| The ThermoCool TC
is a computer-controlled radio-frequency device that can tighten
the skin without injuring the epidermis, or outer layer of
the skin; therefore, no visible wound is created.
How It Works
Each pulse of the ThermaCool precisely heats the tissue underneath
the surface of the skin, contracting and remodeling collagen
and tightening excessively flaccid or lax skin.
Results
Although many patients will see some tightening immediately
after the procedure, collagen remodeling in the deep layers
of the skin over several months after treatment causes the
actual lifting and tightening. There may be gradual improvement
for up to a year following a single treatment.
Safety and Side Effects
ThermaLift, or Thermage, is believed to be an extremely safe
procedure. Although ThermaLift is relatively new, it is based
on technology used in surgery for many years. Great effort
has been made to make ThermaLift as safe as possible. The
number of adverse effects is unusually small.
Recovery Time
There may be some redness and swelling in treated areas that
usually disappears in a few hours. When the face and neck
are treated, mild swelling in these areas may last a few days.
If anesthetic injections are used, there may be some bruising
in the injected areas. Very rarely, there may be crusting
or blistering in some areas. No special aftercare is needed
in the treated areas, and you may resume your normal skin
care regimen immediately.
Comfort
Each time the machine is turned on, there is a sensation of
cold, then heat, then cold again in the treatment area. The
entire cycle takes about four seconds. Oral medication and
an anesthetic cream may be applied 30-60 minutes before the
procedure to make this tolerable. In some instances anesthetic
injections may be used. There is no pain after the treatments,
although mild tenderness, especially along the cheekbone or
jawline, may be present for a day or so. |
