Deep Dive into Thermage Skin Tightening Technology
Thermage FLX is a non-surgical skin tightening device that uses heat energy from monopolar radiofrequency (RF). It’s ideal for individuals experiencing skin laxity, sagging cheeks, double chin, or accumulated facial fat. Thermage helps firm the skin, reduce wrinkles, and contour the face without surgery or downtime.
Thermage treatments can be more expensive than other skin tightening options, so it is important to understand how they work and what makes them different. What exactly is Thermage? How much does it cost? Who is it suitable for? What concerns can it address? This article outlines the key facts to help you make an informed decision and achieve the best result from your treatment.
Table of Content : Thermage
What Is Thermage?
Treating the chin area with Thermage can reduce double chin and redefine your jawline.
Thermage is a non-invasive procedure designed to tighten skin and stimulate collagen production. It is approved by both the U.S. and Thailand’s FDA, which guarantees its safety and efficacy.
The Thermage FLX system uses monopolar radiofrequency to deliver heat energy deep into the dermis and subcutaneous layers of the skin. This deep penetration allows for effective tightening and collagen remodeling.
To put it simply, our skin has three main layers:
- Epidermis: The outermost layer, acting as a barrier for protection.
- Dermis: Contains collagen and elastin, essential for skin elasticity and firmness.
- Subcutaneous Layer: Composed primarily of fat cells; thickness varies per person.
Thermage’s ability to deliver heat through all three layers allows it to simultaneously:
- Stimulate new collagen production
- Break down unwanted fat under the skin
- Improve elasticity and skin firmness
Additionally, the treatment helps smooth the epidermis (top layer), minimize pores, and improve skin texture—benefits that typical skin tightening machines cannot achieve.
How Does Thermage FLX Work?
As collagen naturally depletes with age, the skin begins to sag and develop wrinkles. Thermage addresses this by delivering high-frequency monopolar radiofrequency (RF) energy into the deeper layers of the skin. This heat causes water molecules in collagen fibers to separate, resulting in an immediate contraction of collagen—giving a firmer appearance right after treatment.
In the following months, new collagen is generated and reorganized, leading to further skin tightening over time.
To minimize discomfort, Thermage uses an integrated vibration mechanism. It also delivers bursts of cooling between pulses of heat, which protects the skin surface and reduces the risk of burns.
The result is a visibly firmer and smoother complexion after just one session, with ongoing improvements. Peak tightening usually occurs around 6 months after treatment.
Where Can Thermage Be Used?
Thermage can be applied on the face, eye area, and body. The number of shots used will vary depending on the treatment area, skin condition, and the doctor’s evaluation.
- Face and Neck: Helps contour the jawline, reduce sagging cheeks and double chin, especially for mild to moderate laxity.
- Around the Eyes (Thermage Eyes): Suitable for droopy eyelids, crow’s feet, and lifting the brow. However, for dark circles, hollowness, or under-eye wrinkles caused by volume loss, under-eye fillers are recommended for better results.
- Body: Can be applied to arms, hands, abdomen, thighs, or hips to reduce wrinkles and firm sagging areas.
Thermage vs. Regular RF Devices
Regular RF machines often utilize bipolar RF or combine with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), which are suitable only for the upper layers of the skin.
In contrast, Thermage uses monopolar RF to deliver volumetric energy deep into the skin, offering more consistent heat dispersion. This process stimulates collagen renewal, dissolves fat, and addresses sagging more effectively than regular RF.
Other popular skin-tightening devices include Ulthera and HIFU Ultraformer, which use focused ultrasound to target the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)—the same layer addressed during surgical facelifts.
Ultimately, the most suitable device will depend on each patient’s skin condition and specific concerns.
How Many Thermage Models Are There?
Thermage has evolved over time with multiple generations since its launch in 2003:
- Thermage TC (2003)
- Thermage NXT (2007)
- Thermage CPT (2009)
- Thermage FLX (2018)
The most common models used in Thailand are Thermage CPT and the newer Thermage FLX, released in 2018.
Thermage FLX vs. CPT – What’s the Difference?
Both are Thermage systems, but FLX is the most advanced model. It offers:
- Better energy focus
- Larger treatment tips
- Fewer shots required
- More comfortable sessions
- Shorter treatment time
Thermage CPT (2009) is an older system. It lacks precise thermal control and can be painful, so it requires a highly skilled doctor.
Thermage FLX (2018) is the latest generation with integrated cooling and vibration, providing greater comfort and minimizing the risk of burns. Its larger tip also shortens treatment time by approximately 25%.
How to Verify a Genuine Thermage Device
Thermage treatments can be costly, which unfortunately leads to counterfeit devices being promoted at extremely low prices. These fakes may include:
- Non-Thermage machines made to look similar
- Real machines using counterfeit tips
- Reused disposable tips (each tip is intended for only 900 shots)
How to Verify an authentic Thermage FLX
To ensure authenticity, always choose a reputable clinic. You can ask the doctor to unbox the tip in front of you to confirm it’s a brand-new, genuine Thermage tip.
Benefits of Thermage FLX
Thermage FLX is the latest and most advanced model in the Thermage series. It offers several advantages:
- Non-invasive, no downtime, and natural-looking results
- Visible improvement (about 20%) right after treatment
- Full results appear in 2–3 months
- Short treatment time: 40–90 minutes
- Targets all layers of skin, including fat layer
- Suitable for both facial and body treatments
- Long-lasting results: 1–2 years, depending on skin condition and maintenance
What Does “FLX” Mean in Thermage FLX?
Thermage FLX was designed for greater comfort, speed, and efficiency. Here’s what FLX stands for:
- F – FASTER: Features the new Total Tip 4.0, which covers 33% more surface area and is 25% faster than previous versions
- L – ALGORITHM: Uses real-time AccuREP™ Technology to automatically adjust energy output based on skin resistance, ensuring safe, effective, and consistent results
- X – EXPERIENCE: Enhances patient comfort with Advanced Comfort Pulse Technology, including built-in cooling and multi-directional vibration to reduce pain and minimize the risk of skin burns
When Will You See Results from Thermage?
Approximately 20% improvement can be seen immediately after treatment, with tighter skin and fewer fine lines. Full results develop gradually over the next 2–3 months as collagen continues to rebuild.
The skin continues producing new collagen for up to 6 months after treatment. On average, results last 1–2 years depending on individual skin condition and lifestyle. A yearly maintenance session is often recommended to prolong the effects.
As collagen naturally breaks down with age, the skin loses its elasticity. Skincare products can only reach the surface and cannot restore the deeper layers. Thermage addresses the root cause by tightening the skin from the first session.
Who Is Thermage Suitable For?
The main benefit of Thermage is volume reduction and facial contouring, making it especially suitable for those with facial fat—often seen in Asian faces with fuller cheeks or double chins. It’s also ideal for:
- Individuals seeking facial tightening and V-line contouring
- Those with fat accumulation on the cheeks, jawline, or chin
- People experiencing loose skin on the face, neck, abdomen, upper arms, or hands
- Individuals with cellulite on the thighs or buttocks
- Those looking to minimize pores and rejuvenate the skin for a more youthful appearance
Who Should Avoid Thermage?
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with pacemakers or electronic implants
Can Thermage Be Done on Thin Faces with Little Fat?
Thermage is best suited for individuals with facial fat. For sunken cheeks or loose skin with minimal fat, Ulthera is a more suitable option, as it targets deeper muscle layers without reducing volume.
How to Prepare for Thermage
There’s no special preparation needed. It’s similar to a facial treatment. However, if you’ve had previous procedures such as thread lifts or dermal fillers, please allow a 1-month gap before undergoing Thermage.
Thermage Procedure Steps
The Thermage procedure is straightforward and requires minimal downtime:
- Cleansing the treatment area.
Applying numbing cream for approximately 30 minutes. - Applying Thermage: The doctor applies the Thermage tip to the skin and delivers energy based on the evaluated shot count, tailored to the patient’s skin condition and treatment zone. The session typically takes around 45–90 minutes.
During treatment, patients may feel a “warm but tolerable” sensation—not painful, but slightly intense. Thermage works by reaching all skin layers, so some discomfort is necessary for optimal results.
Post-Treatment Care and Aftercare Guidelines
After Thermage treatment, patients may experience mild redness or puffiness for 1–2 hours, which typically subsides on its own. Normal activities can be resumed immediately. However, to maximize results and avoid complications, it is recommended to:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for about a week and apply sunscreen daily for skin protection
- Avoid facials, exfoliating treatments, or other laser procedures for 2 weeks
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption, as these accelerate skin aging
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, getting sufficient sleep, staying hydrated, and managing stress to support longer-lasting results
Thermage FLX Reviews
Thermage FLX treatment reviews from V Square Clinic
*Results vary per individual based on medical evaluation and condition.
Is Thermage Safe? Are There Any Side Effects?
Thermage is a safe procedure. The radiofrequency energy does not damage the skin. Minor redness or swelling is normal and temporary, usually resolving within 24 hours.
- Redness/Swelling: Common and not dangerous
- Tenderness or tingling under the skin: May occur but typically resolves in 3–10 days
Serious side effects usually occur from counterfeit devices, not authentic Thermage machines. Fake equipment may cause severe damage, including skin burns, scarring, or facial deformities.
To ensure safety, always verify that the clinic uses genuine, certified Thermage devices.
Thermage vs. HIFU vs. Ulthera – What’s the Difference?
The key difference is in the energy type and targeted skin layer:
- Thermage FLX: Uses radiofrequency to treat all layers of the skin and fat, offering enhanced skin firmness and smooth texture (great for youthful skin tone)
- Ulthera & HIFU: Use focused ultrasound to target the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), primarily for lifting
Ulthera offers greater precision and depth calibration than HIFU, but it’s also more expensive. Both devices use multiple depths (2, 3, and 4.5 mm), while Thermage covers a wider range (0–4.3 mm) for more comprehensive skin rejuvenation.
For those with double chin, neck sagging, or facial fat concerns, Thermage is more effective at reducing volume and tightening the jawline.
These treatments can be combined: Thermage to reduce fat and Ulthera/HIFU to lift and sculpt. However, sessions should be spaced apart. It’s best to consult with a doctor for personalized recommendations.
Final Note on Value: Thermage is more intense and can be more painful than HIFU because it delivers energy through all skin layers. If you’re unsure about the discomfort, starting with HIFU may be preferable. But for those who can tolerate it, Thermage offers more comprehensive, long-lasting results.
Want Facial Lifting? Should You Choose Thread Lifts, Botox, or Something Else?
There are several methods to lift and tighten the face, including thread lifting, Botox injections, Ulthera, HIFU, and Thermage. Each method has its own unique advantages, and the most suitable option depends on individual facial concerns. It is always recommended to consult with a doctor to assess your facial condition and design a personalized treatment plan to ensure the best results tailored to your needs.
Where Should You Get Thermage?
If you’re considering Thermage FLX, make sure you choose a licensed, high-standard clinic. Using substandard machines can result in uneven energy delivery. In the best-case scenario, the treatment will be ineffective. In worse cases, it can lead to uneven skin texture, depressions, or even burns.
Here are a few tips to choose the right clinic:
- Choose a legally registered clinic certified by the Ministry of Public Health
- Confirm that the Thermage machine is genuine (you can verify with the importer) and ask the doctor to open a new tip in front of you
- Get treated by a doctor experienced in Thermage—trained in device usage and able to recommend the right technology for your concerns
- Verify the doctor’s credentials via the Medical Council of Thailand: https://checkmd.tmc.or.th/
- Look for reviews on independent, credible platforms with real photos and videos
How Much Does Thermage Cost?
At V Square Clinic, we use the Thermage FLX model, which allows precise energy calculation and reduces treatment time by 25%, delivering better results than older versions.
Interested in getting Thermage at V Square Clinic? |
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Thermage – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Thermage Hurt?
Pain tolerance varies from person to person. Thermage FLX comes with Cooling Effect Technology to protect your skin and reduce discomfort. It also includes vibration to ease the sensation.
We also apply a numbing cream beforehand, which helps a lot. Some patients say they feel little to no pain, while others report tolerable heat during treatment.
Q: How Long Do the Results Last?
You’ll notice about 20% tightening immediately after your session. Results continue to improve over the next 2–3 months as new collagen forms. Effects typically last 1–2 years, depending on your skin condition and age.
Q: How Often Should I Do Thermage?
We recommend once a year to maintain results. If you want more noticeable lifting, it can be done every 3 months, depending on your goals.
Q: What Energy Level Should Be Used?
Thermage FLX uses adjustable energy settings, typically between levels 0–4:
- Level 0–1: You’ll feel only vibration—not enough heat to be effective
- Level 2–2.5: Warm but tolerable. Most patients respond well at this level
- Level 3–4: Intense heat. While results may be better, it can cause discomfort or skin damage, especially for sensitive skin
During treatment, your doctor will check how you feel and adjust the energy level to keep it safe and comfortable while ensuring effective results.
Summary – Is Thermage Worth It?
Thermage FLX is the latest generation of non-invasive skin-tightening technology. It firms sagging skin, defines facial contours, and gives a younger appearance without cuts or downtime. You can return to your daily life immediately after treatment.
The cost of Thermage FLX depends on the number of shots. Most treatments range from 450 to 900 shots, starting around ฿30,000 THB (for 450 shots).
To ensure both safety and visible results, it’s essential to undergo treatment at a trusted clinic with an experienced doctor.
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