We often blame gravity for our wrinkles, but an even more significant factor is that the collagen and elastin in our skin eventually breaks down. These proteins give skin firmness and smoothness, and as they are depleted, we develop jowls, crepe-like skin texture, and a sagging brow.
New technologies take advantage of this scientific process by actually restoring the collagen and elastin in our skin for fundamentally younger looks. Three of these treatments—NuEra Tight, Renuvion, and Ultherapy—are popular, trusted options offered at our Lafayette cosmetic surgery practice. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
Ultherapy
Best for: Early signs of aging on the face, neck, and chest
Limitations: Multiple treatments may be needed; not effective for heavy sagging or excess fat under the chin
Ultherapy is a topical treatment that uses ultrasound energy, with no incisions required. You may be a good candidate if you have mild or early signs of aging, such as some jowls and loss of skin firmness in the brow, face, and neck areas.
Treatment time & frequency
Treatments typically take about 1.5 – 2 hours. Optimal results are usually achieved after just 1 or 2 treatments.
Results
Results develop over the course of several months and can last up to a year or even longer.
Anesthesia
No anesthesia or numbing is required, but we offer some pain relief options if you would prefer.
With Ultherapy, NuEra Tight, and Renuvion, you have more options than ever for achieving the youthful, rejuvenated skin you desire—but it’s key to talk with a cosmetic surgeon to choose the best treatment for your needs.
NuEra Tight
Best for: Multi-purpose skin tightening for the face, neck, and body
Limitations: Multiple initial treatments might be necessary for optimal results
NuEra Tight is a versatile radiofrequency (RF)-based option for skin tightening, fat reduction, and even cellulite reduction. It is intended for use almost anywhere on the body, making it ideal for patients seeking a treatment plan involving multiple areas like the upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and face.
Treatment time & frequency
Expect treatments to last between 10 and 25 minutes: 10-15 for face, and 20-25 minutes for body. For optimal results, a series of 4-6 initial treatments is recommended, with touch-ups every 3-6 months.
Results
Results develop gradually and can be long-lasting, especially when maintained with periodic touch-ups.
Anesthesia
No anesthesia or numbing is needed before receiving this topical treatment.
Renuvion
Best for: Moderate to significant skin sagging and fat reduction
Limitations: As an under-the-skin tightening device requiring one or more small incisions, Renuvion comes with side effects like swelling and redness and requires a few days of downtime
If you’re looking for more dramatic results or have areas of significant sagging, Renuvion may be ideal for you, with the trade-off of some recovery time. It’s effective nearly anywhere on the body—from head to toe—and can be combined with liposuction for comprehensive, surgical-level results.
Treatment time & frequency
The duration of the treatment session varies, but a single treatment offers substantial results that can last for many years for good candidates, barring the natural aging process.
Results
Results are visible once swelling subsides after the procedure, and they will continue to improve for several months post-treatment as collagen production increases.
Anesthesia
Depending on the treatment area, any combined procedures such as liposuction, and your comfort level, Dr. Duplechain will help you choose from general anesthesia, local anesthesia with sedation, or just local anesthesia.
Comparing costsCosts can vary widely between these technologies, as both your goals and the total number of sessions required affect treatment cost. For the most accurate comparison, be sure to also factor in how long your results can be expected to last. Lifestyle is another consideration: if you need to take time off work for recovery, you may wish to add this into your calculations.
Some patients may prefer multiple non-invasive Ultherapy or NuEra Tight treatments, while others may be best served by a single Renuvion + lipo session—while Renuvion can cost more, if it is right for you, you can efficiently achieve better, longer-lasting results.
For these reasons, we recommend starting your journey by consulting with Dr. Duplechain to learn the treatment plan he recommends, rather than making a decision based on cost alone.
Choose a trusted provider to help you make a treatment planThe “best” treatment for you depends on your individual needs, areas of concern, and your ultimate aesthetic goals. That’s why you should make this decision in consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Kevin Duplechain. Dr. Duplechain sits down with patients to learn about you, your motivations, and your desired outcome before educating you about all of your options.
Schedule your appointment today by calling (337) 456-3282 or reaching out to us online. We look forward to helping you reach your goals!
Leave a Reply