Facial Thermage - what is this procedure, how is it done, what is the difference with RF lifting. Photos, results, price, reviews

Thermage concept

Thermage is a hardware cosmetic procedure during which radio frequency waves affect the cells of the dermis.

As a result of radiation, local tissue heating occurs, which leads to activation of collagen synthesis and strengthening of the facial skin. In other words, this non-surgical correction method significantly tightens and rejuvenates the skin.

Opinion of cosmetologists

Cosmetologists negatively evaluate the procedure of classic high-temperature thermage. Doctors strive to use only modern devices with low heat in their work. This helps to avoid problems with the use of appearance correction technologies in the future.

Cosmetologists prefer to avoid Thermage. Manipulation gives good results in the present, but causes problems in the future.

A cosmetologist is selective when choosing a thermal treatment technology. Some methods (classical high-temperature heating) lead to the immediate need for surgical intervention.

The doctor is sure that it will not be possible to achieve stable results with the help of Thermage. Problems with your appearance will soon return, and they cannot be solved even with the help of plastic surgery.

Advantages

The Thermage procedure has several advantages:

• collagen synthesis is activated, while the upper layers of the dermis remain intact;
• a noticeable lifting effect appears;
• the result is noticeable after 1 session;
• The facelift effect lasts from 3 to 5 years;
• patients do not require a rehabilitation period;
• the application of the method does not depend on the season and weather conditions.

This type of anti-aging procedure has a minimum of contraindications and can be used by both women and men who have not reached the age threshold of 70 years.

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The effect of the course of procedures

The cost of facial thermage is quite favorable, considering that the result will please the patient for a very long time. The procedure will give several effects at once:

• elimination of both superficial and deep wrinkles;
• correction of skin defects that arise after weight fluctuations - stretch marks, sagging skin;
• getting rid of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks;
• noticeable tissue lifting in any area after the first session;
• smoothing the skin microrelief and thickening the integument by stimulating the production of its own collagen.

Thermolifting can provide tightening after liposuction, as well as correction of age-related changes, allowing you to restore elasticity to the skin - thanks to 19 attachments, a specialist will be able to cope with any area of ​​the body that requires hardware rejuvenation.

The cosmetologists at the EsteLab clinic are professionals who can solve the problem and help the patient choose subsequent care to maintain an excellent appearance. Contact us, we are waiting for you!

Disadvantages compared to similar methods

The main disadvantage of this method is its high cost. Compared to other anti-aging procedures, the prices for Thermage are several times higher. However, the result will not be long in coming.

Patients with hypersensitivity also note a slight pain syndrome during the procedure, which is a disadvantage compared to many other rejuvenation methods.

Summarizing, we can identify the following disadvantages of Thermage in comparison with other rejuvenation methods:

• high price;
• soreness (in patients with increased sensory sensitivity);
• possibility of thermal skin burns;
• longer procedure time (minimum 45 minutes).

Advantages and disadvantages

Thermage is characterized as a highly precise, safe treatment. The procedure is valued for:

• non-invasive (no incisions or punctures);
• painlessness (anesthetics are used in exceptional cases);
• lack of rehabilitation (you won’t have to give up your usual activities);
• the need for a single exposure to achieve an effect.

Note! The expected result is achieved in most cases. Lack of effect is a rare occurrence.

The disadvantage of the procedure is the long-term achievement of the final result. The high cost of Thermage scares off potential patients. Cosmetologists note that the resulting fibrous frame complicates subsequent work with surgical methods.

Indications

Like any cosmetic procedure, Thermage requires a number of indications for its implementation.

Most often it is recommended for:

• loss of facial skin tone;
• violation of the smooth contours of the face (double chin);
• drooping upper and lower eyelids (bags under the eyes);
• the presence of facial wrinkles around the eyes (crow's feet);
• the appearance of other first signs of aging.

In some cases, thermolifting is prescribed as one of the auxiliary procedures included in the list of rehabilitation therapy after plastic surgery.

Contraindications

Facial thermage (what kind of procedure it is, its benefits and possible side effects are discussed with the client at the initial stage of the examination) is actively used in their practice by most large cosmetology clinics.

This type of radiofrequency rejuvenation has a number of contraindications common to techniques of this type. Among them we can distinguish absolute and relative.

Absolute contraindications include:

• period of pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• the presence of wounds in the area of ​​exposure to radio frequencies;
• eczema, psoriasis;
• diseases accompanied by hyperthermia;
• diabetes mellitus type I and II;
• oncology;
• diseases associated with mental disorders or central nervous system pathologies.

Relative contraindications are:

• presence of a pacemaker (consultation and permission for the procedure from the attending physician is required);
• connective tissue dysplasia and other types of pathologies that require additional examination and identification of the stage of the disease;
• tendency to form scars (consultation with a supervising dermatologist is required);
• fresh tan

Who is Thermage contraindicated for?

Contraindications for Thermage therapy are:

• pregnancy and lactation;
• installed pacemaker;
• childhood;
• decompensated diabetes mellitus (glucose levels cannot be controlled with standard drug therapy regimens);
• malignant tumors of any location (deep heating of the dermis can cause tumor growth and start the process of metastasis due to increased lymph flow under the influence of thermal energy);
• pathologies of connective tissue, regardless of pathogenesis and morphological features (autoimmune pathologies of connective tissue, Libman-Sachs disease, etc.);
• conditions accompanied by fever, hyperthermia, intoxication (intestinal infections, food toxic infections, respiratory tract diseases, infectious lesions of bones and joints);
• infectious and inflammatory skin diseases with localization of the pathological process at the site of intended exposure.

If the body is intoxicated, Thermage cannot be performed.

Women are also not recommended to undergo procedures during menstrual flow.

For what parts of the body is it used?

The thermolifting method can be used for both the face and body . Most often, it is necessary to correct the skin in the eye area to remove crow's feet, reduce swelling under the eyes and drooping upper eyelids.

The second most frequently adjusted area is the nose and lips. With the help of Thermage, you can eliminate deep folds that give the face a dissatisfied expression.

After 35 years, thermolifting is often used as part of preventive measures to prevent the appearance of such folds.

This method allows you to correct and make the facial contour clearer and remove the double chin. Also during the procedure, shallow expression wrinkles are smoothed and the dermis of the cheeks is tightened. The very first visible result is the overall fresh appearance of the patient.

Eyelids and area around the eyes

The skin of the eyelids and area around the eyes is the most sensitive and thin. He is in constant motion. The dermis does not have a subcutaneous fat layer, but it has many blood vessels, which in case of blood stagnation cause the development of edema.

Photos before and after Thermage around the eyes.

Therefore, performing the thermage procedure here has a number of its own characteristics:

• the markings used during the preparatory stage are much smaller;
• the attachments used during the procedure are smaller in size;
• special eye drops with an anesthetic and protective effect are used;
• eyes are necessarily protected with dark lenses that prevent radiation.

The results of this radiofrequency rejuvenation method can last for 2-5 years, depending on the characteristics of the patient’s skin structure. To prolong the effect, cosmetologists recommend repeating the procedure after 1-1.5 years.

Face

Facial Thermage is applicable to various areas. Lips, nasolabial area, cheekbones, forehead and cheeks - any of these areas can be rejuvenated using this method.

The attachment used for thermal lifting in the area of ​​the cheeks or cheekbones is larger than that used to treat the eyes and the area around them. The size of the special markings applied to the patient’s skin also changes.

Facial thermage is not only a method of combating the consequences, but also a means of prevention, which is confirmed by cosmetologists. A striking example is the prevention of the formation of deep nasolabial folds as a result of preventive treatment of this area with a thermolifting device.

Learn more about Thermage CPT procedures and history

1. Definition

Thermage is a non-invasive hardware technique based on the effect of a high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field on the skin and subcutaneous fat.
This effect causes a short-term and dosed heating of collagen, which leads to a large-scale renewal of the connective tissue framework of the dermis and subcutaneous fat. The result of Thermage is an improvement in the “mechanical” properties of the skin, and, as a result, its tightening and tightening. The Thermage technique provides phenomenal skin tightening, improves its quality, and restores the contours of the face and body. Thanks to unique technological solutions, Thermage has maintained leadership among other RF devices for more than 10 years, being the only device in its class that provides significant results in just one procedure.

History and distribution

In 1995, the famous plastic surgeon Edward Knowlton noticed an interesting side effect that was observed when using a radiofrequency scalpel (radiofrequency scalpel, along with laser, is used in surgery, mainly in abdominal surgery). In the place where the radiofrequency scalpel came into contact with the skin, it subsequently thickened and tightened.

Thermage Inc. was founded in 1996. (termo - heat + age - age) Pre-clinical and clinical research of unprecedented scope was conducted for several years, as a result of which the first Thermage cosmetology device was developed and several dozen patents were issued (to date there are more than 63).

In 2000, Thermage received its first FDA approval (Food and Drug Administration, an agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services).

In 2006, continuous collection of clinical data and their analysis led to the creation of an improved version of Thermage NXT.

In 2009, the latest generation device was developed - Thermage CPT - the safest and most effective of the Thermage range.

For more than 10 years, Thermage has remained the most popular procedure among those who want to transform their appearance without resorting to plastic surgery.

To date, the effectiveness and safety of Thermage has been repeatedly proven through numerous clinical studies. Thermage devices are approved for use in more than 80 countries and have several FDA approvals.

Most Thermage devices are presented in the USA, Japan and Korea. The presence of the Thermage procedure in the cosmetology center’s arsenal indicates its high status and desire to provide its clients with the most modern rejuvenation techniques.

Many Thermage devices are used in plastic surgery clinics, where doctors skillfully combine the Thermage procedure and plastic surgery, and are also able to provide a worthy alternative to surgical techniques. In Russia today, Thermage operates more than 60 leading cosmetology centers and clinics.

Many patents protect Thermage monopolar radiofrequency rejuvenation technology from counterfeiting and allow it to successfully develop.

How it works

The Thermage procedure is based on the conversion of alternating electromagnetic field energy (radio frequency energy) into heat. Radiofrequency energy penetrates the skin and is focused using a patented Thermage tip - while the skin is heated in a dosed manner and the natural processes of its renewal (synthesis of new collagen) are launched. In addition to heating the skin to a significant depth, the intelligent Thermage system cools the surface layers of the skin, which increases the safety and comfort of the procedure. One of Thermage's latest developments is its patented CPT (Comfort Pulse Technology) technology, which combines handpiece vibration and a special cooling algorithm for even greater comfort during the procedure.

Today there are a lot of devices that work on a principle similar to Thermage. But the uniqueness of Thermage is that only this device is capable of delivering heat into the skin to great depths and heating a large volume of tissue at once. In addition, Thermage devices use the reverse gradient principle: heat arises deep in the skin and does not spread to the surface due to contact cooling. Thanks to its special properties, Thermage is the only procedure among radiofrequency lifting (RF-lifting) procedures (i.e. exposure of tissue to an alternating high-frequency radiomagnetic field corresponding to the radio frequency), which gives maximum results with a single use.

Depending on the Thermage tip used, tissue heating occurs to a depth of 0.5 to 4.3 mm. An alternating electromagnetic field acts for a fraction of a second on the area of ​​skin located under the Thermage tip. The energy of such a field (also called radio frequency energy) is spent on heating old collagen, which is partially destroyed. As a result, the process of neocollagenogenesis starts and old collagen, which causes sagging skin, is gradually replaced with new one. As a result of collagen renewal, the skin becomes thicker and tightened within 3-6 months from the moment of the procedure to the state in which it was 5-7 years ago.

The Thermage's alternating electromagnetic field has a frequency of approximately 7 MHz, which is why Thermage is often referred to as a device for non-invasive skin tightening using radio frequency energy (RF or RF energy).

4. What results to expect

Just one Thermage procedure triggers intensive collagen renewal processes in the dermis and connective tissue fibers of subcutaneous fat. The process of renewal and remodeling of collagen takes from 3 to 6 months, so we can talk about the final result of the procedure six months after it was carried out. The results last for years, depending on the condition of the skin and the severity of the aging process.

In some cases, the result of the Thermage procedure appears immediately at the time of its implementation. This effect may occur in approximately 10% of patients. This is due to the fact that a certain part of the collagen deep in the skin changes its tertiary structure (denaturation), while the length of the collagen fibers is reduced and the skin tightens literally before our eyes.

But it is important to understand that the main mechanism for tightening and tightening Thermage skin is the long-term remodeling of collagen in the dermis and connective tissue cords of subcutaneous fat. The effect that occurs immediately after the procedure is nothing more than a positive side effect of the procedure.

According to the latest official statistics from the American company Solta Medical, the number of patients who experienced immediate smoothing of their skin after the procedure increased from 26% to 87%. Skin lifting rates 6 months after the session improved from 54% to 92%. The overall number of people satisfied with the results of radiofrequency therapy increased from 68% to 94%.

Description of the procedure

The Thermage procedure is performed exclusively in a doctor's office by a certified Thermage specialist. It takes approximately 45 minutes when performed on the face and up to an hour and a half when performed on other areas of the body, depending on the size and condition of the treated area. During the procedure, the handle of the device is pressed against the surface of the skin and warms up the collagen deep inside. At the same time, the surface of the skin is cooled. Each time the device comes into contact with the skin, the patient feels a slight chill, which is replaced by deep but short heating of the skin and cooling again. The sensation of heating the skin indicates that the temperatures affecting the deeper layers are high enough to stimulate their thickening. If the aesthetician uses the latest Thermage CPT option, the patient will feel a slight vibration. During the procedure, the specialist asks the patient what level of heating he feels - this is necessary to determine the optimal parameters.

What to do during the rehabilitation period

It is worth noting that the first day after the Thermage procedure you should refrain from intense heat exposure, i.e. visiting a sauna, taking a hot bath, overheating in the sun or in a solarium. You should also postpone sports and heavy physical exercise for the next day (24 hours).

Since the recovery time after Thermage treatment is minimal, most patients return to daily life immediately after completion of the session. Some patients may experience temporary redness or slight swelling, which usually disappears within 24 hours.

Benefits (for patients)

1) Thermage allows you to tighten the skin, restore its previous contours without resorting to plastic surgery and delay the time of plastic surgery for several years;

2) Unlike other non-invasive techniques, the client receives a tightening result in just one procedure;

3) Clients receive a lot of additional time, which does not have to be spent on long-term rehabilitation;

4) Thermage does not interfere with other procedures and is indicated when other methods are dangerous to use;

5) Clients can hide the secret of their youth and beauty from strangers: there are no visible damages on the skin after the procedure;

6) The risks when performing the Thermage procedure are much lower than when using other methods.

Comparison with other devices

Thermage is a non-invasive procedure for tightening, tightening the skin and restoring its original contours.

There are only a few non-invasive procedures that tighten and tighten the skin:

• Infrared thermolifting
• Light (photo) techniques
• Other radio frequency (RF) techniques

Thermage is not a competitor to plastic surgery and other invasive techniques, since it is not comparable to them in terms of safety.

1. Thermage in comparison with light and laser techniques:

Thermage is fundamentally different from laser and light methods of skin tightening (lifting):

Laser (or photo) radiation loses its energy as it penetrates the skin (figure), therefore, during non-ablative laser rejuvenation (for example, Nd:YAG lasers), infrared thermal lifting (Titan, Palomar IR) and during photorejuvenation, mainly the epidermis and upper layers are heated dermis.

During the Thermage procedure, collagen fibers in the dermis and subcutaneous fat are heated. The field penetrates unhindered through the surface of the skin, its energy is not lost anywhere and is purposefully transferred to collagen. The energy of the electromagnetic field is transmitted to connective tissue fibers deep in the dermis and subcutaneous fat.

This provides three-dimensional deep tightening and tightening of the skin. Light and infrared technologies provide heating only at the level of the upper layers of the dermis.

2. Thermage compared to other RF technologies:

Other methods of radiofrequency therapy also tighten the skin, but none of the existing RF lifting options is accompanied by such deep heating of the skin as Thermage. By heating the deepest layers of the skin, Thermage is characterized by maximum efficiency in compacting collagen and stimulating the formation of a new collagen framework, which explains skin lifting and an overall rejuvenating effect.

Who is the procedure suitable for?

The main indications for the Thermage procedure are:

Face:

• age and expression wrinkles
• loose skin
• sunken cheeks
• insufficiently defined jawline
• sagging skin on the neck (double chin)
• insufficiently clear lip line

Eye area:

• bags under the eyes
• drooping upper eyelid
• uneven skin texture on the eyelids
• wrinkles around the eyes

Other parts of the body:

• loose or uneven skin, decreased tone
• sagging skin in the abdominal area
• sagging skin in the shoulders, knees and hips

Contrary to popular belief, Thermage is not an alternative to plastic surgery. The Thermage procedure is performed at the initial signs of ptosis (sagging skin due to the constant action of gravity and the skin losing its qualities): where it is too early to perform surgery. That is why Thermage is ideal for patients who, for a number of medical reasons or personal preference, refuse plastic surgery.

Preparatory stage. Analyzes and preliminary examination

Like any serious cosmetic procedure, facial thermage has several stages: preparatory, main and restorative.

The preparatory stage begins 2 weeks before the main procedure. It includes a mandatory initial consultation with a cosmetologist, who will assess the condition of the skin and issue a referral for a medical examination. It may include not only a laboratory blood test, but also an additional consultation with a dermatologist if a skin disease is suspected.

Facial thermage - what kind of procedure it is, how it is performed, what contraindications there are and whether it is recommended for the patient - a specialist should give detailed answers to all these questions at the initial consultation.

A week before the thermolifting procedure, the patient should refuse:

• visits to the solarium and open beaches;

• eating fatty foods, large amounts of herbs, spices, pickles and preservatives;
• smoking and alcohol.

Thermage is carried out only if the skin is clean, without pustules, wounds and pimples. Refusal of salt, drinking a large amount of water per day, increasing grain and plant foods in the diet will solve the problem of infectious rashes.

Only after passing all the tests and undergoing the necessary consultations will the cosmetologist set a date for the procedure.

SMAS lifting

Basis of action: ultrasound

Smas lifting or smas facelift is a unique, non-surgical facelift using ultrasound.

Do you have loose and dull skin, expression lines and eyelid ptosis? Then ultrasonic smas lift is exactly what you need!

SMAS lifting procedure

Altera SMAS lifting acts comprehensively on all levels of the dermis. Ultrasound has a powerful effect on the skin, facial muscles and adipose tissue. Thanks to this approach, the tightening occurs not only externally, but also internally!

Ultrasound stimulation of facial muscles is guaranteed to relieve you of wrinkles and creases around the eyes and mouth. Alter's ultrasonic lift is unique in that. That it can be done literally on any area of ​​our body:

• Face
• Neck and décolleté
• Hands
• Stomach
• Knees and shins

Benefits of SMAS lifting

1. Lifting from the inside. Ultrasound interacts so well with cells that it flawlessly restores the facial frame.
2. Suitable for any age. Unlike many similar procedures, the Altera smas lift is perfect for beautiful ladies at 20 and 50 years old.
3. Lack of rehabilitation. You don't have to worry about the condition of your skin in the first few days. After ultrasound tightening, your skin looks young and beautiful.
4. Safety. No risks or complications!
5. Efficiency. We customize the ultrasound penetration depth to suit your individual needs and characteristics. Since each patient is unique, the ultrasonic lifting program will be unique.

Duration of the smas lifting procedure: individually, depends on the area. On average 40-120 minutes.

Duration of effect: up to 2 years.

Skin condition for the first 1-2 days: tingling

What are the contraindications for Altera SMAS lifting?

• Oncology
• Pregnancy
• Lactation
• Infections
• Viral diseases
• Open wounds on the skin
• Oncology
• Implants
• Eczema and dermatitis in the acute stage
• Age after 65

We care not only about your beauty, but also about your health! We understand that each patient has their own individual skin characteristics and needs.

That is why we recommend protium consultation with our specialist. During a personal examination, the doctor will determine your skin type and its needs. It will also help you decide on the choice of procedure.

Executing the procedure

The thermage procedure itself is a series of sequential operations:

1. Facial skin treatment. All applied decorative cosmetics, creams and balms are first removed, after which the skin is disinfected - treated with an alcohol-containing product. If the dermis is extremely dry, a different composition for disinfection can be selected.
2. Applying special markings. To carry out this stage, a washable marker and special paper are used. Contour markings allow you to highlight problem areas and correct treatment lines using a thermage device.

3. Use of anesthesia and additional protective measures. This stage is relevant when working with the eyes and the area around the bottom. Special eye drops have an analgesic effect and protect the cornea from radiation. Dark lenses also serve the same function.
4. Preparation of equipment. The device is turned on to heat to the required temperature, and the cosmetologist selects the size of the nozzle used during the procedure. There are 5 attachments for facial Thermage. The smallest ones are for the eyelids, and the largest ones are for the forehead.
5. The working process. During the procedure, the cosmetologist adjusts the depth of exposure taking into account the treated area. The patient does not experience pain, but feels impulses.

6. The time for treating the skin depends on the professionalism and experience of the specialist , the degree of age-related problems, the number of areas treated and the individual characteristics of the patient.

Don’t miss the most popular article in the section: Plasmolifting of the face - what it is, how it is carried out, results, photos before and after the procedure.

Question answer

It depends on individual characteristics, emotional state, as well as on what a person eats and what kind of lifestyle he leads. Usually the result lasts for 2-4 years in people under 50 years of age. In older patients, the effect may last less.

The procedure is well tolerated and does not cause pain. A person alternately experiences warmth and a slight chill.

The procedure can last from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the area being treated.

The difference between a fake

Many patients who underwent the Thermage procedure were not satisfied with the result, since the effect was not fully manifested. The most common reason for this is the use of radiofrequency lifting machines, a method similar to facial Thermage, but with less noticeable results and cheaper financially.

Before and after the thermage procedure with a high-quality device.

It is very easy to spot a fake. Just look at the Thermage machine itself. The American company Thermage Inc (California, USA) produces thermolifting devices. The name of the Therma Cool device must be marked on the device body.

An additional guarantee of the authenticity of the procedure is a detailed explanation by the specialist of what the method is and a demonstration of the device with all attachments.

It is also necessary to remember that the result of Thermage is achieved through one procedure. If a specialist recommends conducting a course at intervals of less than a year, you should doubt the authenticity of the device and the method itself.

How not to run into a fake

On the Internet you can find negative reviews about Thermage due to the fact that people did not feel the promoted anti-aging effect. But perhaps they come from women who have given themselves not natural, but fake Thermage. Now many beauty salons under the auspices of Thermage offer clients radiofrequency treatment of the face or body with a device other than Therma Cool from the manufacturer Thermage. They attract clients with a lower cost of the procedure. As a result of such savings, a person does not get the desired result and is disappointed. And a fake is easy to spot.

Just look at the device carefully - the name should be written on it in large letters. You should also be wary if a specialist suggests doing several sessions. In reality, Thermage is done only once, and again after a year.

Before the thermage procedure in the salon, you should ask the cosmetologist to show the device. If there is no brand name on it, then it is a fake. Dermatologist Karin Litani

Thermage machine at home

Until 2013, facial thermage (what kind of procedure this is is described in detail above) was performed only in clinics and specialized salons. However, in the same year, Swiss specialists released the Thermage Mini device, with which you can perform lifting at home.

Equipment for carrying out the procedure is commercially available, so you can perform facial Thermage at home.

The device is more compact and convenient for independent use. The price for this type of device varies from 67 to 77 thousand.

Detailed instructions for the device allow you to carry out the procedure at home yourself. However, the best results can only be achieved when working with professional equipment and an experienced specialist.

Advantages of non-surgical lifting at ART-Clinic

Online consultations for patients from the regions

A team of highly qualified specialists with extensive experience

Modern minimally invasive techniques of operations and reconstructions

Affordable prices, promotions, discounts, installments

The ART Clinic employs highly qualified specialists - experts in cosmetology. Their extensive knowledge and extensive positive experience with the ThermaCool device ensure maximum treatment efficiency and eliminate the occurrence of side effects.

If you want to experience the effective rejuvenating effect of Thermage, sign up for a consultation at the ART Clinic by calling +7 495 150 23 32 and (toll-free within Russia) or using a special form.

Recovery and rehabilitation

The recovery period lasts no more than 2 days. The lack of rehabilitation is one of the advantages of Thermage. You can return to your normal lifestyle almost immediately.

Due to the increased sensitivity of the facial skin, a number of requirements must be observed in order to maintain the long-lasting effect of the procedure:

• Do not stay in direct sunlight for a long time;
• at first you cannot use a solarium;
• do not use decorative and sunscreen cosmetics for the first 14-18 days after undergoing Thermage;
• refrain from visiting Russian, Turkish baths and saunas to eliminate the possibility of inflammation;

• do not use alcohol-containing products (lotions) on the face;
• replace hard soap with soft foam for washing;
• exclude the use of scrubs and peelings;
• temporarily cancel sports activities.

The cosmetologist should warn the patient about all these rules. In all other types of activities there are no strict restrictions.

Recovery period

The technique does not require a rehabilitation period; you can return to normal life the very next day after the procedure.

On the first day after the procedure, it is recommended to avoid thermal procedures (sauna, solarium, bathhouse, prolonged exposure to the sun), limit sports and intense physical activity.

Sometimes there may be some slight redness immediately after treatment, but this will disappear within a few hours. There may also be mild swelling that goes away in two to three days.

Thermage has been clinically proven to be absolutely safe, with numerous studies showing no side effects. Thermage is perfectly combined with botulinum toxin injections, fillers, photorejuvenation, thread lifting and laser rejuvenation.

Differences from RF lifting

Facial Thermage is an analogue of RF lifting. Many people think that these are the same thing. Indeed, these techniques are distinguished by a common principle based on the effect of radiofrequency radiation on the dermis. However, there are also significant differences.

First of all, we are talking about the heating temperature of the skin. For Thermage this figure is 60°C, and for RF lifting it is 40°C. Therefore, in the first case there is a greater chance of getting a thermal burn.

You can also note the following differences:

• the difference in the monopolar frequency of radiation (with Thermage it is more powerful);
• complete denaturation of collagen during thermolifting and partial denaturation during RF lifting;
• number of necessary procedures (1 course for Thermage and a course for RF lifting).

Do I need special preparation for the procedure?

Thermage does not require special training, medication, or adherence to any regimen. The only recommendations from cosmetologists on the eve of the session are a hygienic shower and refusal to use decorative cosmetics on the day of the appointment. There are also no restrictions on tanning, since the device is equipped with a burn prevention system (temperature sensors, contact cooling system, cryogas), and the technology of uniform volumetric heating eliminates the impact on the skin cellular pigment - melanin - responsible for dermal pigmentation.

There should be no makeup on your face on the day of the procedure.

Is Altera more effective?

The principle of operation of the Altera apparatus is based on ultrasonic influence on subcutaneous tissue located at a depth of 3-8 mm.

There are a number of differences between the procedures performed by Thermage and Altera devices:

• a longer recovery period (about 2 weeks), often accompanied by redness and slight swelling, after the Altera procedure;
• less noticeable result compared to Thermage;
• temporary increase in skin sensitivity;
• lower price for one procedure using the Altera apparatus.

Side effects and consequences

One of the advantages of the procedure is the almost complete absence of side effects.

However, if the rules of the recovery period are violated or if mistakes are made by the cosmetologist, the following “cons” may be observed:

• lack of visible result;
• thermal burns;
• fibrosis.

The last point is a particularly strong side effect that occurs when fibroblasts overreact to radiation. As a result, connective tissue grows and subcutaneous scars form.

Possible complications

Thermage is a safe procedure approved by the FDA in 2002. But some side effects may appear:

1. Irregularities. They may form a month after the procedure.
2. Numbness or tingling for a week after the session.
3. Burns, blisters. They appear due to overheating of tissues. Sometimes scars remain.
4. Hyperpigmentation. Pigment spots may disappear on their own after 2-3 months.

What procedures are they often combined with?

The Thermage procedure is often combined with a method called Fraxel. This is laser stimulation of cellular regeneration as a result of which active restoration processes begin in micro areas of the dermis.

Thermolifting is also recommended after:

• liposuction;

• abdominoplasty;
• facelift.

Operating principle

With age and due to external factors (sun, bad habits, stress, nutrition), the collagen responsible for the elasticity and density of the skin is destroyed. The destruction of collagen provokes premature aging of the skin, weakening its intracellular structure and thereby reducing its tone.

Products that work on the surface of the skin are not able to affect collagen fibers. The unique Thermage technology allows you to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin: affecting the deep layers of the dermis, radio frequency energy pulses remodel collagen fibers, stimulating the synthesis of new collagen at a record depth of 5-7 mm.

Taking the correct shape under the influence of radio frequency pulses, collagen fibers form a dense frame, as a result the skin tightens and becomes more elastic. But the main thing is that the Thermage device affects not only existing fibers, but also stimulates the formation of new collagen, also creating a delayed rejuvenating effect.

There are other devices that perform so-called thermolifting, but the effect after the Thermage procedure is clinically proven and confirmed only when using official ThermaCool equipment.

Where to get Thermage done and how much does it cost?

The second question that is often asked after explaining the technique is the cost of the procedure. Many are put off by the high price, but given the instant results and long-lasting effect, it’s worth it.

The average price for facial thermage varies within the following limits:

• eyelids – from 70 to 100 thousand rubles;
• neck – from 100 to 120 thousand rubles;
• average region - from 100 thousand rubles.

In regional cosmetology centers, prices are on average 15-20% lower.

When choosing a clinic for the procedure, you need to pay attention to the following points:

• availability of original equipment from an American manufacturer;
• experienced professional cosmetologists with certificates confirming their qualifications;
• one-time procedure.

During the consultation, the specialist must not only explain what facial Thermage is, but also give the opportunity to become familiar with the equipment and warn about all possible side effects and contraindications. Only such a responsible approach will allow you to obtain a guaranteed, and most importantly, safe result.

Real reviews

Reviews on the Internet and photos will help you understand more clearly the question of what thermage is. It is worth noting that they are mostly positive, which is already a strong argument for choosing this procedure as a transformation.

ANASTASIA:

“I haven’t personally done Thermage, but I heard about it from my aunt. Before this, she had not tried anything of this kind; she preferred homemade masks and creams. But age takes its toll and she had to think about more radical measures. After consulting with a specialist at the salon, she decided on facial Thermage. The result became noticeable a month after the procedure: the contour became visible, the skin tightened and smoothed. Auntie was pleased.”

NATALIA:

“I had facial Thermage about 2 years ago. The procedure, although slightly painful, is worth it. I began to look much fresher and 5 years younger. Of course, the price for this procedure is rather high, but it’s worth it. In any case, Thermage is better than injection plastic surgery. The procedure was done in a specialized clinic in Minsk. There were no complications after it.”

OLGA:

“I’m already over 40, and I started thinking about external transformation, as age-related changes began to appear. I was especially worried about the loose skin on my arms, because of which I could not wear open dresses and blouses in the summer. One of my friends advised me to do body Thermage, citing the effectiveness of such a procedure. Despite the high cost, I still decided. The result surprised and pleased me: the skin became smooth and silky, several centimeters disappeared from the waist, and the stomach shrank. Now I’m not ashamed of my body.”

KIRA:

“Although I had heard a lot of positive reviews about Thermage, I really didn’t believe that it could make the buttocks more elastic. However, I decided to experiment. After the session, I encountered unusual sensations - as if I were wearing tight stockings. As a result, my thighs lost 1.5 centimeters. Six months later, I discovered that my buttocks began to look much more aesthetically pleasing.”