Introduction
In the bustling city of New York, the pursuit of youth and beauty is a timeless endeavor. Among the various anti - aging treatments available, Thermage has emerged as a popular choice. This article will provide a comprehensive look at Thermage in New York City, including what it is, how it works, its benefits, potential side effects, and a ranking perspective on where you can get the best Thermage treatments.
What is Thermage?
Thermage is a non - invasive skin tightening treatment that relies on radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area. As per Dr. Michele S. Green, an internationally renowned board - certified dermatologist in New York City, this treatment helps in improving the appearance of loose skin and diminishing fine lines and wrinkles without the need for invasive surgical procedures, incisions, scars, or anesthesia.
Collagen and elastin are proteins that occur naturally in the body and provide the skin with a firm foundation and elasticity. However, as part of the natural aging process, the production of these proteins decreases. This leads to visible fine lines, wrinkles, and crepey, loose skin. Thermage addresses these issues by triggering the body’s natural collagen production process, rejuvenating the skin for a smoother, tighter, and more youthful appearance.
How Thermage Works
When the Thermage device is applied to the skin, it emits a beam of radiofrequency (RF) energy. This energy heats the inner layer of the skin, known as the dermis, while keeping the surface of the skin cool for maximum patient comfort during the treatment. When the dermis is heated, it triggers the body’s natural healing process, which promotes the production of new collagen over time. The increased amount of collagen production in the treatment area leads to the replacement of sagging, loose skin with firmer, smoother skin throughout 3 to 6 months. Some immediate tightening of the skin can also be observed right after the treatment session as the heating of the dermis causes the water molecules in the fibrous collagen present in the treatment area to separate.
Areas of the Body That Can Be Treated
Thermage can be used nearly anywhere on the face or body. The common areas of treatment include:
- Face: It can improve skin laxity around the eyes (treating crow’s feet, hooding), on the jowls, and can enhance the definition of the jawline. For example, sagging skin above the eyes can result in “hooding,” and Thermage can help tighten this area.
- Neck: It is effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the neck and addressing the “turkey neck” problem, which is the loose skin that develops under the chin and along the neck.
- Chest and Décolletage: Helps in firming and tightening the skin in these areas, reducing signs of aging such as crepey skin.
- Upper Arms: Can address sagging skin on the upper arms, giving them a more toned appearance.
- Abdomen: Thermage can be used to rejuvenate the appearance of the skin on the stomach and reduce the signs of cellulite. The Thermage FLX with its slightly bigger tip is often used for treating the abdomen as it is better for larger surface areas.
- Thighs and Buttocks: Helps in tightening the skin and reducing the appearance of cellulite, which affects nearly 90% of women in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Benefits of Thermage
Thermage offers several benefits that make it an attractive anti - aging option:
- Non - invasive: There is no need for surgical incisions, which means no scarring and less risk compared to surgical procedures. Patients can avoid the pain and long recovery time associated with plastic surgery.
- Minimal Downtime: Most patients can resume their normal activities immediately after the treatment. Although some patients may experience mild redness that typically resolves within an hour or up to 24 hours, it does not significantly disrupt daily life.
- Long - lasting Results: The results of Thermage can last for up to two years, with some patients experiencing the effects for up to three years. New collagen production continues over time, leading to an improvement in skin texture and firmness.
- Multiple Problem Areas: It can be used to treat various areas of the face and body, making it a versatile treatment option. Whether it's facial wrinkles, neck sagging, or body cellulite, Thermage can address these concerns.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: Thermage is safe and effective for patients with different skin types and colors. The radiofrequency energy is unaffected by skin pigment, so patients with darker skin can also undergo the treatment without an increased risk.
Different Types of Thermage Devices
Thermage FLX
Thermage FLX is the fourth generation of Thermage lasers. It has been designed with maximum patient comfort in mind. The new and innovative AccureP technology works 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 4 cm tip allows providers to cover 25% more surface area at a faster rate, making it more ideal for areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms.
Thermage CPT
Thermage CPT, which stands for Comfort Pulse Technology, is the third generation of Thermage treatment devices. It has a 3 cm tip, which is 33% smaller than Thermage FLX. Therefore, it can be used on more delicate areas that require even greater precision, such as around the eyes for reducing hooding and eliminating crow’s feet. Both Thermage CPT and Thermage FLX use the same radiofrequency technology to tighten the skin, improve skin texture, and eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Thermage CPT also employs skin surface cooling technology and a handpiece that vibrates to reduce the risk of any discomfort during the procedure.
What to Expect During and After Thermage Treatment
During the Treatment
Depending on the size of the treatment area, the appointment can last between 45 to 90 minutes. The doctor will begin by marking a grid in the treatment area to delineate where the Thermage handpiece will be applied. When the device touches the skin, patients will feel a deep heating sensation followed by a cooling sensation on the skin’s surface. The cooling function and vibrations of the Thermage handpiece serve to provide maximum comfort during the treatment. Some patients may experience a mild amount of discomfort due to the heat sensation, but it is generally tolerable. If needed, the doctor may provide an oral medication to numb any discomfort.
After the Treatment
There is no significant downtime after Thermage treatment. Patients can immediately return to their routine. However, some patients may experience some minimal erythema (redness) at the treatment area, which typically resolves on their own within an hour after receiving the treatment. Dr. Michele Green recommends wearing sunscreen outside in the weeks following the procedure as the skin may be more sensitive. It is also important to practice strict sun avoidance by wearing sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher whenever going outside and reapplying every two hours. Wearing protective clothing such as a wide - brimmed hat and long sleeves can also help. Additionally, patients should keep the skin hydrated by applying a gentle cleanser twice daily. To maintain the results of the treatment and keep the skin from getting irritated, it is best to avoid direct sunlight, tanning beds, hot environments (such as hot showers, steam rooms, saunas), and strenuous exercise for at least three days post - treatment.
Who is a Good Candidate for Thermage?
The best candidates for Thermage treatment are individuals who are in good general physical and mental health and have noticed or would like to prevent signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity, that their existing skin care routine isn’t able to keep up with. It is also ideal for those patients who have realistic expectations about their achievable cosmetic results and who 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 for patients of all ages. The accessibility of the treatment is also appealing to patients who do not want to undergo any surgical procedures.
However, patients with a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or another metal implant should not have skin tightening treatment with Thermage radiofrequency. It is important to inform the doctor during the initial consultation if there are any such contraindications.
Potential Side Effects
One of the greatest advantages of Thermage is that it typically has minimal side effects. Most patients can expect a minimal amount of redness immediately upon completion of the Thermage procedure, which will typically resolve within an hour after the treatment session. In some cases, there may be mild swelling in the treatment area, but these symptoms usually subside within 24 hours. There are no major long - term side effects associated with the treatment, and it is generally considered a safe option for skin tightening.
Cost of Thermage in New York City
The cost of Thermage treatment in New York City depends on several factors, including the geographic location, the area of the body being treated, and the type of institution at which the treatment is received. The cost will be higher if multiple areas of the body are being treated or if the Thermage treatment is paired with other treatments. According to Dr. William Lao, the cost of Thermage treatments in New York City typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per session. After the initial consultation with a doctor, where goals and a treatment plan are established, the clinic will be able to provide a closer estimate of the cost of the treatment. A med spa may offer more inexpensive treatments, but receiving treatment from a board - certified dermatologist generally provides a higher quality of care.
Combining Thermage with Other Treatments
Thermage can be combined with other complementary non - invasive treatments to address specific skin concerns fully and achieve ideal aesthetic goals. Some common combinations include:
- Thermage with Dermal Fillers: Dermal fillers, such as Juvederm, Restylane, Sculptra, or Radiesse, work primarily to restore lost volume in the face. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to volume loss in areas like the mid - face, resulting in sunken cheeks and under - eye hollows. While Thermage tightens the skin, dermal fillers can provide volume to these sunken areas and fill in deep lines and wrinkles.
- Thermage with Botox: Botox is used to relax the muscles that cause wrinkles. Combining it with Thermage can address both the dynamic wrinkles (caused by muscle movement) and the static wrinkles (due to skin laxity) for a more comprehensive anti - aging effect.
- Thermage with CoolSculpting or Kybella: If a patient has excess pockets of fat in addition to skin laxity, CoolSculpting or Kybella can be used. CoolSculpting is a body - shaping procedure that uses cryolipolysis to destroy stubborn fat cells in the treatment area. Kybella is an injectable fat reduction treatment that works by injecting deoxycholic acid to destroy the membrane of fat cells. These treatments can fine - tune the figure in combination with Thermage.
Newly Released Ranking Perspective of Thermage Anti - aging in New York City
While there isn't a single official "ranking" of Thermage providers in New York City, several factors can be considered to determine top providers:
Expertise of the Provider
Doctors with extensive experience and a good reputation in the field of cosmetic dermatology or plastic surgery are likely to provide high - quality Thermage treatments. For example, Dr. Michele S. Green is an internationally renowned, board - certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience. She was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to utilize the Thermage procedure in her private Manhattan dermatology office and has a track record of excellent skin - tightening results.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews and testimonials from previous patients can give an idea of the patient experience and the effectiveness of the Thermage treatments at a particular clinic. Providers with a high number of positive reviews, especially those that mention noticeable anti - aging results and good customer service, are likely to be well - regarded.
Use of Advanced Technology
Clinics that offer the latest generations of Thermage devices, such as Thermage FLX, are often more appealing. These advanced devices offer better patient comfort and potentially more effective results. For instance, LaserAway in Manhattan - Tribeca uses Thermage FLX by Solta, providing a faster, more comfortable, and more efficient Thermage experience with improved results.
Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Providers who offer a comprehensive approach to anti - aging, including the ability to combine Thermage with other treatments as needed, are advantageous. They can create personalized treatment plans based on each patient's unique skin concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. William Lao, a double - board plastic surgeon, is known for his ability to customize Thermage treatments and offer complementary procedures to achieve the best results for his patients.
Comparison with Other Non - invasive Skin Tightening Procedures
Thermage vs. Ultherapy
Both Thermage and Ultherapy are non - invasive skin tightening procedures, but they have some differences. Thermage uses radiofrequency laser technology to create controlled thermal damage to the tissue, triggering the body’s healing response and collagen production. Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy to penetrate deeper layers of the dermis. However, Ultherapy is more painful than Thermage and can cause unwanted side effects such as unintentional loss of fat tissue in the treatment area. Additionally, Ultherapy is limited to treating the face and chest, while Thermage can be safely used on all areas of the body. For these reasons, many doctors, like Dr. Michele Green, recommend Thermage over Ultherapy.
Thermage vs. Microneedling
Thermage is an excellent long - lasting treatment for tightening the skin and improving skin texture, reducing the appearance of signs of the natural aging process. Microneedling involves using surgical - grade needles to pierce the skin, creating micro - wounds that trigger the body’s natural collagen production response. It can be used for many purposes, including reducing the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, large pores, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage. While microneedling can also tighten the skin, the results are not as dramatic as those of Thermage radiofrequency treatment. A doctor can recommend the best option based on the patient's specific skin concerns and aesthetic goals.
Conclusion
Thermage is a revolutionary non - invasive anti - aging treatment that offers a range of benefits, including skin tightening, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and a more youthful appearance. With minimal downtime and long - lasting results, it has become a popular choice for individuals in New York City looking to combat the signs of aging. There are different types of Thermage devices available, each suited for different areas of the body and patient needs. The cost of the treatment varies based on several factors, and it can be combined with other treatments for more comprehensive results. When looking for the best Thermage anti - aging treatments in New York City, it is important to consider the expertise of the provider, patient reviews, use of advanced technology, and the ability to offer a comprehensive treatment approach.
If you're interested in learning more about Thermage and determining if it's the right anti - aging solution for you, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a reputable board - certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon in New York City. Take the first step towards achieving a more youthful and confident you!
