Radiofrequency (RF) energy is the newest weapon in the fight against aging, fat and sagging skin. Here, experienced Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Charles S. Lee, MD discusses the ways RF treatments build volume, lift skin, shrink fat cells, restore smoothness, and sculpt features with minimally-invasive solutions.
RF energy works by disrupting subdermal layers with pulses of invisible radio waves that are generated by a small, often handheld device. The treatments are so discomfort-free that some patients compare the experience to an afternoon of tanning at the beach. The main RF variations on the market today include:
FACEtite, a wonderful alternative to major surgical procedures such as facelift, or surface treatments like laser skin resurfacing and chemical peels. The treatment, performed with local anesthesia, involves the insertion of a thin probe under the skin. Together with an electrode on the skin’s surface, the RF energy raises the temperature of fat cells and liquefies them. The convenient procedure also tightens skin, smooths fine lines and stimulates the production of collagen.
AccuTite, which promotes remodeling and resurfacing of facial skin, using the smallest RF device on the market. As a result, it is ideal for tightening skin in harder-to-reach areas, delivering precision heating to small and delicate facial areas, especially the chin, brows, eyelids and skin surrounding the lips.
Morpheus8, which combines the benefits of RF energy with microneedling. Tiny needles deliver RF-generated heat deep below the skin’s surface, disrupting fat cells and stimulating collagen.
The “micro injuries” from hundreds of tiny pinpricks trigger a natural healing response that revitalizes your skin. The technique is highly effective for deep facial lines, sun damage, pigmentation, acne scarring, and enlarged pores. Patients commonly report a dramatic improvement in skin tone and texture.
Agnes RF, a similar RF/microneedling treatment. It is especially effective for under-eye bags, subdermal fat, fine lines, large pores and cystic acne. Its primary benefit is to improve the texture and tone of the skin, but it can also be used for moderate shrinkage of small pockets of fat, especially below the jawline.
PiXel8-RF, which combines RF and microneedling technology. It is highly effective for a range of surface and subdermal issues, including wrinkles, fine lines, oversize pores, “crepey” skin, fat pockets under the chin and along the jowls, loose neck skin, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun spots and stretch marks.
BodyTite, which uses streams of RF energy to target fat and loose skin in areas of the body, including the abdomen, breasts and thighs. It is more likely to be used in a radiofrequency-assisted liposuction procedure for a more dramatic reduction in fat pockets.
Vanquish Body Treatment, a completely noninvasive option. Unlike other RF treatments, there is no thin subdermal probe, just a circular device that is positioned about an inch above the surface of the skin. This curved panel emits a steady stream of RF energy for up to 45 minutes. Agitated fat cells are liquefied and ultimately purged via your body’s lymphatic system.
Vanquish is popularly used to shrink unwanted volume around the abdomen and flanks. Many women choose this treatment after childbirth, to reclaim their slimmer pre-pregnancy shape. The technology allows for treatment of large areas of the body.
To learn more about RF facial or body rejuvenation, schedule a personal consultation with Charles S. Lee, MD, or contact the Beverly Hills office of Enhance® Medical Center today.
