The loss of subcutaneous fat that you mentioned following Thermage treatments occurred in only a small number of cases many years ago. Since that time, the company has developed several generations of newer treatment tips each with an increasing number of built-in safety features as well as new treatment protocols that use lower energies to accomplish the same results. The end result is that the Thermage is very safe and still one of the only true "Non-surgical" lifting treatments.
Although it is not as effective as a facelift, it provides patients with a no downtime alternative and results are excellent for the appropriate patient.
A "Laser lift" these days can either refer to laser resurfacing using CO2 or Erbium lasers to tighten the skin, remove wrinkles and smooth skin or it refers to a newer procedure where a fiber optic laser is used underneath the facial and/or neck skin to remove fat and tighten the skin. The SmartLipo device is the one most commonly used for this procedure these days. In skilled hands with the appropriate settings, this can provide facial and neck tightening in the jowl area and along the jawline. This is done, again, with minimal healing time and no stitches.
There are many important factors in deciding which of these is the best treatment for an individual to create the desired outcome. Deciding upon a facelift versus an alternative such as a Laser lift or Thermage requires a complete consultation and examination along with thorough discussion of recovery and likely results.
Best of luck.
Contact the doctor
