Ultherapy vs Thermage FLX. Which is superior?

Question

I am 37 and have mild skin laxity. I want to help tighten the skin under the chin and around the jawline and to use treatment as a preventative measure. I sold myself on Ultherapy based on my research online, but went in for a consult today and was told the center now uses Thermage FLX. I was told the results of the new Thermage are superior to Ultherapy and now I’m super confused. Ultherapy seems more to tailored to the individual, but maybe that doesn’t matter? So which is superior?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Types of energy
The main difference between Thermage and Ultherapy is the type of energy each uses to restore collagen production. Radiofrequency is used for Thermage, while Ultherapy uses ultrasound.

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.

Nuket Eroglu, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Thermage is a non-surgical facial tightening and skin rejuvenation device that operates with a monopolar radiofrequency system, considered the most effective in the world. It can reach up to 80° beneath the skin while safeguarding the skin surface with a cool tip. The synergy of radiofrequency and vibration works together. This is the only FDA-approved technology globally recognized for defining the jawline. Ultherapy utilizes sound wave technology. By focusing sound waves, it reattaches loosened skin to the underlying layer, preferred for correcting sagging rather than altering the skin's structure. Hence, due to its economical pricing range, it's more commonly used in middle age. Given that the area around the eyes is prone to quick deformation, it can be applied specifically around the eyes at a younger age. Due to its ability to break down fat cells, Ultherapy is stronger than Thermage FLX, making it an additional application for patients with excessive fat tissue in their jawlines. Thermage FLX excels in skin renewal, affecting deeper layers compared to Ultherapy. The effects of Thermage FLX are considerably longer-lasting when compared to Ultherapy. For patients with severe facial sagging and skin deformities, the preferred sequence involves Thermage FLX followed by Ultherapy. This aims to swiftly reattach the renewed skin to the subcutaneous SMAS layer for an immediate visible impact. Both methods do not require anesthesia, do not disrupt daily life, and can even be used to extend the duration of a facelift surgery. Particularly for patients who have had eyelid surgery, Ultherapy is recommended even at a young age. In cases of patients who have undergone facelift surgery, performing Thermage FLX extends the duration of the surgery and ensures a much more natural appearance due to the skin renewal. A single surgery is beautiful when done once. Repeated eyelid or facelift surgeries can cause adhesions in the tissue, leading to extremely adverse results. Therefore, thanks to these advanced technological methods, it's possible to postpone surgeries to much later ages.

Ultherapy vs Thermage FLX. Which is superior?

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Ultherapy vs Thermage FLX. Which is superior?

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Everything you need to know about Thermage FLX

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.