Thermage Body is a non-surgical radiofrequency treatment that heats the deep, collagen-rich layers of the skin while cooling the surface, so existing collagen contracts and new collagen forms over the following months. It is used for mild to moderate laxity on the abdomen, arms, thighs and knees, usually in one session, and a physician assessment decides suitability.
Many people look for a way to restore firmness to their skin without the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. As we age, or after significant life events like pregnancy or weight loss, our skin naturally loses its elasticity. This often shows up as "crepey" skin on the abdomen, sagging on the arms, or laxity around the knees.
At Skin Art MD in Burnaby, we focus on non-invasive approaches, and Thermage FLX is a frequently requested option for body skin tightening. Learn more about Thermage Body
What is Thermage Body?
Thermage is a non-invasive radiofrequency (RF) therapy that can help smooth, tighten, and contour skin for an overall younger-looking appearance.
Unlike surgical procedures that involve incisions and significant downtime, Thermage works from the inside out.
It uses proprietary radiofrequency technology to heat the deep, collagen-rich layers of your skin.
This deep heating does two things: it causes existing collagen fibers to contract (providing an immediate tightening effect) and stimulates the body's natural renewal process to create new collagen over the following months.
Because it targets the dermis while keeping the surface of the skin cool and protected, downtime is minimal: most people return to normal activities the same day, with temporary flushing possible.
Who oversees Thermage Body at Skin Art MD?
Thermage Body at Skin Art MD is overseen by Dr. Sharon Fong, a licensed physician, and every patient starts with a medical evaluation, with care available in English or Mandarin.
Physician oversight matters with energy-based devices. At Skin Art MD, every patient journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Treatments are overseen by Dr. Sharon Fong, a licensed physician focused on medical aesthetics and anti-aging. Dr. Fong ensures that each treatment plan is medically sound and tailored to the anatomy of the patient. In a field where technology is only as good as the hands operating it, having a physician-led team keeps your safety and aesthetic goals at the centre. Furthermore, we understand the diverse community of the Greater Vancouver area. Our staff is fully bilingual, offering consultations and care in both English and Mandarin (Chinese) to ensure clear communication and comfort for all our patients.
How does radiofrequency tighten skin?
Radiofrequency heats the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue evenly, which contracts existing collagen and triggers remodeling of the skin's structural foundations over the following months.
Collagen is the protein responsible for keeping our skin tight and youthful. As we reach our mid-20s, collagen production begins to slow down, and the existing fibers begin to stretch and lose their "snap." This is the process Thermage is designed to address. Thermage FLX uses "Comfort Pulse Technology," which incorporates vibrations and cooling bursts to make the treatment significantly more comfortable than older generations of RF devices. The energy delivered reaches the deep subcutaneous tissue, where it creates a uniform heating effect. This controlled thermal energy is what triggers the remodeling of the skin’s structural foundations.
Which body areas can Thermage treat?
Thermage is versatile and can be used on various parts of the body where skin laxity is a concern. Commonly treated areas include:
- Abdomen: Commonly used for tightening loose skin after pregnancy ("mummy tummy") or weight loss.
- Thighs: Helps smooth the appearance of cellulite and tighten skin above the knees.
- Arms: Targets "bat wings" or sagging skin on the upper arms.
- Buttocks: Provides a subtle lift and smoother skin texture.
- Hands: Can give thinning skin on the back of the hands a more youthful look.
What happens during a Thermage Body appointment?
A Thermage Body appointment involves an assessment and a marking grid, then 60–90 minutes of alternating cooling and brief deep heat, followed by temporary flushing that usually fades within hours.
1. Consultation and Marking
First, you will meet with our clinical team to discuss your goals. We will assess your skin quality and whether the treatment suits you. Once cleared for treatment, we apply a temporary "grid" to the treatment area. This grid acts as a map, helping Dr. Fong’s team deliver the RF energy precisely and evenly.
2. The Treatment Process
As the Thermage tip touches your skin, you will feel a brief cooling sensation, followed by a deep but brief heating sensation, and then another cooling spray. The integrated vibration also helps distract the nerve endings, making the process very tolerable. Most body treatments take between 60 to 90 minutes depending on the size of the area.
3. Post-Treatment
Immediately following the procedure, your skin may look slightly flushed, similar to a mild sunburn, but this usually fades within a few hours. Most people return to their daily activities the same day. There are no special aftercare requirements other than standard sun protection and a good moisturizing routine.
How does Thermage compare with Ultherapy and a surgical body lift?
Thermage uses radiofrequency to smooth and tighten mild to moderate laxity with minimal downtime, Ultherapy uses focused ultrasound for deeper lifting, and a surgical body lift removes excess skin with weeks of recovery.
| Feature | Thermage Body | Ultherapy | Surgical Body Lift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radiofrequency (RF) | Focused Ultrasound | Surgery/Incision |
| Primary Goal | Skin Smoothing & Tightening | Deep Tissue Lifting | Excess Skin Removal |
| Downtime | Minimal | Minimal | 4-6 Weeks |
| Comfort | Mild Discomfort | Moderate Discomfort | High (Requires Anesthesia) |
| Typical Use | Mild to Moderate Laxity | Deep Structural Sagging | Severe Skin Laxity |
| Results Timing | 2-6 Months | 3-6 Months | Immediate (post-healing) |
When Will You See Results?
Some people notice an immediate "glow" or slight tightening due to collagen contraction, but most of the change from Thermage Body develops over time. Improvement typically appears between two and six months after a single treatment session. The results can last for a year or more, depending on your skin condition and the natural aging process. Because the change is gradual, it tends to look natural rather than "done". Individual results vary.
What affects the cost of Thermage Body?
The cost depends on the size of the treatment area and the number of pulses required. Thermage is often done as a single session, unlike some RF treatments that use a series of 6-8 appointments. Prices are not published; a quote is given at consultation. Book a Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What areas can be treated with thermage flx?
Thermage FLX is physician-administered for the face, eyes, and body. Common body areas include the abdomen, back of the arms, fronts of the thighs, and the area just above the knees. It is also used to smooth the appearance of the buttocks and hands.
2. Who is Thermage FLX typically used for?
Thermage FLX is typically used for mild to moderate skin laxity in people who want to improve skin texture and firmness without the downtime of a surgical lift. During your assessment at Skin Art MD, the physician team determines whether your skin has enough elasticity to respond to the RF energy.
3. What is thermage flx?
Thermage FLX is the fifth generation of Thermage technology. According to the manufacturer, its larger treatment tip reduces treatment time by up to 25%, and its AccuREP™ technology auto-tunes each pulse for consistent energy delivery and comfort.
4. Who is Thermage not suitable for?
Thermage is not a weight-loss procedure or a replacement for a tummy tuck where there is significant excess skin. It is generally considered for people in good general health with realistic expectations, and for "crepey" or loose skin it is a well-established option.
5. How is Thermage Body different from topical skincare?
Topical creams work on the skin surface, while Thermage Body is a medical-grade device that delivers energy to the deeper collagen layers. Our physician-led team in Burnaby can explain how it fits with your goals.
6. Why do some younger people consider Thermage?
In addition to those with age-related laxity, some younger patients choose Thermage as a preventative measure to "bank" collagen. Stimulating collagen production early is intended to help maintain skin thickness.
7. When should i have my first treatment?
There is no "perfect" age, but most patients start considering Thermage in their 30s, 40s, or 50s. When skin on the body begins to look less firm or shows fine wrinkling with movement, many people start to ask about it; an assessment determines whether treatment is appropriate.
8. How often is Thermage repeated, and what affects the cost?
Thermage is usually a single session, often repeated every 12-18 months, and the cost depends on the area treated and the number of pulses. A single session may cost more than one session of a lower-intensity laser. Prices are not published; the cost is discussed at consultation.
How do I start Thermage Body in Burnaby?
The first step is a professional assessment to see whether this technology fits your body's needs. Book a consultation with our team at Skin Art MD in the Metrotown area of Burnaby — available in English and Chinese.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any treatment. Individual results may vary.
