What is the Thermage procedure?

Thermage®, 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, 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 lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin color.

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 ThermaCool device. A ThermaTip™, 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

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 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.

How long will the effects of the Thermage procedure last?

The Thermage procedure immediately tightens existing collagen and stimulates new natural collagen production for up to six months following the treatment. Unpublished reports by experienced cosmetic doctors indicate that results may last for years and are based on the patient's natural aging process.

Is the Thermage procedure safe?

With over 190,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less than 0.4%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps, and blisters on or around treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (<0.11%) but longer lasting side effect described as a surface irregularity 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.

Is Thermage the only radiofrequency technology on the market today?

While there are other skin care technologies that use radiofrequency energy, only the Thermage proprietary capacitive radiofrequency technology delivers deep uniform volumetric heating powerful enough to naturally tighten and contour skin and underlying tissue. Also, Thermage achieves results in a single treatment compared to other technologies requiring five or more treatment sessions.

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.