HOW DOES THERMAGE® WORK?
Our skin has three layers: the epidermis (the visible outer layer); the dermis (the collagen-rich layer found beneath the epidermis); and the hypodermis, also called the subcutaneous layer (the fat layer under the dermis). As a person ages, collagen found in the dermis breaks down, causing the skin to wrinkle and sag. Naturally, treatments that work on the outer surface of the skin cannot help restore collagen in the deeper layers.
Thermage targets collagen in the dermis to tighten skin and revitalize its supportive function. Utilizing capacitive radiofrequency (CRF) technology, the Thermage procedure utilizes a specialized treatment tip called the ThermaTip™. The ThermaTip™ delivers the CRF to the skin in controlled amounts, without harming the epidermis. It heats the dermis and subcutaneous layer, tricking the body into thinking it has suffered an injury. The body’s response to this perceived injury is to produce new collagen to rebuild the skin’s support structure. Results continue to improve four to six months after treatment as new collagen is produced.
Compared to invasive procedures, Thermage is non-invasive and the safer choice. Unlike lasers that may not work on certain skin types, Thermage can be used on all skin colors. Plus, it only takes a single treatment to achieve optimal results.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A THERMAGE® PROCEDURE?
Patients report a brief, heat sensation every time energy is delivered to the deeper layers of the skin with the ThermaTip™. The tip gets warm and then cold at the end of each pulse. The higher the setting used during the Thermage® procedure, which can lead to more impressive final results, the more discomfort there can be. However, Dr. Nowak offers local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort. The procedure is very safe and has mild side effects, such as swelling, redness, bumps, and blisters. Surface irregularities may also be present, but are very rare, occurring in less than .08 percent of those treated.