Thermage Treatment

One of the earliest signs of aging is skin laxity, or sagging skin. As we age, the production of collagen and elastin decreases, leading to a loss of structure and loose, crepey skin. The presence of loose skin can be distressing in itself and may highlight other signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, jowls, and cellulite. Thermage radiofrequency treatment for skin tightening is an effective noninvasive solution for this decline in collagen production. Thermage can stimulate new collagen, rejuvenate the skin and fine lines, and tighten the neck and jaw area with just one treatment and no downtime. This cutting-edge, FDA-approved cosmetic procedure firms and tightens the skin. Dr. Michele Green was among the first dermatologists in NYC to adopt the Thermage FLX, the latest version of Thermage, in her private Manhattan dermatology office to assist her patients in achieving smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Thermage® treatment is a distinctive, non-invasive skin tightening procedure that utilizes radiofrequency energy to promote new collagen production in the treatment area, enhancing the appearance of loose skin without the need for invasive surgery, incisions, scars, or anesthesia. Thermage FLX features the latest comfort technology. One of the first signs of aging is skin laxity or sagging skin. As we age, the production of collagen and elastin declines, resulting in a loss of structure and loose, crepey skin. The presence of loose skin can be distressing and may also accentuate other signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, jowls, and cellulite. Thermage radiofrequency treatment is the premier non-invasive solution for addressing decreased collagen production. It can stimulate new collagen, rejuvenate the skin and fine lines, and tighten the neck and jaw area in just one session, with no downtime. Thermage is an advanced, FDA-approved cosmetic procedure that firms and tightens the skin. Dr. Michele Green was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to offer the Thermage FLX, the latest iteration of Thermage, in her private Manhattan dermatology office, helping her patients achieve smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Thermage® treatment is a unique, non-invasive skin tightening procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area, improving the appearance of loose skin without the need for an invasive surgical procedure, incisions, scars, or anesthesia. Thermage FLX incorporates advanced comfort technology, ensuring a painless experience during the procedure and no downtime afterward, allowing patients to resume their normal activities immediately. With Thermage RF technology, patients can expect to achieve firm, youthful-looking skin in at least one treatment session. If you are tired of loose, sagging skin and wish to feel like your best self again, Dr. Green is here to assist you.

Internationally renowned and board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City specializes in non-invasive treatment options, including Thermage, dermal fillers, Botox, and laser treatments. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green is recognized for her less-is-more philosophy and holistic approach to rejuvenation, customizing each treatment plan to meet her patients’ unique needs and aesthetic goals. As a leader in patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has repeatedly been voted one of the best healthcare providers in NYC by publications such as Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your skin condition and concerns to create a treatment plan that delivers natural, youthful-looking skin that endures. Thermage is a painless procedure, ensuring no discomfort during the procedure and no downtime afterward, meaning patients can immediately resume their normal activities. With Thermage RF technology, patients can look forward to achieving firm, youthful-looking skin in as little as one treatment session. If you are tired of loose, sagging skin and are ready to look and feel like your best self again, Dr. Green is here to help.

Internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an expert in non-invasive treatment options, including Thermage, dermal fillers, Botox, laser treatments, and more. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Green is known for her less-is-more philosophy and holistic approach to rejuvenation treatment, customizing each patient’s treatment plan to their unique needs and aesthetic goals. A leader in patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been frequently voted one of the best healthcare providers in NYC by publications such as Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Green, she will assess your skin condition and concerns to determine a treatment plan to leave you with natural, youthful-looking skin that lasts.

What is Thermage skin tightening treatment?

Thermage® is an FDA-approved, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses radiofrequency laser technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten and firm the skin. Collagen and elastin are proteins naturally occurring in the body, providing the skin with a firm foundation and elasticity. As collagen and elastin are depleted during natural aging, the result is visible fine lines, wrinkles, and crepey, loose skin. For patients looking to reduce these visible signs of aging and combat the natural aging process of the skin, Thermage treatment is an excellent skin tightening option. Thermage skin tightening treatment gives you tighter, firmer, smoother skin, softens fine lines and wrinkles, and helps you look younger without plastic surgery or downtime. The Thermage procedure can be used nearly anywhere on the face or body, including the neck, chest, décolletage, upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, for a non-surgical “lift” effect that firms and tightens loose skin. Patients can look forward to natural, youthful-looking results lasting up to two years.

What does Thermage do?

Thermage radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening treatment aims to produce firmer, smoother skin without adverse side effects or downtime. Thermage treatment delivers RF energy to the skin’s middle layers, which is then converted into heat energy. The body is then stimulated to produce new collagen and remodel existing collagen. As new collagen builds over time following treatment, the result is smoother, tighter skin and a more youthful complexion. In addition to skin tightening, Thermage treatment will also help to improve the skin’s overall texture, reducing the signs of aging such as crepey or loose skin as well as fine lines and wrinkles. Thermage treatment also addresses the dimpled look of the skin by reducing the appearance of cellulite, although it cannot get rid of cellulite completely. With just a single treatment, Thermage can lift, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin.

Thermage with Voluma & Lyft

What is Thermage CPT?

Several Thermage devices and tips have been created to maximize effectiveness and comfort. Thermage CPT, which stands for Comfort Pulse Technology, is the third generation of Thermage treatment devices established in 2009. Similarly to other Thermage devices, Thermage CPT utilizes radiofrequency technology to trigger collagen production and tighten the skin. The Thermage CPT device contains a 3 cm tip that allows providers to deliver precise, uniform treatments and a more comfortable patient experience. Thermage CPT also employs skin surface cooling technology and a handpiece that vibrates to reduce the risk of discomfort during the procedure.

What is Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is the newest and fourth generation of Thermage treatment devices created for maximum patient comfort. The FLX is equipped with advanced AccuREP technology to create direct, precise delivery of radiofrequency energy, with the ability to adjust the pulses in real-time. Vibrations paired with cooling technology also help to keep patients from experiencing discomfort throughout the procedure. The Thermage FLX device has a 4 cm tip that allows providers to cover 25% more surface area faster, making the Thermage FLX device ideal for larger areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

Which areas of the body does Thermage treat for skin tightening?

Thermage is a beloved skin-tightening treatment because it improves skin laxity in various body areas, including:

• face
• upper eyelids (to treat hooding)
• chest/décolletage
• neck (to treat jowls and turkey neck)
• hands
• knees
• arms
• legs
• buttocks
• abdomen

Who is a good candidate for Thermage?

The best candidates for Thermage® treatment are in good general physical and mental health with mild to moderate skin laxity. As a non-invasive treatment, Thermage® skin tightening treatment is also ideal for those patients who have realistic expectations about their achievable cosmetic results and prefer subtle improvement rather than the more dramatic results typically seen with cosmetic plastic surgery. Thermage treatment for skin rejuvenation can be performed on all skin types and patients of all ages.

Patients should not undergo Thermage treatment if they have a pacemaker, automatic implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (AICD), or any other implantable electronic device. Thermage is also not recommended for patients who are pregnant. Additionally, Thermage may not be right for you if you have severe skin laxity, as Thermage cannot remove excess skin. During your consultation with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will assess your skin to determine if you are a good candidate for Thermage treatment. If Dr. Green determines your skin laxity is too severe for treatment, she will refer you to a trusted board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.

What to expect from Thermage skin rejuvenation at Dr. Green’s dermatology office

Dr. Green offers Thermage skin-tightening treatments in her private dermatology office on the Upper East Side of New York City. The treatment takes an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the location and the size of the treated area. The treatment is painless, and no numbing cream is needed. Before the Thermage procedure, a grid is placed on the skin to delineate the complete treatment area. During the procedure, the handheld device is repeatedly pressed onto the outlined treatment area. As the adaptor touches your skin, you will initially feel a heat sensation followed by a cooling sensation. The heating sensation is a sign that the deep layers of the skin are reaching effective temperatures for skin tightening.

Thermage requires no downtime or special post-treatment care, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after treatment. Thermage stimulates your body’s collagen in a single treatment. Some results may appear immediately after treatment due to an initial plumping effect. However, full results and improvements will appear in two to four months. As the new collagen production slows aging, your skin will become smoother, firmer, and tighter. Although individual results may vary, your treatment’s effects can last up to two years, helping you look younger for longer.

What are the side effects of Thermage?

One of the greatest advantages of Thermage treatment is that this effective skin tightening laser tightens the skin without any side effects or downtime. The radiofrequency energy is constantly adjusted during treatment to achieve optimal results while maintaining maximum patient comfort. Most patients may see minimal redness or swelling immediately upon completion of the Thermage procedure, which will typically resolve within an hour after the treatment session.

What not to do after Thermage

Unlike other skin-tightening procedures, there are no strict post-treatment instructions regarding skincare or makeup. Patients often refer to Thermage as a “lunchtime” procedure, as they can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. Dr. Green recommends practicing proper sun protection by wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen whenever you go outside and reapplying every two hours in the sun.

How long does it take for Thermage to work?

Thermage skin tightening treatment boosts the body’s natural collagen production to improve skin laxity, meaning that the treatment results will continue to improve with time. Immediately after the treatment, patients will see an immediate “glow” and a plumper, smoother look to their complexion. However, the full results of the treatment will become visible up to four months post-procedure as collagen production creates firmer, more evenly-textured skin.

How long will Thermage last?

The cosmetic effects of Thermage can last up to two years to counter the visible signs of aging. Many patients schedule a Thermage treatment once a year to maintain the best cosmetic results and increase collagen production in their skin.

Thermage (abdomen) 4 1/2 months after treatment

Is Thermage safe?

Yes! Thermage RF treatment is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure designed to tighten the skin without downtime or risk of any potential side effects. The heating of the dermal layers of the skin that occurs as a part of the skin tightening procedure is completely controlled and causes no damage to the skin’s surface. The Thermage treatment applicators are designed with cooling technology to keep the outer layer of skin from experiencing any damage from the treatment. At most, some patients may see a mild facial redness or swelling in the treatment area immediately after the Thermage procedure is complete. Still, these symptoms typically resolve on their own within 24 hours. When you consult with an expert like Dr. Michele Green in NYC for Thermage skin tightening treatment, you can expect to achieve outstanding natural and long-lasting cosmetic results without worrying about unwanted side effects.

Can I combine Thermage with other facial rejuvenation procedures?

Absolutely! Since Thermage only improves skin laxity, other non-cosmetic procedures can be incorporated into treatment to address other signs of aging, including fine lines, volume loss, sun damage, and excess fat. Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world and is often combined with Thermage to achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. Botox is a neuromodulator that treats dynamic wrinkles created from repetitive facial movements such as squinting, smiling, and frowning. When injected into targeted muscles, Botox inhibits nerve signaling to “freeze” the muscle and reduce contractions. Over time, Botox can help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles to create a more youthful-looking appearance. Botox is FDA-approved to treat forehead lines, glabellar lines (between the eyebrows), and crow’s feet (lines around the eyes). Botox lasts three to four months before another treatment session is needed to maintain results.

Dermal fillers are another excellent cosmetic procedure to pair with Thermage treatment. Dermal fillers are injectable compounds that treat volume loss and enhance specific facial features. Dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts water and plumps the skin. Sculptra, a liquid dermal filler, contains poly-L-lactic acid to stimulate collagen production and restore volume in the injected area. Dermal fillers can be used in various areas of the face, including the cheeks, nasolabial folds, lips, oral commissures, jawline, tear troughs (undereye hollows), and chin. Hyaluronic acid fillers can last six to twelve months after a single treatment, while Sculptra can last two years after a series of treatments.

Patients looking to improve skin texture, sun damage, and pigmentation can utilize the Fraxel Dual laser. Fraxel is a resurfacing laser that utilizes two wavelengths of energy for skin rejuvenation. Its 1550nm setting treats fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and acne scars, while its 1927nm setting eliminates sun damage, sun spots, and pigmentation. The Fraxel Dual laser utilizes fractionated energy to heat the inner layers of the dermis, stimulating collagen production to rejuvenate the skin. Patients often require a short series of sessions for the best cosmetic results.

If you notice excess pockets of fat in addition to skin laxity, Dr. Green may also recommend CoolSculpting® or Kybella to fine-tune your figure. Even with a healthy diet and a consistent exercise routine, stubborn fat can remain in the neck, back, arms, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. CoolSculpting is a body-shaping procedure that uses cryolipolysis or fat freezing to destroy stubborn fat cells in the treatment area. When the fat cells rupture, the body’s natural metabolizing process is triggered, and the cells are broken down and eliminated. As fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than the surrounding tissue, only the fat cells are affected, resulting in little to no downtime post-treatment. Kybella is another procedure available at Dr. Green’s office that eliminates stubborn fat without surgery or incision. It is the first FDA-approved injectable treatment that uses deoxycholic acid for fat reduction. When the solution is injected into the treatment area, the deoxycholic acid destroys the membrane of fat cells, which are then metabolized by the body, reducing the fat concentration. Depending on the size and severity of your excess fat, Dr. Green may recommend CoolSculpting, Kybella, or a combination of both treatments. CoolSculpting and Kybella produce permanent fat reduction results so long as patients do not gain excessive weight after treatment.

Dr. Green is an expert, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience treating her patients with the world’s most innovative cosmetic procedures. When you consult her in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will assess your skin concerns and goals to devise a treatment plan that includes various procedures to help you achieve pan-facial rejuvenation. She will also help you create a timeline for scheduling your treatments to help you keep and maintain your results for clear, radiant, younger-looking skin.

FAQs about Thermage skin tightening treatment

How Does Thermage Work?

The Thermage treatment for skin tightening utilizes radiofrequency laser technology to boost collagen production for firmer, tighter skin. When the Thermage device is applied to the skin, it emits a beam of radiofrequency (RF) energy that heats the inner layer of the skin, also known as the dermis, while keeping the skin’s surface cool for maximum patient comfort during the treatment. When the dermis is heated, it triggers the body’s natural healing process, promoting new collagen production over time. The increased collagen production in the treatment area creates firmer, smoother skin over the next two to four months. The results of the thermage skin tightening can also be partially seen right after the treatment session, as the dermis heating also causes the water molecules in the fibrous collagen present in the treatment area to separate, leading to an immediate tightening and plumping of the skin.

Does Thermage work on the face?

Thermage skin tightening treatment can be used on the face to improve skin laxity and address various signs of aging. One area of the face where signs of the natural aging process can be most apparent is around the eyes. As collagen production decreases, wrinkles can easily form at the corner of the eyes, in the form of crow’s feet, and sagging skin can create the appearance of bags under the eyes. Lax skin above the eyes can result in “hooding” when sagging skin gathers above or on the upper eyelids. Additionally, sagging skin can create the appearance of jowls, causing the jawline to appear heavier. Thermage can be used to address all of these concerns on the face, tightening the skin and boosting collagen production for a more youthful appearance.

Does Thermage work on the neck?

Absolutely! The neck is another area of the body that shows signs of the natural aging process, and Thermage can be used to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and tighten the skin there. One common concern that can be addressed with Thermage is what is frequently called the “turkey neck.” Turkey neck is the unflattering term for loose skin that develops under the chin and along the neck. For patients experiencing sagging skin on the neck, Thermage is the best way to tighten the skin and improve its texture. Patients with a mild to moderate amount of skin laxity benefit most from treatment with Thermage. Patients with severe loose skin on the neck may benefit more from a surgical skin tightening procedure, such as a neck lift or facelift. When you consult with board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City for your non-invasive skin tightening treatment plan, she will work with you to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for Thermage. If your skin laxity is too severe to be treated successfully with Thermage, Dr. Green will refer you to a trusted board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.

Can Thermage treat cellulite?

While Thermage cannot treat cellulite, it can be used to reduce the appearance of cellulite across the body. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, cellulite affects nearly 90% of women in the United States. Cellulite occurs most frequently on the buttocks and thighs and takes on the appearance of dimpled or lumpy skin. The condition occurs when fibrous bands under the skin’s surface cause the subcutaneous fat accumulation in the area to stick out, leading to a rippling effect on the skin. Thermage is one treatment that can reduce signs of cellulite by thickening the skin and creating a smoother texture.

How much does Thermage cost?

Many patients in Dr. Green’s office ask, “How much is Thermage treatment?” Thermage treatment costs depend on several factors, including your geographic location, the area of the body you are treating, and the institution at which you receive treatment. The cost of Thermage treatment will be higher if you are looking to address concerns on multiple areas of your body and pair the Thermage treatment with other treatments. Additionally, the cost can vary based on the type of institution where you seek Thermage treatment. A MedSpa may be more inexpensive, but receiving treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, will provide you with a higher quality of care and reduce any risk of side effects. After your initial consultation with Dr. Green, where you discuss your goals and a treatment plan is established, her office will be able to provide you with a closer estimate of the cost of your treatment.

Is Thermage effective?

Yes! Thermage® is an FDA-approved technique that delivers radiofrequency energy to the deepest layers of the skin while simultaneously protecting the skin’s surface through a continuous cooling process. The radiofrequency energy works to heat collagen fibers deep in the dermis, which tightens the skin and stimulates renewed collagen production for several months after the treatment session. The result of the new collagen growth in the treatment area is an improvement in the visible signs of aging like crow’s feet, early jowls or “turkey neck,” and neck contouring to restore a more youthful appearance. Thermage is the gold standard of skin-tightening treatments because it creates firmer, smoother skin without downtime or side effects. Additionally, Thermage produces long-lasting results in just a single session, making treatment easy and accessible for all patients.

Can you have Thermage if you have a pacemaker?

No. The main contraindication for non-surgical skin tightening with Thermage treatment is having a pacemaker. Patients with a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or another metal implant should not have skin tightening treatment with Thermage radiofrequency. Please let Dr. Green know during your initial consultation for facial rejuvenation or body contouring if you have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or another metal implant. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office, located in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will work with you to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for Thermage skin tightening treatment and help you create a customized treatment approach that incorporates the non-invasive treatment options best suited to addressing your unique skin concerns and achieving your optimal cosmetic results.

Is Thermage permanent?

Thermage is a long-lasting skin tightening treatment that can provide patients with smooth, tight skin for up to two years after the procedure. Dr. Green recommends that patients schedule maintenance appointments annually to maintain the best results.

45-54 Year old man treated with Thermage and Kybella

55-64 Year old woman treated with Thermage and CoolSculpting – 6 months