With the growing variety of non-invasive and non-surgical facelift procedures in Singapore, a spike in the number of individuals getting these cosmetic treatments has been noticed over the past years. These treatments are gaining popularity as they can be efficiently done in such a short time and are very much ideal for busy professionals who can squeeze in a session of face pampering to restore their youthful glow over lunch.
An example of one of these treatments is Thermage which has been practised by dr Cy Chua at his clinic located at 13 Stamford Road #B2-36/37, Capitol Piazza Singapore.
What is Thermage?
Thermage is a facelift system that uses non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) therapy aimed to bring back younger-looking skin by tightening, smoothening, and improving the skin’s appearance. Thermage earned its FDA approval back in 2001.
What are the benefits of Thermage?
The benefits of undergoing a Thermage treatment are:
- Non-invasive and non-surgical procedure – There is no need to make incisions or punctures on the skin.
- Quick treatment – A treatment is completed in 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the area for treatment.
- Fast results – Results are achieved and visible in just one treatment
- Minimal downtime – Little to no downtime is needed for recovery.
What are the disadvantages of Thermage?
The disadvantages of a Thermage treatment are:
- Can cause burns to the skin
- Unable to lift muscles and loose skin in older patients
- Unable to treat moderate to severe signs of ageing
What parts of the body can Thermage treat?
Thermage can treat the following areas of the body:
- Abdomen area
- Arms
- Buttocks
- Entire face
- Knees
- Legs
- Neck
- Thighs
What face and body problems can Thermage address?
Thermage can address the following skin problems:
- Crepey skin on abdomen, knees, and legs
- Crow’s feet
- Droopy skin along with the eye’s hood
- Fine lines
- Nasolabial folds
- Sagging cheeks, jowls, and chin
- Wrinkles
Am I an ideal candidate for a Thermage procedure?
Thermage is suitable for patients around the age of 30 to 40 years old with mild sagging skin and those with problems mentioned above. However, older people with advanced skin ageing are not suitable candidates as Thermage can do little to no improvement on moderate to severe sagging skin and muscles. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also advised not to take this treatment.
How is a Thermage procedure done?
Thermage uses a machine with a handheld device that sends radio-frequency energy through the layers of the skin. A cooling sensation then follows to protect the top layers of the skin from discomfort and injury. Prior to the application of the device to the skin, numbing cream may be spread on the treated areas to ease the discomfort that may be felt during the procedure.
How does Thermage work to tighten the skin?
Thermage emits energy from radiofrequency technology to heat the deeper layers of the skin that contain collagen. As the heat travels through the layers, it causes the collagen to contract and stimulates the production of new collagen. The development of new collagen brings improvement to skin problems like fine lines, sagging skin, and wrinkles.
How long does a Thermage treatment take?
A Thermage treatment may take about 30 minutes to a maximum of 2 hours. The length of time to complete a procedure highly depends on the size of the skin area that needs treatment.
How much downtime is needed following a Thermage treatment?
No downtime is needed following a Thermage treatment. Patients can immediately return to their daily activities.
What are the expected results after treatment?
Patients can expect tightened skin, reduced fine lines and wrinkles on the treated areas.
Are results visible instantly after a treatment?
Tightening results may be instantly visible after treatment. In addition, the skin continues to improve even after treatment as new collagen is produced. The full effects of the treatment can be seen 3 months after the procedure.
How long will the results last?
Results can last for as long as 1 to 2 years. This may differ from person to person as it will depend on a patient’s skin condition and the ageing process.
Are there risks and side effects?
Possible risks and side effects of a Thermage treatment are:
- Burns
- Scars
- Temporary bumps
- Permanent dents on the skin that may be caused by heat damage to the layer of fat beneath the dermis
How many times should the treatment be done to get optimum results?
One treatment is enough to achieve optimum results. Maintenance may be done in an interval of one year.
How much does a Thermage treatment cost in Singapore?
A Thermage treatment in Singapore costs around $3,000 to $5,000.
Can Medisave or health insurances cover Thermage costs?
Medisave or health insurances cannot cover the cost of Thermage as this is a cosmetic procedure.
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