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THERMAGE AND SCULPTRA
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THERMAGE
Thermage using the Thermacool device provides radiofrequency skin tightening without surgery. The Thermage procedure delivers tighter skin, renewed and healthier collagen. (Collagen is the building block that provides structure to your skin.) The procedure has been FDA approved for use on the face, eyelids and body (including the abdomen, arms and thighs). Thermage is available only in the offices of a physician certified in its use for each specific area of the body. Dr. Strauss has been performing Thermage since 2004 and is certified to perform the procedure in every area of the body. The more commonly asked questions about this popular procedure are listed below.
SculptraAestheticÔ
SculptraAesthetic is an FDA approved (August 2009) synthetic injectable material designed to restore fullness to facial areas affected by the loss of collagen and fat (facial lipoatrophy) which are the hallmarks of aging. It is made of a solution of microbeads of Poly-L-lactic acid which stimulates the body to deposit more collagen thus creating an increase in skin thickness. The beads then dissolve over 4-6 weeks and another treatment can be performed. A typical course of treatment is 3-4 sessions usually 1 month apart after which you have filled in with your own collagen, not temporary filler which resorbs over time. SculptraAesthetic can also be used on the back of the hands to reverse the effects of aging or in areas of the body where trauma has left a depression. Dr. Strauss is certified in the application of SculptraAesthetic and has used it extensively in her practice since its introduction in the United States in 2006. She has participated in advanced seminars and training sessions with some of the world's leading experts in the field of collagen stimulators.
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- What is the Thermage Procedure?
The Thermage procedure employs a patented radiofrequency (RF) technology called ThermaCool. It has been clinically proven to tighten and gently lift skin to smooth out wrinkles. It can reverse signs of facial aging such as jowling or eyelid hooding, or mild skin laxity from pregnancy or weight loss. The incision-free procedure is fast and easy, and requires no downtime from normal activities. Unlike lasers, the procedure can be performed on patients of all skin types. The ThermaCool device has been cleared by the FDA for the non-invasive treatment of facial wrinkles and rhytids.
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- How does it work?
The ThermaCool device uses a sophisticated treatment tip called ThermaTip, which delivers a controlled amount of RF energy. With each touch to the skin, the ThermaTip device uniformly heats a large volume of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin and its underlying tissue while simultaneously protecting the outer layer of the skin with cooling. This deep uniform heating action causes deep structures in your skin to immediately tighten. Over time, new and remodeled collagen is produced to further tighten skin, resulting in healthier, smoother skin and a more youthful appearance.
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- What will my skin feel like after the procedure?
Immediately following a Thermage procedure, your skin should feel only a slight bit tighter. The majority of the improvement will occur two to six months after the procedure.
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- How long will the effects of the Thermage Procedure last?
The Thermage procedure causes immediate tightening of the collagen structure, with additional tightening over time. Unpublished reports by experienced cosmetic physicians indicate that results may last 24 months or longer based on the patient's natural aging process. 
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- Is the Thermage Procedure safe?
The Thermage procedure has an excellent safety record. With over 70,000 estimated worldwide patient treatments to date the reported incidence of side effects is less than 1%. The most frequently reported incidents are classified as swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have disappeared in a few days or weeks. A rare (0.2%) but longer lasting side effect described as a skin depression has also been reported. Consult with your physician regarding this and any other questions you may have on the safety record of the Thermage procedure.
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- How long before I can return to my normal activities?
Most people return to their regular activities immediately following the Thermage procedure. Some people experience mild redness (like a sunburn), but it usually disappears quickly. No special care is needed after treatment unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
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- How much does the Thermage Procedure cost?
The cost for the Thermage procedure depends on the areas being treated. Certainly, the more treatment area involved, the more the procedure will cost. Your physician will discuss her fees with you at the time of your consultation.
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- What does the Thermage Procedure feel like?
With each touch of the Therma Tip device, you will experience a brief, deep heating sensation as the RF energy is delivered to your skin and underlying tissue. This deep heating sensation is your indication that your collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening. The physician controls the amount of energy delivered to balance procedural comfort with maximum results. The Therma Tip device is cooled before, during, and after heating to protect your skin and make the treatment more comfortable. Additionally, your physician may also prescribe relaxants and/or pain medication.
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- How many treatments will I need?
Unlike many laser procedures requiring four or more sessions, a single Thermage treatment has produced results in the majority of patients. Your physician will determine the course of treatment that is right for you.
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- How long does it take?
The Thermage procedure including photographs and skin preparation can take anywhere from one to two hours depending on the size of the treatment area and the use of oral sedation.
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