Ultherapy vs. Thermage: Which Non-Invasive Skin Lifting Treatment Wins in 2026?
Ultherapy or Thermage? Compare energy type, results timeline, comfort, and costs to choose the right lift in 2026.
Ultherapy vs. Thermage: Which Non-Invasive Skin Lifting Treatment Wins in 2026?
By: Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic
Published: 2025-12-20
When it comes to non-invasive skin tightening and lifting, two technologies consistently rise to the top: Ultherapy and Thermage. Both deliver visible results without surgery, but they work in fundamentally different ways.
How Ultherapy Works
Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound energy (MFUS) to stimulate collagen in the deeper layers of skin and soft tissue. It heats tissue at precise depths without affecting the surface, triggering natural repair.
- Treatment depth: up to 4.5 mm
- Energy type: ultrasound
- Mechanism: collagen remodeling + new collagen synthesis
- Treatment time: 30-60 minutes depending on area
How Thermage Works
Thermage (CPT) uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis and underlying tissue. This creates immediate collagen contraction and longer-term collagen renewal.
- Treatment depth: 3-4.5 mm
- Energy type: radiofrequency
- Mechanism: collagen contraction + remodeling
- Treatment time: 15-45 minutes
Key Differences
1. Energy Source
- Ultherapy: ultrasound energy with precise depth targeting
- Thermage: radiofrequency energy with broader tissue coverage
2. Results Timeline
- Ultherapy: gradual improvement over 2-3 months, max at 6 months
- Thermage: immediate tightening, continues improving for 3-6 months
3. Comfort During Treatment
- Ultherapy: more uncomfortable due to deeper energy delivery
- Thermage: generally more comfortable with cooling technology
4. Number of Sessions
- Ultherapy: usually 1 session per area, annual touch-ups
- Thermage: usually 1 session, sometimes multiple for certain areas
5. Cost Comparison
- Ultherapy: $2,000-$4,500 CAD per full face
- Thermage: $1,500-$3,500 CAD per full face
Effectiveness Comparison
- Face lifting: both offer subtle 1-2 mm lift
- Skin tightening: Thermage often excels at tightening; Ultherapy excels at deeper lift
- Neck/Jawline: Ultherapy generally delivers stronger neck and jawline definition
- Forehead/Eyebrow: both effective, Ultherapy may produce more dramatic lift
Treatment Areas
Ultherapy best for:
- Eyebrow lift
- Jawline definition
- Neck tightening
- Chest skin tightening
- Deep tissue lifting
Thermage best for:
- Full face tightening
- Fine lines and texture
- Under-eye crepiness
- Body tightening (abdomen, arms)
Downtime and Recovery
Both treatments are non-invasive with minimal downtime. Mild redness or swelling is common for 24-48 hours.
Who Should Choose Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is ideal if you want:
- Deeper lift for jawline or neck
- Visible lifting rather than just tightening
- Longer-lasting collagen remodeling
Who Should Choose Thermage?
Thermage is ideal if you want:
- Overall tightening and texture improvement
- A more comfortable treatment
- Slightly lower cost per session
Can You Combine Both?
Yes. Many clients combine both treatments to target different tissue depths. A typical strategy is Ultherapy for lift and Thermage for surface tightening.
Final Verdict
Neither is “better” for everyone. The best treatment depends on your anatomy, age, and goals. We recommend a clinical assessment to decide the right approach.
At Richmond Anti-Aging Clinic
Our providers assess facial structure, skin laxity, and collagen health before recommending Ultherapy, Thermage, or a combination protocol.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Treatments should be prescribed and monitored by licensed clinicians.
