05 Nov Part 2: Should You Get Thermage, Ultherapy … or Both?
Now that you know a little more about Ultherapy, you’re probably wondering if you’re a good candidate for these skin-tightening treatments. RefinedMD is proud to offer these options because not everyone is ready for a more initense procedure like a facelift. Even though our resident double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sudeep Roy offers both the facelift and mini facelift, some people simply prefer a non-surgical approach to skin tightening.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery recommends both Ultherapy and Thermage FLX to those with mild or moderate skin laxity. In some cases, skin laxity might be so mild that surgery simply isn’t the right approach—but that doesn’t mean subtle skin laxity doesn’t do a number on your self-esteem. Scheduling a consultation for skin tightening is going to be the best way to gauge if Thermage FLX, Ultherapy, or a combination of both is the best approach for you.
Who isn’t the Right Fit for Skin Tightening?
Most adults will enjoy an improvement in skin laxity with Ultherapy or Thermage FLX. However, you should not undergo these skin tightening procedures if you have a current skin infection, take certain medications, or in some cases if you are pregnant. Medications that don’t do well with skin tightening include anti-inflammatories, including over-the-counter options like ibuprofen. If you take prescription medications that are contraindicative with skin tightening, talk to your prescribing doctor. Alternatives may be available.
Those who are the best candidates for Thermage are typically middle-aged and do not have laxity severe enough to require a facelift. Mild or moderate sagging of the neck, jowls, brows, cheeks, and eyelids can mean that Thermage is the right treatment for you. Of course, if you’re concerned about larger body areas like the abs or thighs, Thermage FLX can also help. A 2019 study showed that radiofrequency systems like Thermage are safe for all skin tones and types.
Ultherapy and Thermage FLX Treatment Prep
Whether you opt for Thermage or Ultherapy, getting ready for your treatment is the same. There’s not a lot you need to do in advance, but do make sure the treatment areas are clean and free of makeup and skin care products. Avoiding additional non-surgical treatments, like a chemical peel, is also best (you can always opt for complementary treatments like these a few weeks after your skin tightening treatment).
Neither Thermage nor Ultherapy requires much (if any) downtime. However, what to expect during these treatments varies. With Thermage, the provider sends radiofrequency energy into the treatment site with a special handheld device. Clients will feel heat with each use. Thermage treatments last 30 – 120 minutes depending on the treatment site(s). A cooling spray applied to the skin’s surface helps to maximize comfort.
When you get Ultherapy, a gel is applied similar to when undergoing an ultrasound while pregnant. The device is then placed on the target site while the provider sees inside the skin via a specialized viewer. This allows for optimal targeting. Typical Ultherapy sessions last 30 – 90 minutes. A sensation of heat or tingling is common with an Ultherapy treatment.
After Ultherapy and Thermage Treatment
Thermage results last 1 – 2 years on average while Ultherapy results last about one year. Studies have shown that Ultherapy improved skin laxity 3 months after the treatment in 58.1 percent of people, so do keep in mind that it can take up to 6 months to see complete results. Many people are happy with results after just one treatment of Thermage or Ultherapy, but others prefer a series of treatments. To maintain results, you will need ongoing sessions every 1 – 2 years.
When it comes to finding a provider for Thermage or Ultherapy, keep in mind that it’s always best to work with a clinic that has MDs on site. The safety and success of your treatment is largely dependent on the skill of the provider. However, both Thermage and Ultherapy are considered safe options for non-surgical skin tightening. If you do have any concerns about safety, discuss them with your doctor and during your consultation. You can book your consultation at RefinedMD today by calling the office. For the quickest response, start an online chat or complete the online form today.