Introduction
In the bustling city of New York, the quest for youthful and firm skin has led many to explore Thermage skin - tightening treatments. Thermage is a non - surgical, non - invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin, resulting in tightened and smoother skin. As demand for this treatment grows, numerous institutions and hospitals in New York City offer Thermage services. In this article, we will delve into what Thermage is, the top institutions and hospitals for Thermage skin tightening, and what to expect from the treatment.
What is Thermage?
How it Works
Thermage is an FDA - cleared non - surgical procedure that has been making waves in the aesthetic industry. It works by heating the underlayer of the skin, known as the dermis. According to the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, this heat causes a process called neo - collagenesis, where the body produces new collagen. Collagen is a vital protein that provides the skin with structure, firmness, and elasticity. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Thermage helps to boost collagen levels, making the skin look firmer, tighter, and improving its overall texture.
Treatment Areas
Thermage can be used on various parts of the body. It can effectively treat the face, including around the eyes to reduce hooding and crow's feet, on the jowls to enhance jawline definition, and on the neck to address turkey neck. Additionally, it can be used on the abdomen, arms, hands, thighs, and buttocks. Women may choose Thermage to improve their post - pregnancy belly or minimize the appearance of cellulite, while men may use it to improve residual skin laxity due to age or following minor weight loss.
Benefits of Thermage
One of the major advantages of Thermage is its non - invasive nature. There are no needles or surgery involved, which significantly reduces the risk of complications. It also has minimal downtime; patients can usually return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment. The results are long - lasting, with most patients seeing a tightening and lifting effect for up to 6 months following the procedure, and the effects can last over a year depending on the skin condition and the aging process. Moreover, it promotes new collagen growth, which continues to improve the skin's appearance over time.
Top Institutions and Hospitals for Thermage Skin Tightening in New York City
The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York
The Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York has a team of board - certified physicians who offer Thermage as one of their non - surgical skin - tightening options. They have the experience and expertise to customize the treatment to each patient's precise needs and goals. The treatment at this center typically has minimal pain. During the treatment, patients feel a brief cooling sensation followed by a deep but brief heating sensation and then another cooling sensation when the handpiece touches the skin. The results become visible in 2 - 6 months, and there is usually no downtime. Patients may experience mild redness or swelling for 24 - 48 hours, but this does not impact their ability to resume normal activities.
William Lao, MD
Dr. William Lao offers Thermage at his state - of - the - art practice in NYC. He is a double - board plastic surgeon and a highly trained aesthetic specialist. Thermage at his clinic is a radio - frequency therapy procedure that addresses signs of aging without surgery. The treatment can take years off the face, and it is highly customizable. The treatment usually takes about an hour, and patients report little to no pain. After the treatment, some patients may experience redness and tightness, but this typically fades after about 24 hours. The cost of Thermage treatments at Dr. Lao's clinic ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per session, depending on factors such as the specific area treated and the size of the treatment area.
Michele S. Green, MD
Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board - certified dermatologist. She was one of the first dermatologists in NYC to utilize the Thermage procedure. Her practice offers Thermage using a variety of different applicator tips, such as the Thermage Total Tip 3.0 and the Thermage FLX. The Thermage FLX is the fourth - generation device with advanced Accurep technology for precise treatment and a larger tip for treating larger body areas. The treatment at Dr. Green's office is painless, and there is no need for numbing cream. After the treatment, patients can resume normal activities immediately. Some results may appear immediately, with improvements continuing in two to four months, and the effects can last for up to two years.
Park Avenue Dermatology
Park Avenue Dermatology offers Thermage in NYC. The experts at this clinic customize every Thermage treatment to fit each patient's specific profile and concerns. During the treatment, patients feel a warming sensation followed by a vibrating burst to minimize discomfort. The length of the treatment typically takes about 1 hour, and there is virtually no downtime. To maintain the results, patients are recommended to follow a comprehensive skin - care routine and may benefit from scheduling touch - up treatments. The cost of the treatment depends on the area being treated.
Paul Frank, MD
Dr. Paul Frank's clinic was among the first centers in the country to offer the Thermage technology in 2002. The Thermage system at his clinic uses radio - frequency energy while cooling the top layer of the skin. The treatment session can range from 30 - 90 minutes depending on the sites treated. Final results are achieved as early as one week or, on average, 3 to 4 months. The clinic currently offers treatments for various areas such as the cheek/jawline, neck, eyelids, cellulite, abdomen, arms, and thighs.
What to Expect During and After Thermage Treatment
Before the Treatment
Most often, no special preparation is needed for Thermage. However, it is important to inform the doctor about any medical conditions, especially if you have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or another metal implant, as these are contraindications for the treatment. At some clinics, a consultation will be held where the doctor will assess your skin condition, discuss your goals, and create a personalized treatment plan.
During the Treatment
The treatment process varies slightly from one clinic to another but generally follows a similar pattern. A grid may be outlined on the treatment area. The doctor will then use a handheld device to apply radiofrequency energy to the skin. Patients usually feel a combination of heat and cooling sensations. Some devices have vibration features to minimize discomfort. The duration of the treatment depends on the size of the area being treated and can range from 45 minutes to an hour and a half.
After the Treatment
One of the great benefits of Thermage is the minimal downtime. Most patients can return to work or other activities immediately after the treatment. Some may experience mild redness, swelling, or tightness in the treated area, which typically resolves within a few hours to a couple of days. It is recommended to wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight and hot environments, such as hot showers, steam rooms, saunas, and strenuous exercise for at least three days post - treatment. Some patients may see an immediate “glow” and plumper look to their complexion, and the full results will become more evident over the next few months as collagen production increases.
Cost of Thermage Treatment in New York City
The cost of Thermage treatment in New York City can vary widely. According to Dr. William Lao's clinic, the cost typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000 per session. Several factors influence the cost, including the specific area treated (face, eyes, body), the size of the treatment area, and the expertise of the provider. Clinics with more experienced doctors and advanced technology may charge more. Additionally, if you are pairing the Thermage treatment with other treatments, the cost will also increase. After an initial consultation, most clinics will be able to provide a more accurate estimate of the cost based on your specific treatment plan.
Comparing Thermage with Other Skin - Tightening Treatments
Thermage vs. Ultherapy
Ultherapy is another non - surgical skin - tightening treatment. While both Thermage and Ultherapy boost collagen production, they have some differences. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy, while Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy. Ultherapy can penetrate deeper layers of the skin, but it is often more painful than Thermage. Ultherapy is also limited to treating the face and chest, whereas Thermage can be used on multiple areas of the body, including the eye area. Additionally, Ultherapy has a potential side effect of underlying fat loss in the treatment area, which Thermage does not cause.
Thermage vs. Microneedling
Microneedling is a treatment that uses surgical - grade needles to pierce the skin and trigger the body's natural collagen production. Thermage is better for overall skin tightening and improving skin texture, while microneedling is more focused on reducing the appearance of acne scars, fine lines, large pores, stretch marks, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage. The results of Thermage are generally more dramatic in terms of skin tightening compared to microneedling.
Is Thermage Right for You?
The best candidates for Thermage are individuals who are in good general physical and mental health. They should have noticed or would like to prevent signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity, that their existing skin - care routine can't address. Thermage is also suitable for those who prefer a non - invasive treatment and have realistic expectations about the results. It can be performed on all skin types and for patients of all ages. However, if you have a pacemaker or other metal implants, you should not undergo Thermage treatment. Before deciding on Thermage, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with a qualified doctor to determine if it is the right option for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thermage is a revolutionary non - surgical skin - tightening treatment that offers numerous benefits, including minimal downtime, long - lasting results, and the ability to improve skin laxity and reduce signs of aging. In New York City, there are several top - notch institutions and hospitals offering this treatment, each with its own unique approach and expertise. When considering Thermage, it is important to do thorough research, understand what to expect during and after the treatment, and choose a reputable provider. By making an informed decision, you can achieve smoother, firmer, and more youthful - looking skin.
If you are interested in learning more about Thermage skin - tightening treatment in New York City, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the institutions mentioned in this article. Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and rejuvenating your skin!
