ACNE | Thermage ®

WHAT IS Thermage ®?

Thermage (Solta Medical) is a noninvasive skin tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency technology to smooth fines lines and wrinkles and to tighten and lift the skin of the face and body.  Thermage treatments can be divided into 2 categories:  more superficial treatments for skin tightening of the face, neck, and eyelid and deeper treatments for body contouring on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and arms.

During the procedure radiofrequency energy penetrates deep into the skin to heat the underlying connective tissue that supports the skin.  This causes immediate tightening of the skin and stimulates the formation of new collagen, which promotes further tightening and lifting over time.

WHO IS Thermage ® FOR?

Thermage is safe and effective on all skin types. However, the best candidates for Thermage treatment are those with mild to moderate skin laxity, minimal sun damage, and do not regularly smoke cigarettes. The effects of Thermage treatment are less dramatic than surgery but there are no associated risks, down time, or recovery period.

HOW IS Thermage ® DONE?

Thermage treatment involves heat energy being applied to the skin that is alternated with a cooling device.  Any minor discomfort during treatment is tolerable without anesthetic or pain medication; however, your doctor may recommend local anesthetic if your pain threshold is extremely low.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?

Thermage treatment takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

What is the average cost of Thermage ®?

$2,000 – $5,000 depending on areas treated.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF Thermage ®?

After Thermage treatment, you may experience slight redness and swelling that will resolve within a day, but you should be able to resume daily activities as normal.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF Thermage ®?

Immediately after Thermage treatment there is noticeable tightening of the skin, but results continue to develop over 2 to 6 months as the newly stimulated collagen is produced. Just like with its counterpart, Ulthera, peak results are delayed and patience is rewarded with a tighter, more lifted appearance without any risks or side effects. Typically, treatment results last 1-2 years.

RECOMMENDED COURSE FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS?

Very noticeable results are realized after the first Thermage treatment, but 2 or 3 consecutive treatments will improve the outcome. Follow-up treatments every 1 to 2 years are recommended to maintain results.

WHO SHOULD ADMINISTER THIS TREATMENT?

You should only visit an actively board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. Dermatologists should be certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD). Plastic Surgeons should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Both of those boards are part of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), a non-profit organization that is considered the gold standard of physician certification. Consult the Charlotte’s Book Premier Provider directory to find a doctor who meets these standards and specializes in this treatment. For more information about how we choose our providers, please read Credentials We Abide By.