THERMAGE PROCEDURE OVERVIEW
Palm Beach Institute of Cosmetic Surgery
Plastic Surgery for the Face and Body
The Thermage procedure is the only non-invasive treatment that delivers tighter skin, renewed facial contours and healthier collagen. The Thermage procedure is available only in offices of qualified physicians who specialize in cosmetic procedures. Dr. Kranendonk is the best source for determining how this treatment will most benefit you. The more commonly asked questions about this popular procedure are listed below.
What is the Thermage procedure?
The Thermage procedure employs a patented radio frequency technology called ThermaCool ™. It has been clinically proven to tighten and gently life skin to smooth out wrinkles and renew facial contours. The incision-free procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike lasers, the procedures can be performed on patients of all skin types. The ThermalCool device has been cleared by the FDA for the non-invasive treatment of facial wrinkles and rhytids.
How does it work?
The ThermaCool device uses a sophisticated treatment tip called Thermatip ™, which delivers a controlled amount of RF energy. With each touch to the skin, the Thermatip device uniformly heats a large volume of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin and its underlying tissue while simultaneously protecting the outer layer of the skin with cooling. This deep uniform heating action causes deep structures in your skin to immediately tighten. Over time, new and remodel collagen is produced to further tighten skin, resulting in healthier, smoothers skin and a more youthful appearance.
What does the Thermage procedure feel like?
With each touch of the Thermatip device, you will experience a brief, deep heating sensation as the RF energy is delivered to your skin and underlying tissue. The deep heating sensation is your indication that your collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. Dr. Kranendonk controls the amount of energy delivered to balance procedural comfort with maximum results. The Thermatip device is cooled before, during, and after heating to protect your skin and make the treatment more comfortable. Prior to treatment, an anesthetic cream may be applied to enhance your comfort. Additionally, your physician may also prescribe relaxants and/or pain medication.
When will I see results?
Recently published studies conducted by Thermage show that measurable tightening improvements appear gradually over a 2-6 months after a single treatment session. However, many patients have reported seeing an earlier response.
How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage treatment has produced results in the majority of patients. Dr. K will determine the course of treatment that is right for you.
How long does it take?
The Thermage procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the treatment area. Additional time may be required for skin preparation prior to the procedure.
What will my skin feel like after the procedure?
Immediately following a Thermage procedure, your skin should feel tighter, smoother and more youthful. Over time, you will notice additional tightening.
How long will the effects of the Thermage procedure last?
The Thermage procedure causes immediate tightening of the collagen structure, with additional tightening over time. Unpublished reports by experienced cosmetic physicians indicate that results may last 24 months or longer based on the patient’s natural aging process.
Is the Thermage procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With over 70,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less that 1%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare but longer lasting side effect described as a skin depression has also been reported. Consult with Dr. Kranendonk regarding this and any other questions you may have on the safety record of the Thermage procedure.
How long before I can return to my normal activities?
Most people return to their regular activates immediately following the Thermage procedure. Some people experience mild redness (like a sunburn), but is usually disappears quickly. No special care is needed after treatment unless otherwise instructed by Dr. Kranendonk.
