There is now a less drastic alternative to plastic surgery. Thermage® or ThermaCool TC™ uses radio frequency energy to tighten loose or sagging skin, producing a kind of "lift" without an incision. The Thermage® process heats deeper skin tissue to jumpstart collagen production.

The Thermage® procedure is referred to as a mini-face lift because it is similar to a facelift without surgery. The procedure works beyond texture changes and superficial wrinkle reduction. It is FDA approved and has been reported to be extremely safe.

Before, during and after each touch of the device tip, the surface of the skin is cooled with a cryogen spray, while heating alters the deeper tissue. Thermage® has a unique capability to produce an initial collagen contraction with gradual collagen tightening, which pulls or lifts the skin without wounding the skin’s top layer.

Each time the Thermage® device is pulsed, there is a brief sensation of intense heat in the skin. The device monitors the surface temperature of the skin and applies a cooling cryogen spray, which is delivered three times during the procedure.

To minimize the discomfort associated with the procedure, the patient is given pain medication and a mild tranquilizer 1-2 hours prior to the procedure.

The procedure takes about 90 minutes and patients can immediately resume their daily activities. The effects of treatment continue for months after the procedure as the new collagen enhances facial contours.

Most importantly, there is no recovery or patient downtime. Patients may return back to work directly after the procedure. In some cases a mild redness, comparable to a sunburn, may occur, but normally goes away quickly. Secondly, surgery or incisions are not needed. Thirdly, Thermage® is a less costly, non-invasive method. Lastly, there is no special preparation or follow-up regime.

This procedure was demonstrated on the Oprah Winfrey show several times over the last few years and has been featured on news shows across the nation, including CNN, Good Morning America, NBC Primetime and more.

A Woman’s View will be conducting free seminars about Thermage® each month. For a schedule of upcoming seminars call (828) 345-0800.  For more information about Thermage®, visit www.thermage.com or view our FAQ about Thermage® page.