Thermage Skin Tightening & Body Shaping

Thermage

Thermage specializes in radiofrequency (RF) heating of the dermis in order to tighten and rejuvenate the skin. While on staff at the University of California, San Francisco, Dr Zachary was one of the first to have worked with this company, which is based in the Bay area. He has continued to work with the company mainly in a research capacity on newer indications for this novel bipolar RF device.

Treatment with the Thermage device is a very operator-dependent, and it is essential for patients to be treated with optimal techniques, and with the latest technology, in order to achieve maximal results. Dr Zachary was one of the first in California to have the CPT Thermage system which became available in 2009. This is designed to be much more comfortable and more effective than the previous model, which translates into greater degree of skin tightening than previously. Dr Zachary frequently publishes and is invited to lecture and teach other physicians in the US and around the world on the optimal techniques with this device. All of these assets set Dr Zachary apart from the other physicians who use this device.

What is CPT Thermage?

CPT Thermage is a novel, safe, non-invasive RF device that causes tightening of skin without surgery and with minimal downtime.

How does the CPT Thermage work?

Uniform and prolonged heating of the deeper tissue underneath the surface of the skin causes contraction of collagen and tightening of loose skin. The bipolar CPT Thermage device is the most refined and most researched RF device available for this indication.

What areas can be treated?

The main areas of successful tightening are the eyebrows, the jowls, and the upper neck. One can treat directly over the brows to create a natural non-surgical elevation in this region, giving the eyes a more open appearance. The jaw line, which tends to sag with age, can be tightened, and the angle of the mouth can be elevated. This treatment can be safely used in conjunction with dermal fillers such as Juvederm, Restylane, Scupltra, Radiesse, and also with Botox® or Dysport®. Treatment of other areas of the body such as the arms, abdomen and thighs can also be quite effective.

Is it painful?

The new CPT hand piece is very tolerable, based on four new comfort elements, namely TENS like fractionation of RF, a hot/cold cycle and chaotic vibration to confuse the nerves, a modulation of the RF energy, and a redesign of the electrode to deliver heat in a very uniform manner, removing the edge artifact. This is all brand new, state of the art technology that Dr Zachary’s patients can expect to enjoy!

How long will the procedure take?

The newer technology is significantly faster than previously, and the larger tips have made body shaping and body contouring more achievable. 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?

There is very little downtime with this newer device. Swelling and redness are very temporary, and most can return to their regular activities immediately. Swelling can last for 1-2 weeks, depending on how aggressive the settings. Bruising and pain are uncommon after the procedure. There is no special care needed afterwards.

When will the results show?

The new CPT device can provide results immediately, but expect to see gradual changes over 4-6 months. Dr Zachary generally takes detailed photographs of patients so as to compare pre and post treatment improvement.

How many treatments will I need?

For most patients, one treatment will provide a worthwhile benefit. Other might need a series of treatments. Not all patients improve to the same degree. Some patients will see absolutely no improvement, so patient selection is important.

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?

As mentioned above, some patients will notice very little improvement. However, in those that do, the changes can last years. Some studies indicate that the results can last over five years.

How safe is it?

Thermage is very safe. The company and its medical advisory board have gone to great efforts 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%.