Thermage FLX
Non-invasive monopolar RF for selected skin-firming and contouring goals.
Selected by your doctor after assessment, as one part of a personalised plan.
What does it do?
Thermage FLX may be considered when the clinical objective is to improve firmness and the appearance of skin laxity without an invasive procedure. It heats the deeper layers of the skin while protecting the surface, prompting the skin to rebuild its own collagen over the months that follow.
How we decide
Many patients who ask for a lift are in fact describing a loss of firmness. Thermage is selected when the assessment shows that the skin itself has lost its tension - and when that, rather than volume or deeper tissue descent, is the change that matters most to the face.
Why we use it
Thermage is one of the technologies I may consider when the primary concern is skin quality and selected degrees of laxity, particularly when a patient is looking for a non-invasive treatment. I do not recommend Thermage simply because a patient wants tightening: I first assess skin quality, laxity, facial structure and the degree of change that is realistically achievable. In some faces, another technology may be more appropriate. The decision is based on what I see clinically, not on the machine available.
Dr Priyam Bhagat
Who is it suitable for?
Patients with early to moderate laxity whose skin has begun to lose firmness, and who would prefer a gradual, natural change with little disruption. Where laxity is advanced or the deeper tissues have descended significantly, a different or combined approach is usually more appropriate.
Is Thermage FLX right for you?
May be considered when
- Firmness and the appearance of laxity are the clinical objective
- An invasive procedure is not wanted
- The skin still has reasonable thickness and quality
- A gradual change over several months is acceptable
May not be appropriate when
- Laxity is advanced, or the deeper tissues have descended
- Volume loss is the main change in the face
- The concern is the skin surface: texture, pores or pigment
- A single, immediate result is expected
This is decided at assessment, not in advance. Suitability depends on your anatomy, your skin and what you would like to change.
What concerns can it address?
- Loss of firmness along the jawline and neck
- Crepey or loosening skin around the eyes
- Softening facial definition
- Crepey skin on the arms, abdomen or knees
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How long is a session?
Usually a single session per area. A full face commonly takes around sixty to ninety minutes; the eyes or a smaller area take less, and body areas can take longer.
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What is the downtime and recovery?
Most patients return to their usual activities the same day. Mild redness or swelling can occur and usually settles within a day or two.
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What should you expect?
Some firmness may be noticed early, but the main change develops gradually over two to six months as collagen remodels. The aim is firmer, better-supported skin - a refreshed look rather than a surgical lift.
Every patient is different. Your doctor will explain what to expect for your own treatment before it begins.
Combinations, and when it may not be chosen
It is often combined with skin-quality treatment, or with ultrasound tightening of the deeper layers, planned in sequence rather than on the same day. It may not be chosen where laxity is advanced, where volume loss is the main issue, or where the skin surface needs attention first.
Treatment approaches
Considered care. Never a menu.
Begin with a consultation.
Every treatment at Dr Bhagat’s begins with an assessment. Your concerns, skin, facial structure and goals are considered before a personalised treatment plan is recommended.