 
THERMAGE® FAQ’s
What is the Thermage® procedure?
Thermage is a safe, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that is clinically proven to help smooth, tighten and contour skin to restore a naturally younger looking appearance. The Thermage procedure uses the ThermaCool® System to help tighten existing collagen and stimulate new natural collagen growth. Immediate results are usually visible and continue to improve for up to six months. Unlike lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin color.
How does the Thermage procedure work?
The procedure works by heating collagen fibers deep in the skin and underlying tissue, while protecting the skin's surface with a cooling spray. A ThermaTip™ treatment tip is attached to ThermaCool System’s handpiece. The ThermaTip briefly touches the skin, delivering the non-invasive capacitive radiofrequency energy beneath the skin. This deep uniform heating action causes the structures in the skin and underlying tissue to immediately tighten. Over time, new and remodeled collagen is produced to further tighten and contour skin.
What does the procedure feel like?
When the energy is applied, you’ll feel a deep but brief heating sensation, which is an indication that collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. To protect the surface of your skin, a cooling spray is delivered before, during and after each application of energy. You will be asked for feedback on the level of heat sensation experienced during the procedure to help balance your comfort with maximum results.
When will I see results?
Visible results are often immediate and improve over time. Measurable tightening and contouring improvements appear gradually over a two to six month time period following a single treatment session.
How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, most Thermage patients benefit from a single treatment. The treating doctor will determine the course of treatment that is right for each patient, based on the patient’s needs and goals.
Where is the Thermage procedure performed?
Thermage procedures can tighten skin safely on most body parts, including the face, eyes, lips, tummy, arms, hands, thighs and buttocks.
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 and location of the area to be treated, the procedure may take as little as 20 minutes or up to two hours.
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. With little to no downtime, most patients can return to their regular activities immediately following treatment. 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 helps tighten existing collagen and stimulate new natural collagen production for up to six months following the treatment. Results may last for years depending on the patient's skin condition and natural aging process.
Is the Thermage procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With approximately 450,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date, the reported incidence of side effects is less than 0.2 percent. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps, and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (<0.04%) but longer lasting side effect described as a surface irregularity has also been reported.
Is Thermage the only radiofrequency technology on the market today?
While there are other skin care technologies that use radiofrequency energy, only Thermage utilizes proprietary capacitive radiofrequency technology to deliver uniform volumetric heating into the dermal and subcutaneous layers of the skin to help naturally tighten and contour underlying tissue. Also, Thermage generally achieves results in a single treatment compared to other technologies requiring multiple treatment sessions.
How much does the Thermage procedure cost?
The cost for the Thermage procedure depends on the areas being treated. At McKnight Eye Centers this procedure ranges from $1,000 to $3,000.
Contact our office for more information, or to schedule an appointment.
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