Among the two most popular and widely used systems of
wrinkle reduction and reshaping of targeted fat deposits are Exilis and
Thermage. To be able to make the right choice in what is right for you, you
need to know what they both involve and the kind of results you can expect.
While they may appear to be similar at first glance, there are differences that
enhance one procedure over the other.
Thermage
Thermage is a non-surgical procedure that uses radio
frequency energy to stimulate the collagen in your body. The procedure causes the
area of application to contract, resulting in tighter and firmer skin. The
treatment is done using a hand held device that is applied to the skin surface.
The device emits the radio frequency energy that penetrates the surface of the
skin to reach the collagen deposits underneath. Although the system works to
cool the top layer of skin while delivering heat to the lower layers, you will
feel varying sensations of heat while the treatment is in progress. The
procedure typically lasts from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the part of the
body being treated.
The drawback with Thermage is that it does not work on
wrinkles and deep lines. On the positive
side, it can be used on darker skin tones, unlike Intense Pulsed Light and Laser
Resurfacing. It also works on lighter skin.
Thermage treatment does not require any down time and you
should be able to resume all you normal activities immediately after the
procedure is completed. In some cases, there may be mild transient redness
which will disappear in a short time. Post treatment exercise and regular
hydration is necessary to maximize the results.
Exilis
Exilis is an FDA approved procedure that also uses radio
frequency energy to tighten skin on any part of the face or body. Exilis uses
radio waves to safely target fat cells. This thermal energy strengthens and
stimulates the collagen to improve laxity and texture. The simultaneous cooling
action of Exilis allows for the deep layers in the tissue to be treated. This,
along with the sophisticated monitoring system, ensures that you will be
comfortable and relaxed while the treatment is underway.
There is no downtime after the procedure and you will be
able to resume all your activities once it is over. Here too, exercise and hydration will
maximize the benefits of the treatment.
Differences
The main differences between Thermage and Exilis are:
- Thermage applies the energy in a pulsed form, so that each pulse applies a large amount of heat. Exilis delivers the heat continuously and builds it up gradually.
- Thermage treatment takes about 45 to 90 minutes. Each Exilis treatment requires about 30 minutes.
- Thermage is effective on the face and smaller body areas. Exilis is effective on not just the face but on all parts of the body, including the arms, legs, thighs, abdomen, chest and neck.
- The Exilis treatment is more tolerable and is less inexpensive in comparison to Thermage.
- It is cost effective as maintenance is much easier after an Exilis treatment.
Making a Choice
If you need to decide upon the type of treatment you need to
undergo, then consulting an experienced doctor, would be advisable, as the
doctor can guide you after taking into consideration the various aspects of
your requirements and the apt treatment that will provide optimum results.
Doctor Speak
From many reviews, many doctors who have used Thermage, both
the old and new devices and despite the great marketing support from the
Thermage Company itself, many doctors have graduated into using the Exilis process,
as it is longer lasting, is very comfortable on the patient, has
better maintenance outcomes and is less expensive.
