What is Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is the state-of-art, fourth-generation system for non-invasive skin tightening from Solta Medical, a global leader in the aesthetic industry in laser and energy-based devices. Thermage FLX optimizes the use of radiofrequency energy to induce skin tightening and new collagen formation. Compared to previous generations of Thermage as well as many other tightening devices on the market, Thermage FLX provides better results and more comfort during treatment with its innovative system of energy delivery and comfort pulse technology.

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How Does It Work?

Loss of healthy collagen and elastic fibers in the skin contribute to the loss of skin thickness, strength, tone, and resilience. The youthful contours slowly change over the years, and skin laxity and sagging develop. Thermage FLX effectively delivers radiofrequency energy to the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate the skin to produce new, healthy collagen over the months following treatment. Thermage FLX also tightens the existing collagen, giving immediate improvement in contours and tissue tone in many patients. As we age, the collagen that keeps our skin firm breaks down resulting in aging skin that contains fine lines and wrinkles. Thermage FLX treatment uses radiofrequency technology to heat the deeper, collagen-rich layers of the skin. The applied heat causes collagen to contract and encourages new collagen to start growing. This helps create smoother skin after just one treatment with results that continue to improve.

 

What Areas Can Be Treated with Thermage FLX?

Since every individual has a unique set of problem areas to be treated, including asymmetry of right and left sides of the face and/or body, we customize every treatment and use a technique that includes “lifting vectors” to optimize results.

• Upper Face – improve skin thickness and create subtle lifting of the brows; we customize the treatment to enhance the symmetry between the right and left brows.

• Eyelids – improve skin texture and, in some patients, achieve modest lift.

• Lower Face, Neck – tighten skin and soften the appearance of the facial folds (nasal folds, “marionette lines”); enhance the jawline to create a more youthful contour.

• Body – improve skin thickness and tighten skin.

 

Who is a Good Candidate for Thermage FLX?

Since Thermage FLX uses radiofrequency energy, it can be used safely on any skin color. The patients who respond best are those with mild to moderate skin laxity and mild sun damage. The degree of skin laxity and photoaging are key determinants of an individual’s response. With Thermage FLX, a person’s age is less important than with previous devices; for example, a person who is older than 65 years with a small degree of skin damage and laxity may see nice improvement.

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Who Should Not Undergo Treatment with Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX should not be performed on people with an implantable pacemaker, an Automatic Implantable Cardioverter/Defibrillator (AICD), or any other implantable electronic device (e.g. cochlear or retinal implants, electrical stimulation devices, insulin pumps, etc.). Thermal FLX should not be performed on a person who is pregnant or lactating (breastfeeding).

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How is Thermage FLX Treatment Performed?

Before we schedule a Thermage FLX treatment session, we will request that you see us for a consultation visit. During this appointment, we’ll help you understand the process and ensure it is the ideal treatment to address your concerns and deliver your desired results. During the procedure itself, Thermage FLX delivers radiofrequency energy to target the deeper, collagen-rich layers of your skin. One of the advantages of Thermage FLX is its unique mechanism to both vibrate and cool the surface layers of the skin to improve comfort during the procedure. The goal throughout treatment is to deliver heat energy that feels quite warm but never feels “too hot.” The Thermage FLX device is applied in a repeated pulse-like manner to the treatment area.

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How Long Does Thermage FLX Treatment Take?

Depending on your individual plan (size of area(s), location), the Thermage FLX session can last 30 to 90 minutes.

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Are There Side Effects of Thermage FLX?  When Can I Resume My Normal Activities?

Most patients experience little to no adverse effects and resume their normal activities immediately. Occasionally, some minor swelling or redness may occur and typically resolves within 24 hours. If you notice anything unusual or have any concerns after your procedure, contact your physician right away.

 

How Soon Will I See Results?

Some patients see improvement in the appearance of their skin immediately following their Thermage FLX session, but the majority of improvement (increased skin thickness, tissue tightening) will continue for up to six months after treatment. Even if you’re in the 8 to 10% of patients who don’t see noticeable changes in appearance immediately after Thermage FLX treatment, the radiofrequency energy stimulates new collagen that benefits the skin.

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How Many Treatments Will I Need?

For most patients, a single Thermage FLX treatment provides the desired benefit. Occasionally, patients will do a second session 6 or more months after the first.

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How Long Will Results Last?

The benefits from a given Thermage FLX treatment are long-lasting, however, the aging process continues. Some patients may choose to periodically “boost” their skin with a Thermage FLX treatment. To optimize the health of your skin and reduce the rate at which it ages, our dermatologists can provide you with an individualized skincare regimen.

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Thermage FLX Before & After Images

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