Thermage

Thermage® is probably the most well known non-surgical facelift and body enhancer option used by plastic surgeons.

But did you know that Thermage® also reduces cellulite?

How Thermage® Works

Thermage® uses radiofrequency to produce heat in the lower layers of the skin. The radiofrequency causes the lower layers of the skin to vibrate 6 million times a second. This rapid vibration causes heat. The heat causes collagen to contract and tighten. Since your system also responds as if a wound has occurred, collagen production is stimulated and will occur long after the treatment.

Thermage® Uses

Non-Surgical Face Lifts

Thermage® can be used to target specific areas of the face, to stimulate collagen production. As you know from our article on your skin, collagen and elastin are the materials that make your skin smooth and tight. Using Thermage®, you can specifically target crows feet or laugh lines.

Post Liposuction Treatment

Thermage® can be used on the face as well as other areas of the body, and is frequently used in after invasive liposuction. 

It is highly suggested that Thermage® be used after invasive liposuction procedures. Often, invasive liposuction leaves the body asymetrical and  bumpy, with rippling skin. Liposuction can also cause uneven surfaces and loose skin. By using Thermage® after liposuction for body shaping and skin tightening you can get rid of the side effects of an invasive liposuction.

Thermage® is not only used to sculpt the body, but has developed new procedures using their patented radio wave technology, which can also be used to get rid of cellulite.

Cellulite Reduction

In February 2008, Thermage® announced its development of a cellulite reduction system. Like Thermage, the ThermaTip CL treatments are based on radiofrequency.

However, plastic surgeons have reported that there is only a mild benefit to using ThermaTip CL for cellulite reduction. And that the effects are “subtle.”

They suggest Titan® or Endermologie. However the new Thermage NXT therapy has received a big thumbs up and we will be watching for further doctor reports.

Age of Women Undergoing Treatment

Thermage® can be used on women from 30 to 60, with some amazing results.

Benefits

One of the real benefits is that you do not need surgery or even a powerful pain killer.  Sometimes a light pain killer can be prescribed but Thermage claims to allow you to walk away being able to resume your regular activities.

Can you expect Thermage to be safe?  The FDA approved Thermage for the treatment of fine wrinkles.  It also boasts very few side effects.  If any side effects appear, the symptoms include redness, swelling, bumps or even blisters.  Thermage claims this is rare and these side effects typically go away within a few days.  This treatment sounds promising and is encouraging to us who are starting to see the look of our youth disappearing.

Cost

Depending on what kind of work you need to have performed, Thermage® treatments can cost anywhere from $1,000 for a non-surgical facelift, to $5,000 for body enhancement.