Services & Treatments

Thermage

Originally started as a small company outside of San Francisco, Thermage has blossomed into a company and technique widely respected by the medical community. The doctors at SkinCare Physicians have been central to the development of this exciting new skin tightening technology and involved in many of the clinical trials and in the research performed to optimize this procedure. They also continue to advise Thermage and serve on its Scientific Advisory Board, and therefore are uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat our patients.

Since Thermage is a very operator-dependent procedure, it is essential for patients to be treated with the most up-to-date techniques in order to achieve maximal results. This is what we believe separates SkinCare Physicians from other practices that perform Thermage. Our doctors are the ones who have invented and helped to teach other physicians the many new techniques we use quite successfully with Thermage. Since the approach to treatment and technology are evolving rapidly, SkinCare Physicians is uniquely positioned to allow our patients to quickly take advantage of these advancements. In fact, our doctors have discovered many of the new Thermage advances now used around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ThermaCool?

ThermaCool is a novel, safe radio-frequency device that causes tightening of skin without surgery or injury to the skin's top layer (epidermis). It was developed as the result of extensive research by Thermage, Inc. (Hayward, CA).

How does the ThermaCool work?

Deep, intense, uniform, sustained heat in the tissue underneath the surface of the skin will produce contraction of collagen and tightening of loose skin. The ability to tighten skin without surgery is unique to Thermage, and is the central feature that sets Thermage apart from all other technologies.

What areas can be treated?

Tightening skin in certain key areas can be advantageous for cosmetic improvement. For example: Treating the skin of the forehead can lift the eyebrows and enhance the appearance of the eyes, making the eyes look more open, less tired, more alert. Previously, this result could only be obtained with major surgery or injections of Botox.

Some of the most exciting and innovative work has been done on other areas of the face, such as the skin of the cheeks, jaw line, and upper neck. They can also be treated to reduce sagging and tighten the skin. Treatment of other areas of the body such as the arms, abdomen and thighs is currently being tested.

Is it painful?

Each pulse of the machine produces is a sensation of heat in the area. Fortunately, this heat sensation lasts only a fraction of a second. The popular misconception is that Thermage hurts a lot. It does not. Our physicians have developed many new techniques that have virtually eliminated pain with Thermage. We may give you an injection of Demerol, and possibly an oral sedative such as Valium or Ativan, which will help with the discomfort. You will need a ride home after this procedure.

How long will the procedure take?

The procedure itself may take anywhere from thirty to ninety minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.

Do I need special preparation?

You may continue to use your topical creams and any oral medications up until the time of the procedure. Please avoid wearing jewelry and makeup on the day of your appointment.

When can I return to my normal activities?

You may return to your activities immediately, as there is no down time. Redness is seen in some patients, but it disappears within a few hours. Swelling, particularly along the jaw line, is often subtle and usually resolves within two weeks. Bruising and pain are uncommon after the procedure. There is no special care needed afterwards.

When will the results show?

Although the results are seen immediately in some patients, in most the changes will occur gradually over 4 to 6 months. Since the effects are so gradual, the patient may not be aware of the extent of the improvement. Photographic comparison with pre-operative pictures can in some instances demonstrate the difference.

How many treatments will I need?

For many patients one treatment will suffice. Repeat treatments may be needed for others.

When can I have another treatment?

A decision regarding further treatment can be made as early as one month; however, since benefits are delayed, further treatment usually does not begin for 4-6 months.

How long will the effects last?

The studies to date demonstrate that there may be a variable response. However, in some studies the results have lasted over five years. Recent data from a number of physicians confirms that Thermage produces noticeable results in over 94% of patients treated.

How safe is it?

It is extremely safe. Although this is a relatively new procedure and a new technology, great effort has been made to make it as safe as possible. The number of adverse effects is extraordinarily small. With the introduction of new treatment guidelines in 2005, the number of adverse events has dropped to less than 0.1%.