The saying, “if it seems too good to be true, then it probably isn’t” certainly applies to many non-surgical facial rejuvenation techniques. The enthusiasm of laser or photo facial rejuvenation is quickly subsiding as patients realize that many of these treatments are not only very expensive, but also provide minimal, if any improvement over the long term. The number of treatments necessary to give a meaningful result frequently overwhelms the patient financially. The best any of these techniques can provide is an improvement. None of the non-invasive techniques are a substitute for a patient who needs a surgical facelift, neck lift, and brow lift or eyelid surgery. They are not intended to treat patients with severely sagging jowls or neck banding.
The key to patient satisfaction for non-invasive, non-surgical procedures is a combination of patient selection and patient expectations. Thermage™ is one of the non­invasive, office procedures which can produce excellent results in a select group of patients. The concept behind the technology of Thermage™ is sound. Thermage™ treatment increases collagen content within the skin. The reality of facial aging is that the amount of collagen in the skin diminishes as one ages. That loss of collagen results in thinner skin which then sags and wrinkles. Combine the normal aging process with excess sun exposure and smoking and the recipe for premature aging is complete. The technology of Themage™ can increase collagen content within the skin, slowing down the aging process, tightening and thickening the skin.
The ideal patient for Themage™ is a man or woman between 35 and 55 years old showing the early signs of facial aging. Sagging, drooping eyebrows, mild to moderately deep folds around the nose and mouth and mild laxity along the jaw line are conditions which can be treated successfully with non-invasive Thermage™. The patient can see an immediate improvement at the time of treatment which will continue to improve over a six month period and last approximately two years. The procedure is performed in a relaxed office setting. The treatment is delivered through a handpiece treating the targeted area with a series of multiple pulses. Each time a pulse is delivered; there is an immediate cool sensation, Followed by heat, followed by a cool sensation. Patients are pre-medicated with a mild sedative and must have a responsible person drive them home. Depending on the treatment area, the treatment may take only a few minute to an hour to complete. Treatment areas are divided into the forehead region, the midface and upper neck, or the entire face and forehead.
There is no bruising, minimal swelling and no pain after the procedure. There is no down time whatsoever. The best part is that the cost of Thermage™ is considerably less than it was a year ago. Check out the website www.thermage.com or make an appointment for evaluation.