A facelift is a surgical procedure, but you don’t necessarily have to undergo skin ablation in order to tighten and smooth the facial skin. The recently developed Thermage procedure corrects moderate wrinkling and greatly improves the overall skin texture. We recommend this treatment to our clients who are concerned about the possible complications and undesirable results of a traditional facelift. Any non-surgical alternative is preferred by most individuals, and the results of Thermage treatment for wrinkled or sagging facial skin nearly always meet or exceed the expectations of the client. Contact us today to learn more!
What Is Thermage?
Thermage treatment involves the use of radiofrequency energy. Energy delivered to and below the skin layers helps kickstart a skin rejuvenation process.
Our bodies react to energy absorption. In particular, our skin is sensitive to heat energy. When energy is delivered to the dermal layers and subcutaneous tissues in a controlled manner, the result is a shrinkage of collagen, and this actually promotes the creation of additional collagen. This is known as collagen remodeling.
The instrument used in Thermage treatments has two separate delivery systems. One system absorbs energy, meaning that it is actually a cooling mechanism. The other system is a radiofrequency energy delivery system. These two components of the Thermage instrument are used in a carefully chosen sequence to maximize results.
The Ideal Candidate
Candidates for Thermage treatment are mature adults who are experiencing age-related wrinkling on the face, especially those individuals who are beginning to suffer from the appearance of smile lines, crow’s feet, and nasolabial folds. This is occurring because the skin is less firmly supported from below and also because the skin contains a lesser amount of collagen. Those who favor a relatively short recovery period after treatment are drawn to the Thermage treatment alternative because healing and recovery are quite rapid.
Performing the Treatment
After we consult with the client, we design a customized treatment based on the severity of the wrinkling, the thickness of the skin, and the overall skin texture. The instrument used is a handheld device that delivers a cooling effect on the skin surface. This makes for a more comfortable treatment because it helps protect the surface layers from damage.
Energy in the form of radiofrequency waves is then pulsed into the skin and subdermal tissues. The treatable areas are heated, and this is what kickstarts the rejuvenation process. A delivery of cryogen then cools the skin once more.
The body responds as though the skin has been injured. It hasn’t, but the process of collagen production is now underway. Within a month after treatment, fine lines and wrinkles begin to fill in as the skin tightens and shows a more smooth surface.
Much like a facelift, Thermage treatments yield long-lasting results. In most cases, a single treatment is necessary, and periodic touch-up treatments over the next year or two may be all that is required to maintain a more youthful appearance.
Ready For A Non-Surgical Facelift?
We can go into much further detail about the Thermage treatment during a consultation. If you desire smoother facial skin without the need for surgery or potentially damaging chemical peels, contact us today for more information!
