What Are the Pros and Cons of Thermage?

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, but the results vary by individuals and cannot be predicted.

Thermage results are subtle, so any expectation of it being a facelift replacement will be left unfulfilled.BUT, when a candidate is carefully selected, it can be an option for mild skin firming.  Cons:Not a facelift alternativeCan be dissatisfying for patients with more than moderate skin laxityCan be uncomfortable Pros:Offers the only FDA approved procedure for tightening eyelid skin (again, patient selection is key - it won't replace an eyelift when one is needed)Non invasive, meaning no needles, no recoveryOffers improvements on body skin that is slightly laxSeems to work better in tandem with other collagen-boosting procedures 

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.

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.

Pros - Thermage is used for skin tightening and collagen stimulation of the face, neck, eyes, and body.  We have many patients who use Thermage as maintenance to help keep the collagen framework of their skin tight.  The procedure can be beneficial for people hoping to postpone a surgical procedure.  Thermage can also be used to treat the upper eyelids.  Thermage typically requires one treatment. The results are most evident in six months and typically last for two years.Cons - The results of Thermage, as with any non-surgical procedure, will never match a surgical result.  If you are looking for dramatic lifting, a more aggressive intervention may be best.  Your provider should evaluate your needs and make recommendations based on your particular anatomy and concerns.  The office should also have before and after pictures of their own patients to help set reasonable expectation.