Thermage is a safe and innovative new cosmetic procedure that provides a non-surgical method for tightening loose skin and wrinkles using radiofrequency energy. This procedure is also known by the names ThermaCool, Radiothermaplasty, and ThermaLift. For the body, Thermage has been successfully used for lax abdominal skin, to lift arms and thighs and even the buttocks. It has been referred to on TV Shows as the Tummy Shrink Procedure, Tummy Shrink Lift, Tummy Heat Shrink Procedure.
Thermage is a safe and simple procedure that reduces the appearance of aging skin. Your skin is supported by collagen, which is a naturally occurring protein in your body that can become depleted by the age, environment, diet, smoking, or sun damage.
Body Thermage on The Doctors video (starts at 1:07 after the intro/promos)
Introducing the NEW Thermage Cellulite Procedure
Cellulite patients benefit from:
Is Thermage FDA approved?
Thermage was cleared by the FDA in 2002 for the treatment of facial wrinkles and rhytids. In 2006, Thermage received additional clearance for the treatment of wrinkles and rhytids anywhere on the body.
Body by Thermage is being used successfully in many cities to treat stretch marks, loose abdominal skin due to weight loss or pregnancy, sagging thighs and buttocks, and "bat wing" arms. If you're interested in shrinking abdominal skin following childbirth, it's best to wait until you're done having kids to avoid wasting the effect of treatment.
Who is the ideal Thermage patient?
Although anyone can benefit from Thermage's skin tightening procedure, the ideal candidate is between age 35 and 60 and suffers from mild to moderate skin laxity of the face or body.
Who CAN'T have Thermage?
The only poor candidates for Thermage are those who have implanted cardiac devices like pacemakers, or people who are chronic NSAID users. (NSAID's are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, prednisone, and naproxen.)
The Thermage procedure typically lasts for 30 to 90 minutes depending on how much area is being treated. Radiofrequency energy is directed just below the surface of the skin into the collagen with no surgery, injections, or incisions. During the treatment, a cooling spray is used to make the procedure more comfortable and protect your skin. You may also be given a pain medication to reduce discomfort.
The immediate effect of treatment is a collagen contracture response that results in smoother tighter skin. The secondary effect is a result of the wounding of the collagen, which heals and regenerates over the next 3 months to one year, causing the skin tightening and rejuvenation effect.
Over the next 6 months, your skin will slowly begin to produce more collagen, filling in the lines and grooves in your skin and producing a younger, more vibrant appearance. Many patients who have undergone Thermage have been thrilled with their new younger look. Results can begin to appear in as little as 3 weeks.
Thermage is very safe, but with any medical procedure there are a few risks involved. Some of the complications that can occur include temporary skin damage, mild redness or swelling, or mild pain beneath the jaw. It is important to point out that these side effects are minor compared to those of a traditional face lift. Discuss the risks and any questions or concerns you have with your physician before the procedure.
