What is Thermage?

Thermage® is a treatment method by which the signs of aging can be reversed with the use of radiofrequency energy. It is performed in such a way that the energy levels reach the lower layers of the skin in order to stimulate the growth of additional collagen.

There is a substance in the skin that gives it fullness. It is called collagen. While it is naturally replenished by the body, the level at which it is produced starts to drop off as the years begin to add up. This leads to skin that becomes wrinkled because it is not as tight as it was before. Since diminished collagen levels are a direct cause of lines and wrinkles, it is reasonable to assume that if the collagen levels could be brought back to previous levels, the skin would return to its former level of tightness and the wrinkles would disappear. In fact, this assumption has proven to be factual with the success rate of Thermage®.

Thermage® treatments are done in the comfort of our office and do not require you to schedule any time away from work for recovery. They are done when the unit that emits the energy is passed across the skin. The settings on the equipment can be adjusted so that the energy can reach the correct depth in order to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment. The newer equipment is designed in such a way that it alternates between heating and cooling in order to deliver the heat to the dermis while keeping the epidermis cool in order to ensure patient comfort.

In addition to collagen to give the skin fullness, it also contains elastin to give it elasticity. Therefore, when forces pull on the skin, it can return to its former state without being permanently stretched by whatever force has pulled on it. In most cases, this force is normal body movements. Elastin production also decreases with age, just like collagen does. Consequently, the skin not only becomes loose over time, but it cannot bounce back to its normal shape and size as easily either. Thermage® helps to stimulate elastin production in the same manner as it does collagen.

Unlike some other skin tightening treatments that must be repeated several times to get the maximum benefit, only one Thermage® treatment is usually required. However, this does depend on the situation. When the treatment is given, there will be some tightening of the skin that takes place immediately. It will usually be enough of a change to be noticeable. However, the full benefits of the therapy will take some time to develop. Collagen will start to grow right away. However, just like anything else that grows, it will take some time to fully develop. When it does, the full impact of the treatment will be realized. You will have a skin that is full and tight. Those dreaded wrinkles will no longer be the first thing you see when you look in the mirror. Instead, you will appreciate the fact that the youthful look has returned.

Make an appointment at Metro Dermatology in Flushing, Elmhurst, Englewood or the Bronx to learn more about Thermage®. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!