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Frequently Asked Questions
The Thermage® Procedure
What is the Thermage procedure?
Thermage® is a safe, non-invasive, no downtime, single treatment, cosmetic procedure that is
clinically proven to tighten, contour and rejuvenate facial skin to help naturally restore a more
youthful appearance. The Thermage procedure is administered in a doctor’s office using the
ThermaCool™ system, an FDA cleared medical device that utilizes a unique form of
radiofrequency technology to tighten existing collagen and stimulate new natural collagen
growth. Immediate results are visible and continue to improve for up to six months. The
Thermage procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike
lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin color.
How does the Thermage procedure work?
The procedure works by heating deep collagen fibers in the skin and underlying tissue,
while protecting the skin's surface with a cooling spray. The treatment is performed with
the ThermaCool device. A ThermaTip™, attached to a handheld device, briefly touches
the skin, delivering the non-invasive capacitive radiofrequency (CRF) energy deep
beneath the skin. This deep uniform heating action causes the deep structures in the
skin and underlying tissue to immediately tighten. Over time, new and remodeled
collagen is produced to further tighten skin and renew facial contours.
How long does the Thermage procedure take?
The Thermage procedure is a completely non-invasive, safe treatment that is performed only in
a doctor’s office. Depending on the size of the area to be treated, the procedure may take as
little as 20 minutes or up to two hours.
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How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage treatment
produces results in the majority of patients. The treating doctor will determine the course of
treatment that is right for each patient, based on the patient’s needs and goals.
When will I see results?
Immediate results are visible, and improve over time. Measurable tightening and contouring
improvements appear gradually over a two to six month time period following a single treatment
session.
Where on the face is the Thermage procedure performed?
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Periorbital region: forehead and area around the eyes
•
Mid/Lower face: includes the cheeks, area around the mouth, chin, jowls, jaw line and
submental area
•
Lower face/submental: includes the area around the mouth, chin, jowls, jaw line,
submental area
•
Full face: includes the periorbital region and mid/lower face areas
What does the Thermage procedure feel like?
With each touch of the ThermaTip device, the patient experiences a brief, deep heating
sensation as the CRF energy is delivered to the skin and underlying tissue. This deep heating
sensation is an indication that collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. To
protect the skin and make the treatment more comfortable, the surface of the skin is cooled
before, during, and after each application of CRF energy. Patient feedback on the level of heat
sensation experienced during the procedure will help guide the doctor to balance procedural
comfort with maximum results. The doctor may offer light pain medications prior to treatment to
minimize sensation. These options should be discussed directly with the doctor as each
patient’s needs vary.
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Is there any special preparation or follow-up regime?
No. Unlike surgery, there is no pre-procedure preparation, such as blood work or fasting
required. One can return to regular activities immediately following treatment and there is no
special care after treatment. Some patients exhibit a temporary redness or minor swelling after
treatment, this usually resolves within 24 hours. Good skin care and sunscreens are
recommended as part of your regular skin care regimen. The only signs of treatment are
naturally smoother, younger, and healthier skin.
How long will the effects of the Thermage procedure last?
The Thermage procedure immediately tightens existing collagen and stimulates new natural
collagen production for up to six months following the treatment. Unpublished reports by
experienced cosmetic doctors indicate that results may last for years and are based on the
patient's natural aging process.
Is the Thermage procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With over 190,000 estimated
worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less than 0.4%.
The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps, and blisters
on or around treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare
(<0.11%) but longer lasting side effect described as a surface irregularity has also been
reported. Consult with your physician regarding this and any other questions you may have on
the safety record of the Thermage procedure.
Is Thermage the only radiofrequency technology on the market today?
While there are other skin care technologies that use radiofrequency energy, only the Thermage
proprietary capacitive radiofrequency technology delivers deep uniform volumetric heating
powerful enough to naturally tighten and contour skin and underlying tissue. Also, Thermage
achieves results in a single treatment compared to other technologies requiring five or more
treatment sessions.
How much does the Thermage procedure cost?
The cost for the Thermage procedure depends on the facial areas being treated. In the U.S.,
the price of a procedure may range from $1,000 to $5,000. The physician will discuss his or her
fees with the patient at the time of the consultation.
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