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Thermage · Pleasanton & Sunnyvale
Thermage CPT in Pleasanton
In short
Thermage tightens in one session. Monopolar radiofrequency heats collagen in the deeper layers of the skin while the surface is cooled, and firmness develops over the months that follow.
It is the option for someone who would rather do this once. Comfort Pulse Technology adds vibration alongside the cooling, and there is nothing to recover from afterwards.
Where Thermage fits
Thermage heats a volume of tissue rather than a plane or a point, which is why it suits general firmness across a region rather than a specific lift. The eye area is one it does particularly well, because the tip is designed for skin that thin.
One session, then wait. Collagen remodels over two to six months, so the result at three months is the one to judge it by.
Thermage and XERF
Both are monopolar radiofrequency and both aim at the same thing. Thermage runs at a single frequency and is delivered by stamping. XERF runs at two frequencies and is delivered by sliding as well as stamping, which distributes heat differently through the tissue.
Having both means the choice is about your skin and the area rather than about what is in the room.
When we recommend it
- Someone who wants a single appointment rather than a series
- The eye area, where the skin is too thin for most tightening
- General firmness across the lower face and jawline
- Skin that still has reasonable thickness and elasticity
When we would choose something else
Established sagging is a surgical concern, and no energy device substitutes for that.
If the goal is a focused lift rather than overall firmness, Ultherapy reaches deeper at discrete points and does that job better.
We would avoid treating over active skin infection, during pregnancy, or near implanted electronic devices.
Common questions
How many Thermage sessions do I need?
Usually one. That single-session design is the main practical difference between Thermage and treatments given as a series.
When will I see Thermage results?
Some tightening is apparent early, but collagen remodels over two to six months. Three months out is a fair point to judge it.
Does Thermage hurt?
Each pulse is felt as a brief heat. Comfort Pulse Technology cools the surface and adds vibration during delivery, which most people find makes it manageable.
Medically reviewed by Seth Eberlin, MD, Medical Director at Essential Bella. Last reviewed 20 September 2026. General information, not a substitute for an in-person assessment.