.png)
Skin Tightening (Face and Body)
Thermage FLX delivers radiofrequency energy through the surface of the skin into the deeper dermal layers. The heat causes existing collagen fibers to contract immediately and triggers the body to produce new collagen over the following months. The treatment tip cools the surface of the skin at the same time, which protects the outer layer and keeps the treatment comfortable.
Because the energy works below the surface rather than removing skin, there is no wound to heal and no recovery period.
Who Thermage FLX Is For
Thermage FLX suits patients with mild to moderate skin laxity who want firmer, smoother skin without surgery or downtime. Common reasons patients choose it:
- Loose or crepey skin on the face, jawline, or neck
- Hooding or heaviness around the eyes
- Laxity on the abdomen, arms, or thighs, including after weight loss
- Wanting a single-session treatment rather than a series
It is not a substitute for surgical lifting when laxity is significant. Dr. Besnoff will tell you honestly at consultation whether Thermage is the right fit or whether another approach will serve you better.
What to Expect
Treatment takes 45 to 90 minutes depending on the area. A grid is marked on the skin so the provider can deliver energy evenly across the treatment zone. Each pulse produces a brief sensation of deep heat followed by cooling. Most patients describe it as very tolerable, and the FLX system includes vibration to further improve comfort.
You can drive yourself home and return to normal activities the same day, including makeup and exercise.
Aftercare
There are no restrictions after Thermage FLX. Mild redness or slight swelling can occur and usually settles within a few hours. Daily sunscreen is recommended, as it is with any collagen-stimulating treatment.
Results appear gradually as new collagen forms. Most patients notice the change between two and six months after treatment.
Session Length
45 to 90 minutes depending on area
Downtime
45 to 90 minutes depending on area
Session Count
Typically one
Results Timeline
Gradual over two to six months
Results Duration
A year or longer
Device or Brand
Thermage FLX (Solta Medical)
FDA Status
FDA cleared for the non-invasive treatment of wrinkles and rhytids
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Thermage FLX sessions do I need?
Most patients need only one session. Your provider may recommend a second treatment for areas with more significant laxity.
Does Thermage FLX hurt?
Most patients tolerate it well. Each pulse feels like a brief wave of deep heat followed by cooling. The FLX system adds vibration, which reduces the sensation further compared with older Thermage devices.
How long do Thermage FLX results last?
Results typically last a year or longer. Because the treatment works by stimulating your own collagen, the outcome depends on your skin and your natural aging process.
What is the difference between Thermage FLX and ThermiTight?
Both use radiofrequency energy to tighten skin. Thermage FLX works through the surface of the skin with no incisions and no downtime. ThermiTight delivers energy under the skin through a small probe and is a better fit for patients wanting a stronger result in a specific area.
Is there any downtime with Thermage FLX?
No. You can return to normal activities immediately, including makeup and exercise.
Add a Title
Add a Title
Add a Title
Dr. Todd A. Besnoff, MD
Medical Director
Top Doctor in Tampa Bay
Dr. Besnoff has been referred to as one of the Top Doctors in Tampa Bay (as seen in the recent Tampa Bay Magazine Top Doctors issue) and Top 100 Aesthetic Provider in America! Dr. Besnoff has assisted and/or performed hundreds of thousands of surgical procedures since 1995 in specialties such as plastic surgery, gynecology, tissue donation and life-saving emergency treatments. In fact, Ultimate Image has been known to have performed more BOTOX® / Dysport® treatments in Tampa Bay than any other provider.