The Thermacool TC (tm) System (TC stands for "tissue contraction") process was invented by Dr. Edward W. Knowlton, a board-certified plastic surgeon from California. Dr. Knowlton is a Diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Knowlton is the author and inventor of numerous medical devices and method patents, including the skin-sparing Peg Procedure for restorative breast reconstruction. He is founder and Chairman of the Board of THERMAGE Corporation, a medical device company that develops non-invasive medical technology. Dr. Knowlton has also authored numerous scientific articles and is past Editor-in-Chief of the Electronic Journal of Plastic Surgery.
Dr. Knowlton, a graduate of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, is a member of the California Society of Plastic Surgeons and the California Medical Association.
The Thermacool (tm) collagen-stimulating procedure is often performed by dermatologists, as well as plastic surgeons. You must decide if the prodecure is best for you, and who should preform it.
The procedure is called ThermageŽ, Thermacool(tm), and sometimes Thermacool TC(tm).
According to the information found at the www.Thermage.com web site:
"The ThermaCool system for tissue tightening and contouring is approved for cosmetic/aesthetic use based on research data from a U.S. clinical trial that enrolled 86 patients treated by 6 leading aesthetic procedure centers across the country and a retrospective study evaluating safety and efficacy of full face treatment."
The Thermage procedure is available only in the offices of qualified physicians who specialize in cosmetic procedures.
What is Thermage/Thermacool system?
According to the patient information found at the Thermage web site, the Thermacool TC System is the only "non-invasive treatment that delivers tighter skin, renewed facial contours and healthier collagen." The patented system uses a special ThermaTip(tm) which delivers, thougth radiofrequency, a controlled amount of heat to the collagen in the deep layers of skin. At the same time, the Thermacool TC system ensures that the outer layers of the skin are kept safely cool. The system is unique and patented.
When the collagen is heated, it is stimulated. The abundance of collagen is what gives a young face its elasticity. Therefore, with the stimulation of collagen, your face will take on a more youthful appearance, and will continue to improve over a period of 2-6 months.
There is an element of discomfort involved, and your plastic surgeon may prescribe some relaxants or pain medication.
How long does it take for a Thermage treatment?
The Thermage procedure can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on what your surgeon/physician feels is right for you.
How many treatments will I need?
According to the Thermage information, one treatment produces results in the majority of patients, although that number could vary depending on individual circumstances.
How safe is Thermage?
The thermage web site indicates that less than 1% of patients experience any adverse reactions, with the "most frequently reported incidents" being classified as swelling, redness, bumps and blisters on or around the treated area. These side effects have usually 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."
How long before I can return to my normal activities?
Most people return to their regular activities immediately following the Thermage procedure.
For more information, and to gain a better understanding of what is involved in this revolutionary collagen-stimulating system, please visit www.Thermage.com, and check with FDA.gov for further updates.