Before	After

Frequently Asked Questions about the ThermaCool TC

I keep hearing about the ThermaCool, but what are the results really like?
The results vary from individual to individual and depend on a number of different factors, including age, the area treated, the amount of laxity in the skin, and how well a patient’s skin responds. Some of Dr. Rapaport’s patients have seen improvement within a few days, but for many people, the results manifest themselves over a period of three to five months. The level of improvement also varies, and will range from little or no improvement to dramatic difference. Pictures are taken before the procedure so that, over time, the benefits of the treatment can be measured by both patients and medical staff.

What areas can be treated?
The ThermaCool has been used to treat loose skin on the mid and lower face, on the brow, on the breasts, on the arms, on the abdomen, and on the legs.

How does the technology work?
The ThermaCool TC System was developed by Thermage Corporation as a means to tighten skin without surgery. Radio frequencies are used to produce heat in the tissue below the skin surface. Dr. Rapaport believes that this causes contraction of the skin and the release of growth factors. Because the technology works from below, unlike laser resurfacing or facelift, there is no damage to the top layer of the skin. Hence, the possibility for any adverse reaction is decreased.

What are the treatments like? Do I need anesthesia?
For the vast majority of patients, general or sedation anesthesia will not be necessary. The areas to be treated will be numbed first with a cream or a local anesthetic at the office approximately one hour before the procedure is done. Dr. Rapaport may also recommend that the patient take a sedative prior to the procedure. If this is the case, then arrangements will need to be made so that there is an escort available to drive the patient home.

The length of time required for the procedure itself depends on the size of the areas to be treated. While there is minimal discomfort, patients should expect to experience a sensation of heat in the treated areas.

Will I need a second treatment?
Some patients may benefit from having a second treatment. However, because for many patients the results take months to completely manifest themselves, a second treatment should not be done for at least five months. Dr. Rapaport will discuss this option with patients during their follow-up visits to the office.

When can I go back to work?
Most patients can resume their normal activities right away. Some patients may see some redness that generally disappears within a few hours. A patient may see some small blisters or crusting, in which case Polysporin may be prescribed.

Does this mean that the traditional facelift and laser resurfacing will disappear?
The introduction of the ThermaCool TC System does not mean that other types of surgeries like the NLite laser, CO2 laser, or traditional facelift have been rendered obsolete. On the contrary, these technologies are still appropriate to improve specific conditions. Dr. Rapaport still recommends the NLite laser to treat large pores and fine lines and wrinkles, and CO2 and Erbium laser resurfacing is recommended to treat more deeply wrinkled, sun-damaged skin. Nor does the Thermage completely replace traditional facelift, which may be more appropriate for certain patients, especially those desiring treatment for skin laxity and bands in the neck. Of course, candidacy for any of these procedures is determined at the time of the consultation.