What is Thermage skin tightening and is Thermage right for you? Lately, perhaps in response to the current economic conditions, or perhaps just because people are coming to understand that in the area of cosmetic surgery we have much more to offer than just surgery, I am asked about non-invasive solutions. One particular area of concern is the problem of loose skin which is a result of aging and/or child rearing.  One of the very successful non-surgical, non-invasive procedures we offer here in Sacramento is called Thermage.

Thermage is a noninvasive radiofrequency (using radio waves) technology to tighten the skin in the face and body.  It has been cleared by the FDA since 2002 and has been used in 80 countries by more than 2500 physicians in over 500,000 procedures.  When facial aging occurs, skin sags.  One of the reasons this happens is because the skin is attached by fibrous bands to the muscle underneath. When these bands are stretched out, the skin starts to hang. Thermage delivers radiofrequency energy through the skin heating these bands. The heating causes the collagen to shrink as it heals and it and goes back to its original and normal length over several months. The final result is smoother skin with less sagging.   Thermage can be used in many areas of the body including the face, neck, arms, abdomen, hips, and thighs.  With some patients, it can also be used for cellulite control. When used in the body, with a special new larger tip, it can actually cause a reduction of several inches in diameter of the waist or legs.  It is not the same as abdominoplasty or tummy tuck, but for those who are not a candidate for abdominoplasty but have some problems with loose skin in the tummy area, it Thermage may reduce the problem significantly.

The current version of Thermage is the third and best generation of radiofrequency technology.  Previous generations delivered large burst of energy and had a reputation for being uncomfortable. The new generation has solved the discomfort problem by decreasing the energy pulse and combining it with a vibration tip and cooling, which distracts nerve fibers, preventing them from feeling discomfort.  The patient feels a warm feeling at the touch of the machine but not discomfort.

Thermage is an excellent tool and can be used for facial tightening in younger women who do not yet need a surgical procedure such a a full or mini face life, or women who have had a facelift that has begun to loosen over time but are not yet candidates for another procedure.  It is the only solution in women with moderately loose skin in the arms legs and abdomen. In the past, these patients were not candidates for either liposuction or skin removal procedures but now they can be treated with Thermage.  It also works very well for women who have a slight excess in skin and fat but do not want liposuction.

Call our office to learn more about how Thermage skin tightening may be the non-surgical, non-invasive solution for your needs.