The Thermage procedure reduces the signs of aging skin by tightening the underlying tissue. It is currently used for non-surgical browlifts and the non-surgical tightening of facial wrinkles on the forehead, around the eye, the mid and lower face and the neck.
The Thermage procedure is also known as ThermaCool, and ThermaLift.
The radiofrequency (RF) energy uniformly heats the dermis while cooling and
protecting the epidermis. It is designed to cause immediate collagen contraction
followed by new collagen production which occurs over a period of time. The
Thermacool procedure is the only non-invasive method to tighten loose skin.
Depending on the size of the area treated, the procedure itself may take anywhere
from a few minutes to an hour. We may ask you to arrive an hour before your
procedure for administration of an anesthetic cream.
You may return to your normal activities immediately, as there is usually no
"downtime." Minimal redness is seen in some patients but in most cases it
disappears shortly after treatment. Heat-related complications may occur but are
uncommon. There is no special care needed after treatment. As part of your skin care
program, sunscreen is recommended.
Recently published studies, conducted by Thermacool, show that measurable
tightening improvements appear gradually over 2 to 6 months after a single treatment
session. However, many patients report seeing an earlier response.
A single treatment has produced good results in a significant number
of patients. However, we will assess the number and frequency of
treatments required to achieve optimal results for your skin.
Unpublished reports by experienced physicians indicate that results may last as long
as 18 months or longer, based on the patient's natural aging process.
The Thermage procedure is very safe. Although it is possible that skin damage can
occur, this advanced treatment has been studied carefully in hundreds of patients with
minimal reports of lasting adverse effects.