NON-SURGICAL REJUVENATION

Thermage

If you are looking for tightening of the face, neck, eyes, arms, legs, hands, tummy or just about anywhere but are not ready for surgery, Thermage may be the answer for you. See www.thermage.com for the latest in nonsurgical soft tissue tightening. Thermage, also known as ThermaCool, uses radiofrequency energy for a controlled heat-based tightening of deeper skin while using a special tip that cools the surface skin. Dr. Stover has performed hundreds of Thermage procedures all over the body over the past 3 years.

Am I a good Thermage candidate?

Thermage is not for everyone. Results are typically subtle. If your skin laxity is such that you would do better with a facelift, brow lift, eyelid lift or tummy tuck, Dr. Stover will tell you and steer you toward a surgical option. But if you have mild to moderate laxity with less fat, Thermage may be a good option. Don't expect dramatic results like you will see after a facelift. For mild laxity and mild to moderate fat, Thermage with liposuction may also be an option to consider. Dr. Stover will review all of your alternatives at your consultation.

What is involved in the Thermage procedure?

Thermage of the face takes about 30 minutes, but plan on being in the office for about an hour. Multiple passes of the Thermage tip are carried out over the area being treated. We have special tips for tightening the eyelids, tummy, legs, hands, etc. Some patients experience minimal discomfort but some patients find it uncomfortable. The higher the energy setting used, the more uncomfortable, but the more tightening you will see. Dr. Stover may recommend a pill for relaxation or pain. He may offer an injection of demerol or IV sedation. With any of these sedation options a driver will be needed.

What should I expect after Thermage?

As with all of the many non-surgical skin tightening devices, some immediate tightening may be seen. Most patients begin to see tightening at 2 months and see the maximum tightening at 6 months. Results are typically subtle. Some patients feel that they see no improvement. Thermage can be repeated after 6 to 12 months to maintain tightening or to see more tightening.

Can I combine Thermage with other procedures?

Yes. Many patients opt for our nonsurgical rejuvenation, which involves Thermage, Fraxel laser resurfacing to smooth and tighten the more superfical skin, Botox Cosmetic to relax lines and grooves of the face, along with one or more facial soft tissue fillers like Restylane, Sculptra, Radiesse, Juvederm or Perlane. You may also decide to combine Thermage with liposuction. This is a nice way to tighten loose skin after liposuction.