Non-Surgical Facelift

New Skin Tightening Procedure Gives the Appearance of a Facelift Without Surgery

By Holly Vitchers

A new skin tightening procedure has been cleared by the US Food & Drug Administration for the treatment of facial wrinkles without surgery. This procedure, called “Thermage“, reduces the signs of aging skin, giving you a more youthful appearance. The Thermage procedure targets the collagen in your skin. Collagen is a building block that supports the structure of the skin. Over time, collagen becomes depleted or damaged by the sun or other environmental factors. The results are visible signs of aging such as loose skin and wrinkles.

The Thermage procedure, also called Thermalift, Thermacool, or Radiofrequency (RF) treatment, is an advanced way of tightening skin that requires only the touch of a sophisticated treatment tip to your skin. It is performed with a radiofrequency device called Thermacool TC and requires no incision or recovery time. The top layers of your skin are protected with a cooling spray while radiofrequency energy heats the collagen in the lower layers. This heating action causes the deep structures of your skin to tighten immediately. Over time, new collagen grows to further tighten your skin and produce a more youthful appearance. The procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the area being treated, as Thermage can be used on many areas of your face and body.

It works to reduce wrinkles and lines on the face, tighten the skin under the chin, reduce the “flaps” in the underarm area, tighten sagging skin on the tummy and thighs and even helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite.

With each touch of the Thermage treatment tip, you will experience a brief warming sensation as the collagen deep in the layers of your skin is tightened. To protect your skin and make the treatment more comfortable, a cooling spray is delivered before, during, and after each application of the treatment tip.

In most patients, results begin to appear immediately and continue to improve for up to six months or more after treatment. Studies show that thermal collagen changes can last several years, depending on the rate of the aging process. A single treatment produces good results in a significant number of patients. However, the number and frequency of treatments required to achieve optimal results for your skin will be determined by your individual response.

Most people return to their regular activities immediately following the Thermage procedure. Some experience mild redness, but it usually disappears quickly. There is no special care needed after treatment, but sunscreen is recommended as part of a good skin care regimen.

For more information, please contact Cosmetic Dermatology Pocono Medical Care in Milford, PA at (570) 296-4000 or www.milfordmd.com.