SKIN CARE SERVICES
What
does the Thermage Procedure feel like?
With each touch of the ThermaTip device, you will experience a brief, deep
heating sensation as the RF energy is delivered to your skin and underlying
tissue. This deep heating sensation is tour indication that your collagen is
reaching effective temperatures for tightening. The physician controls the
amount of energy delivered to balance procedural comfort with maximum results.
The ThermaTip device is cooled before, during, and after heating to protect
your skin and make the treatment more comfortable. Prior to treatment an
anesthetic cream may be applied to enhance your comfort. Additionally, your
physician may also prescribe relaxants and /or pain medication.
When
will I see results? Recently published studies conducted by
Thermage show that measurable tightening improvements appear gradually over 2
to 6 months after a single treatment session, however, many patients have
reported seeing an earlier response.
How many treatments will I need? Unlike many laser procedures
requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage treatment has produced
results in the majority of patients. Your physician will determine the course
of treatment that is right for you.
How long does it take?
The Thermage procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour,
depending on the size of the treatment area. Additional time may be required
for skin preparation prior to the procedure.
Patient Information
The Thermage procedure is the only non-invasive treatment that delivers tighter
skin, renewed facial contours and healthier collagen. (Collagen is the building
block that provides structure to your skin.) the Thermage procedure is
available only in the offices of qualified physicians who specialize in
cosmetic procedures. Your physician is your best information resource for
determining how this treatment will most benefit you. The more commonly asked
questions about this procedure are listed below.
What is the Thermage Procedure?
The Thermage procedure employs a patented radiofrequency (RF) technology called
ThermaCool(tm). It has been clinically proven to tighten and gently lift skin
to smooth out wrinkles and renew facial contours. The incision-free procedure
is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike
lasers, the procedures can be preformed on patients of all skin types. The
ThermaCool device has been cleared by the FDA for the non-invasive treatment of
facial wrinkles and rhytids.
How does it work?
The ThermaCool device uses a sophisticated treatment tip called ThermaTip(tm),
which delivers a controlled amount of RF energy. With each touch to the skin,
the ThermaTip device uniformly heats a large volume of collagen in the deeper
layers of the skin and its underlying tissue while simultaneously protecting
the outer layer of the skin with cooling. This deep uniform heating action
causes deep structures in your skin to immediately tighten. Over time, new and
remodeled collagen is produced to further tighten skin, resulting in healthier,
smoother skin and a more youthful appearance.
What
will my skin feel like after the procedure?
Immediately following a Thermage procedure your skin should feel tighter
smoother and more youthful. Over time, you will notice additional tightening.
How long will the effects of the Thermage Procedure last?
The Thermage procedure causes immediate tightening of the collagen structure,
with additional tightening over time. Unpublished reports by experienced
cosmetic physicians indicate that results may last 24 months or longer based on
the patient's natural aging process.
Is the Thermage Procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With over 70,000
estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side
effects is less then 1%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified
as swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These
side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (<0.2%) but longer
lasting side effect described as a skin depression has also been reported.
Consult with your physician regarding this and any other questions you may have
on the safety record of the Thermage procedure.
How long before I can return to my normal activities?
Most people return to their regular activities immediately following the Thermage procedure. Some people experience mild redness (like a sunburn), but it usually disappears quickly. No special care is needed after treatment unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
How much does the Thermage Procedure cost?
The cost for the Thermage procedure depends on the facial areas being treated. Certainly the more treatment area involved, the more the procedure will cost. Your physician will discuss his or her fees with you at the time of your consultation.