Ultherapy vs Thermage

If you are unhappy with skin laxity or wrinkles on your face, then you have many options. Those who want to keep away from invasive surgery can choose between Ultherapy and Thermage among other choices. Both of these treatments are noninvasive procedures that can take less than 90 minutes and have little to zero downtime, meaning you can get back to your schedule as soon as you exit the treatment facility’s doors. Both Ultherapy and Thermage minimize wrinkles, tighten skin, and restore a younger appearance, but they have some minor differences that we will review here. If you have any specific questions or want to schedule an appointment, then call the Harley Institute to speak with a friendly representative.

What Is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production in targeted areas. This FDA-cleared, non-invasive procedure is popular for targeting smaller, deeper skin layers. It is known for lifting and tightening areas around the brow line, chin, neck, and chest. In fact, Ultherapy is specifically approved for use on the lower face. The treatment can be as short as half an hour for smaller areas and up to an hour for larger treated areas.

Though patients experience some pain during treatment, nitrous oxide in combination with pain relief medication helps with the pain relief. Skin may appear red and feel irritated but should resolve in a few hours at most. As there is usually no downtime required, you can resume your regular activities following the procedure. You can expect to see results in two to three months after treatment and these results can last a year, though you may need multiple treatments.

What Is Thermage?

Thermage is also an FDA-cleared, non-surgical procedure that helps tighten and smoothen skin by promoting new collagen growth. This treatment uses radiofrequency as opposed to Ultherapy’s ultrasound energy. Thermage has the advantage of treating larger areas, capable of tackling wrinkles and skin laxity on the face, eye area, abdominal area, and thighs. As it addresses larger areas, Thermage can take anywhere between thirty minutes to an hour and a half. 

Thermage may be a bit more uncomfortable than Ultherapy, new developments in the treatment process include cooling the skin to reduce pain. Of course, pain relief medication and topical anesthetics can be used if the pain is too much. As with Ultherapy, Thermage has no downtime required, meaning you can get back on your schedule after the procedure. Results with Thermage can take up to six months and last for up to two years.

Finding A Provider and Preparing for Treatment

If you live in the Metro Atlanta area, then you have the opportunity to visit the Harley Institute for your Thermage or Ultherapy treatment. Dr. Sharon Bent-Harley is a board-certified physician with years of experience providing these procedures. Since these procedures are non-surgical, there is not much preparation you need before arriving at the office. Come with a clean face, free of skin care products, makeup, and chemical treatments or facial peels. We will take care of the rest.