Frequently Asked Questions - Thermage® Procedure

What is the Thermage® procedure?
The Thermage® procedure is the only non-invasive method to tighten skin. It is the name of the procedure that uses a radiofrequency system that tightens aging and sun-damaged skin by delivering deep heat to the skin without harming the epidermis (skin surface). It is approved by the FDA. There is no surgical incision. Safe, sustained and uniform heat is delivered to the deep layers of the skin where lax or flaccid layers of collagen can be tightened. This tightening and lifting can be performed anywhere on the face, neck, abdomen, chest, and knees.

The Thermage® ThermaCool ^TM system was selected to receive the “Best of What’s New” Award in the Personal Health category by Popular Science Magazine. Each year, the magazine’s editors examine thousands of new products and discoveries and honor the 100 most important achievements in science and technology in 12 categories.

The primary criterion for “Best of What’s New” Award winners, according to Popular Science Magazine, is that “each innovation must represent a significant step forward and make a positive difference in our lives.” With this accolade, Thermage® is recognized as a breakthrough technology for treating aging and sun-damaged skin.

According to research, collagen fibrils are strands bundled like a twine of rope. After the Thermage® treatment, the strands get shorter in length, wider in diameter and lose their distinct borders. Researchers are able to measure changes in the shape of collagen fibrils and fat compartments of the body. New collagen growth is measurable.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure takes one to three hours to perform, depending on the area of treatment. The Thermage CPT (comfort pulse technology) System is used. Patients do not need medication, unless they are having Eyes by Thermage. The Eyes by Thermage treatment requires some oral medications.
Is Thermage® painful?
Each time the Thermage® device is pulsed there is a brief sensation of heat in the skin. The Thermage® device monitors the skin temperature and applies a brief cooling spray, which is delivered before, during, and after the application of heat. You do not need any medication because the Thermage CPT (comfort pulse technology) System prevents discomfort.

When can I return to normal activities?
You can return to normal activities the next day.

When will I see results?
In most patients, immediate tissue tightening is seen during and after the procedure and further tissue tightening will continue to be seen over the next 18 months.
How many treatments will I need?
A single treatment is all that is needed for most patients. Most people will see a moderate to dramatic improvement. Some people will only see a mild improvement and may desire another treatment. We ask that patients wait at least seven months after their first treatment to decide whether they would like another treatment, as continued improvement can be see for at least five months after treatment. We will take before-after photographs for your chart only.

How long will the effects of the Thermage® Procedure last?
Ongoing studies currently show the effect lasting from 9-10 years.

How safe is Thermage®?
The Thermage® procedure is very safe. It can be used on all types of skin. This treatment has been used on hundreds of thousands of patients in the all over the world.
Can any side-effects occur?
Side effects are rare. One can have a day or two of redness or swelling, or sensitivity of the skin. There have been rare reports of superficial blistering which clears in a few days without permanent change to the skin.

Can I have Thermage® if I've had other cosmetic procedures?
Yes.

How does the Thermage® Procedure change your skin?
This magnified picture of skin (before image) depicts 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 (after image).

BEFORE Thermage® AFTER Thermage®

Who is not a candidate for Thermage®?
Thermage® should not be used in pregnant women, people below age 18, people with AIDS, hepatitis, bleeding disorders, lupus or any collagen vascular disease. Anyone who is allergic to morphine or codeine should tell the staff. If you have a history of cold sores you should tell the staff. People who are excessively overweight or who smoke cigarettes may not get a significant facial improvement from Thermage®.

Is there any special preparation or follow-up regimen?
Because we will be giving you an oral analgesic, we ask that you DO NOT DRIVE A CAR FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE DAY. You should make arrangements for a ride home after the procedure. You will want to take it easy that day, but you can return to all your normal activities the following day. Some patients notice temporary redness or swelling for a few hours after the treatment, but one can resume a normal skin care regimen.

How much does it cost?
(Please Note: Dr. Glavey and her staff use a unique image-imprint process to individualize your Thermage® session. Although this process requires a more detailed and therefore somewhat longer treatment, our patients are very happy with the results!)

The Fees for Thermage® are as follows:

Please call our office for a Thermage consultation with Dr. Glavey

Phone:  770-475-2004 Fax:  770-475-9802