Thermage is a noninvasive facial rejuvenation procedure that can help men and women appear younger, fresher, and revitalized, without the downtime, pain, and discomfort associated with invasive procedures, such as traditional facelifts.
The Thermage procedure relies on a unique energy delivery system, using special radiofrequency waves to treat the deeper layers of the skin, where damage from aging occurs.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and usually takes less than an hour to complete. Prior to your procedure, your specialist may apply a topical anesthetic to the surface of your skin to numb it and help reduce or eliminate any discomfort associated with the Thermage procedure. In some cases where deeper, more intensive treatment is necessary, you may also be given pain medication prior to treatment.
Once the procedure begins, your treatment provider will use a special wand or hand piece to direct the focused heat energy of the Thermage device into the deeper layers of the skin, helping to tighten and firm the underlying structures of the skin. At the same time, the deep heat will encourage the growth and development of new collagen, one of the components that helps skin appear firm and healthy. This collagen development will continue to occur for weeks and even months after the procedure, allowing you to see improvements long after the procedure is completed.
As the heat is being delivered to the deeper structures of the skin, a special cooling tip disperses a cooling spray to the skin’s surface to keep it cool and minimize discomfort. During treatment, most patients report feeling a deep heating sensation when the heating tip is activated. Individual pulses of heat last only a few seconds and treat less than one square inch of skin at a time.
Once treatment is complete, most men and women return to their normal routines right away.