Details: Thermage® Procedure
What is the Thermage®?
Thermage® or “The Thermage® Procedure” involves treatment of the skin with the ThermaCool TC device. Multiple studies by independent researchers and clinicians have demonstrated that the ThermaCool TC device tightens existing collagen and stimulates the formation of new collagen. As featured on Oprah, Thermage® can improve the appearance of the skin around the eyes, cheeks, jaw line, and neck. It has received attention in numerous cosmetic magazines such as Allure and Vogue as a method of preventing and improving skin laxity.
How does Thermage® work?
The ThermaCool TC device uses radiofrequency energy to safely heat the deep layers of the skin (the dermis) while cooling and protecting the outer layer (the epidermis). Heating the dermis tightens existing collagen and stimulates new collagen.
How long does a treatment take?
The physician pulses the skin in the desired region multiple times using the ThermaCool TC hand piece. Total treatment time depends on the amount of skin to be treated. An average sized forehead or front of the neck takes 30 minutes. Cheeks require about an hour.
Does it hurt?
The deep heating sensation is mildly uncomfortable, but only for a second. For best results, treatment should be uncomfortable, but tolerable. Mild narcotics such as Percocet® taken prior to treatment can significantly reduce the discomfort and allow for higher energy levels. Oral Valium® helps keep you relaxed throughout the procedure. Topical numbing creams can be applied 60 minutes prior to the treatment, but do not penetrate deep enough to be very helpful. Patient feedback during the procedure is important; therefore, general anesthesia or sedation is not advised. Reduce your pain tolerance by avoiding large amounts of caffeine and nicotine prior to treatment. Do not schedule your treatment within a week of other surgeries, stressful social events, or menstruation.
What is the recovery time?
There is no recovery time with Thermage® and no special aftercare instructions. The most common side effect is temporary redness in the treated areas, which typically resolves in a few minutes. The skin may feel slightly sensitive that day. Makeup can be applied immediately after treatment.
When can results be seen?
Most patients can feel a difference in their skin immediately after Thermage®. Improvements continue to gradually appear over the following six months as new collagen forms. Occasionally, patients will note continued improvements throughout the year.
How long do results last?
Results are estimated to last at least five years. As with any cosmetic procedure, the duration of benefits depends on factors such as smoking, overall health, and cumulative sun damage. Good skin care can help maintain the benefits.
How many treatments can be given?
The great majority of patients respond after just one treatment. The current theory is that multiple treatments will produce better results to a certain natural limit, which has not yet been defined. Some patients have had Thermage® as often as three times yearly without adverse effects.
What are the other risks?
Adverse consequences occur in less than 1% of cases. There are rare reports of superficial burns that healed without consequence; temporary altered sensation or numbness over treated areas; temporary swelling along the jawline; bruising; and waffle-like indentations. There are concerns that Thermage® could displace dermal implants and dermal fillers such as collagen and silicone. Thermage® can heat up metal particles in makeup and tattoos possibly causing unwanted blistering. There is concern that recent Accutane treatment can cause unwanted scarring. Some patients do not respond to Thermage®. As with any medical or surgical procedure, unforeseen consequences are always possible.
How can the risks be minimized?
Let your physician know about recent or past cosmetic procedures and past use of Accutane, implants, fillers, or tattoos in the treatment area. Be sure to clean your skin perfectly before Thermage®, to remove any makeup that might contain minerals or metals.
What are the alternatives?
Surgical lifting of the brow, eyelid, neck, and/or face provides the greatest improvement in skin laxity and associated wrinkles but requires anesthesia and some recovery time. Ablative lasers (e.g., carbon dioxide or erbium laser) can improve wrinkles and cause some skin tightening by vaporizing the outer layers of skin; however, the recovery period and risks (infection, color abnormalities, etc.) are much greater. Results with nonablative lasers, infrared energy, and ultrasound energy are controversial. Thermage® is still the most effective nonsurgical method for preventing and improving laxity of the skin.
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