Thermage for the Hands & Arms
As part of the natural aging process, collagen levels deplete, and the skin loses elasticity, resulting in crepey, loose skin that can make patients feel self-conscious. Thermage is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that relies on radiofrequency energy to stimulate new collagen production, resulting in firmer, smoother, tighter skin and a natural-looking, more youthful appearance. Thermage is one of the most popular non-invasive treatments for skin rejuvenation offered at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Thermage treatment can effectively improve skin elasticity, enhance contouring, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, loose skin, and cellulite on the face, chest, neck, decolletage, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, and hands without downtime.
Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an internationally renowned board-certified cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the most discerning men and women worldwide with the best non-surgical procedures for rejuvenation available, including non-invasive skin tightening treatments like Thermage along with Botox, dermal fillers, body contouring, and skin rejuvenation. Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors consistently identify Dr. Green as one of NYC’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. She takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding cosmetic rejuvenation. She customizes each patient’s treatment plan best to suit their skin concerns and overall aesthetic goals. If you’re frustrated by the appearance of loose skin on your arms and hands and want to feel confident wearing your favorite summer dress, Dr. Green is here to help.
What is Thermage?
Thermage is the gold standard for non-invasive, skin-tightening technology. Thermage treatment is an FDA-approved skin-tightening treatment that utilizes radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat the deeper, collagen-rich layer of the skin. This process stimulates new collagen production in the treated area, reducing skin laxity and producing tighter skin. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in the skin that provides enhanced structural support and a firm foundation. As part of the natural aging process, collagen levels are depleted. Thermage treatment replenishes collagen, providing natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation results without any downtime. Thermage treatment is safe and effective for treating skin laxity on the face and neck, as well as many body areas, including the upper arms, hands, knees, thighs, buttocks, and abdomen. Thermage is often recommended for patients interested in reversing signs of aging and improving skin elasticity with a non-invasive treatment option.
Solta Medical is the global aesthetic company that makes Thermage, as well as Fraxel and Clear + Brilliant laser treatments. Thermage FLX is the newest version of the skin-tightening device. Thermage FLX is equipped with innovative AccuREP algorithmic technology, which facilitates the extremely precise application of radiofrequency energy. The result is predictable and consistently stunning rejuvenation results. Thermage FLX also has a larger treatment tip than previous models, which allows for faster, more efficient, and more comfortable treatment. Dr. Green offers Thermage CPT, Thermage FLX, Fraxel Dual, and Clear + Brilliant skin rejuvenation treatments in her private dermatology office in New York City.
How does Thermage work?
Thermage treatment for skin tightening relies on radiofrequency (RF) technology to heat the dermal layers of the skin. The Thermage procedure entails using a handheld device that is applied to the skin’s surface in the treatment area. With each pulse of the laser, radiofrequency energy is delivered to the dermis. During this process, patients often describe a mild heating sensation on the skin. Thermage, however, can heat the deeper layers of your skin while keeping the skin’s surface cool. Since the skin’s surface is unaffected during Thermage, there is no downtime associated with the procedure. The heat delivered to the dermis stimulates new collagen production in the treatment area. By increasing collagen levels in the skin, Thermage treatment results in firmer, smoother, tighter skin. Thermage can also be used to improve the appearance of skin concerns such as fine lines and cellulite, as well as for body contouring results.
Thermage is an excellent non-invasive treatment for skin rejuvenation because it can ignite new collagen production without any downtime and can easily be combined with other non-invasive procedures for maximum results. Many patients choose to complement their Thermage results with other cosmetic procedures that target different signs of aging, such as Fraxel laser treatments for skin resurfacing, as well as injectables such as Botox or dermal fillers. Dr. Green often combines Thermage, Fraxel, and Botox for her patients interested in achieving natural-looking, pan-facial rejuvenation results without invasive plastic surgery or downtime.
What is Thermage used for?
Thermage is a non-invasive radiofrequency laser that is the gold standard for skin tightening. Thermage is commonly used to improve skin laxity on the face, reducing the appearance of jowls, fine lines, and wrinkles. Thermage can also help tighten the skin on the body, including the hands, upper arms, thighs, knees, and abdomen. Thermage will improve both crepey skin and skin texture. Thermage delivers radiofrequency energy to the dermis by applying a handheld device, stimulating the lower layers of the skin with heat and keeping the skin’s surface cool. This process stimulates natural, new collagen growth in the treatment area. Collagen is the most abundant protein in our bodies, but as we age, the collagen that helps to create firm, younger-looking skin becomes less prevalent. By igniting new collagen in the body, Thermage can repair aging skin, which leads to smoother, tighter skin at and around the treated area.
Thermage has been FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of aging on the skin since 2002, and handheld Thermage devices have become more and more precise. Thermage CPT has been a popular tool for RF treatment and skin rejuvenation for years, combining the heating system of previous devices with a comforting vibration pulse. The newest treatment tool for RF skin rejuvenation, Thermage FLX, enhances Thermage treatment even further. Its larger treatment tips allow for greater patient comfort and faster treatment times, and its algorithmic technology (AccuREP™) maximizes precision through pulse adjustments in real-time. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan for your Thermage procedure best suited to achieving your facial rejuvenation or body contouring aesthetic goals.
What does Thermage do?
The Thermage system is a non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) treatment for skin tightening. Thermage treatment can also be used for facial and body contouring, anti-aging, and improving the appearance of cellulite. The Thermage procedure is completely non-invasive, and no downtime is required whatsoever. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a structural protein in the skin that contributes to its firmness and naturally depletes over time as a part of the aging process. Thermage replenishes collagen, resulting in smoother, tighter, and firmer skin in the treatment area. Thermage can improve skin laxity and loose skin on various treatment areas, including the face and neck, to target the jowls, along with upper arms, hands, thighs, knees, abdomen, and buttocks. A Thermage treatment session can be completed in just 60-90 minutes, and patients need only a single treatment session for new collagen to be created and skin laxity to be reduced.
Does Thermage work?
Yes! Thermage is the gold-standard non-invasive procedure for skin tightening and skin rejuvenation. Thermage works via a handheld device that delivers radiofrequency energy to the deeper layers of the skin to induce new collagen production. New collagen results in tighter, thicker, smoother, and more elastic skin in the treated areas. Thermage works on the face, neck, chest, decolletage, upper arms, hands, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, and knees. Suppose you are struggling with crepey skin texture, loose skin, and signs of aging and looking for non-invasive treatment options for skin tightening that don’t require downtime. In that case, Thermage radiofrequency therapy is the perfect option.
What is the best skin-tightening treatment for arms?
The arms, especially the upper arms, are an area of the body susceptible to various signs of aging. As we age, the skin naturally loses collagen. Collagen provides structural support to the skin and plays a large role in maintaining an overall youthful complexion. The aging process is expedited with chronic sun exposure over time, as the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin’s collagen and accelerate the onset of fine lines, wrinkles, crepey skin texture, and skin laxity. We often forget to apply sunscreen on our arms as part of our daily skincare routine, allowing the unprotected skin to be exposed to UV rays, especially in the summer. To address these signs of aging in the arms, Thermage is the gold standard for skin tightening and rejuvenation.
Thermage utilizes radiofrequency technology to heat the deeper layer of the skin to induce new collagen production. Thermage FLX, the latest version of Thermage, contains AccuREP Technology for the precise delivery of RF energy for maximum skin tightening and rejuvenation. This is the perfect non-invasive procedure for reducing skin laxity and reversing signs of aging without the downtime and recovery needed with surgical procedures like Brachioplasty—thermage results in tighter and younger-looking arms that are less flabby.
Does Thermage work on arms?
Yes! Thermage skin-tightening treatment is safe and effective for treating skin laxity on the face, neck, chest, decolletage, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, knees, eye area, upper arms, and hands. In addition to consistently stunning skin tightening results, Thermage treatment can be used for body contouring, reducing signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles), and improving the appearance of cellulite. Loose skin and stubborn pockets of fat in the upper arms are concerns that many people struggle with, even those who maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise. Some of the greatest benefits of Thermage are the versatility and non-invasive nature of the procedure, allowing patients to effectively target skin laxity in multiple treatment areas without any downtime. Many patients that struggle with the appearance of the upper arms start by targeting the stubborn excess fat with CoolSculpting treatment. CoolSculpting is a fat-freezing technology that permanently destroys excess fat cells in a treatment area with controlled, cold temperatures. After CoolSculpting, Thermage is used on the upper arms to improve skin elasticity. The result is firmer, tighter upper arms that last. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of New York City, you will have the opportunity to discuss with her in-depth your particular skin concerns and overall aesthetic goals. Dr. Green will physically assess the treatment areas and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan for rejuvenation that helps you achieve long-lasting, natural-looking results.
55-64 year old woman treated with Thermage
Skin rejuvenation for the upper arms
Many men and women alike find themselves frustrated by the appearance of loose skin on the upper arms, especially when wearing short sleeves. Though the effects of the aging process cannot be completely reversed, Thermage can help reduce the appearance of loose skin on the upper arms, sometimes referred to as “bat wings” or even “bingo wings.” Thermage is designed to create younger-looking, tighter skin with radiofrequency energy. Therefore, it can tighten hanging skin on the upper arms and improve sagging, loose skin and a crepey skin texture.
Sometimes, the “bat wings” on the upper arms can result from arm fat or a combination of fat and skin laxity. In these cases, Dr. Green may recommend Thermage for skin tightening and CoolSculpting for non-invasive fat reduction. CoolSculpting works via cryolipolysis, in which controlled cooling temperatures are delivered to the fat cells to destroy up to 25% of fat cells in the treatment area with zero downtime. CoolSculpting works especially well for stubborn fat deposits that remain even with a healthy diet and exercise, such as the upper arms. Thermage on the upper arms will reduce skin laxity and improve crepey skin, while CoolSculpting will eliminate stubborn fat bulges contributing to “bat wings.” The result is younger-looking arms that will restore your confidence when you wear your favorite summer dress.
What is the best way to eliminate stretch marks on the arms?
Stretch marks are scars that occur when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly, and the abrupt change causes collagen and elastin in the skin to break down. Stretch marks on the upper arms can occur due to growth spurts during puberty, rapid weight gain or loss, and rapid muscle growth from weight training. Like other types of scars, stretch marks cannot be removed completely. However, there are various non-invasive treatment options available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in NYC that can make them less noticeable.
When stretch marks first appear, they are typically red, pink, or purple. At this stage, the VBeam Perfecta laser is great for reducing the redness of the stretch marks to make them less noticeable. VBeam is a pulsed dye laser that emits high-intensity light energy at a certain wavelength to induce selective thermolysis. The laser energy is absorbed by chromophores in the skin, eliminating redness from the skin.
Over time, the color of the stretch marks fades, and the narrow bands depress into the skin. Stretch marks become harder to treat over time as the scars heal, so it is best to seek guidance from an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green when you first notice the stretch marks. For older stretch marks that are white and depressed, the eMatrix sublative rejuvenation laser can improve the appearance of mild to moderate stretch marks. eMatrix uses bipolar radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production in the dermis with minimal downtime. The benefit of eMatrix is that it is a “colorblind” laser suitable for all skin types and tones.
Fraxel is another great option for older stretch marks, which works using fractionated laser energy to create controlled, targeted micro-injuries to induce the natural wound healing process of the skin. Fraxel, however, should not be used on darker skin tones and ethnic skin. Fraxel is best for Fitzpatrick skin types I-III. To improve the depressed scarring and surface irregularities from stretch marks, Sculptra dermal filler injections can stimulate the body’s collagen production to achieve a more even skin texture and soften the appearance of stretch marks. When you consult with Dr. Green regarding stretch marks on the upper arms, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that incorporates the procedures best suited to your specific needs and goals.
Does Thermage work on hands?
As we age, the loss of collagen in our skin can become quite visible on the hands. This is, in part, because the hands are a part of the body exposed all year round. The hands are often forgotten when applying sunscreen, frequently exposing unprotected skin to sun damage which speeds up the aging process. In addition, the hands can be one of the body’s first areas to show age as the delicate skin on the hands undergoes wear and tear- we constantly use our fine motor skills and frequently wash our hands over time. Some of the most prominent signs of aging on the hands include thin, crepey skin, leathery skin, and veins and tendons becoming more visible. The good news is that, for most individuals with loose skin and a crepey skin texture on the tops of their hands, Thermage treatment can help reduce the appearance of thin, crepey skin and make the hands appear smoother, firmer, and naturally more youthful.
Hand rejuvenation treatments such as Thermage work by promoting collagen production. This means a single treatment session on the hands will improve the look and firmness of the skin on your hands. Dr. Green often combines Thermage for hands with injections of dermal fillers, such as Sculptra and Restylane. Combining treatments maximizes new collagen production with outstanding cosmetic results for the ultimate hand rejuvenation.
Does Thermage work on crepey skin?
Yes! Thermage is an excellent non-invasive skin tightening procedure that reduces the appearance of crepey skin on various body areas, including the face, neck, decolletage, abdomen, upper arms, hands, thighs, and knees. Crepey skin is typically caused by sun damage, as the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays break down collagen and elastin in the skin, accelerating the aging process. Crepey skin is also caused by natural aging, dehydration, and excessive weight loss. Thermage radiofrequency laser delivers RF energy to the collagen-rich layer of the skin to stimulate collagen production and tighten and lift the skin for a more youthful appearance. With just one treatment and no downtime, Thermage results in tighter and more elastic skin that is less crepey and more even in skin texture. To prolong signs of aging, Thermage is recommended as a part of an annual skin rejuvenation plan.
Where on the body can the Thermage procedure be performed?
Thermage is at the forefront of radiofrequency technology. Thermage has been FDA-approved for facial skin rejuvenation and body contouring. Thermage is designed to treat most body areas, including the upper arms, hands, abdomen, buttocks, knees, chest, neck, and thighs. When it comes to facial contouring, Thermage can reduce skin laxity along the jawline and improve jowls, as well as within the delicate eye area. The non-invasive nature of the Thermage treatment makes it a versatile skin rejuvenation treatment that can provide phenomenal skin tightening results throughout the body without any downtime.
Am I a good candidate for Thermage skin tightening?
The best candidates for Thermage treatment on the upper arms are individuals with good overall physical and mental health, have realistic expectations regarding non-invasive skin tightening treatment results, and are interested in targeting a mild to moderate degree of skin laxity. Thermage can be used on all skin types. Additionally, Thermage is safe for use on loose skin associated with liposuction, pregnancy, or weight loss. However, if you have a large amount of underarm skin, Thermage may not be suitable. To determine whether you are a good candidate for Thermage, you should have a consultation appointment with NYC-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, who can advise you on the best treatment options to achieve your aesthetic goals. In some cases, Thermage can be combined with other procedures, such as CoolSculpting, as part of a complete body contouring procedure.
55-64 year old, Thermage and CoolSculpting arms – 6 months
Thermage Procedure: what can I expect?
The process for the Thermage procedure is simple and fast. No preparation is needed for Thermage, and topical numbing medicine is unnecessary as the built-in cooling system allows for a more comfortable RF procedure. Before the Thermage treatment, a grid will be applied to the treatment area to guide the handpiece and ensure the RF energy is evenly distributed. Most Thermage treatments take around one hour, during which the handheld Thermage device is applied to the skin’s surface in the treatment area. You will experience a mild heating sensation, followed by a general cooling sensation as the device pulses along the skin.
There is zero downtime with Thermage. After your procedure, you can resume normal activities without issue. You may experience mild redness or soreness, which should dissipate within the first 24 hours post-treatment. Occasionally, patients have reported mild bruising as a side effect of treatment, but this is extremely uncommon. Regarding skincare, we recommend wearing daily sunscreen before and after treatment.
Thermage takes several months before the full results are achieved, as new collagen is produced and the skin tightening effect is reached. You should typically see the full cosmetic results within six months from when the treatment was performed. Thermage results can last up to two years, depending on your needs and skin condition. Many patients prefer to have Thermage yearly to maximize new collagen production and maintain the best cosmetic results.
Does Thermage hurt?
Thermage is a non-invasive skin tightening procedure that does not require surgery or injections, so the procedure is relatively comfortable. A topical anesthetic is not necessary before the treatment. The Thermage system incorporates a cooling technology and various vibration settings in the handpiece to minimize potential patient discomfort with each pulse. Most patients describe a short-lived heating sensation when the handpiece delivers a pulse, which lasts a few seconds. The heat can cause temporary discomfort in bony areas like the jawline, which only lasts a few seconds. Generally, the Thermage procedure is described as mildly hot but tolerable. Be sure to communicate with the provider during the Thermage treatment if the heat sensation is too uncomfortable. The experienced provider will adjust the settings accordingly to minimize discomfort.
Is Thermage permanent?
Thermage radiofrequency laser produces rejuvenation results that are semi-permanent. Thermage delivers heat to the collagen-rich layers of the skin to stimulate natural collagen production, resulting in long-lasting, natural-looking rejuvenation. Thermage is a great treatment option for skin tightening, improving skin texture, and reducing fine lines, cellulite, and wrinkles. Once the collagen synthesis is induced, the Thermage results are long-lasting. However, our skin continues to lose collagen as a part of the natural aging process. There is no permanent cure for aging, and Thermage cannot completely prevent new signs of aging from forming. To maintain the youthful appearance achieved with Thermage, it is best to incorporate Thermage into an annual skin rejuvenation plan.
How long does Thermage last?
After the Thermage treatment, collagen synthesis in the skin continues for up to six months post-treatment, leading to a gradual improvement in skin laxity, skin texture, fine lines, and wrinkles. Thermage results typically last up to two years, depending on the individual’s skin condition and the rate of the natural aging process. To maintain the best cosmetic results, Thermage should be performed once a year for continued collagen production. To prolong the Thermage results, it is recommended to avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen daily, incorporate antioxidants like vitamin C to protect the skin, stop smoking, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What is the downside of Thermage?
Thermage is the gold standard for non-invasive skin tightening procedures. Without surgery, incisions, and injections, Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production to tighten and lift loose skin and improve skin texture with just one treatment and no downtime. Thermage is a great non-surgical option for improving skin laxity in various areas of the body and face. However, it can not produce the dramatic results obtained with surgical procedures, such as a facelift or a Brachioplasty for loose skin on the upper arms. Thermage may not produce the desired results if the skin laxity in the treatment area is severe. Additionally, the skin continues to lose collagen and elastin with the natural aging process. Thermage treatments should be maintained as an annual skin rejuvenation treatment for the best skin-tightening results.
How much is Thermage?
Because Thermage is a non-invasive, non-surgical treatment option for skin tightening, the cost of Thermage is significantly less than invasive surgical procedures, such as facelifts and arm lifts. The total cost of the Thermage radiofrequency procedure depends on various factors. First, Thermage prices will be higher when performed at a board-certified dermatology office, like Dr. Green’s office in NYC, than at a MedSpa. Studies have shown, however, that the risk of unwanted side effects with cosmetic treatments is significantly reduced when performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist. The geographic location of the practice will also impact the cost of the Thermage treatment. For example, prices in New York differ from prices in Florida. Lastly, the cost of Thermage will depend on the number of areas being treated. It is best to contact the individual office to get accurate pricing for Thermage treatments. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan for rejuvenation that provides natural-looking, long-lasting results within your budget.
Why would you need Thermage on your arms?
The upper arms are prone to sun damage as they are often forgotten when applying sunscreen, and the arms show signs of aging that can negatively impact one’s confidence when wearing sleeveless tops or summer dresses. The natural aging process, sun damage, excessive weight loss, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can contribute to saggy arms or “bat wings,” which can be distressing. Thermage radiofrequency laser is the perfect option for non-invasive skin tightening, improving skin laxity and texture, and restoring a youthful complexion in various body areas. Thermage is great for those who want to achieve anti-aging benefits and build collagen without the downtime or costs required with surgical procedures like an arm lift.
How do I get started with treating sagging arm skin?
As part of the natural aging process, collagen in the skin breaks down over time. Collagen is a protein in the skin that provides enhanced structural support, firmness, elasticity, and an overall youthful appearance. As collagen levels deplete, the result is increased skin laxity, loose skin, and a crepey skin texture. This process is often first noticed on the face and jowls but also impacts the body. Many men and women alike are frustrated by loose skin on the upper arms and hands and do not want to correct it with an invasive surgical procedure. If you are looking for a non-invasive treatment option for skin tightening on your hands and arms, there’s finally a solution that can help. Thermage radiofrequency stimulates new collagen production in the treatment area, leading to natural-looking, long-lasting firmer, smoother, tighter skin.
Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients from around the world with the best non-surgical procedures for rejuvenation available, including non-invasive skin tightening treatments, anti-aging, and skin rejuvenation. She is consistently voted as one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. She takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding cosmetic rejuvenation to achieve natural-looking results. She customizes each patient’s treatment plan best to suit their skin concerns and overall aesthetic goals. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, contact us online today or call 212-535-3088.