Thermage

Reviewed by Scott R. Miller, MD, FACS

If you don't want a full facelift, but worry that injectable fillers won't last long enough, one solution to consider is Thermage. This recently FDA-approved modest improvement for the face is growing in popularity because it's convenient and non-invasive.

Thermage treatment (also known as ThermaCool, ThermaLift and radiothermoplasty) is a nonsurgical skin-tightening procedure that uses radio waves to help you achieve a more youthful appearance.

Thermage is intended to tighten facial skin, smooth wrinkles, and improve facial contours. There are no incisions and no downtime associated with Thermage. Oftentimes, the treatment produces a 15 to 25 percent improvement in facial features.

The Thermage Procedure

Thermage is typically performed in a doctor's office and may take up to an hour, depending on the size and condition of the treated area. Thermage uses the FDA-approved ThermaCool device to deliver radiofrequency energy to heat collagen, a structural protein located in the deep dermal layers of the skin. Thermage helps build and contract collagen, which in turn tightens the appearance of the skin's surface. The Thermage device cools the skin surface to prevent damage while heating the collagen in the deeper skin layers with energy pulses. Each energy pulse takes two to seven seconds. The entire face may require between 400 and 500 pulses.

The skin tightens during the process and continues to tighten for three to six months afterward. Tightening results in smoother skin and a more youthful appearance. The procedure also stimulates your body's healing process, which produces more natural collagen.

Results may produce a refreshed looking appearance for up to two years. Of course, Thermage does not stop the aging process and results vary among patients. Because of the natural aging process, which reduces the amount of collagen in your skin, another Thermage treatment or an alternative cosmetic procedure may be needed eventually to reap the benefits of a refreshed appearance.

The experience is often described as a deep heating or mild pinching sensation. Discomfort is typically minimal, though you may be given oral pain medication, and a topical anesthetic ointment may be applied before treatment.

Best Candidates for Thermage

Thermage may work best for people who require 1-2 millimeters of tightening, compared with 1 or more centimeters offered in a brow-lift. Good candidates are healthy physically and psychologically. The best candidates are well educated about the procedure and have realistic expectations. Thermage is intended to help you look good for your age, with a refreshed facial appearance, especially around the eyes and forehead.

Thermage Side Effects

Thermage side effects are rare, but may include swelling, redness, blisters, peeling, bumps, or dimpling. If a side effect occurs, it usually subsides within a few days or possibly weeks.

Cost of Thermage

Thermage cost typically ranges between $1,000 and $5,000 per treatment. If the out-of pocket cost is too high for you, ask your surgeon about payment plan options. For financing options and tips, continue reading about Patient Financing.

[page updated June 2008]