Thermage for Eyes

Thermage is an aesthetic, non-invasive device that uses monopolar radiofrequency (MRF) to tighten skin and rejuvenate facial features. ⁽¹⁾ When used on the eyes, it reduces fine lines and wrinkles in the outer corners and eyelids and lifts the eyebrows for a youthful look. The treatment lifts drooping eyelid skin by naturally inducing collagen production through controlled damage, resulting in more open, brighter eyes.

Phoenix Skin Medical, Surgical, & Cosmetic Dermatology offers comprehensive face and body treatments for patients in the Phoenix, AZ metropolitan area. Our staff is experienced in both cosmetic and functional dermatology. We have something for everyone, whether you seek non-invasive skin rejuvenation or cosmetic surgery.

We understand the importance of a radiant, youthful-looking complexion, and Thermage can help you attain one. To schedule your Thermage consultation today, contact us directly by calling (602) 222-9111. With locations in both Phoenix and Scottsdale, you can visit our offices or fill out our contact form to get started.

Before and After

All About Thermage and MRF Technology

Since its inception and subsequent FDA approval in the early 2000s, Thermage has provided countless patients with wrinkle and fine line reduction for the last two decades. With the use of radiofrequency, Thermage is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that is suitable for many different areas of the body including the entire face and neck. It is often also used for body contouring purposes.

Radiofrequency devices are categorized into two types: monopolar and bipolar. Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency, meaning there is only one active electrode transmitting electromagnetic currents toward the skin. This process produces heat on the skin’s surface, leading to controlled injury of the dermis. ⁽²⁾

Thermage for the Eyes

As one of the most sensitive areas of the body, the area surrounding the eyes can be difficult to treat. The skin is very thin, and there is little room between the epidermis and the underlying anatomy. The passing of time and photoaging affects the entire face in many ways and often leads to noticeable fine lines and wrinkles in the outer corners of the eyes. Unlike many other aesthetic treatments, Thermage offers long-lasting results in just a few sessions.

To remodel the collagen that already exists in the skin, Thermage’s MRF system emits focused electric currents onto the skin to create heat. This heat irritates the water molecules in the skin, causing a thermal reaction through friction. The resulting damage forces both the existing collagen to tighten and new collagen to quickly reproduce and heal the affected area. Collagen production continues well after the treatment, improving the appearance of wrinkles over time. ⁽¹⁾

Benefits Of Thermage

Thermage treatment for the eyes improves the appearance of wrinkles around both eyelids. It is often used to reduce the look of dark under-eye bags, making the eyes look brighter and more awake. Since the eyes are an important focal point of the face, this often improves a patient’s overall appearance.

The benefits of Thermage for eyes include:

Am I a Candidate?

Since Thermage treatments are gentle and suitable for many different types and tones of skin, most people with wrinkles around their eyes make good candidates. Even those with sensitive skin can benefit from Thermage. However, those with cardiac pacemakers or similar medical implants should not receive Thermage treatment to avoid radiofrequency interference.

You must have reasonable expectations. Thermage for the eyes cannot provide the same results as surgical procedures like an eyelid or brow lift. Those who are noticing fine lines and wrinkles around their eyes, but are not ready for cosmetic surgery, are exactly the patients who will greatly benefit from Thermage treatments. If you smoke, we expect you to stop for at least 2 weeks before and after your treatment.

Personal Consultation at Phoenix Skin

During your private consultation with us, one of our expert providers will perform a complete examination of the treatment area to determine if Thermage is right for you. Please prepare to discuss your medical history, including all previous aesthetic procedures, before your appointment with us. We will inquire about your current medications, allergies, and cosmetic desires to know your goals.

Thermage for Eyes Preparation & Treatment Steps

Unlike many other in-office aesthetic treatments, Thermage does not require you to avoid any medication or substances beforehand. On the day of your appointment, thoroughly cleanse your face and apply moisturizer as normal. If you normally wear contact lenses, please wear your glasses instead for your appointment.

Before the procedure begins, we map out the treatment areas using a temporary grid. An eyeshield is placed under the eyelids to protect the eye. Your provider chooses the correct tip for the area and then starts the procedure by uniformly applying the MRF energy in the eye area. Treatment lengths vary between patients depending on the size and location of the area, ranging from 30 to 60 minutes.

Recovery & Results

There is minimal-to-no recovery time for Thermage treatments. You may experience some swelling and redness, but this subsides very quickly. Results can be seen immediately after eye treatment, and only get better with time as new collagen forms over the next 4 to 6 months.

Patient results last anywhere from 9 months to 2 years after treatment. For most patients, we recommend coming to us once or twice a year to help maintain your results and jumpstart collagen. To further preserve your results, wear sun protection and introduce a healthy skin care routine into your daily life.

Complementary Procedure: Botox Cosmetic

FDA-approved neuromodulator Botox is a common tool in reducing the look of facial wrinkles. The injectable contains the muscle-relaxing agent Botulinum that, when carefully placed, temporarily paralyzes the facial muscles that pull on the skin when making expressions. When we frown or smile over the course of our lives, repeated movements start to create fine lines and wrinkles around our eyes, forehead, and mouth. Botox cosmetic is typically injected into the muscles causing these lines, effectively stopping their usual pulling mechanism and reducing the look of wrinkles. If you have deep frown or smile lines, Botox may be an optimal treatment choice.

Cost of Thermage for the Eyes in Phoenix

Each patient requires a personalized treatment plan for Thermage, resulting in varying total costs. During your initial consultation at Phoenix Skin, we will explain the procedure details and provide an estimated price for your specific needs. Generally, costs for Thermage Eyes and/or Lateral Brow are as follows:

With offices in both Phoenix and Scottsdale, schedule your first appointment by calling us at (602) 222-9111. We also provide a convenient online form to fill out anytime. We hope to speak with you soon.

FAQ

References

1. Han SH, Yoon YM, Lee YW, Choe YB, Ahn KJ. Usefulness of Monopolar Thermal Radiofrequency Treatment for Periorbital Wrinkles. Annals of Dermatology. 2018;30(3):296. doi:https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.2018.30.3.296
2. Dayan E, Burns AJ, J. Rohrich R, Theodorou S. The Use of Radiofrequency in Aesthetic Surgery. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2020;Publish Ahead of Print(8). doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000002861