what is the thermage procedure?
thermage® is a safe, non-invasive, no downtime, single treatment, cosmetic procedure that is clinically proven to tighten, contour and rejuvenate
facial skin to help naturally restore a more youthful appearance. the thermage procedure is administered in a doctor's office using the thermacool system, fda cleared for the treatment of
facial wrinkles, which utilizes a unique form of capacitive radiofrequency (crf) technology to tighten existing
collagen and stimulate new natural
collagen production. immediate results are visible and continue to improve for up to six months. the thermage procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. unlike some lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin colors.
how does the thermage procedure work?
the procedure works by heating deep
collagen fibers in the skin and underlying tissue, while protecting the skin's surface with a cooling spray. the treatment is performed with the thermocool device. a thermatiptm, attached to a handheld device, briefly touches the skin, delivering the non-invasive crf energy deep beneath the skin. this deep uniform heating action causes the deep structures in the skin and underlying tissue to immediately tighten. over time, new and remodeled
collagen is produced to further tighten skin and renew
facial contours.
how long does the thermage procedure take?
the thermage procedure is a completely non-invasive, safe treatment that is performed only in a doctor's office. depending on the size of the area to be treated, the procedure may take as little as 20 minutes or up to two hours.
how many treatments will i need?
unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single thermage treatment produces results in the majority of patients. the treating doctor will determine the course of treatment that is right for each patient, based on the patient's needs and goals.
when will i see results?
immediate results are visible, and improve over time. measurable tightening and contouring improvements appear gradually over a two to six month time period following a single treatment session.
where on the face is the thermage procedure performed?
● periorbital region: forehead and area around the eyes
● mid/lower face: includes the cheeks, area around the mouth, jaw line, jowls, and area under the chin
● lower face/submental: includes the area around the mouth, chin, jaw line, jowls, and area under the chin
● full face: includes the periorbital region and mid/lower face areas
● eyelids (upper and lower)
● thighs
● abdomen
● upper arms
what does the thermage procedure feel like?
with each touch of the thermatip device, the patient experiences a brief, deep heating sensation as the crf energy is delivered to the skin and underlying tissue. this deep heating sensation is an indication that
collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. to protect the skin and make the treatment more comfortable, the surface of the skin is cooled before, during, and after each application of crf energy. patient feedback on the level of heat sensation experienced during the procedure will help guide the doctor to balance procedural comfort with maximum results. the doctor may offer light pain medications prior to treatment to minimize sensation. these options should be discussed directly with the doctor as each patient's needs vary.
is there any special preparation or follow-up regime?
no. unlike surgery, there is no pre-procedure preparation, such as blood work or fasting required. one can return to regular activities immediately following treatment and there is no special care after treatment. some patients rarely exhibit a
temporary redness or minor
swelling after treatment, this usually resolves within 24 hours. good
skin care and
sunscreens are recommended as part of your regular
skin care regimen. the only signs of treatment are naturally smoother, younger, and healthier skin.