THERMAGE
The Thermage unit is a computer controlled radio-frequency device that can tighten the skin without injuring the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin). The Thermage unit is not a laser, and the radiofrequency energy that is uses has been used for many years. There are no incisions on the skin surface and there is no recovery time.
Each pulse of the Thermage unit precisely heats the tissue underneath the surface of the skin, creating contraction and remodeling of collagen and tightening of excessively loose skin. This unit can be used on the forehead to lift the eyebrows, in the mid-face and lower face to improve cheek folds or “jowls” and to lift and tighten skin on the neck.
Thermage treatments seem to work best on patients in their 30’s through their early 50’s with thinner skin, although patients of all ages and skin types have responded well. Improved results may be seen with higher treatment energies, multiple passes over the treated areas, and multiple treatments. We also recommend Thermage as a yearly treatment to help maintain the results of a facelift.
During your procedure
Each time the machine is fired; there is a sensation of cold, then heat, then cold again in the treatment area. The entire cycle takes approximately 2 seconds. Oral medication prior to the procedure will make this treatment tolerable and because of that we do ask that you make transportation arrangements.
Although many patients will see some tightening immediately after the procedure, collagen remodeling in the deep layers of the skin over the several months after treatment causes the actual lifting and tightening.
