Thermage FLX

We are delighted to be the only practice in the Washington, DC region to offer Thermage FLX: a highly-anticipated non-surgical innovation to lift, smooth, and tighten the skin. Thermage, the #1 skin tightening device worldwide, is a non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) FDA approved therapy that can smooth, tighten and contour the eyelids, face, and body for an overall younger-looking appearance. FLX is the newest version of this technology, and debuts AccuRep to give automatic temperature calibration with every pulse for unprecedented safety, efficacy, and optimized results. While other skin tightening devices may use other approaches to deliver heat – such as ultrasound – or may rely on needles or incisions to access the deeper layers of the skin, this non-invasive treatment requires no cutting, needles, nor anesthesia.

As we age, the collagen that keeps our skin firm breaks down resulting in aging skin, fine lines and wrinkles. A Thermage FLX™ treatment uses radiofrequency technology to heat the deeper, collagen-rich layers of the skin which causes the collagen to contract and encourages new collagen to start growing. This helps create smoother skin after just one treatment with results that begin to appear at 6 weeks and continue to develop up to 6 months post treatment.

Dr. Sherber is highly skilled and experienced in using this technology. She was trained personally by Dr. Vic Narurkar, a pioneer in the field dermatology responsible for significant innovation in radiofrequency skin tightening best practices and in helping to advance Thermage technology. He also developed a vectored approach to delivering RF energy for optimal results, which is the technique Dr. Sherber uses when treating patients instead of the standard “grid” approach. This vectored approach customizes the treatment to your individual anatomy and skin goals for maximal improvement.

Dr. Sherber also frequently pairs Thermage FLX treatment with Botox Cosmetic for additional smoothing around the eyes and forehead or for a more immediate brow lift, or to contour the jawline or neck. Any skin tone and skin type is suitable for this treatment. The treatment price depends on the areas treated and the number of tips needed to complete treatment of the desired areas.

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01Consultation + Preparation

Thermage FLX treatment is not advisable if you are pregnant, so please let us know about this when scheduling so that we can discuss the best timing of your treatment. If you have microbladed eyebrows or other tattooing in the areas to be treated, a tip size must be chosen such that the tattoo pigment is outside the treated area. Please let us know if you have a history of cold sores so we can provide you with a prescription for antiviral medication to prevent an outbreak from the heat associated with treatment.

During the consultation, our team will take high resolution photographs for your record so that we can observe the results of your treatment with accuracy. We will then ask you about your medical history, including current medications and any prior procedures. Dr. Sherber will talk with you about your specific goals and customize a treatment plan for you that might include Botox, other injectables, laser treatments, and skincare products. Areas that we typically treat the lower face, jawline, neck, and eye area. Treatment can also be performed on the body.

It’s best not to come in with freshly styled hair that you don’t want to wash post-treatment since your face will be prepped with a cool gel called coupling fluid: this is water-soluble and washes away easily but can get in your hairline. Skin should not be sunburned or otherwise inflamed. To prepare for treatment on the face, men should shave so that no stubble can pierce the dielectric membrane on the device.

02Procedure

Treatment is very comfortable, and no numbing or pain medication is needed. Depending on the areas treated, the session will be approximately an hour. FLX treatment is 25% faster than prior versions of Thermage, and all treatments are performed in our office by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Noëlle Sherber rather than being delegated. The treatment consists of hundreds of pulses of energy that create heat in your dermis, the collagen layer of the skin, and stimulate growth factors. A grounding pad sticker will be applied to your torso and your skin will be glazed with a cool gel for even conduction of energy. You will feel cooling from the tip of the device, as well as gentle vibration, plus as energy is delivered you will feel heat. There can be a few zings but overall the treatment is warm and comfortable: no pain medication or sedation is required. Afterwards your skin may look slightly pink but you can apply sunscreen and/or makeup right away.

Gentle laser resurfacing such as Clear+Brilliant Perméa is a good idea in between Thermage FLX treatments since it reduces dark spots and sun damage, and improves skin texture and tone. Fillers can also be added later for volume, but are not performed at the same time as Thermage FLX due to the deep heating involved.

no downtime

tightening

rejuvenating

firming

03recovery

Your skin may be slightly flushed post-treatment but there is no social or professional downtime required. Consistent photoprotection is important in the days following treatment to prevent hyperpigmentation.

04results

You will see some immediate lift from treatment, and results continue to improve for 6 months. One single session of Thermage FLX will smooth, tighten, and contour the skin over time. Results can last 1-2 years, and many patients opt to make this a part of their annual maintenance program.

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