 months ago

Hello Bobbi,

As basic overview here are the differences:

Botox : is an injection that works by paralyzing the muscles that pull the brow down. As a result the muscles which lift the brow are unopposed and the brow lifts up. By controlling the amount of Botox injected and by accurately injecting specific muscles, very nice results can be achieved. Typically the wrinkles between the eyebrows are also improved along with the brows. Results last anywhere from 3-6 months.

Thermage: is a device which generates heat (radiofrequncy energy) that tightens the skin by affecting the collagen in the skin above the brow. Results can be subtle and often requires more than one treatment. Thermage tends to work better in younger patients with healthy skin. The satisfaction level with Thermage tends to be low, but in those who it works for the results last longer than Botox.

Of the two I recommend Botox. If you are not against surgery than an endoscopic brow lift or lateral brow lift will give you nice results that will last several years.

Also please note that none of these methods addresses extra skin on the eyelids - that is only treated with blepharoplasty surgery.

Hope this was helpful for you!

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A: Botox vs Thermage for eyelift

Jordana S. Gilman, MD
9 days ago

To treat aging eyes, we want to address several issues.  There is looseness of the eyelid skin, and there may be some dropping of the forehead and brow over time that makes the eyes and eyelids look heavy. 

Thermage tightens the collagen bundles in the skin leading to overall skin tightening in the treated area.  The results you see depend in large part on the condition of the skin when you start.  Someone with a lot of sun damage, and someone who is older, is not going to get as noticeable a result as someone who is younger or who has less sun damage.  Everyone gets results, but not everyone gets the same degree of results.  By treating the eyelids and the brow we tighten the skin and lift the brows.  Results of Thermage last several years, but the procedure can be performed as often as every 6 months.  Botox relaxes muscles.  When injected into the muscles that pull down or depress the brow, you get an elevation of the brow and an opening up of the eyes. Botox lasts approximately 3 months in most people.  Botox and Thermage work well together to address aging eyes from more than one perspective.  It is also important to be using a good skin care regimen including retinoids, antioxidants, and sunscreen to keep the skin in the best condition you can.

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