Thermage Non-Surgical Skin Tightening
Thermage is an exciting non-surgical skin tightening procedure which uses controlled radio frequency to tighten the tissue and skin without the need for surgery. Thermage involves no downtime or recovery and is ideal for improving loose skin on areas of the face like the forehead and brow, lower face, neck and eye area. It can also be used to treat the abdomen, arms, thighs, buttocks and other areas on the body. Thermage is FDA-approved for non-surgical toning and wrinkle treatment as well as for the treatment of acne and acne scarring.
*Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
Thermage is often referred to as a non-surgical facelift because some believe it can provide results comparable to facial plastic surgery. The radio frequency energy contracts and tightens the collage while preserving the surrounding tissue for a smoother, younger, more toned appearance. Thermage is safe on all skin types.
Thermage – The Procedure
Treatment with Thermage takes approximately one to two hours to complete depending on the size and number of treatment areas. Some minor discomfort is involved and, as such, a topical anesthetic cream and/or oral sedative are typically used. Some patients opt for light intravenous sedation instead. During the procedure, the activated laser is passed over the target areas and multiple passes are made.
Secret RF
Two effective skin-tightening treatments that have always been performed as standalone procedures now combine for a supercharged approach to skin rejuvenation. Popular treatments like Thermage and Exilis tighten the skin using RF (radiofrequency) heat energy, while microneedling physically punctures the skin to produce micro-injuries that trigger the body to produce new skin cells and collagen. Now, these individual procedures can be combined in a single treatment known as Secret RF. Secret RF delivers RF heat through the device’s 25-needle arrangement. This specific pattern targets tissue to prevent treatment overlap, ensuring more consistent results. The vertical zones are penetrated and the heat is able to reach various layers of skin during a single motion, similar to a fractionated laser. Because much of the skin is spared, healing times are much faster than with other procedures. The skin’s collagen coagulates and contracts from the heat and micro-injuries, resulting in the formation of new collagen and elastin that helps to create tighter, more youthful skin. Secret RF is ideal for scarring, wrinkling, and discoloration of the skin.
Precision Tx Laser
The Precision Tx Laser treatment is a recent development in skin rejuvenation and dermal tightening that directs heat energy directly below the skin from within. Minor incisions are created around the face so a fiber optic wire can be inserted under the skin. Once this is in place, an Nd:YAG 1440-nm laser delivers energy that liquefies fat and heats the dermal layer of skin. During other laser procedures, the heat must penetrate through the top layers of skin, emitting a lot of heat energy to reach deeper tissues, which can cause extended healing times. By accessing the tissues below the superficial layers of skin, fat can be melted and suctioned out of the face and neck, including the jawline and below the chin, while simultaneously rejuvenating and tightening the skin. The results include smoother skin, youthful contours, and improved skin elasticity. Often referred to as non-surgical facelift, the Precision Tx Laser may be best for younger patients who would like to postpone a traditional facelift. The treatment is completed in-office under local anesthesia and sedation is unnecessary. After a single session, Precision Tx Laser patients will see continued improvement for months after the procedure.
After Treatment: What to Expect
After treatment with Thermage, patients may experience some minor redness that typically clears up within a few hours. Minor swelling and tingling may also occur and this may take three to six days to resolve. Makeup can be worn immediately after treatment to help camouflage any side effects. There is no recovery or downtime associated with Thermage and patients are able to immediately return to their normal activities.
Patients may begin to see results within a few weeks, though it does take four to six months for the final results to be realized. One treatment is typically sufficient and results may last three or more years.
Possible Complications
Thermage is a very safe procedure with few complications. Some minor redness may occur. Less common risks may include burns and skin discoloration.
