Quick answer: Thermage CPT and Thermage FLX are two generations of the same radiofrequency skin tightening system by Solta Medical. FLX is the newer version. It uses a larger tip, automatic energy tuning called AccuREP and improved comfort features, so treatments are faster and more consistent. The core technology and type of result stay the same.
Key takeaways
- CPT is the third generation of Thermage; FLX is the fourth.
- Both use monopolar radiofrequency to tighten skin and build collagen.
- FLX has a larger tip, so the face can be treated with fewer pulses.
- FLX tunes energy to each pulse automatically with AccuREP.
- Results build over two to six months with both.
What is Thermage CPT?
Thermage CPT, short for Comfort Pulse Technology, was introduced around 2009. It added vibration and improved cooling to make treatment more comfortable than earlier versions. CPT uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat the deep skin evenly, tightening collagen and stimulating new collagen. Many clinics used CPT for years with good results.
What is Thermage FLX?
Thermage FLX is the fourth generation, released in 2017. It keeps the same radiofrequency principle but adds AccuREP technology, which measures the skin before each pulse and adjusts energy delivery. FLX also introduced the Total Tip 4.0, a larger treatment tip that covers more area per pulse. This makes treatments faster and the heat more even across the face. Thermage has FDA clearance for wrinkles and fine lines, including around the eyes.
How do Thermage FLX and CPT compare?
- Generation: CPT third; FLX fourth.
- Tip size: CPT mainly 3.0 cm² tips; FLX offers a 4.0 cm² tip for the face and body.
- Energy tuning: FLX uses AccuREP to adjust energy to each patient; CPT relies more on manual settings.
- Treatment time: FLX is usually faster for the same area.
- Comfort: both use cooling and vibration; many patients find FLX smoother.
- Results: both tighten skin gradually, often lasting about a year.
Does FLX give better results?
The main tightening effect comes from the same radiofrequency heating, so both generations can give good results. FLX is designed to deliver energy more evenly and consistently, which may help results look more uniform across the face. In practice, the doctor's settings, the number of shots and your skin matter as much as the device generation.
How can you tell which version you are getting?
Ask the clinic directly which system they use and whether the tip is new and genuine. Genuine Thermage tips are single-use and come with a registration code. A trustworthy clinic will show you the tip and explain how many shots are planned for each area.
What about Thermage for the eyes?
Both generations have eye tips designed for the eyelid area. Eye treatments help with hooded eyelids, crepey skin and fine lines around the eyes. Protective eye shields are used during treatment.
What is the downtime?
Downtime is the same for both: very little. The skin may look pink or feel warm for a few hours, and mild swelling can last a day. Most visitors go out the same day.
Is it safe?
Both are safe in experienced hands. Rare risks include small burns, blisters or temporary bumps. Tell your doctor about metal implants, pacemakers or recent fillers. Always make sure the tip is genuine and new.
How to choose
Korea treated about 2.01 million foreign patients in 2025, and around 63% came for dermatology, according to the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Thermage is one of the best-known tightening treatments among visitors. Most clinics in Gangnam now use FLX. When comparing clinics, focus on the genuine tip, the planned number of shots and the doctor's experience, not just the device name.
Frequently asked questions
Is Thermage CPT still used?
Some clinics still use it, but most have upgraded to FLX.
Is FLX less painful?
Many patients find it more comfortable, though comfort also depends on settings and numbing.
Do I need fewer sessions with FLX?
Usually one session is enough with either version, repeated about once a year.
Can I check if the tip is genuine?
Yes. Ask to see the sealed tip and its code before treatment.
Sources
- Ministry of Health and Welfare, Republic of Korea – 2025 foreign patient statistics (press release, 2026).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration – 510(k) premarket notification database (Thermage).
- Solta Medical – Thermage FLX and Thermage CPT product information.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Results vary between individuals. Please consult a qualified physician before any treatment.
