by Vogue Magazine... Thermage™,
also called Thermacool, is a new technologically advanced approach to
treating aging skin. It works by heating the underlying layers of the
skin with a unique delivery of radio frequency (RF) energy while protecting
the skin's top layer with a cooling spray. This is accomplished with advanced
safety features that monitor skin temperature and regulate treatments.
The result is a procedure that is designed to:
Cause immediate collagen contraction followed by new collagen production
over a period of time resulting in a more youthful appearance
Reduce the occurrence of adverse effects by protecting the skin
Provide a "no downtime" procedure so you can resume normal
activities immediately
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions from patients:
What is the Thermage™ Procedure?
The Thermage™ procedure was developed to help the signs of aging skin.
It is currently used for treating wrinkles around eyes, forehead, mouth,
and other areas of the body.
How does it work? The radio frequency (RF) energy uniformly heats the dermis while
cooling and protecting the epidermis. It is designed to cause immediate
collagen contraction followed by new collagen production which occurs
over a period of time. The result is skin with a more youthful appearance.
What does a Thermage™ Procedure feel like? Each time energy is delivered there is an immediate cool sensation,
followed by a brief hot sensation, followed by a cool sensation. An anesthetic
cream applied one hour before the procedure numbs the surface of the skin
to help make the treatment more comfortable.
How long will the Thermage™ Procedure take? Depending on the size of the area treated, the procedure itself may
take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.
When can I return to my normal activities? You may return to your normal activities immediately, as there is
usually no "downtime". Minimal redness is seen in some patients
but it usually disappears shortly after treatment. Heat -related complications
can occur but are uncommon. There is no special care needed after treatment.
As a part of good skin care, sunscreen is recommended.
When will I see results? Some patients see the results soon after the treatment, although
in most patients they will appear gradually over 2 to 6 months.
How many treatments will I need? In large clinical trials, all patients were treated with a single
treatment session with good results New studies in process are evaluating
whether repeat treatments provide better, faster, more consistent results.
How long will the effects last? Recently completed studies demonstrated continued improvements for
at least 6 months after a single treatment session.
How safe is it ? It is very safe. Although this is a relatively new, treatment and
a new technology, the number of adverse effects has been small.
Before
After
Changes in Your Skin
Studies show aging skin with diminished collagen density and a thinning
epidermis (top layer of skin) which is typical of aging skin. Four months
after the Thermage™ Procedure there is new and denser collagen and an
appreciable increase in the thickness of the epidermis.
