Non-Surgical Facelift Erases Some Wrinkles, Sagging

N E W   Y O R K, Nov. 7 -- Non-surgical face-lifts have gained popularity over the last few years.Thermage, one of the latest procedures to be approved by the FDA, turns back time according to some patients who have undergone the procedure in an effort to achieve a more youthful look.

Good Morning America examined the relatively new procedure as part of the Healthy Woman series "Fountain of Truth."

The procedure involves no cutting, no anesthesia and no extra time for healing, but only a handful of doctors in New York currently perform the procedure, which was approved by the FDA in May.

The device uses radio frequency energy to tighten and lift the skin. It is performed using an advanced radio frequency device called "ThermaCool TC."

The device uses the heat and energy of radio waves, which pass through the skin and build collagen. In the process, some sagging is lifted and some wrinkles are removed.

The full benefits take three to six months to appear. However, unlike surgery, it's not so obvious that you've had work done.

There is some pain involved during the actual procedure, so patients are treated with a numbing cream on the skin prior to treatment.

New York City cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr. Michelle Copeland, author of Change Your Looks, Change Your Life, says the procedure seems to produce the best results on candidates with fair skin and some wrinkles and sagging. Meanwhile, people with a lot of sagging won't see results as extreme.