Thermage Treatment

Thermage is a widely sought-after skin-tightening treatment for patients looking to address sagging, crepey skin, and loss of firmness without surgery or downtime. As collagen production naturally declines with age, aging skin can lose structure and elasticity, leading to concerns such as jowls, loose skin along the jawline and neck, and body laxity. Many patients choose Thermage to restore firmness, improve skin texture, and achieve a smoother, more youthful appearance while maintaining natural facial contours. With a single treatment session and no recovery period, Thermage offers a convenient option for patients seeking subtle yet noticeable rejuvenation without cosmetic surgery under the care of an experienced dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green.

Thermage treatment uses advanced radiofrequency technology developed by Solta Medical to heat the deeper support layers of the skin gently. This controlled energy delivery helps tighten existing collagen fibers and encourages the skin to produce new collagen over time, leading to gradual improvement in firmness and skin quality. The treatment is designed to work beneath the skin while protecting the outer layer, allowing patients to return to their normal routine immediately afterward. By working beneath the surface rather than altering the skin’s outer layer, Thermage creates natural-looking results that develop over time when performed by an expert such as Dr. Michele Green.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally recognized, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience delivering advanced, non-surgical cosmetic treatments, including Thermage, to some of the world’s most discerning patients. She takes a thoughtful, individualized approach to skin rejuvenation, tailoring each treatment plan to a patient’s skin concerns, skin type, and aesthetic goals. A leader in patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has repeatedly been voted one of the best healthcare providers in NYC by publications such as Super Doctors, Castle Connolly, The New York Times, and New York Magazine. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology practice on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she works closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan designed to deliver natural, long-lasting results.

What is Thermage treatment?

Thermage® is an FDA-approved, non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten and firm the skin. Collagen and elastin are naturally occurring proteins that provide the skin with a firm foundation and elasticity. As collagen and elastin are depleted during natural aging, the result is visible fine lines, wrinkles, and crepey, loose skin. For patients looking to reduce visible signs of aging and combat the skin’s natural aging process, Thermage is an excellent skin-tightening option. Thermage is often chosen by patients who do not want a surgical facelift but still want noticeable tightening and improved skin firmness. Thermage skin-tightening treatment gives you tighter, firmer, smoother skin, softens fine lines and wrinkles, and helps you look younger without plastic surgery or downtime. The Thermage procedure can be used nearly anywhere on the face or body, including the neck, chest, décolletage, upper arms, abdomen, thighs, and buttocks, to deliver a non-surgical “lift” that firms and tightens loose skin. Patients can look forward to natural, youthful-looking results that last up to 2 years.

What does Thermage do?

Thermage radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening treatment aims to produce firmer, smoother skin without adverse side effects or downtime. Thermage delivers RF energy to the skin’s middle layers, where it is converted into heat. This heat stimulates the body to produce new collagen and remodel existing collagen. Over time, as new collagen builds, the result is smoother, tighter skin and a more youthful complexion. In addition to skin tightening, Thermage helps improve skin texture, reducing signs of aging, including crepey or loose skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. Thermage also addresses the dimpled appearance of the skin by reducing cellulite, though it cannot eliminate it. With just a single treatment, Thermage can lift, tighten, and rejuvenate the skin. Patients often describe the results as improved firmness and skin quality rather than a dramatic change, leaving the skin looking refreshed yet natural.

Thermage with Voluma & Lyft

What is Thermage CPT?

Several Thermage devices and tips have been developed to maximize effectiveness and comfort. Thermage CPT, which stands for Comfort Pulse Technology, is the third-generation Thermage treatment device, introduced in 2009. Like other Thermage devices, Thermage CPT uses radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin. The Thermage CPT device features a 3 cm tip that enables providers to deliver precise, uniform treatments and a more comfortable patient experience. Thermage CPT also employs skin-surface cooling technology and a vibrating handpiece to reduce discomfort during the procedure.

What is Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is the newest, fourth-generation Thermage treatment device designed for maximum patient comfort. The FLX is equipped with advanced AccuREP technology that delivers radiofrequency energy directly and precisely, with real-time pulse adjustments. Vibrations paired with cooling technology also help prevent discomfort throughout the procedure. The Thermage FLX device has a 4 cm tip that allows providers to cover 25% more surface area faster, making it ideal for larger areas such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

How Does Thermage Work?

The Thermage treatment for skin tightening uses radiofrequency laser technology to boost collagen production, resulting in firmer, tighter skin. When the Thermage device is applied to the skin, it emits a beam of radiofrequency (RF) energy that heats the dermis while keeping the epidermis protected and cool, enhancing patient comfort during treatment. Heating the dermis triggers the body’s natural healing process, promoting the production of new collagen over time. Over the next two to four months, increased collagen production in the treatment area creates firmer, smoother skin. Results from Thermage skin tightening can also be partially visible right after the treatment session, as the heating of the dermis separates water molecules in the fibrous collagen in the treatment area, leading to immediate tightening and plumping of the skin.

Which areas of the body does Thermage treat for skin tightening?

Thermage is a beloved skin-tightening treatment because it improves skin laxity in various body areas, including:

• face
• upper eyelids (to treat hooding)
• chest/décolletage
• neck (to treat jowls and turkey neck)
• hands
• knees
• arms
• legs
• buttocks
• abdomen

Who is a good candidate for Thermage?

The best candidates for Thermage® treatment are in good general physical and mental health and have mild to moderate skin laxity. As a non-invasive treatment, Thermage® is also ideal for patients with realistic expectations for their achievable cosmetic results who prefer subtle improvement over the more dramatic results typically seen with cosmetic plastic surgery. Thermage treatment for skin rejuvenation can be performed on all skin types and patients of all ages.

Thermage is not recommended for patients with implanted electronic devices, such as pacemakers or internal defibrillators, because radiofrequency energy may interfere with these devices. Treatment should also be avoided during pregnancy, as there are no clinical studies evaluating its safety during pregnancy. Patients with active skin infections, open lesions, or inflammation in the treatment area should wait until the skin has healed before undergoing Thermage. Individuals with advanced skin laxity or excessive skin may require alternative treatments, as Thermage is designed to tighten the skin rather than remove it. A consultation with Dr. Green provides a thorough evaluation to determine whether Thermage is the most appropriate option for your skin concern or whether referral to a plastic surgeon is more appropriate for advanced skin laxity.

Is Thermage better than Ultherapy?

Dr. Green prefers Thermage over Ultherapy for her private NYC patients for efficacy and safety. Thermage and Ultherapy are both non-invasive cosmetic procedures that stimulate new collagen production to tighten and firm the skin. Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to create controlled thermal damage to the tissue, triggering the body’s healing response, while Ultherapy uses ultrasound energy. Ultherapy can be used only on the face and chest. In contrast, Thermage can be safely used on all body areas, including the face, neck, chest, décolletage, upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. Ultherapy’s ultrasound technology is much more painful than Thermage. The greater depth of Ultherapy can also cause unwanted side effects, such as unintended fat loss in the treatment area. Thermage treatment is not painful and carries no risk of underlying fat loss, making it safer than Ultherapy.

How long does it take for Thermage to work?

Thermage skin-tightening treatment boosts the body’s natural collagen production to improve skin laxity, meaning that Thermage results will continue to improve over time. Immediately after treatment, patients will see a “glow” and a plumper, smoother complexion. However, the full results of the treatment will become visible within 4 months, as collagen production creates firmer, more evenly textured skin.

Is Thermage safe?

Yes! Thermage RF treatment is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure that tightens the skin without downtime or side effects. The heating of the skin’s dermal layers during the procedure is precisely controlled and causes no damage to the skin’s surface. The Thermage treatment applicators feature cooling technology to protect the skin’s outer layer during treatment. Some patients may experience mild facial redness or swelling in the treatment area immediately after the Thermage procedure. Still, these symptoms typically resolve on their own within 24 hours. When you consult with an expert like Dr. Michele Green in NYC for Thermage skin tightening, you can expect outstanding, natural, long-lasting cosmetic results without worrying about unwanted side effects.

What are the side effects of Thermage?

One of the greatest advantages of Thermage treatment is that it effectively tightens the skin without side effects or downtime, allowing patients to return to their regular activities immediately after treatment. The radiofrequency energy is continuously adjusted during treatment to achieve optimal results while maintaining maximum patient comfort. Most patients may experience minimal redness or swelling immediately after the Thermage procedure, which typically resolves within an hour. Side effects such as blisters are rare when treatment is performed correctly.

How long will Thermage last?

Thermage results are designed to be long-lasting, with many patients seeing continued improvement in skin firmness for months after treatment as collagen production is stimulated. The tightening effect typically lasts up to two years, though the exact duration varies based on factors such as skin quality, age, sun exposure, and overall skincare habits. Because the skin naturally changes over time, results will gradually soften for patients who want to maintain a consistently firm appearance. Periodic follow-up treatments may be recommended as part of a long-term skin maintenance plan.

Does Thermage melt fat?

No, Thermage does not melt fat. Thermage is a skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to heat the dermis and stimulate collagen production. It is not associated with downtime or side effects, including fat loss. Some procedures, such as Ultherapy, penetrate deeper than Thermage, potentially leading to unintended fat loss in the treatment area. Thus, many patients prefer Thermage over other skin-tightening procedures for skin rejuvenation. There have been reports of Ultherapy melting fat, which is one reason Dr. Green prefers Thermage over Ultherapy.

Dr. Green may recommend procedures such as CoolSculpting or Kybella as part of your treatment plan to eliminate stubborn fat pockets. CoolSculpting uses cryolipolysis (fat freezing), while Kybella uses deoxycholic acid injections to destroy unwanted fat in a targeted treatment area. Both procedures deliver permanent fat reduction, provided patients do not gain excessive weight after treatment. CoolSculpting and Kybella can be paired with Thermage to address skin laxity and unwanted fat, fully rejuvenating the skin.

What is the process of getting Thermage?

The Thermage process begins with a consultation at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office on New York City’s Upper East Side. During this visit, Dr. Green evaluates your skin, reviews your medical history, and discusses your concerns and goals. This consultation helps her determine whether Thermage is the most appropriate treatment for your skin and identify the areas that would benefit most. A personalized treatment plan is then created based on your skin condition, degree of laxity, and desired outcome.

On the day of treatment, the skin is cleansed, and a temporary grid is applied to ensure precise, even delivery of the treatment. The Thermage device is applied to the skin in a series of brief pulses that deliver controlled energy beneath the surface. Patients typically feel a brief warmth, followed by cooling, as the device is moved across the treatment area. Treatment sessions usually last between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. Because the skin’s surface remains intact, numbing cream is not required, and most patients tolerate the procedure well.

After the Thermage session, patients can resume normal activities immediately. Mild redness or swelling may occur but usually resolves quickly. Some patients notice subtle tightening shortly after treatment, while others see gradual improvement as collagen production increases over the following months. As the skin firms over time, results continue to develop naturally. Dr. Green may recommend maintenance treatments or complementary procedures as part of a long-term skin rejuvenation plan to help preserve and enhance results.

Thermage (abdomen) 4 1/2 months after treatment

Is Thermage painful?

No. No numbing is required for Thermage since there is no pain associated with the procedure. Thermage is well-tolerated and not painful. During the procedure, patients typically feel brief waves of warmth as radiofrequency energy is delivered, followed by a cooling sensation from the device’s skin-protective cooling system. The heat intensity can be adjusted throughout the treatment to maintain comfort, and the newer Thermage FLX technology delivers energy more smoothly, resulting in a more comfortable experience overall. While individual sensitivity varies, the sensation is usually described as mild and manageable rather than painful. Since no recovery time is required, patients can return to normal activities immediately after treatment.

What is the aftercare for Thermage?

Unlike other skin-tightening procedures, Thermage has no strict post-treatment skincare or makeup instructions. Patients often call Thermage a “lunchtime” procedure because they can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. Dr. Green recommends practicing proper sun protection by wearing SPF 30 or higher sunscreen whenever you go outside and reapplying every two hours while in the sun.

Can I combine Thermage with other facial rejuvenation procedures?

Thermage can be safely combined with a variety of cosmetic treatments to address multiple signs of aging as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Because Thermage is designed to improve skin laxity and firmness, it is often paired with procedures that target concerns such as wrinkles, volume loss, skin texture, pigmentation, and unwanted fat. Combining treatments allows patients to achieve more complete rejuvenation while maintaining natural-looking results.

Botox is often paired with Thermage because the two procedures address different causes of aging. Thermage improves skin firmness and texture, while Botox targets dynamic wrinkles caused by repeated facial movements, such as frowning, squinting, and raising the eyebrows. Botox relaxes the muscles responsible for these expression lines, smoothing areas such as the forehead, the area between the eyebrows, and the area around the eyes. When used together, Botox and Thermage help soften wrinkles and improve overall skin quality, with no downtime or disruption to daily activities.

Dermal fillers are often paired with Thermage for patients experiencing volume loss and skin laxity. As collagen and fat diminish with age, the face can become hollow in areas such as the cheeks, jawline, chin, and around the mouth. While Thermage tightens the skin, fillers restore lost volume and enhance facial contours. Combining fillers with Thermage helps the skin look firmer while addressing areas where tightening alone would not restore volume.

Fraxel laser resurfacing is often paired with Thermage to improve skin texture and tone. Fraxel targets the skin’s surface and upper layers to address concerns such as fine lines, uneven texture, enlarged pores, acne scars, and sun damage. Thermage works deeper in the skin to improve firmness, while Fraxel refines the surface, making the combination effective for patients seeking both tightening and visible improvement in skin quality.

Microneedling may also be used alongside Thermage for patients seeking further improvement in skin texture and radiance. Microneedling creates controlled microchannels in the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve tone and texture. When combined with Thermage, microneedling enhances the skin’s surface while Thermage strengthens the deeper layers.

For patients with excess fat and loose skin, CoolSculpting or Kybella are often paired with Thermage. CoolSculpting reduces stubborn fat by freezing fat cells while leaving surrounding tissue unaffected, while Kybella uses injectable deoxycholic acid to break down fat cells, most often in the chin area. Pairing these treatments with Thermage addresses fat reduction and improves skin firmness in the same area, helping prevent loose or sagging skin after fat loss.

One advantage of Thermage is that it requires no downtime, making it easy to integrate with other cosmetic procedures as part of a customized treatment plan. During a consultation, Dr. Michele Green evaluates each patient’s skin concerns and aesthetic goals to determine which combination of treatments will work together most effectively to achieve natural-looking, long-lasting rejuvenation.

How much is the Thermage treatment?

Many patients in Dr. Green’s office ask, “How much does Thermage cost?” Thermage treatment costs depend on several factors, including your geographic location, the area of your body being treated, and the institution where you receive treatment. Costs are higher when addressing concerns across multiple body areas or when pairing Thermage with other treatments. Additionally, the cost can vary by institution. A MedSpa may be less expensive, but receiving treatment from a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, will provide higher-quality care and reduce the risk of side effects. After your initial consultation with Dr. Green, in which you discuss your goals and a treatment plan is established, her office can provide a more accurate estimate of your treatment costs.

Where to get Thermage treatments?

If you are searching for Thermage near you, it is important to choose a qualified physician’s office with extensive experience performing this procedure. Thermage should be performed by a board-certified dermatologist or a trained medical professional under physician supervision to ensure proper technique, safety, and optimal results. Many dermatology practices and cosmetic offices worldwide offer Thermage, but experience with the device and a strong understanding of skin anatomy are key to achieving high-quality treatment. Scheduling a consultation allows Dr. Green to evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and determine whether Thermage is appropriate for you. Choosing an experienced dermatologist helps ensure the treatment is performed safely and tailored to your individual skin needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thermage skin tightening treatment

What is Thermage skin tightening?

Thermage skin tightening uses radiofrequency energy to improve skin laxity by strengthening the deeper layers that support the skin’s structure. Instead of resurfacing or altering the skin’s outer layer, Thermage works beneath the surface to gently heat the dermis, where collagen plays a key role in keeping the skin firm and smooth. This controlled heat tightens existing collagen fibers and encourages the gradual production of new collagen over time, helping the skin feel firmer and more supported as the months pass. Thermage skin tightening is commonly used to address areas where sagging develops with age, including the jawline, neck, lower face, abdomen, arms, and thighs. The treatment is designed for patients who want subtle, natural-looking improvements in skin firmness without surgery, needles, or downtime, making it a popular option for maintaining skin quality as part of a long-term skin rejuvenation plan.

What is the Thermage laser?

Thermage is an in-office skin-tightening treatment performed by a dermatologist to improve skin firmness and overall skin quality without surgery or downtime. The procedure uses a specialized device and handpiece to apply the treatment evenly across the face or body in a single session. Thermage does not involve injections or surface skin injury, so that patients can return to their normal routine immediately after treatment. It is commonly chosen by patients seeking gradual, natural-looking improvement rather than dramatic change.

Is Thermage effective?

Yes! Thermage® is an FDA-approved technique that delivers radiofrequency energy to the deepest layers of the skin while simultaneously protecting the skin’s surface through continuous cooling. Radiofrequency energy heats collagen fibers deep in the dermis, tightening the skin and stimulating renewed collagen production for several months after the treatment. The resulting collagen growth in the treatment area improves visible signs of aging, such as crow’s feet, early jowls or “turkey neck,” and neck contouring, restoring a more youthful appearance. Thermage is the gold standard of skin-tightening treatments because it delivers firmer, smoother skin with no downtime or side effects. Additionally, Thermage produces long-lasting results in a single session, making treatment easy and accessible for all patients.

Is Thermage permanent?

Thermage is not permanent, but it provides long-lasting improvement in skin firmness by supporting the skin’s natural collagen production. After treatment, collagen gradually rebuilds and strengthens the skin, leading to a smoother, tighter appearance over time. As the natural aging process continues, collagen levels will slowly decline again, resulting in softer results. Many patients maintain their results by scheduling periodic maintenance treatments, often once a year, to help preserve skin firmness and support ongoing collagen production.

55-64 Year old woman treated with Thermage and CoolSculpting – 6 months