Frequently Asked Questions
Top issues
1. THE TECHNOLOGY
WHAT IS AMFLI TECHNOLOGY?
ThermaClinic and ThermaLipo’s state of the art AMFLI technology incorporates novel, patented designs that make it unique with respect to all other radiofrequency (RF) systems currently on the market. Both systems, ThermaLipo and ThermaClinic, use Automatic Multi- Frequency and
Low Impedance (AMFLI) technology.
It delivers different RF frequencies capable of reaching different tissue depths with higher energy. Consequently, quickly raising the temperature of the hypodermis and dermis without pain and with no need for epidermal cooling.
High frequencies penetrate tissue more superficially, while low frequencies penetrate deeper. ThermaClinic™ frequencies from 0.9 to 5.4 MHz or ThermaLipo from 0.9 to 2.4 MHz are sufficiently high to avoid muscle stimulation, yet low enough to reach the optimal depths required to act on localised fat accumulation and induce fibroblasts to produce new collagen.
Bi-polar applicator prevents the dispersion of radiofrequency energy, keeping it concentrated on the treatment zone. The applicator generates high current without causing pain which is another AMFLI technology advantage. In a single treatment session the operator can simultaneously treat skin laxity, structure, pore size and fine lines, due to the unique capabilities of the device.
HOW DOES AMFLI TECHNOLOGY WORKS ON TISSUES?
Through the applicator bi-polar electrodes, ThermaLipo and ThermaClinic measures skin impedance and automatically adjusts for optimal RF frequency. Dominant frequencies of the AMFLI technology are from 0.9 MHz to 5.6 MHz.
When starting an application the electrodes detect high impedance of the targeted skin and the system emphasizes a lower frequency. This RF energy affects deeper tissue layers until hyperemia begins. Impedance then reduces, due to the increase of tissue temperature, and consequently the system emphasizes higher frequencies which heat the upper part of the dermis that houses nociceptors. When nociceptors detect the sensation of intense heat it is time to stop the application. We thus reach the optimal point on the hormetic curve (fig. 1).
Fig.I. The hormetic curve: low dose stimulation versus high dose inhibition response
ThermaClinic and ThermaLipo’s circuitry, with their very low output impedance enables the application of radiofrequency energy free of a continuous current component thus alleviating pain generated by ionic accumulation under the electrodes.
HOW RADIOFREQUENCY AFFECTS TISSUES?
The passage of electrical current through a biological system produces a release of heat that is called “Joule effect” . To produce Joule heating in the human body without danger of electric shock, high frequency fields should be used; these change polarity so quickly that they do not produce muscular contraction, fibrillation, or any other side-effect. By applying frequencies above 400 kHz, higher intensity currents may be used without risk of electrocution and we only need to ensure that heat burns do not occur.
WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN RF AND TISSUE AGEING?
Flaccidity, wrinkles and signs of ageing appear when the mechanism of metabolic regulation loses its capacity for equilibrium. Blockage of this mechanism causes a reduction in permeability of the cell membrane and consequently cellular ageing.
RF favours the activation of biopolymers and cell receptors that co-interact and consequently trigger internal cellular mechanisms responsible for permeability of the membrane.
Recovered membranes re-establish expulsion into the interstitial fluid of residues produced during cellular metabolic processes that are responsible for uptake of oxygen and nutrients.
Biopolymers and cellular receptors stimulated by RF also act on metabolism and cellular peptides; peptides that act as protectors in the event of radicals that appear during the production of cellular energy.
RF thus manages to redirect the cell back to its state of equilibrium that is the state of rejuvenation.
HOW THE RF ENERGY PENETRATES THE SKIN?
Penetration of Radiofrequency energy depends on the shape of the electrodes and the distance between them.
The penetration of radiofrequency is approximately half the distance between the electrodes and presents good control of dispersion and homeostasis. The theoretical penetration depth of radiofrequency occurs between 12 and 20 mm with the bipolar Thermalipo’s electrode.
With the bi-polar applicator, radiofrequency energy is distributed at tissue depths with very little dispersion. The effect is thus highly localized and controlled.
2. MECHANISM OF ACTION
HOW THE MECHANISM OF ACTION IS WITH AMFLI?
Tissue resistance to the passage of radiofrequency energy triggers an increase in tissue temperature. As a result, an increase in blood flow occurs. The net effect is an increase in oxygen contribution and in carbon dioxide and toxin uptake.
Effects on homeostasis
Local hyperthermia reduces the viscosity of organic liquids and colloids that facilitate ion exchange.
In tissue, the response to heat is vasodilation, opening up of capillaries, increased filtration, improved tissue tropism, increased reabsorption of excessive intercellular fluids and an increase in local circulation.
Action on LAX SKIN (flaccidity)
- Inflammatory response
- Fibroblast migration
- New collagen fibres and tissue contraction
NEO-COLLAGENESIS
Local hyperthermia reduces the viscosity of organic liquids and colloids that facilitate ion exchange.
In tissue, the response to heat is vasodilation, opening up of capillaries, increased filtration, improved tissue tropism, increased reabsorption of excessive intercellular fluids and an increase in local circulation.
Action on SUPERFICIAL WRINKLES
- INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE
- MIGRATION OF FIBROBLASTS
- DEPOSITS OF CONJUNCTIVE TISSUE
- NEOCOLLAGENESIS
REDUCTION OF WRINKLES
These newly formed fibres reduce the depth of superficial wrinkles as well as the size of pores and results in a lifting effect.
Action on SKIN QUALITY Improvement
- VASODILATATION AND HYPERAEMIA
- REDUCTION OF VISCOSITY AND DRAINAGE OF LIQUIDS
- RETRACTION OF EXISTING COLLAGEN
Local heating of the skin by means of ThermaClinic or ThermaLipo bipolar radiofrequency
application produces vasodilatation and hyperaemia of tissues leading to improved oxygenation and reduction in CO2 levels. In addition, ion exchange, metabolic reactions and homeostasis are improved.
Radiofrequency alters and reduces the viscosity of liquids thus improving the drainage and elimination of toxins. It therefore causes immediate retraction of the skin’s elastic fibres resulting in more luminous, moisturised and tighter skin for the short and longer-term effect.
This effect is not restricted to the treated area solely but also affects the surrounding tissue.
Action mechanism on Cellulite
- Thermal tightening of fibrous septae
- Vasodilatation, hyperemia and drainage
- Adipocytes compression
- Reduction of fat cell volumes
Action mechanism on localised fat
- Thermal tightening of fibrous septum
- Reduction of viscosity
- Adipocytes compression
- Drainage of liquid
- Reduction of fat cell volumes
- Release of triglycerides
VOLUME REDUCTION
FREE FAT (INSOLUBLE) AND GLYCEROL (SOLUBLE)ARE TRANSPORTED TO THE LIVER
3. TREATMENTS
HOW FREQUENT THE SESSIONS SHOULD BE?
One session every 4-7 days is recommended. This may vary according to medical criteria.
HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE NEEDED?
Usually 6-8 sessions are needed for face or neck treatment with the Thermaclinic and 8-12 sessions for body, legs and arms treatment with the ThermaLipo. Exact number of sessions may vary according to medical criteria.
WHAT THE DURATION OF SESSIONS IS?
- For face and neck treatment with ThermaClinic approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
- For body, legs and arms with ThermaLipo approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
Small areas, such as arms or abdomen are usually treated in 20-35 minutes. Larger areas, such as excess fat around the hips and buttocks (saddlebags) or inner thighs may take up to 60 minutes per session.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
- ERYTHEMA:
This is a desired effect. It indicates that the skin has reached the optimal temperature. Erythema is local; it is only observed in places where RF has been applied and is transient; it usually lasts for only a few minutes.
- BURNS:
This is the only possible adverse effect. It is not very frequent and generally occurs due to inappropriate application of the hand-piece; it occurs when applying RF with insufficient amounts of gel, when leaving the applicator stationary on the skin or when the gel has inappropriate conductive characteristics.
Burns are rare; If it does occur, it should be treated as any heat burn. Electrical burns will not occur because the applied RF is free of galvanic currents.
CAN WE COMBINE WITH OTHER THERAPEUTIC TECHNIQUES?
ThermaClinic™ treatments may be combined such as:
- Facial mesotherapy
- Chemical peeling
- Biostimulation with autologe plasma
- Botulinum toxin
- Electrophoroporation or iontophoresis
- Low frequency ultrasound
- Endermology
Others:
- Manual lymphatic drainage
- Injectables
- Wire implant
- Post surgery: blepharoplasty
- Post liposuction
- Post abdominal wall correction
WHAT RESULTS CAN WE EXPECT AND WHEN?
With ThermaClinic
Results usually can be observed from the fourth or sixth session onwards.
The earliest visible effect:
- Improved skin quality and increased cutaneous tension (4th sessions).
As of the fourth session:
- Reduction in fine lines, reduction in pore size and improved cutaneous firmness
With ThermaLipo
Results usually can be observed from the fifth to sixth session onwards.
The earliest visible effect:
- worsening of the skin firmness, due to calcification liberation in the top skin layer is possible. This indicates a positive effect and should be anticipated.
- Improvedskin quality, tone and texture and increased cutaneous tension (6th to 8th sessions).
As of the fifth to sixth session:
- a decrease in surface depressions and a smoother feeling to the touch
- Overall improvement in areas treated and a less evident cellulite aspect.
As of the eighth session
- Improvement in cellulite condition and in body silhouette
- circumference and volume reduction of the treated area and adjacent areas
- tightened and smoother skin surface of the treated area
Note that the recommended frequency of the sessions is every 4 to 7 days (This may vary according to medical criteria) and therefore to see results after 8 sessions would take 5 to 6 weeks only.
Combination with other therapeutic drainage techniques, such as vibratory platform or presso therapy, usually improves the results. It is recommended to apply these immediately after treatments with ThermaLipo but keep in mind that the tissue is very sensitive and delicate due to the rise in temperature.
When combined with Low frequency ultrasound or Endermology these treatments should take place before application of the ThermaLipo.
WHAT ARE POST-TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS?
Once the treatment session is over the patient may immediately return to normal daily activities but should avoid excessive sun exposure, including artificial tanning, for 24-48 hours. Patients should be advised to drink a minimum of 2 litres of clear water each day and to apply Aloe Vera or another moisturizing gel on the treated area to avoid dehydration of the skin.
IS IT SAFE?
Thousands of treatment sessions have been performed with Thermaclinic and Thermalipo without ever resulting in any negative long term health effects. Safety, very low learning curve and simplicity are among the main advantages of AMFLI technology.
HOW LONG THE EFFECT OF TREATMENTS WILL LAST?
The application of radiofrequency results in the immediate contraction of the collagen structure, tighter skin and a clear reduction in wrinkles and loose skin. The tightening effect becomes gradually and progressively clearer starting one month after treatment and the results will remain over time depending on the natural ageing process of each patient. When treating cellulite, the fat cells (adipocytes) rid themselves of fat and, if an appropriate lifestyle is followed, they do not fill up again. One booster session may be carried out after six months if advised by your doctor.
WHEN CAN I GET TO MY NORMAL ROUTINE?
The application of radiofrequency results in the immediate contraction of the collagen structure, tighter skin and a clear reduction in wrinkles and loose skin. The tightening effect becomes gradually and progressively clearer starting one month after treatment and the results will remain over time depending on the natural ageing process of each patient. When treating cellulite, the fat cells (adipocytes) rid themselves of fat and, if an appropriate lifestyle is followed, they do not fill up again. One booster session may be carried out after six months if advised by your doctor.
WHAT WILL I FEEL WHILST BEING TREATED?
The application of radiofrequency results in the immediate contraction of the collagen structure, tighter skin and a clear reduction in wrinkles and loose skin. The tightening effect becomes gradually and progressively clearer starting one month after treatment and the results will remain over time depending on the natural ageing process of each patient. When treating cellulite, the fat cells (adipocytes) rid themselves of fat and, if an appropriate lifestyle is followed, they do not fill up again. One booster session may be carried out after six months if advised by your doctor.
4. EQUIPMENT
CAN THE THERMALIPO BE USED FOR FACE TREATMENTS?
The ThermaLipo cannot be used for the face or neck treatment. ThermaLipo is for the body, legs and arms only.
CAN THE THERMACLINIC BE USED FOR BODY TREATMENT?
The ThermaClinic cannot be used for body treatments; ThermaClinic is for face, neck and rejuvenation.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BOTH MACHINES?
Both machines are powered by the same AMFLI technology, however ThermaLipo’s power is twice that of ThermaClinic. (power is fixed for all settings and treatments).
ThermaLipo is used in body treatments where the volumes of skin and cellulite are greater than on the face; therefore the need for high power is important.
ThermaLipo has a larger hand-piece and is aimed at big surfaces and volume of the body. It has 3 programs only while the ThermaClinic has 6 programs.
ThermaClinic power is significantly lower than that of ThermaLipo (but still more powerful than other machines in the market). Also due to the particular characteristics of the face, safety measures should be taken into account.
WHY CAN’T BOTH MACHINES BEEN INTEGRATED IN ONE SINGLE?
Both machines are powered by the same AMFLI technology, however ThermaLipo’s power is twice that of ThermaClinic. (power is fixed for all settings and treatments).
ThermaLipo is used in body treatments where the volumes of skin and cellulite are greater than on the face; therefore the need for high power is important.
ThermaLipo has a larger hand-piece and is aimed at big surfaces and volume of the body. It has 3 programs only while the ThermaClinic has 6 programs.
ThermaClinic power is significantly lower than that of ThermaLipo (but still more powerful than other machines in the market). Also due to the particular characteristics of the face, safety measures should be taken into account.
ARE THERE ANY DISPOSABLES?
There are no disposable or consumable elements with ThermaLipo™ or ThermaMedic™ so there is no “per case” cost apart from the initial investment. The only consumable is the gel.
Type of gel: Aquasonic clear
Hypoallergic water soluble medical ultrasound also used for IPL treatment.
The exact components are not given on the bottle but are easy to find. As long as there are no other ingredients mixed and as long as the gel is thick enough, any ultrasound gel can be used.
5. ADVANTAGES OVER COMPETITIVE PRODUCTS
WHAT MAKES THERMALIPO AND THERMACLINIC THE BEST SYSTEMS FOR NON-INVASIVE CELLULITE REDUCTION, SKIN TIGHTENING AND REJUVENATION?
The principle of Radiofrequency systems for aesthetics and cosmetic treatments is heating of the dermis in order to stimulate the production of new collagen that will remodel and tighten the tissues as well as reduce the content fat cells. To achieve satisfactory results that will last for a long period of time it is critical to achieve optimal higher temperatures inside the dermis. Clinical trials using miniature thermal sensors imbedded into the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer are presently being conducted to establish the correct correlation between the epidermis measured temperature and the optimal sub-dermal temperature required to reach the inflammatory threshold for tissue activation. (M. Trelles MD. PhD., C. van der Lugt MD)
Some RF systems cause unbearable pain and side effects such as burns and erythema, requiring anaesthesia and skin cooling. It seems they are reaching the required critical tissue temperatures, however patients can not tolerate the treatment.
On the other hand, if RF power is not enough, temperatures inside the dermis are too low and results are very limited. This is why most low cost RF systems require many treatments and even then results are not reproducible and do not last for a long time..
The need to target optimal dermal depths in order to affect localised fat accumulation and also induce fibroblasts to produce new collagen, requires the generation of both high frequencies which penetrate tissue more superficially as well as low frequencies which penetrate deeper.
With the unique AMFLI technology (Automatic Multi-Frequency and Low Impedance output) we are able to deliver high RF powers (200 Watts with the ThermaLipo™ and 100 W with the ThermaClinic™) without pain, burns or any other serious adverse. AMFLI generates different frequencies and is thus able to deliver higher energies to different tissue depths, based on actual measured tissue condition and independent on the therapist. Results are evident from the first few treatments and last for a long period of time.
What are the main advantages of AMFI technology over other RF systems on the market?
AMFLI’s main advantages over competitive RF products are:
- Pain Free
- Effective results on cellulite and fat reduction
- Induces collagen contraction with an evident result in skin tightening
- Results from first treatments
- No disposable or consumable elements
- No running costs. No maintenance required
- Cost effective system
What are the advantages of AMFLI over IPLs and Lasers
AMFLI’s main advantages over IPLs, lasers or RF systems combined with IPL are:
- Skin colour does not affect RF treatments so AMFLI is safe and effective on all skin types. IPL or laser energy is strongly absorbed by melanin and is therefore risky or completely unsuitable on darker skin types.
- Patients undergoing RF treatments are not affected by hot sunny weather and clinics can continue treatments throughout the summer even in hot countries (however some protection from direct sun exposure is advised
