Thermage Non-Surgical Face Lift at GreatSkin Medispas

Dr. Van Wormer uses Thermage, a revolutionary non-invasive procedure, recently described on Oprah, to tighten the sub-structure of the skin on both the face and the body.

Thermage (also known as Thermacool) is a radio wave treatment device that tightens sagging skin without invasive surgery. The results are remarkable.

Our skin naturally sags as we age due to the breakdown of collagen strands that bind the deeper layers of our skin together. A Thermage treatment uses radio waves to heat this web of collagen deep beneath your skin's surface. The heat causes the collagen to tighten, improving your skin's appearance immediately.

The best part is that the effects continue to improve for four to six months following treatment as new collagen continues to form.

The treatment itself lasts from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the amount of area being treated.

Thermage is the only non-invasive procedure available that tightens and renews your skin’s collagen in all three layers. Thermage is safer than invasive cosmetic procedures. And unlike lasers, Thermage works on all skin types and colors. Best of all, you only need one Thermage treatment to obtain the full benefits — not three to five as you would with some laser therapies. And there is no downtime, so you can quickly resume your daily routine

What is the Thermage procedure?

The Thermage procedure is an advanced method for tightening loose skin that requires only the touch of a sophisticated treatment tip to your skin.  The treatment tip delivers radio frequency energy just millimeters under the surface of the skin without the need for incisions, injections, or surgery.

Is it safe?

The Thermage procedure is very safe.  Although it is possible that skin damage can occur, it is usually temporary.  This treatment has been carefully studied in hundreds of patients with minimal reports of adverse events.  It is common to experience mild redness or swelling after the procedure.  For treatment of the face, it is also common to experience some mild soreness under the jawbone.  The side effects are minimal compared to traditional face-lifts or other surgical tightening procedures.

How long is the procedure?

The Thermage procedure can take from one-half hour to an hour and thirty minutes depending on the body part(s) to be treated.  A typical Thermage "face lift" procedure may take one hour.  Dr. Van Wormer offers treatment to the neck, lower and mid face, eyes, brow and forehead.  Other areas of the body can also be treated to tighten loose skin.

When will I see results?

Recently published studies conducted by Thermage show that measurable tightening improvements appear gradually over 2 to 6 months after a single treatment.  In some cases, our physicians have obtained dramatic results in as little as three weeks.

How many treatments will I need?

A single Thermage treatment has produced good results in the majority of patients.  During your consult, our doctors will assess the quality and laxity of your skin to determine the treatment schedule.  Furthermore, we will discuss and recommend complementary therapies to assist in skin rejuvenation such as diet, nutrient supplements, and the Obagi Nu-Derm system.

How long before I can return to my normal activities?

Most people return to their regular activities shortly after having the procedure.  This compares most favorably to a face-lift, which often is accompanied by severe swelling, bruising, pain, and a lengthy period of recovery before returning to normal activities.

Do I need to do anything special for my skin following the procedure?

There is no special care required.  Patients can continue to follow their skin health regimen as recommended by our physicians.  Makeup can be used immediately after the procedure.  Sunscreen is recommended for good skin care.

How does Thermage work?

The Thermage procedure uses a special treatment tip to deliver radio frequency energy into the collagen layers of the skin.  This form of energy produces a heating action to cause a tightening of the collagen.  Over a period of about 6 months, new collagen grows to further tighten your skin and produce a more youthful, vibrant, natural appearance.  Our patients describe it as "turning back the hands of time".  Many patients prefer the look of natural rejuvenation that Thermage provides versus the "pulled" appearance of a face lift.

What is collagen?

Collagen is a protein molecule that supports the structure of the skin.  Over time, collagen becomes depleted or damaged by the sun, smoking, dietary or environmental factors.  Collagen also becomes depleted during the aging process, and is usually controlled by heredity.  The results are visible signs of aging, such as loose skin, wrinkles, and fine lines.

What does the Thermage procedure feel like?

With each touch of the Thermage treatment tip, you will experience a brief intense heating sensation as the collagen in deep layers of your skin is tightened.  To protect your skin and make the treatment more comfortable, a cooling spray is delivered during the application of the treatment tip.  Additionally, as part of pretreatment, a pain medication is given to reduce the discomfort of the heat sensation.

For a Free Thermage Consultation with Dr. Van Wormer

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Offices in Albuquerque and Clayton New Mexico, and Amarillo Texas

Common mispellings include: Thurmage, Tharmage, Thermoge, Thermaje

Information contained on this site is for general review and not intended as medical advice. Consult the physician directly regarding your particular situation. Photos are for decorative purposes only.