Thermage FLX^™

Page Updated: October 7, 2025

Advanced Non-Surgical Skin Tightening

Last Updated: September 22, 2025 | Medically Reviewed by Board-Certified Dermatologists

Thermage FLX represents the latest advancement in non-surgical skin tightening technology, offering enhanced patient comfort and 25% faster treatment times compared to previous generations. At Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center in Houston, our board-certified dermatologists utilize this FDA-cleared radiofrequency procedure to stimulate deep collagen remodeling, resulting in tighter, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin without surgery or downtime.

This revolutionary treatment harnesses the power of monopolar radiofrequency energy to target the deeper layers of skin, triggering the body’s natural wound healing response and stimulating new collagen formation while simultaneously contracting existing collagen fibers.

• What is Thermage FLX?
• How Thermage FLX Works: The Science Behind the Results
• Treatment Areas and Applications
• Benefits of Thermage FLX Treatment
• The Thermage FLX Procedure Experience
• Results Timeline and Recovery
• Safety Information and Potential Risks
• Ideal Candidates for Thermage FLX
• Combining Thermage FLX with Other Treatments
• Thermage FLX vs. Other Skin Tightening Treatments
• Cost and Financing Information
• Our Expert Team
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is an advanced, non-invasive radiofrequency treatment that delivers controlled thermal energy to the deeper layers of skin, stimulating natural collagen production and tightening existing collagen fibers. Unlike traditional radiofrequency systems, the FLX technology incorporates several breakthrough innovations that enhance both treatment efficacy and patient experience.

The revolutionary AccuREP technology ensures consistent energy delivery throughout the treatment, while the new vibrating handpiece significantly improves patient comfort during the procedure. According to research published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, monopolar radiofrequency treatments like Thermage demonstrate measurable skin tightening effects that continue to improve for up to six months post-treatment.¹

Key Thermage FLX Innovations

• Enhanced Comfort System: Vibrating handpiece reduces discomfort during treatment
• AccuREP Technology: Ensures consistent radiofrequency energy delivery
• 25% Faster Treatment: Reduced session times without compromising results
• Single Handpiece Design: Allows seamless treatment from face to body
• Real-Time Temperature Monitoring: Optimizes heating for maximum collagen stimulation

How Thermage FLX Works: The Science Behind the Results

The science behind Thermage FLX lies in its ability to deliver precise monopolar radiofrequency energy to the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue layers. This controlled heating process triggers the body’s natural wound healing response, stimulating new collagen formation while simultaneously contracting existing collagen fibers.

The Three-Phase Process

1. Immediate Tightening: Existing collagen fibers contract upon heating, providing instant skin tightening effects
2. Collagen Remodeling: Over 2-6 months, the body produces new, stronger collagen in response to the controlled thermal injury
3. Long-Term Results: The newly formed collagen matrix provides sustained skin tightening and improvement for up to two years

What makes Thermage FLX particularly effective is its ability to reach the deeper skin layers where significant collagen remodeling can occur. The monopolar radiofrequency energy penetrates much deeper than other technologies, allowing for more dramatic and longer-lasting results.

Research published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal demonstrates that monopolar radiofrequency treatments produce measurable improvements in skin elasticity and firmness that continue to develop over several months following treatment.

²

• Wrinkle reduction: Improvement in facial wrinkles and fine lines
• Jawline definition: Enhanced jawline contour and jowl reduction
• Neck tightening: Firming of loose skin around the neck and décolletage
• Eye area improvement: Smoothing of crow’s feet and periorbital wrinkles
• Skin texture enhancement: Overall improvement in skin firmness and quality
• Lifting effect: Natural elevation of sagging cheeks and brows

• Abdominal tightening: Firming of loose abdominal skin
• Cellulite reduction: Improvement in cellulite appearance on thighs and buttocks
• Body contouring: Enhanced definition of love handles and flanks
• Arm improvement: Reduction in arm skin laxity
• Skin smoothness: Overall enhancement in treated area texture

Results Timeline and Recovery

One of the most appealing aspects of Thermage FLX is the minimal recovery period required. Most patients can return to their normal activities immediately following treatment.

Immediate Post-Treatment

• Mild effects: Slight redness and swelling may occur, typically resolving within 24-48 hours
• Minimal restrictions: No activity limitations or downtime required
• Immediate return: Patients can resume normal activities immediately
• Makeup application: Cosmetics can be applied immediately if desired

Results Development Timeline

• Immediate: Some tightening effects visible immediately post-treatment
• 2-4 weeks: Initial collagen remodeling begins, with gradual improvement in skin texture
• 2-3 months: Significant tightening and smoothing effects become apparent
• 4-6 months: Peak results achieved as new collagen formation reaches maximum levels
• Up to 2 years: Results continue to be maintained through ongoing collagen remodeling

Patients typically see continued improvement in skin tightening for up to six months following Thermage treatment, with results lasting an average of 18-24 months.

Safety Information and Potential Risks

Thermage FLX has an excellent safety profile with over 20 years of clinical use worldwide. Most side effects are mild and temporary.

Common Side Effects

• Temporary redness: Lasting 2-24 hours
• Mild swelling: Resolving within 24-48 hours
• Skin sensitivity: Temporary increased sensitivity to touch
• Texture changes: Slight skin texture variations that resolve within days

Rare Complications

• Pigmentation changes: Temporary alterations in skin color
• Mild scarring: Extremely rare with proper technique
• Temporary numbness: Brief numbness in treated areas
• Asymmetric results: May require touch-up treatment

Contraindications

Thermage FLX may not be suitable for patients with:

• Active skin infections in treatment areas
• Pregnancy or nursing
• Certain autoimmune conditions
• Unrealistic expectations about results
• History of keloid scarring

Combining Thermage FLX with Other Treatments

Thermage FLX can be effectively combined with other aesthetic treatments to achieve comprehensive facial and body rejuvenation.

Complementary Treatment Options

Thermage FLX + Injectable Fillers:

• Thermage: Provides skin tightening and lifting
• Fillers: Restore volume loss and enhance facial contours
• Combined benefit: Comprehensive facial rejuvenation

Thermage FLX + BOTOX^®:

• Thermage: Improves skin texture and tightening
• BOTOX: Addresses dynamic wrinkles and prevents new lines
• Synergy: Complete anti-aging approach

Thermage FLX + Laser Treatments:

• Thermage: Targets deep tissue for tightening
• Lasers: Address surface concerns like pigmentation and texture
• Results: Enhanced overall skin quality

Thermage FLX + Body Contouring:

• Thermage: Tightens skin after fat reduction
• CoolSculpting: Reduces fat deposits
• Outcome: Improved body contours with tighter skin

Treatment Sequencing

The timing of combination treatments is crucial for optimal results. Our dermatologists develop comprehensive treatment timelines that maximize the benefits of each procedure while ensuring patient safety and comfort.

Thermage FLX vs. Other Skin Tightening Treatments

Unique Advantages of Thermage FLX

Deeper Penetration:

• Monopolar radiofrequency penetrates deeper than other RF devices
• Reaches subcutaneous tissue for more significant results
• Single treatment provides comprehensive improvement

Versatility:

• Single handpiece treats both face and body areas
• FDA-cleared for multiple treatment zones
• Suitable for all skin types and colors

Proven Results:

• Over 20 years of clinical data supporting safety and efficacy
• Long-lasting results with single treatment session
• Minimal downtime compared to surgical alternatives

Comparison with Alternatives

1. Other RF Devices:

• Monopolar technology penetrates deeper than bipolar RF
• AccuREP technology ensures consistent energy delivery
• Enhanced comfort features reduce treatment discomfort

1. Surgical Options:

• No downtime or surgical risks
• Natural-looking results without “pulled” appearance
• Lower cost and minimal side effects

Our board-certified dermatologists bring extensive experience in radiofrequency treatments and aesthetic dermatology:

Paul M. Friedman, MD – Former President of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery (2022-2023), Leon Goldman Memorial Award recipient, with over 20 years of experience in dermatologic laser surgery and radiofrequency treatments

Heather Richmond, MD – Board-certified dermatologist with over 10 years of experience specializing in cosmetic dermatology, anti-aging treatments, and energy-based devices

Emily L. Guo, MD – Fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist with extensive training in energy-based devices, radiofrequency treatments, and aesthetic procedures

Megan Couvillion, MD – Clinical investigator in 50+ trials involving energy-based devices, recognized Top Doctor with expertise in advanced aesthetic treatments and radiofrequency technology

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Thermage FLX results last?

Clinical studies demonstrate that Thermage FLX results typically last 18-24 months, with some patients experiencing benefits for up to two years. The longevity depends on individual factors including age, skin condition, lifestyle, and sun exposure.

Is Thermage FLX painful?

The enhanced comfort features of Thermage FLX, including the vibrating handpiece and improved cooling system, significantly reduce discomfort compared to previous generations. Most patients describe brief heating sensations followed by cooling. Topical anesthetic is applied for additional comfort.

How many Thermage FLX treatments do I need?

Most patients achieve their desired results with a single Thermage FLX treatment session every 12-24 months. The comprehensive nature of the treatment and its long-lasting effects typically eliminate the need for multiple sessions.

What areas can be treated with Thermage FLX?

Thermage FLX is FDA-cleared for treating the face, neck, eyes, and various body areas including abdomen, arms, thighs, and buttocks. The single handpiece design allows for seamless treatment of multiple areas.

Can I combine Thermage FLX with other treatments?

Yes, Thermage FLX combines excellently with various aesthetic treatments including dermal fillers, BOTOX, laser treatments, and body contouring procedures for comprehensive rejuvenation.

What makes Thermage FLX different from other skin tightening treatments?

Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency technology that penetrates deeper than other devices, can treat both face and body areas, and provides longer-lasting results with just one treatment session.

Schedule Your Thermage FLX Consultation

Contact our office to schedule your comprehensive Thermage FLX consultation. During your visit, we will:

• Assess your skin condition and aesthetic goals
• Explain the Thermage FLX treatment process in detail
• Develop a personalized treatment plan
• Provide detailed cost estimates and financing options
• Answer all your questions about the procedure

Medical Disclaimers

Medical Review: This content has been medically reviewed by board-certified dermatologists at Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. All procedures carry inherent risks that will be discussed during your consultation.

Last Updated: September 22, 2025Next Review Date: March 22, 2026

¹ Suh DH, Lee YJ, Kim DH, Lee SJ, Shin MK. Objective assessment of facial laxity changes after monopolar radiofrequency treatment by using moiré topography. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2021 Nov 17;23(7-8):170-175. doi: 10.1080/14764172.2022.2048671. Epub 2022 Mar 4. PMID: 35243964. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35243964/. Accessed September 122 2025.

² Jay A. Burns, Thermage: Monopolar Radiofrequency, Aesthetic Surgery Journal, Volume 25, Issue 6, November 2005, Pages 638–642, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asj.2005.09.017. Accessed September 22, 2025.