What Are the Pros and Cons of Thermage?

I don't think Thermage works.  I have many patients trying to avoid operations that delete surplus skin enlisting Thermage as a cure.  It just doesn't work.  If Thermage shrinks skin, it doesn't do it very much.

Thermage is known for skin tightening, reducing fat and stimulating collagen production. There are some immediate results after the procedure, but for the ultimate improvement may take up to 6 months. Thermage results usually last for about 18 months and maintenance treatments are necessary, as we age. Side effects are rare but there is a chance of blistering or scabbing, when too much energy is delivered to the skin. Thermage is the best option for people who are not ready for surgery,... more

The advantages of thermage is that it has less risk than a facelift, virtually  no downtime and vitually no chance of bruising after the treatment. The disadvantages are that it can't give as perfect a result as surgery and there are risks, although of a small chance.

Thermage is supposed to shrink fat, tighten the support structures, and produce tightening and a more youthful appearance. The cons to this are that there is some dependence on the operators skill. Burning has resulted, permanent hard spots (deep), discoloration, sensation changes. The most difficult to correct are irregularities in the contour. In other words, some areas may be sunken in while other areas may be high. In short, the results may not always be predictable, and complications... more

Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin and give a lifted, tightened appearance. Many people are looking for a little skin tightening but do not yet need surgery. As a non-surgical treatment it appeals to those who cannot afford the several weeks of recovery after a surgical procedure or the expense or surgery, or do not want to assume the risks of a surgical procedure. There is no downtime after Thermage, and people can go right back to work and social engagements. The... more

Using monopolar radio frequency devices is wonderful in theory, but less predictable in application. To have a device which can improve texture and tightening without ablation of tissue would be ideal. Thermage has shown to be effective in both, however the small percentage of people who experience these results makes this option less attractive to me and my patients.

Thermage was developed to tighten the skin. Early on, doctors were "cranking up the heat" on the device thinking that more is better when in actuallity, it began to melt fat under the skin and cause facial atrophy. Using it with the recommended settings it can improve wrinkles and offere moderate skin tightening.