.png?width=25&height=25&name=facebook%20(1).png){kind=small}
Yes, Thermage can tighten postpartum skin
Have you embarked on the exciting journey of motherhood? With it comes many changes, including to your appearance. From the moment you conceive up until the time you give birth, your body goes through different stages to accommodate the growing baby inside of you. This includes experiencing morning sickness as your hormones fluctuate along with swollen breasts, feeling more tired and moody than usual, noticing fluid retention in your ankles, and witnessing your belly expand month by month.
After giving birth, your body will inevitably look different. You might notice enlarged breasts, stretch marks, loose skin, melasma, and varicose veins. But all of these things are natural and normal. Some moms might find loose skin, in particular, to be emotionally frustrating. Since the skin is made of collagen and elastin fibers, it expands with weight gain. But, once stretched, the skin may have trouble returning to its original shape. This is especially true if the muscles have weakened in the area, too.
What happens to your skin during pregnancy?
The skin is the largest organ in the body and comprises three layers — the hypodermis, dermis, and epidermis. All of these layers can stretch to accommodate a growing belly. But, the mechanical changes that occur rapidly within the skin often leave stretch marks. This happens when the body grows faster than the skin can keep up with. Hormones also play a role in how skin stretches. Estrogen and relaxin change the skin's elastic fibers, which contribute to the formation of stretch marks.
After giving birth, for some, the skin may revert close to its pre-pregnancy shape. Others may notice more significant sagging. This is because the collagen and elastin layers are stretched so significantly that they may not automatically return to their original elasticity. That's where non-invasive skin tightening treatments like Thermage can help.
The science behind Thermage
Thermage is a non-invasive radiofrequency skin tightening treatment that is safe and effective for all skin types. Thermage works from the inside out. It uses radiofrequency energy to heat the deeper, collagen-rich layers of the skin, causing collagen to contract and gradually reform.
A single Thermage treatment can take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated. First, your clinician will apply a temporary “grid” to your skin to ensure a thorough treatment that covers the entire area of concern. Then, they’ll begin the treatment, using the handpiece to deliver hundreds of radiofrequency pulses against your skin safely. The pulses only last a few seconds, and your clinician will be monitoring the intensity to maintain your comfort level throughout the treatment. The device also has an integrated cooling system that cools your skin’s surface for increased comfort.
The number of treatments you'll need is based on the condition of your skin and degree of skin elasticity, as well as your personal aesthetic goals. While you may see results right away, they tend to appear gradually in the two-to-six months following a Thermage treatment. Some patients choose to undergo maintenance treatments every few years.
Only choose a reputable Thermage provider
Interested in learning more about how Thermage can help you feel and look your best? Always choose a very trusted and experienced aesthetic dermatology provider, such as LaserAway, where you can get a free comprehensive consultation from a skilled treatment specialist.
References
- "7 Tips for Firming Loose Skin After Prenancy," Healthline, n.d.
- "How to Tighten Loose Skin After Pregnancy," Beautmed, December 4, 2020.
