With the increasing popularity of various cosmetic surgery procedures, including Thermage, it is important that the prospective patient researches and understands different issues like what the procedure can and cannot treat, inherent risks, costs, and other factors. Keep in mind, cosmetic surgery is just that – a surgical procedure whose results cannot simply be erased. While the information contained in this website will provide a good introduction to Thermage, when considering this or any other cosmetic procedure, we recommend that you consult a qualified provider with significant experience. Some important elements you should understand regarding this procedure include the following:
The Thermage Procedure
Thermage is typically performed in a doctor's office and may take up to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the treatment area. Thermage delivers radio frequency energy to heat collagen, a structural protein located in the deep layers of the skin. Thermage helps build and contract collagen, which in turn tightens the appearance of the skin's surface. During each pulse, the outer layer of the skin is cooled while the deeper layers of skin and fat are heated to induce collagen tightening.
Each energy pulse takes two to seven seconds. The entire face may require 400 to 600 pulses, and the stomach area may require 400 pulses. The amount of pulses for other treatment areas varies.
Thermage results may be apparent after just one procedure. In fact, some women who have undergone body contouring around their love handles with Thermage have lost 1.5 inches of girth around their abdomen after one treatment.
The skin tightens during the initial process and continues to tighten for three to six months afterward. The procedure also stimulates your body's healing process, which produces more natural collagen over time.
The experience is often described as a deep heating or mild pinching sensation, but a new vibrating hand piece has led to significantly less discomfort.
Still, oral pain medication and a topical anesthetic ointment may be administered before treatment.
Best Candidates for Thermage
Thermage may work best for people who require 1 to 2 millimeters of facial tightening, compared with the 1 or more centimeters offered in a brow lift.
Body contouring candidates include those who have lax skin in the lower abdomen, such as women who have had children. Women with flabby upper arms, inner thighs and buttocks are also candidates for Thermage.
Side Effects
Thermage side effects are rare, but can include swelling, redness, blisters, peeling, bumps or dimpling. If a side effect occurs, it usually goes away within a few days to a few weeks.
Cost
Thermage cost ranges between $1,000 and $5,000 per treatment
Sources:
http://www.cosmeticsurgery.com/research/cosmetic-surgery/Thermage/
http://www.yourplasticsurgeryguide.com/face-lift/thermage.htm
