TemThe biggest difference between TempSure Envi and Ultherapy is the type of energy in play: TempSure Envi uses radiofrequency, while Ultherapy emits ultrasound waves.
The goal of both options is the same—to generate enough heat to spark new collagen production and remodeling in the dermis. However, there are differences in treatment parameters like temperature control, energy output, and depth of treatment, which influence how the procedure feels and how many sessions are needed to see a real difference.
When treating the face, some providers even pair TempSure Envi with Ultherapy, alternating energies to address various depths of tissue for a more comprehensive tightening treatment.
Ultherapy delivers the energy more deeply in the tissues, so it typically requires local anesthesia. The upside is that patients commonly need only a single session of Ultherapy to get optimal results.
TempSure Envi is less intense, more comfortable, and requires a series of treatments.
Another key difference of TempSure Envi is that it’s a multifaceted device, with different handpieces for treating facial wrinkles, skin laxity, cellulite, and even the vaginal wall (with TempSure Vitalia), all via collagen stimulation and remodeling.
A fairer comparison might be TempSure skin tightening vs. Thermage, another RF energy treatment. Thermage has been around for decades and, like Ultherapy, is known for its intensity and discomfort.
Still, there are plenty of doctors who swear by its tightening effects, saying it continues to give unparalleled results, despite the many newcomers in this realm.
In a RealSelf Q&A, Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Laurie Casas says that she uses Ultherapy to lift sagging, lax skin but favors Fraxel lasers to stimulate new collagen in the skin’s surface. “Ultherapy can target three different depths,” Dr. Casas explains: “the dermis (deeper skin), fat + connective tissue (the SMAS), and muscle.”
Another benefit is the temperature: Ultherapy “precisely and consistently heats the targeted tissue to 60-70 degrees centigrade, the optimal temperature for contraction and denaturation of collagen.” Thermage and other radiofrequency treatments “only heat the tissues to 40-50 degrees, which is suboptimal for neocollagenesis,” according to Dr. Casas.
Just one word of caution: deeper and hotter isn’t always better, in poorly trained hands.
The bottom line: There are numerous skin tightening technologies harnessing these two types of energies. Generally speaking, the ones that require multiple sessions are less powerful and impactful than those promising a one-and-done experience.
They’re all expensive, and none can deliver anything close to surgical results, so they’re best reserved for patients with mild laxity and fine lines.
A board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon—ideally one who offers a range of treatment options—can recommend the one that will work best for you.
