The Thermage system consists of one device platform with a large selection of single-patient treatment tips (i.e. face, body and eyes), each of which features a unique heating profile to target treatments for a specific area, including skin tightening, body contouring and the  improvement in the appearance of cellulite. The principle behind treatment is to tighten existing collagen and stimulate new collagen growth; immediate results are usually visible and continue to improve for up to six months. The use of RF technology means this can be used on all skin types (colours). 

How does it work?

Before the treatment, an anaesthetic cream may be applied to the skin, as depending on the device used (particuatly the older devices) the sensation of the treatment has been likened to “snapping elastic bands against the skin”, which some people consider to be a little painful. With the Thermage CPT™ device this is likely to be deemed unnecessary unless you are particularly pain sensitive.

A grid pattern stencil is transfered onto the skin of the area to be treated which the practitioner uses to place the device head on for precise treatment. This is then followed by a cooling gel. The practitioner will also attach a self-adhesive “return pad” to the patient’s stomach or back to allow a path of travel for the radiofrequency current back to the generator (i.e. to ground them). 

Each time the device touches the skin it delivers a controlled amount of RF energy and heats a large area of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissue; whilst also protecting the outer layer of the skin. 

This heating action causes deep collagen structures in the skin to immediately tighten. Over time, new collagen is produced by the body to further tighten the skin, resulting in healthier, smoother skin and a more youthful appearance. 

Depending on the size and location of the area to be treated, the procedure may take as little as 20 minutes or up to two hours. 

How many treatments will I need?

Unlike many procedures requiring four or more sessions, most Thermage patients benefit from a single treatment. 

Your practitioner will determine the course of treatment that is right for you. 

What can it be used to treat?

Commonly used to treat the forehead (lift brows and tightens forehead skin), under the eyes (thickens skin and tightens and lifts the upper cheek skin), cheeks (lifts slightly and diminishes enlarged pores), mid-face, jaw line (diminishes jowling and sagging along the jaw line), and the neck (tightens skin and diminishes wrinkling of the neck). Also for body contouring, such as tightening in the abdomen, and reducing the appearance of cellulite.

How long does it last?

Visible results following a Thermage procedure are often immediate and improve over time. Measurable tightening and contouring improvements appear gradually over a two to six month time period following a single treatment session. Results may last for years depending on the patient`s skin condition and natural ageing process.