By the doctor Marie-Thérèse Bousquet
The stimulation of collagen carried out by monopolar radiofrequency induces a real restructuring effect of the cutaneous layers.
This treatment does not alter the face’s morphology, which is what appeals to patients of both sexes. What is more, by stimulating collagen production, monopolar radiofrequency rejuvenates the skin while visibly improving its quality and tonus for a preventative anti-aging action.
Restructuring the collagen to slow down skin sagging
I started working with the first generation of Thermage devices back in 2008 and continued for many years. The arrival of a new team and a new generation of devices with the Thermage FLX motivated me to work with this technology again, as it has many advantages: targeted heat distribution from 4mm to 7mm in depth, and treatments carried out in one session instead of 3 to 4 sessions plus top-ups. Patients are much more receptive to the idea of a single treatment with a progressive and natural result. I have noticed that with this technology, a good percentage of patients come back for treatment 18 to 24 months later.
The better we target the right profile, the better the patient’s results and satisfaction will be. Since the aim of the treatment is to restructure the collagen and reduce any skin slackness, the skin must still be capable of producing a certain quantity of collagen, so we are looking for skin with a bit of fat, and which has substance when you pinch it between your fingers. This is why the age range in which I achieve the best results is between 40 and 55. Paper-like, lifeless skin will not sufficiently respond to this stimulation.
A wider scope of action and improved efficacy
The fourth generation of Thermage, the FLX, is equipped with a wider tip for treating larger surfaces in a 25% shorter space of time. Another new feature is that the FLX system automatically calculates the impedance when we position the tip to optimise the energy delivered to each area, which provides greater efficiency and safety. Since the tips are larger, we emit fewer shots and we can sweep across the surface more quickly. The device also has a “trick”: vibrations distract the brain to reduce any discomfort felt during the treatment, especially on bony areas.
A grid is placed on the patient’s face, which allows the doctor to identify the vectors they want to concentrate on in order to achieve optimal retraction. The session begins with 2 to 4 sweeps across the whole area to warm it up and stimulate the collagen. Next, we perform at least 5 sweeps along the vector lines, sometimes up to 10, to stimulate and contract the skin as much as possible, lift the oval and restructure the cheekbones.
Thanks to the new, specially-designed tip, I can respond to the demand for eyelid rejuvenation, often coupled with firming up the oval. This thin skin retracts well, and we can improve the crumpled, creased and saggy appearance of the upper and lower eyelids. For best results, I start from the base of the eyelash. First of all, I place a protective cover over the eyes so that we can work safely across the whole surface, including the area that runs from the natural fold of the upper eyelid to the eyebrow.
No downtime is required; there may just be a bit of redness that fades away after a few hours. Over the next 2 to 3 months, the contraction of the fibrous septa will tighten and densify the skin. Patients also see an improvement in the skin, which is denser, firmer and has a smoother texture. As a finishing touch, we might add a skinbooster treatment.
Despite a slightly high price range, Thermage has many advantages and a following of loyal patients who appreciate its rejuvenating effect, its radiance boosting effect, and the fact that it slows down skin sagging in the long term.
By the doctor Marie-Thérèse Bousquet
Aesthetic Doctor: 27 years of practice
Doctor of General Medicine – University of Lille University Degree in Evaluation and Control of Injection and Filling Techniques in Dermatology – Paris Descartes University – Paris 5. Member of SFME and AFME. Expert and speaker in scientific congresses.
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