Have you begun to notice signs of aging in your face, but think it's not bad enough yet to consider undergoing facelift surgery? If so, then a Thermage face lift may be right for you. This procedure uses radiofrequency waves to lift and tighten the facial skin, turning back the clock without forcing you to go under the knife.
During Thermage treatments, radiofrequency waves are directed into the skin using a specially designed machine with a tip about half an inch in diameter. As they heat the deeper layers of skin, they cause a controlled tightening, resulting in smoother skin with reduced wrinkles. The energy also stimulates the growth of collagen, a key structural element within the skin.
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia, and usually takes about an hour. You may feel a warming sensation as pulses of energy enter your facial skin. Your doctor may also use a cooling gel or a device to cool the skin in order to avoid burns while the radiofrequency energy is applied.
After undergoing Thermage, there is no downtime, and most patients are able to return to work and other daily activities immediately, though the skin may be red, sensitive, or swollen for a few days. Results become visible over the next few weeks, as the skin becomes tighter and smoother.
Thermage face lifts work best on people who are beginning to show their age, but whose wrinkles and sagging skin is not severe enough to require surgery. If you are looking for drastic results, consider facelift surgery. But if you're after a little improvement with no downtime, consider Thermage treatments.