The procedure
is performed with
the ThermaCool
TC System and
it works by deep
tissue heating
to tighten the
deep collagen
of the skin and
underlying tissue,
while protecting
the skin surface
with a cooling
spray. The initial
deep tissue heating
also initiates
a natural repair
process that causes
additional skin
tightening and
restoration of
a more youthful
appearance.
This treatment
is the first non-invasive
method for tightening
the skin. It is
not a replacement
for various facelifting
techniques but
can provide significant
improvement in
many patients
who do not want
surgery. Theramge
can be used in
conjunction with
other treatments
such as Isolagen,
IPL, mini- facelift,
and MACS lifting.
Prior skin preparation
with glycolic
peels is beneficial.
PRE-TREATMENT
General - Thermage
can improve skin
laxity and tone
in the forehead,
cheeks, jowlsand
neck. Any existing
facial asymmetry
will be pointed
out.
Medical problems-
Any Heart, Kidney
or blood pressure
problems must
be reported prior
to treatment.
Treatment is contraindicated
in the presence
of a pacemaker.
Fillers - Treatment
is contraindicated
in the presence
of dermal fillers.
Drugs - Avoid
aspirin/ibuprofen
type analgesics
for 3 weeks prior
totreatment.
Smoking - Must
avoid at least
2 weeks prior
to treatment and
at least 2 weeks
after.
Skin Care - Prior
preparation of
the skin with
a regime of Glycolic
peels is beneficial
to enhance the
results of treatment.
TREATMENT
Out Patient treatment.
No anaesthetic
required.
Intense heat sensation
during treatment.
Procedure lasts
about 1 hour.
Return to normal
activity / work
after treatment.
POTENTIAL PROBLEMS
Pain - Mild-Moderate
discomfort only
expected.
Sensation - May
be altered in
areas treated.
Swelling - Mild
that can persist
for 5 days.
Depressions -
rare and is due
to fat shrinkage
in treated area.
RESULTS
- Individual
response to treatment
is unique.
- Patients with
moderate skin
laxity generally
achieve the greatest
improvement.
- In most cases
the tightening
is felt within
a few days but
the beneficial
effects and improvement
continues for
3 to 6 months.
- the results
are long lasting
but some patients
may benefit from
further treatment
6 months after
the initial treatment.
