In recent years, "Thermagen" has been attracting attention in the field of cosmetic medicine. As a procedure that uses radiofrequency (RF) to tighten the skin, many people expect it to have a rejuvenating effect. However, some people are concerned that "Thermagen may make my face look hollow. However, some people are concerned that "Thermagen may make my face look hollow".
What is the actual relationship between Thermagen and the "scowl" phenomenon? Here, we will thoroughly explain the basic information about Thermagen, possible side effects after the procedure, and the risk of "scowl".
We will also introduce some pointers on how to get a beautiful facial line while minimizing risks, so please refer to this page if you are considering the procedure.
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Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, National Kumamoto University. After serving as the director of major beauty clinics in Japan, etc., he opened Aladdin Aesthetic Clinic in 2023. He is a professional in aesthetic medicine with a doctorate in anti-aging research and many years of experience. With the motto of "Toward the realization of cosmetic medicine without lies," he aims to be the "Only One" together with his patients.
What is Thermagen? How it works and its features
Thermagen is one of the cosmetic medical procedures that utilize radiofrequency (RF) energy. By delivering heat energy to the dermis layer and subcutaneous tissue deep within the skin, it stimulates collagen production and restores skin elasticity and firmness.
The main features of this treatment are "uniform energy irradiation" and "immediate tightening effect." When RF energy acts inside the skin, collagen fibers contract, and many people can feel a sense of lifting immediately after the treatment. Then, as time passes, new collagen is produced, resulting in a more natural and long-lasting tightening effect.
Thermagen is also noted for its low pain and short downtime. Compared to conventional RF treatment, redness and swelling after the procedure are minimized, making it less likely to interfere with work and daily life.
Differences from other similar procedures (Thermacool, HIFU)
While there are numerous sagging treatments available in cosmetic medicine, they are often compared to Thermacool and HIFU (Hyf) in particular. In this section, we will sort out the differences between each treatment and better define the characteristics of Thermagen.
Name of treatment | structure | working layer | pain | Expected Benefits | down time |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Thermagen | RF (radio frequency) | Dermal layer and subcutaneous tissue | few | Collagen production promotion and tightening | almost never |
Thermacool | RF (radio frequency) | Dermis and subcutaneous fat layer | somewhat strong | Skin tightening and sagging improvement | Mild swelling and redness |
HIFU | ultrasonic waves | SMAS (fascia layer) | relatively strong | Lifting from the depths | Mild swelling and dull pain |
Both Thermagen and Thermacool are procedures that use RF energy, but Thermacool tends to specialize in skin tightening because it delivers energy deeper. HIFU, on the other hand, uses ultrasound to reach deeper layers (SMAS fascia), which is more effective for lifting but tends to be more painful.
Expected effects of Thermagen
The main benefits of undergoing Thermagen include the following
- Skin tightening and lifting
Stimulates collagen in the dermal layer and restores natural firmness. Particularly effective for improving sagging of the face line and cheeks. - Prevention and improvement of sagging
Skin elasticity, which is lost with aging, can be restored and sagging is less likely to progress. - Pore tightening
Increased collagen improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of pores. - Improvement of fine lines and wrinkles
Moisture retention is improved and fine wrinkles caused by drying are reduced.
Another characteristic of Thermagen is its good balance between "immediate" and "sustained" effects. In addition to the tightening effect that can be felt immediately after the procedure, collagen is generated over approximately 2 to 3 months, gradually increasing firmness and elasticity.
As a result, the effect often lasts for 3 to 6 months after the procedure, and regular treatment can provide long-term prevention of sagging.
Who is Thermagen suitable for?
Thermagen is the best treatment for "those who want a natural lift with less pain. It is especially suited for those who want to tighten facial lines and who are concerned about sagging but want to avoid the intense pain of HIFU (HyF).
It is also suitable for those who do not want to interfere with their work or daily life because of the short downtime after the procedure. In addition, since it is expected to promote collagen production, it is also recommended for those who want to keep their skin firm over the long term.
Thermagen not only provides an immediate tightening effect after a single treatment, but also allows the skin to maintain its natural, youthful appearance as collagen increases over time.
Is it true that Thermagen causes face rubs? What is the truth?
Thermagen is an excellent skin tightening and lifting procedure, but some people have expressed concern that it may cause facial swelling. However, some people are concerned that it may make their face look hollow. This is a very important question when considering cosmetic procedures, as it is a question of whether or not cheeks can be shaved off in order to improve sagging skin.
This section will explain in detail what the actual phenomenon of a scowl is, what causes it, and whether it is really related to the Thermagen procedure.
Definition of "face rub."
A "hollow face" is a condition in which the volume of the cheeks and temples is reduced, giving the impression of emaciation. Plump cheeks look as if they have been shaved off, and shadows appear at the temples and under the eyes, giving a strong impression of aging.
In fact, the main cause is the loss of facial fat, which makes the skin thinner and the skeleton more visible. This can be caused not only by aging, but also by rapid weight loss or the effects of cosmetic procedures.
Causes of cheek lumps due to aging or treatment
There are many factors involved in the phenomenon of "facial hump". The two major ones are natural changes due to aging and the effects of procedures and lifestyle.
1. decrease in fat and collagen due to aging
As we age, collagen and elastin, which support skin elasticity, decrease. In addition, subcutaneous fat in the face decreases, making the skeletal structure more prominent. In particular, the loss of fat in the cheeks can result in hollowed cheeks and an aged appearance.
An additional cause is that aging changes the placement of fat in the face. When we are young, there is volume in the high cheeks, giving the face a three-dimensional appearance. However, as we age, the fat droops and collects on the face line, causing the upper cheeks to become hollow.
2. effects of rapid weight loss
When weight is lost rapidly through dieting or other means, facial fat is also reduced all at once. In particular, the less fat a person has to begin with, the more easily the cheek lumps become noticeable. Even when losing weight in a healthy manner, facial volume tends to change, so extreme weight loss should be avoided.
3. effects of cosmetic medical procedures
Procedures such as HIFU and Thermacool approach the deeper layers of the skin to tighten sagging skin, but they can also affect fat cells. Therefore, if a person with extremely little subcutaneous fat undergoes these procedures, even necessary fat may be reduced, resulting in a "lumpy" appearance.
However, Thermagen is a procedure that uses RF (radiofrequency) and does not destroy fat cells, so the risk of facial lumpiness is considered lower than with other procedures.
Association between Thermagen treatment and the phenomenon of "rubbing" and countermeasures
As to the question, "Will I get a scowl if I get Thermagen?" In conclusion, it is unlikely that Thermagen by itself will cause a scowl.
The reason for this is that Thermagen works by "tightening the skin and promoting collagen production. While Thermacool and HIFU work on the fat layer and SMAS fascia layer, Thermagen approaches a relatively shallow layer (dermis layer). Therefore, there is little risk of fat cell reduction, but rather an increase in collagen, which is expected to result in firmer skin.
Nevertheless, in some cases, the following conditions can cause a person to feel that his or her face looks "lumpy" after a Thermagen treatment.
- People who have always had little fat and who tend to have lumpy cheeks.
- Who had received HIFU or Thermacool frequently in the past
- A combination of extreme dieting and weight loss
- When skin elasticity is reduced and the tightening effect of the procedure gives the appearance of fat loss
To minimize the risk of chafing when undergoing Thermagen, the following points should be kept in mind.
- Consult fully with the physician during the counseling session.
It is important to have a physician examine one's own facial volume and skin condition to determine the appropriate treatment setting. - If you have less fat, have the output adjusted.
It is important to consult with the physician to select the appropriate setting, as a treatment with a higher output than necessary may produce too strong a tightening effect, resulting in the appearance of a "lumpy" appearance. - Thorough skin care after treatment.
To help collagen production, moisturizing care and skin care containing vitamin C will help maintain skin elasticity.
Thermagen Side Effects and Safety
Thermagen is a cosmetic medical procedure that tightens and lifts the skin.
In the previous explanations, we have told you that Thermagen works on the dermal layer to stimulate collagen production and restore natural firmness and elasticity. However, it is a fact that there are no small amount of risks involved in any treatment.
Will there be redness after the procedure? Will there be swelling or pain that lasts?" For those who have such concerns, here is a detailed explanation of the side effects of Thermagen, how to deal with them, and key points for a safe procedure.
Common side effects (redness, swelling, pain)
After a Thermagen procedure, the biggest concern for many people is probably the redness and swelling. This is unavoidable due to the nature of the procedure, but in most cases it is mild and will settle down within a few hours to a day.
Thermagen uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to apply heat deep into the skin. This heat stimulates the dermis layer and collagen production, but the process temporarily increases blood flow and may cause a mild inflammatory reaction.
In many cases, the skin becomes slightly red immediately after the procedure and many people experience a slight burning sensation. However, this is a natural physiological reaction that will subside with time.
Thermagen is a relatively painless procedure, but depending on the skin type and the area to be treated, the patient may feel a "tingling" or "warming" sensation. In particular, areas with thin skin (cheekbones, temples, and around the eyes) tend to feel slightly irritated, but in most cases, the pain is sufficient to allow the patient to undergo the procedure without anesthesia.
In some cases, you may also experience mild discomfort after the procedure rather than pain during the procedure. For example, the skin may feel a pulling sensation or mild pressure that lasts for several days, but this also resolves with time.
Rare side effects and how to deal with them
Although Thermagen is considered a safe procedure, the following side effects have been reported, although extremely rare.
1) Prolonged redness and swelling
Usually, redness and swelling after the procedure will settle down within a few hours to a day, but if they do not improve after a few days, there may be a high degree of inflammation from the procedure. If there is redness and swelling over a longer period of time, consider the following measures
- Cool lightly with a cool towel or coolant (but be careful not to apply it directly to the skin).
- Keep skin well moisturized and use non-irritating skin care.
- If redness persists, consult a physician and ask for a prescription for topical anti-inflammatory medication.
(2) Pigmentation
In rare cases, prolonged inflammation after the procedure may cause hyperpigmentation. This is due to the excessive production of melanin by the skin's defense reaction. Insufficient UV protection, in particular, can lead to hyperpigmentation, so care should be taken. Below are some points to consider.
- Always use sunscreen (SPF50+) after treatment
- Incorporate skin care containing whitening ingredients (vitamin C, tranexamic acid, etc.)
- If prolonged, seek appropriate treatment at a dermatologist.
(iii) Burns and blisters
There have been reports of very rare cases of burns and blistering when extremely high power is used. However, this is more likely to occur when inexperienced practitioners do not adjust the power appropriately, so it is important to choose the right clinic. Below are some points to be considered.
- If you notice anything unusual immediately after the procedure, contact the clinic.
- Do not force the blister and avoid irritation.
- If symptoms are severe, seek appropriate treatment at a dermatologist
Points to consider when considering Thermagen treatment
Thermagen is a cosmetic medical procedure that tightens and lifts the skin, but in order to maximize its effects and ensure safety, it is essential to select the appropriate clinic and take care before and after the procedure.
In the preceding section, we discussed the side effects and risks of Thermagen. While it is possible to minimize these risks by undergoing the appropriate procedure, it is also important to prepare and take precautions on the part of the recipient of the procedure.
Before undergoing a procedure, it is always recommended to have a consultation with a physician. It is important to have a thorough consultation here to resolve any questions or concerns you may have.
Make sure it is appropriate for your skin condition.
Although Thermagen is a procedure that can be applied to a relatively wide range of skin types, there may be other procedures that are more effective for some people. For example, in some cases, HIFU or thread lift may be more suitable if sagging is severe, so consult with your doctor to choose the most appropriate procedure.
Receive a detailed explanation of the risks of the procedure.
As mentioned in the previous surgery, Thermagen has been found to have minor side effects such as redness and swelling. It is important to understand the risks before undergoing the procedure.
Also, check in advance what kind of support you will receive in the event of skin problems.
Consult with us about the frequency of treatment and output settings that are right for you.
Although the effects of Thermagen can often be felt after a single treatment, regular treatments are recommended for lasting results.
Generally, one treatment every two to three months is considered optimal, but in some cases, one treatment is sufficient for some people. Be sure to discuss the frequency and output settings of the treatment with your doctor.
summary
Thermagen is a cosmetic medical procedure that uses radiofrequency waves to tighten and lift the skin. On the other hand, the phenomenon of a "scrunched-up face" that some people are concerned about must be considered in combination with the effects of aging and fat loss.
With the right treatment, effective lifting can be achieved with minimal risk. The key is to choose a clinic that you trust and to have a procedure that is appropriate for your skin type and goals. We hope that the information here will help you better understand the benefits and risks of Thermagen so that you can make the best choice. When considering the procedure, please take advantage of the consultation and proceed in a way that makes sense to you.
At Aladdin Aesthetic Clinic, based on our many years of experience in cosmetic medicine and cosmetic dermatology and the knowledge of our doctoral degree, we provide counseling that aims to be "only one", offering the best treatment for each person we meet. We offer only the necessary treatments without any unnecessary information or suggestions.
Feel free to use our official LINE account for 24-hour counseling and reservations. Please feel free to contact us for free counseling for the first time or if you have any concerns.