About RF Microneedling
Pittsburgh, PA plastic surgeon Dr. James Fernau uses a special approach that creates excellent results for our patients with a treatment known as radiofrequency (RF) microneedling. RF laser treatments have been around for many years and are well-known in the cosmetic industry for skin tightening. This particular type of laser treatment uses heat to encourage the production of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin to create a tighter, smoother surface. This therapy can be used in conjunction with microneedling to optimize the results. At our practice, we often add this new advancement to our patients' skin remedies to generate firmer skin, a smoother texture, and a glowing complexion.
Our Technologies
SECRET™ RF BY CUTERA – A fractional radiofrequency (RF) microneedling technology that can help diminish the signs of aging by stimulating the production of collagen in the skin. The dual handpieces of the Secret RF system allow the device to treat the skin at varying depths on both the face and body. Patients who receive microneedling with Secret RF can expect to see a noticeable difference in their skin with a decrease in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and skin texture.
MORPHEUS8™ – This is the only radiofrequency microneedling technology on the market that also remodels fat cells beneath the skin to offer impressive, youthful results. While remaining a noninvasive, nonsurgical procedure, RF microneedling with Morpheus8 offers area patients a large degree of skin tightening and skin texture improvements with very little downtime. Morpheus8 can be used on the face, neck, arms, knees, and most other areas that need mild or preventive skin tightening.
Reviews
Ideal Candidates
If you are 40 years of age or older and are starting to notice age spots, discoloration, smile lines, and other skin flaws (that can come with age and sun exposure), RF microneedling could be the ideal treatment for you. RF microneedling may be an excellent choice if you wish to:
- Tighten the skin, producing a more refreshed appearance
- Boost skin texture, tone, and pigment
- Repair skin irregularities, such as blood vessels and discoloration
- Reduce the look of age spots and sun damage
- Repair acne scars and other forms of scarring
- Rejuvenate skin for a younger, glowing look
Procedure Technique
Microneedling uses a tool (with little needles on the end) that is rolled gently against the skin to puncture and create micro-injuries that "disrupt" the cells and produce collagen. Some also refer to this as collagen induction therapy. New skin begins to grow as the skin heals, leaving the top layer feeling and looking smoother, brighter, and rejuvenated. While this procedure is often performed by itself, combining this advanced technique with radiofrequency energy has allowed us to optimize the results for our patients.
The method is quite easy. The handheld device, which emits radiofrequency heat, works by delivering short pulses of RF energy through an array of 25 sterilized, gold-plated micro-needles. The energy is transmitted through the needles, which simultaneously punctures the skin and circles back the electrodes into the skin. The RF energy heats at levels that provide cumulative and ongoing benefits.
What to Expect
Your RF microneedling treatment will take place in our office with the use of a numbing cream to decrease discomfort. During your appointment, the applicator of the predetermine technology will slide across or stamp the desired area, repeating the process until the desired results have been reached. You should expect small pinpoint scabs to appear 24 – 72 hours after treatment, which will naturally shed when the underlying micro-injury has healed. Results become visible as the skin heals over 3 – 4 weeks after a microneedling with RF session. Optimal results usually call for 3 – 4 treatments scheduled 3 – 4 weeks apart.
Rejuvenate Your Face
If you are looking to minimize the appearance of aging or sun-damaged skin, as well as diminish wrinkles, laxity, or acne scars, RF microneedling is a great treatment with proven results. Combining radiofrequency skin tightening and microneedling through Secret RF or Morpheus8, this outstanding skin rejuvenation process has increased in popularity and continues to be a top-rated, minimally invasive treatment for our Pittsburgh, PA patients. We ask you to contact our practice to discover more or to schedule a consultation today.