Thermage
Every year, millions of patients visit their dermatologist's office complaining of fine wrinkles and increased skin laxity. Traditional treatments have included non-ablative lasers, laser resurfacing, topical retinoid (Retin-A) or the more invasive face-lift.Recently, a new non-ablative therapy has been developed called radiofrequency resurfacing (Thermage).
How Does Thermage Work?
Thermage works by delivering heat energy through a hand piece to the deeper parts of the skin known as the dermis. This headpiece also has a cooling spray that protects the superficial part of the skin, known as the epidermis, from injury. The heat energy causes the deeper tissues to contract, which decreases the appearance of lines. Eventually new collagen develops and remodels to give an even firmer appearance to the skin. This technique is non-ablative, in that it does not cause damage to the surface of the skin.Thermage does not cause damage to the skin surface, unlike dermabrasion and laser resurfacing. Therefore, there is very little "down time." Treatments can take up to a couple of hours, depending upon the size of the treated area. Patients can return to work the same day, unlike a facelift in which patients usually take at least two weeks to recover. Another benefit is that their is no scaring, unlike the surgical facelift procedure. Effects of Thermage can last from six months up to two years.
Thermage is preformed with use of an oral anesthetic, so it is only slightly uncomfortable. Side effects are rare (less than 1%) and include swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects usually disappear in a few days or weeks. Rarer, but longer lasting side effects, lead to a depression in the skin. The risks and benefits of Thermage need to be discussed in detail with your physician.
For consultations and additional information please call our office at (847) 821-1070.