The search for options for preserving youth forces you to pay attention to different ways to achieve your goal. Most patients in beauty salons want to quickly get results without the need for complex rehabilitation. In this case, doctors are happy to offer various hardware methods of influence. Thermage is a typical option for achieving the goal. Manipulation involves heating and modifying tissue using current. As a result, the existing frame is compacted. The process stimulates natural cell renewal.
Indications for use
Thermage is considered a less traumatic analogue of plastic surgery for contour skin tightening. Cosmetologists often recommend the technique to those who are afraid of surgery, but want to work on the signs of aging.
Indications for thermage and plastic surgery are identical:
- the appearance of wrinkles (“mesh”, folds, creases);
- changes in contours (age-related ptosis, tissue displacement due to excess volume);
- skin aging (thinning, sagging);
- uneven terrain (hillocks, depressions, stretch marks).
The procedure helps to achieve noticeable changes in 1 session. The skin becomes thicker and the surface is leveled. The result increases as natural regeneration processes occur. The appearance gets a fresh, toned look.
Important! Thermage is unable to completely eliminate existing problems. With the help of manipulation, their severity is reduced. Wrinkles become less noticeable, the oval is tightened, the skin becomes more youthful.
What procedures are they often combined with?
The Thermage procedure is often combined with a method called Fraxel. This is laser stimulation of cellular regeneration as a result of which active restoration processes begin in micro areas of the dermis.
Thermolifting is also recommended after:
- liposuction;
- abdominoplasty;
- facelift.
Device overview
To carry out lifting using thermage technology, the Thermage CPT device is used. The process is based on the action of radio frequency energy in the superficial, middle layers of the skin. Unlike similar technologies (RF-lifting), the Thermage CPT device carries out deep heating of tissues at a three-dimensional level. Partial denaturation of collagen occurs (up to 30%), which leads to a unique compaction of the structure and the formation of a skin framework. The disturbances produced contribute to the natural restoration and rejuvenation of tissues.
Patients drew attention to the emergence of a new Smas-lifting technique. Cosmetologists promise an effect similar to Thermage, but the work is carried out using ultrasound radiation. Most often, manipulations are carried out using Hifu devices. The doctor acts on the deep layers of tissue. Technically, this is also heat treatment of protein matter. The effect is similar to the result of plastic surgery. Work with fabrics is carried out at a similar level.
The principle of operation of different devices is identical: tissue is heated in the deep layers of the skin. The process helps eliminate external signs of aging by compacting the structure. The effect accelerates metabolism: internal cleansing, natural restoration. This affects the renewal of existing tissues. Both methods are recognized as safe and effective, but ultrasound alterotherapy with the possibility of a deeper, more delicate effect is considered a progressive technology.
Thermage
Modern hardware cosmetology offers increasingly advanced anti-aging procedures, the results of which are already quite comparable to plastic surgery.
One of the most famous and popular in this segment is the non-surgical Thermage lift . It does not require incisions, anesthesia or a long recovery period, but at the same time it can provide a very impressive result that will last for several years.
The procedure was developed and tested in leading aesthetic medicine centers in the USA in 2002. This is a type of RF lifting, during which radio waves of low power but high frequency are applied to the subcutaneous tissue, as a result of which the collagen fibers responsible for the elasticity and healthy appearance of the skin are strengthened and regain their tone.
The device for carrying out the Thermage procedure is equipped with a nozzle with an electrode that evenly distributes energy throughout the entire treatment area. A uniform electric field is created in the treated tissues, while in the deep layers of the skin the temperature rises, and its surface, thanks to the spraying of a special substance on the working surface of the nozzle, is cooled.
↑ Indications for the Thermage procedure
The main indications for the procedure are age-related changes caused by weakening of collagen fibers, as well as a number of “related” aesthetic skin problems. With its help it is carried out:
- Non-invasive removal of wrinkles and folds.
- Skin tightening of the face, neck and décolleté.
- Tightening of the tissues of the torso (abdomen, thighs and buttocks) and limbs (hands, forearms, shoulders), as well as any other area with loss of elasticity and density of the skin.
- Improving the condition of various scars, incl. stretch marks and postpartum stretch marks.
- Correction of ptosis of the upper eyelid, tightening and strengthening of the skin around the eyes, eyebrow lifting.
- Elimination of age-related ptosis of soft tissues (correction of facial oval): restoration and strengthening of facial contours, reduction of the “double chin” area.
- Lifting in the area of the cheekbones, cheeks, with the appearance of purse-string wrinkles around the mouth, swelling and unevenness of the facial skin.
- Treatment of acne (acne vulgaris). In some cases, Thermage is used in the treatment of scars and post-acne.
- Correction of visible manifestations of cellulite and excess local fat deposits.
- Enhancing the effect of plastic surgery (for example, the method can eliminate skin unevenness after liposuction, abdominoplasty, or thicken thin skin after a circular facelift, blepharoplasty).
An undeniable advantage is the ability to use the technique for people with any skin type, including very dark or, on the contrary, very light (unlike, for example, laser resurfacing).
| Photos before and after the procedure. Facial Thermage: | |
| Upper eyelids: | |
| Lower eyelids: | |
↑ Thermage as an alternative to plastic surgery
Despite the fact that Thermage provides a pronounced lifting effect and is devoid of the main disadvantages of the operation, it should be understood that this technology is not a complete replacement for surgical methods for solving age-related problems and therefore is optimal only for people with subtle signs of skin aging.
If we are talking about loose and folded skin, drooping cheeks or deep wrinkles, then this (as well as any other non-invasive) technique is unlikely to give a result comparable, for example, to a combination of facelift and contouring.
This is why doctors recommend Thermage not at the moment when the patient obviously needs a surgical lift, but much earlier , as a kind of prevention: in this way, you can delay the need for surgery for several years, and sometimes even do without it!
| Photos before and after the procedure. Abdominal Thermage: | |
| Cellulite on the buttocks: | |
| Knees: | |
↑ How Thermage is performed
The procedure does not require special preparation. Before starting the session, it is enough to remove all jewelry and metal objects and clean your face of makeup. Then the area of subsequent treatment is degreased, markings are applied to it and lubricated with a special contact gel, which ensures easy sliding of the nozzle.
In general, Thermage is well tolerated and does not cause severe pain, but many patients find the process itself (alternating hot and cold touches) unpleasant. Local anesthesia is used to reduce discomfort.
| This is what the nozzle looks like: | |
| Marking grid: | |
Next, the emitter is applied to the skin and treatment is carried out. The procedure takes from 20 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the area of the surface being treated. At the end, the gel and marking mesh are removed, and soothing masks are applied to the affected area.
On the first day after completion of the session, doctors recommend avoiding excessive heat exposure: visiting a bathhouse, solarium, etc., as well as refraining from excessive physical activity. In this case, slight swelling and redness of the skin may be observed - its natural reaction to temperature and radio wave exposure (it goes away after a few hours or a few days, depending on the individual characteristics of the body).
The visible tightening effect will be noticeable after the first session. And full results can be observed after 1-2 months. Moreover, over the next 6 months after the procedure it will become even more pronounced due to the activation of collagen formation processes in the skin. The average duration of the effect is 2-3 years.
↑ Possible complications and side effects
Thermage is known to be an almost completely safe procedure. Exposure to radio frequency radiation can cause some harm to our body only if the worker is not a very experienced specialist.
Thus, if the intensity of exposure is too high (it is selected individually, based on the sensitivity of the patient’s skin), there is a risk of burns, even the formation of blisters. For the same reason, after the procedure, sometimes very unpleasant irritation and itching appears.
↑ Contraindications
The main contraindications to the Thermage procedure are:
- The presence of any device implanted in the patient that produces electromagnetic or electrical impulses: pacemaker, automatic cardioverter, defibrillator, etc.
- Severe diseases of the blood and cardiovascular system.
- Diabetes.
- Systemic diseases of the connective tissue and drainage system: eczema, lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, etc.
- Common infectious diseases.
- Skin lesions in the areas of planned treatment.
- Pregnancy and lactation period.
↑ How much does Thermage cost? Current prices
Despite the rather high cost, the popularity of the procedure is steadily growing. This is due to its effectiveness and ease of implementation. The patient’s final costs will depend on the area of the treatment area and the number of sessions (and also, partly, on the brand of the device used by the clinic).
Average prices for Thermage in Moscow range from 50 to 180 thousand rubles . Treatment of the eye area will cost the same “minimum” 50 thousand, the face and neck – already ~100 thousand, and if a complex effect on the buttocks, riding breeches and abdomen is required, the cost of the procedure will be about 170 thousand.
In regions, the price may vary less. In the capital, if you wish, you can also find cheaper options, but you shouldn’t skimp on the technique, because... Poorly performed Thermage will at least not give any effect.
↑ Reviews about the Thermage procedure
Patients who have tried the procedure on themselves and are ready to share their experience highlight three main points that run like a “red thread” through most reviews about Thermage left on thematic forums - these are its rather high cost, relative pain and a pronounced aesthetic effect, which Full manifestation occurs on average after 2-3 months:
“I’m glad that in our country they have learned how to do anti-aging procedures very well. A friend had Thermage done in Europe when she periodically went there on business trips. I went to my own salon, which I have been visiting for more than 10 years. My main problem area on my face is my chin and I am very pleased that I was able to noticeably tighten my sagging skin. There was severe swelling under the eyes, which gradually went away. Major improvements became noticeable somewhere after the 3rd month. The skin on my chest has also noticeably improved, and now in the summer I can again wear dresses with a low neckline. Now I’m thinking about doing some hands-on work as well. In general, a very effective procedure, I recommend it to everyone!” (Author of review: Sofia, Belaya Tserkov)
“They say that Thermage is not suitable for some people and does not give any results. It’s good that I was not included in the percentage of these “losers”. I had the procedure done in Moscow and made a special trip across the city to the salon that was recommended to me. My relatives noticed changes on my face around the second month. Now I am so pleased that everyone around me notices my improved and younger-looking skin. My face and hands began to look so well-groomed. The main thing is not to be afraid, to live in step with the times and not to talk about modern procedures, like old women from the last century on benches” (Author of review: Vasilina, Moscow)
“I am completely satisfied with the condition of my skin. I had the sessions more than a year ago, and the results are still there. I want to do another maintenance procedure closer to summer to consolidate the effect. And of course, I take great care of my skin, go to the salon for massages and cleanings regularly, and use moisturizing creams. I’m over 50, so I need to take care of my skin carefully” (Author of review: Lara, St. Petersburg)
“My friend’s mother did Thermage and praised this hardware procedure so much. I myself saw how her skin tightened and began to look more youthful and “fresh.” I found so much information about these procedures both in our sources and in foreign ones. I learned all the intricacies of the system, how it works and what results can be expected. Now I’ve raised money and want to try it myself. By the way, it’s only in our country that such procedures are new, but abroad they have been used successfully for a long time. I laugh at those people who think Thermage is too expensive. Is it cheaper to do plastic surgery and then eliminate the side effects? For older ladies, this device is a real salvation!” (Author of review: Milena, Moscow)
Is preparation necessary?
Thermage procedure does not require special preparation. The manipulation is preceded by a preliminary consultation with a cosmetologist. The doctor performs an external examination and collects anamnesis. The information helps determine the possibility of a session. If necessary, the cosmetologist prescribes tests and sends you for consultation to highly specialized doctors (dermatologist, endocrinologist).
At home, as preparation for manipulation, some medications are avoided. The doctor always asks about the medications you are taking. Thermage is performed only on healthy patients. Any discomfort is a reason to postpone intervention. To prepare for the session, it is imperative to maintain clean skin.
On the day of the procedure, it is advisable to avoid excessive drinking of water and avoid the use of cosmetics. It is recommended to give up alcohol and smoking 1–2 days before. It is advisable to arrive for the procedure in a balanced state, after a healthy sleep.
Preparatory stage. Analyzes and preliminary examination
Like any serious cosmetic procedure, facial thermage has several stages: preparatory, main and restorative.
The preparatory stage begins 2 weeks before the main procedure. It includes a mandatory initial consultation with a cosmetologist, who will assess the condition of the skin and issue a referral for a medical examination. It may include not only a laboratory blood test, but also an additional consultation with a dermatologist if a skin disease is suspected.
Facial thermage - what kind of procedure it is, how it is performed, what contraindications there are and whether it is recommended for the patient - a specialist should give detailed answers to all these questions at the initial consultation.
A week before the thermolifting procedure, the patient should refuse:
- visits to the solarium and open beaches;
- eating fatty foods, large amounts of herbs, spices, pickles and preservatives;
- smoking and alcohol.
Thermage is carried out only if the skin is clean, without pustules, wounds and pimples. Refusal of salt, drinking a large amount of water per day, increasing grain and plant foods in the diet will solve the problem of infectious rashes.
Only after passing all the tests and undergoing the necessary consultations will the cosmetologist set a date for the procedure.
Carrying out the procedure
The session begins with cleansing the skin. The covers must be wiped with an antiseptic. The cosmetologist examines the face and makes markings in the form of contour squares. This helps maintain the accuracy of the impact.
Using the attachment of the Thermage CPT device, the cosmetologist treats all surfaces. Then it re-impacts problem areas. The last stage of the manipulation is vector modeling, taking into account balancing of skin tension. This creates the necessary lifting effect.
When treating the eye area, thick black liners are used to protect the organ of vision. The lenses are placed under the upper eyelid. The dark screen protects the organ from damage. Anesthetic drops are first dropped into the eyes.
In general, the actions do not cause pain. During the session, the patient feels warmth alternating with cold. The technique involves sequential heating and cooling. Alternating temperatures is necessary to prevent burns.
The minimum time spent on the procedure is 20 minutes. The duration of the session depends on the number of areas being treated. On average, manipulations take 1–2 hours.
Advantages
The Thermage procedure has several advantages:
- collagen synthesis is activated, while the upper layers of the dermis remain intact;
- a noticeable lifting effect appears;
- the result is noticeable after 1 session;
- The facelift effect lasts from 3 to 5 years;
- patients do not require a rehabilitation period;
- the application of the method does not depend on the season and weather conditions.
This type of anti-aging procedure has a minimum of contraindications and can be used by both women and men who have not reached the age threshold of 70 years.
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Rehabilitation period
Thermage often goes away without any consequences. The intervention does not require rehabilitation. After the session, the skin may redden slightly. Sometimes mild swelling and bruising occur. The manifestations disappear naturally within 1–2 hours, sometimes lasting up to 2 days.
A normal reaction is mild numbness and tingling of the skin. Sometimes the sensitivity of the integument increases. The sensations do not cause inconvenience and disappear within 1–2 hours. In some cases they return periodically.
The skin after the procedure does not require special care. Be sure to thoroughly but gently cleanse and use the usual cream selected according to your skin type. It is better to avoid using an abundance of decorative cosmetics in the first days. Traumatic procedures (peeling, massage, injections) are excluded.
To quickly restore the skin and start the regeneration process, it is recommended to lead a healthy lifestyle: eliminate bad habits, follow a diet and sleep regime. In the period 2–4 weeks after heat treatment of the skin, it is recommended to avoid:
- ultraviolet radiation (solarium, direct sunlight);
- warming up tissues (sauna, steam bath, massage);
- physical activity (especially on the facial muscles).
The mandatory use of sun creams is recommended. It is advisable to avoid direct exposure to ultraviolet radiation at all times. This will help protect the skin from hyperpigmentation and photoaging.
The result of the Thermage procedure is visible immediately after manipulation of the device. The skin surprises with a pleasant shade, wrinkles are smoothed out, the oval is tightened. Full results are achieved 2–4 months after the procedure. The effect is noticeable for 1–2 years.
Attention! You can repeat hardware manipulations after regression of achievements, but not earlier than six months from the date of the previous impact.
For what parts of the body is it used?
The thermolifting method can be used for both the face and body . Most often, it is necessary to correct the skin in the eye area to remove crow's feet, reduce swelling under the eyes and drooping upper eyelids.
The second most frequently adjusted area is the nose and lips. With the help of Thermage, you can eliminate deep folds that give the face a dissatisfied expression.
After 35 years, thermolifting is often used as part of preventive measures to prevent the appearance of such folds.
This method allows you to correct and make the facial contour clearer and remove the double chin. Also during the procedure, shallow expression wrinkles are smoothed and the dermis of the cheeks is tightened. The very first visible result is the overall fresh appearance of the patient.
Eyelids and area around the eyes
The skin of the eyelids and area around the eyes is the most sensitive and thin. He is in constant motion. The dermis does not have a subcutaneous fat layer, but it has many blood vessels, which in case of blood stagnation cause the development of edema.
Photos before and after Thermage around the eyes.
Therefore, performing the thermage procedure here has a number of its own characteristics:
- the markings used during the preparatory stage are much smaller;
- the attachments used during the procedure are smaller in size;
- special eye drops with an anesthetic and protective effect are used;
- eyes are necessarily protected with dark lenses that prevent radiation.
The results of this radiofrequency rejuvenation method can last for 2-5 years, depending on the characteristics of the patient’s skin structure. To prolong the effect, cosmetologists recommend repeating the procedure after 1-1.5 years.
Face
Facial Thermage is applicable to various areas. Lips, nasolabial area, cheekbones, forehead and cheeks - any of these areas can be rejuvenated using this method.
The attachment used for thermal lifting in the area of the cheeks or cheekbones is larger than that used to treat the eyes and the area around them. The size of the special markings applied to the patient’s skin also changes.
Facial thermage is not only a method of combating the consequences, but also a means of prevention, which is confirmed by cosmetologists. A striking example is the prevention of the formation of deep nasolabial folds as a result of preventive treatment of this area with a thermolifting device.
Contraindications
The cosmetologist determines the possibility of performing Thermage individually. At the preliminary consultation, the doctor asks many questions about health, lifestyle, and previously performed cosmetic procedures.
It is recommended to answer sincerely. This will help eliminate possible contraindications and minimize the onset of negative consequences.
You will have to completely abandon Thermage if:
- oncology;
- diabetes mellitus;
- serious mental disorders;
- pathologies of the heart, blood vessels, blood.
Manipulations are not performed if there is a pacemaker or implants in the facial area (except for dentures). Exposure is permissible if the skin is completely healthy. Do not perform manipulation during the acute course of any disease. It is advisable to avoid exposure during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Differences from RF lifting
Facial Thermage is an analogue of RF lifting. Many people think that these are the same thing. Indeed, these techniques are distinguished by a common principle based on the effect of radiofrequency radiation on the dermis. However, there are also significant differences.
First of all, we are talking about the heating temperature of the skin. For Thermage this figure is 60°C, and for RF lifting it is 40°C. Therefore, in the first case there is a greater chance of getting a thermal burn.
You can also note the following differences:
- the difference in the monopolar frequency of radiation (with Thermage it is more powerful);
- complete denaturation of collagen during thermolifting and partial denaturation during RF lifting;
- number of necessary procedures (1 course for Thermage and a course for RF lifting).
Consequences
Thermage is a non-invasive technique. During the exposure process, the skin is not cut or punctured. The procedure is considered a complex manipulation. The doctor performing the intervention must have the appropriate qualifications. It is advisable to inquire in advance about the availability of a certificate confirming training in working with the device.
Mistakes by a cosmetologist and individual reactions of the patient’s body can lead to complications:
- long lasting redness;
- blisters, burns;
- irritation, annoying itching;
- scar formation.
A normal reaction of the body is considered to be mild, quickly disappearing redness, minor swelling, and local bruising. The symptoms disappear without additional intervention. Serious consequences require the participation of a doctor.
Photos before and after
Photos before and after thermage procedure No. 1
Photos before and after Thermage procedure No. 2
Photos before and after Thermage procedure No. 3
Advantages and disadvantages
Thermage is characterized as a highly precise, safe treatment. The procedure is valued for:
- non-invasive (no incisions or punctures);
- painlessness (anesthetics are used in exceptional cases);
- lack of rehabilitation (you won’t have to give up your usual activities);
- the need for a single exposure to achieve an effect.
Note! The expected result is achieved in most cases. Lack of effect is a rare occurrence.
The disadvantage of the procedure is the long-term achievement of the final result. The high cost of Thermage scares off potential patients. Cosmetologists note that the resulting fibrous frame complicates subsequent work with surgical methods.
Disadvantages compared to similar methods
The main disadvantage of this method is its high cost. Compared to other anti-aging procedures, the prices for Thermage are several times higher. However, the result will not be long in coming.
Patients with hypersensitivity also note a slight pain syndrome during the procedure, which is a disadvantage compared to many other rejuvenation methods.
Summarizing, we can identify the following disadvantages of Thermage in comparison with other rejuvenation methods:
- high price;
- soreness (in patients with increased sensory sensitivity);
- possibility of thermal skin burns;
- longer procedure time (minimum 45 minutes).
Opinion of cosmetologists
Cosmetologists negatively evaluate the procedure of classic high-temperature thermage. Doctors strive to use only modern devices with low heat in their work. This helps to avoid problems with the use of appearance correction technologies in the future.
Cosmetologists prefer to avoid Thermage. Manipulation gives good results in the present, but causes problems in the future.
A cosmetologist is selective when choosing a thermal treatment technology. Some methods (classical high-temperature heating) lead to the immediate need for surgical intervention.
The doctor is sure that it will not be possible to achieve stable results with the help of Thermage. Problems with your appearance will soon return, and they cannot be solved even with the help of plastic surgery.
Advantages of non-surgical lifting at ART-Clinic
Online consultations for patients from the regions
A team of highly qualified specialists with extensive experience
Modern minimally invasive techniques of operations and reconstructions
Affordable prices, promotions, discounts, installments
The ART Clinic employs highly qualified specialists - experts in cosmetology. Their extensive knowledge and extensive positive experience with the ThermaCool device ensure maximum treatment efficiency and eliminate the occurrence of side effects.
If you want to experience the effective rejuvenating effect of Thermage, sign up for a consultation at the ART Clinic by calling +7 495 150 23 32 and (toll-free within Russia) or using a special form.
Patient reviews
Clients of cosmetologists do not give rave reviews about Thermage. The result is not achieved immediately; complications and difficulties with further care of appearance are possible. Patients often use several methods to correct their appearance, and after Thermage they undergo other procedures.
The patient evaluates the result of the manipulation positively, but the final effect is achieved in combination with other anti-aging correction techniques.
The patient did not notice the effect of the manipulations.
The patient is dissatisfied with the result and believes that the effect is visible only from plastic surgery.
Is Altera more effective?
The principle of operation of the Altera apparatus is based on ultrasonic influence on subcutaneous tissue located at a depth of 3-8 mm.
There are a number of differences between the procedures performed by Thermage and Altera devices:
- a longer recovery period (about 2 weeks), often accompanied by redness and slight swelling, after the Altera procedure;
- less noticeable result compared to Thermage;
- temporary increase in skin sensitivity;
- lower price for one procedure using the Altera apparatus.
Features of lifting various areas of the body
Thermage of the abdomen
Thermage of the abdomen is prescribed for excess skin in this area due to age-related changes, hormonal imbalances, weight loss, and skin stretching during pregnancy. In most cases, the procedure allows you to avoid surgical intervention and restore a firm and smooth stomach in just one procedure.
It is important to understand that Thermage only works on the skin, so if there is excess subcutaneous fat on the abdomen, it will first need to be reduced using other methods. At the Helen Baden Clinic, Zeltiq and Ulfit devices are usually used for this purpose. If you have a large number of stretch marks on your abdomen, your doctor may recommend Fraxel or Infini to remove them before or after your Abdominal Thermage procedure.
Butt lift
A butt lift using the Thermage device involves eliminating existing excess skin after weight loss or age-related changes. If it is necessary to remove the volume, the doctor will first prescribe hardware methods of figure correction (Zeltiq cryolipolysis, Ulfit dynamic liposuction), if the volume of subcutaneous fat is small, the VelaShape hardware combination massage helps well.
The result of a Thermage butt lift will be noticeable immediately after the procedure. Over the course of 5-6 months, the effect will increase.
Thigh lift
A thigh lift may be required after weight loss, pregnancy, or hormonal changes. Body Thermage reduces, smoothes and tightens the skin on both the inner and outer thighs. You can also tighten the skin in the knee area.
If there is an “orange peel” effect, the doctor may recommend VelaShape hardware lymphatic drainage massage or wraps before a thigh lift. If there are large noticeable stretch marks on the hips, Fraxel or Infini procedures may be prescribed after a body lift.
