Radio Wave Facelift Shortens Recovery Time
Thermalift Gives 'Little Boost' For Sagging Skin
UPDATED: 9:59 a.m. CDT September 26, 2003
CHICAGO -- Some cosmetic surgeons are offering a new facelift procedure that doesn't require the patient to go under the knife. Instead, NBC5's Nesita Kwan reported, it uses radio frequency waves.
The treatment tip sends the energy waves into the tissue under the skin, heating the collagen. At the same time, the skin surface is cooled during the procedure, and the net effect is a tightening and lifting of the skin.
Doctors say this allows patients to bypass the lengthy healing and recovery periods often associated with plastic surgery.
"This really is geared towards those people who want to do something. They don't want to take off work. They don't want to take the risk, but they want something. 'Just give me a little boost to get me into the next five years,'" said cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jeff Popp (pictured).
The Food And Drug Administration for use on the forehead, cheek and neck areas, as it's called, approves Thermalift. It may require two to three treatments, which each cost between $1,500 and $2,500.
The treatment tip sends the energy waves into the tissue under the skin, heating the collagen. At the same time, the skin surface is cooled during the procedure, and the net effect is a tightening and lifting of the skin.
Doctors say this allows patients to bypass the lengthy healing and recovery periods often associated with plastic surgery.
"This really is geared towards those people who want to do something. They don't want to take off work. They don't want to take the risk, but they want something. 'Just give me a little boost to get me into the next five years,'" said cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jeff Popp (pictured).
The Food And Drug Administration for use on the forehead, cheek and neck areas, as it's called, approves Thermalift. It may require two to three treatments, which each cost between $1,500 and $2,500.Copyright 2003 by NBC5.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
