Thermage is a non-surgical, non-invasive procedure that works to tighten and improve the appearance of the skin by stimulating collagen production using a combination of heat energy and Monopolar Radiofrequency (RF) energy.
The device used in the treatment (the Therma tip) gives off hot and cold pulses that alternate throughout the procedure, making the patient feel relaxed and refreshed.
Thermage can be used on the:
Average Cost
$2,850
Price Range
$1,200 to $4,500
Your dermatologist will use a special device, known as the Therma tip, to deliver a cooling sensation to your skin in the treatment areas, after which you will then experience a brief heating sensation.
These hot and cold pulses alternate throughout the procedure as the RF energy is delivered deep into your skin tissues in order to stimulate collagen production.
Depending on your unique situation and the area(s) being treated, the procedure may take between 20 minutes to 2 hours for completion.
As this is a non-surgical procedure, there are no necessary prerequisites to prepare for it, such as fasting or blood tests. About an hour before the treatment is scheduled to take place is when patients are usually given some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs), but there are many cases where this is not necessary.
Patients can usually resume regular activities and use make-up right after treatment as there is next to no downtime for recovery, and special care instructions are not required. Some side effects such as swelling or redness may be experienced, but these will usually subside within a day or two.
However, it is highly recommended to regularly practice adequate skin care and use a good sunscreen post-treatment.
We understand you may want to change your plans due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and its health implications.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Suspendisse varius enim in eros elementum tristique. Duis cursus, mi quis viverra ornare, eros dolor interdum nulla,
Redness or swelling in the treated areas are commonly experienced by patients during and after treatment; however, these effects usually ease off in a few hours, with rare cases taking weeks for them to subside.
Bruising is another rare occurrence that is noticed post-treatment, which typically takes a couple of days to fade. Mild discomfort and some itching/tightening may also be experienced during and after the procedure, which also only lasts for a couple of hours.
When do the results appear, and how long do they last?
Results can be noticed instantly after treatment, which improve over time as collagen production increases. They typically become more noticeable over the next two to six months after a treatment session. Depending on your age and the condition of your skin, the results can last for a few years or more.
What does the Thermage procedure feel like?
Whenever the Therma tip comes into contact with your skin, you will experience a temporary cooling sensation which alternates with a brief heating sensation — this will be felt throughout the procedure. The latest Thermage® CPT technology ensures you remain comfortable for the duration of your treatment by adding gentle vibrations together with the fluctuating hot and cool bursts.
The heating sensation that you feel indicates that optimum temperatures are being reached within the tissues deep beneath your skin to stimulate collagen production/remodeling. Your physician will occasionally ask for feedback during the procedure so that any adjustments can be made to ensure your level of comfort is maintained.
How long does the treatment take?
Depending on the areas being addressed, treatment can last for about 45 to 90 minutes.
How does Thermage treatment compare to laser treatment?
Just one treatment session with Thermage is typically sufficient for visibly effective results to be noticed, whereas laser treatments usually need four or more sessions for any obvious changes to be seen. However, areas for which contouring and tightening has been performed will require at least three to six months for results to be noticeable after treatment with Thermage.