• What does the procedure feel like?

When the energy is applied, a deep but brief heating sensation is felt, which is an indication that the collagen is reaching effective temperatures for tightening.  To protect the surface of the skin, a cooling spray of cryogen is delivered before, during and after each application of energy.  You will frequently be asked for feedback on the level of heat sensation experienced throughout the procedure to help balance your comfort with maximum results.
 
In the pioneering days of Thermage, it was considered to be a painful procedure as high temperature setting were used, but through experience it has been found that better results can be achieved using multiple passes over an area at a lower temperature, gradually building up heat in the correct depth of the dermis. As a result, the treatment is much more tolerable.