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Thermage Procedure Video
General Information - Latest innovations with Thermage NXT, Deep Contour Body Shape and the Fast Tip

December 2008 - Look Who's Talking About Thermage
November 2007 - Thermage development of the Deep Contour Tip for body skin firming.
Thermage Body Shape
June, 2007 - Total Dermatology is one of the first practices in the country to use the new Fast Tip. As a test clinic for the new tip, Total Dermatology has first hand experience in seeing how the improved tip shortens treatment time by 40 to 50% and also bumps up the comfort level.
What is the Thermage® procedure?
The Thermage® procedure employs a patented radiofrequency (RF) technology called Thermacool. It has been clinically proven to tighten and gently lift skin to smooth out wrinkles and renew facial contours. The incision-free procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin types. The Thermacool device has been cleared by the FDA for the non-invasive treatment of facial wrinkles and lines (rhytids).
How does it work?
The Thermacool
system uses a sophisticated treatment tip called Thermatip, which
delivers a controlled amount of RF energy. With each touch to
the skin, the thermatip device uniformly heats a large volume
of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin and its underlying
tissue while simultaneously protecting the outer layer of the
skin with cooling. This deep uniform heating action causes deep
structures in your skin to immediately tighten. Over time, new
and remodeled collagen is produced to further tighten skin, resulting
in healthier, smoother skin and a more youthful appearance. Total Dermatology Patients
"I was very pleased with how you handled my Thermage. I already see results particularly around
the chin and I am so pleased.
You were very helpful and answered lots of questions and concerns. Again, I had a very positive experience and enjoyed
your staff and appreicated your time and help with the Thermage. I was quite nervous and it went so well and so easy." Dr. Ginny Gordon
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What happens during the procedure?
Initially your face will be cleansed to
remove any residual oils. Dr. Pilest will draw various markings
on your skin to indicate which areas might need additional tightening.
Much like making alterations to an article of clothing, the Thermage®
treatment is customized to provide the most benefit for each individual
patient. A special pad will be placed on your back. This pad completes
the "circuit" for the RF energy. You will lie on a comfortable
table and a paper transfer will be used to place a "grid" on the
areas of your face to be treated. This grid ensures complete and
uniform treatment and assists in the customizing of the treatment.
Some areas will require more "passes" of the thermatip than others
to achieve the desired results.

During the treatment you will be asked to provide feedback on
the level of heating you feel from the RF pulses. This feedback
allows the best selection of RF energy levels to be used and makes
certain you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Once
the treatment is completed, the grid is removed.
"...Additionally, everyone should know the wonderful results they can achieve with Thermage by Dr. Pilest. I am so excited about this treatment I am carrying around my before pictures which were taken in your office. I am 2 months post treatment and the results are beyond amazing. The next few months should only reveal more incredible results. I am telling everyone how excited I am about this procedure and you are more than welcome to share my joy with your patients." Joyce McBroom
What does the Thermage® procedure feel like?
With each touch of the thermatip device, you will experience a brief, deep heating sensation as the RF energy is delivered to your skin and underlying tissue. This deep heating sensation is your indication that your collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. The physician controls the amount of energy delivered to balance procedural comfort with maximum results. The Thermatip device is cooled before, during, and after heating to protect your skin and make the treatment more comfortable.How long does it take?
The Thermage® procedure can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area and the number of pulses required. Additional time may be required for skin preparation prior to the procedure.What's the difference between "regular" Thermage and MacroPulse Thermage?
Thermage results are very much dependent upon several factors. The skill of the person who performs the treatment is a pivotal factor. Both Dr. Pilest and our special Thermage Registered Nurse have advanced training in the procedure. Dr. Pilest recently was selected for the elite Pinnacle Award in recognition of his expertise. The number of pulses required to obtain the best results possible for a full face and neck treatment are most often between 600 and 900. Dr. Pilest's special MacroPulse Thermage implements this high number of pulses at sufficient power intensity to get the job done. If you feel no discomfort during your treatment, chances are you will not get the results you are looking for. Dr. Pilest will recommend any necessary medication to allow for effective treatment levels.What will my skin feel like after the procedure?
Immediately following a Thermage® procedure, your skin should feel tighter, smoother and more youthful. Overtime, you will notice additional tightening.How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage® treatment has produced results in the majority of patients. Your physician will determine the course of treatment that is right for you.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 session. However, many patients have reported seeing
an earlier response.
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How long will the effects of the Thermage® procedure last?
The Thermage® procedure causes immediate tightening of the collagen structure, with additional tightening over time. Unpublished reports by experienced cosmetic physicians indicate that results may last 24 months or longer based on the patient's natural aging process.Is the Thermage® procedure safe?
Thermage® has an excellent safety record. With over 190,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less than 0.4%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have usually disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (<0.1%) but longer lasting side effect described as a skin depression has also been reported. Consult with your physician regarding this and any other questions you may have on the safety record of the Thermage® procedure.How long before I can return to my normal activities?
Most people return to their regular activities immediately following the Thermage® procedure. Some people experience mild redness (like a sunburn), but it usually disappears quickly. No special care is needed after treatment unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
Can
Thermage® be used on other areas of the body?
Thermage®
is gaining increased public awareness in the treatments's ability to tighten loose body skin - especially loose skin on the tummy area. Used post-pregnancy or pre-liposuction,
Thermage has proven to tighten that area that no amount of exercise will touch. an effective treatment for tightening loose areas on the body
Benefits and Advantages?
Most importantly, there is no recovery or patient downtime. Patients may return back to work directly after the procedure. Secondly, selecting Thermage® for skin tightening means no cutting, surgical drains, sutures or bruising. Thirdly, Thermage® is a less costly, non-invasive method. Lastly, there is no special follow-up regime.
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