As our lives only get busier, non-surgical skin tightening has become the go-to option for patients who still want to enhance their appearance but do not have the time to commit to surgery or the recovery time that goes along with it. With these quick and comfortable non-invasive treatments on the rise that come with the magic words, ‘no downtime’, the pursuit of ageless beauty for us busy bees seems to be within grasp.
While radio frequency for non-surgical skin tightening has been around since the early 2000s, it still remains today one of the most common and popular ways to tighten skin. As celebrity personalities like the Kardashians have openly discussed and raved about the benefits of their own RF treatments, the technology has gained some celebrity itself within the aesthetics community.
RF works by heating the skin and is utilized by many of the devices that are currently on the market for skin tightening. The use of heat energy is essential in tissue remodeling and in the production of elastin and new collagen.
By heating the skin’s deep layers to a very precise temperature, the skin’s existing collagen fibers begin to tighten, while collagen-producing cells are jumpstarted to produce more collagen. This in turn helps the skin regain elasticity and take on a firmer, thicker and more youthful looking appearance.
While non-surgical skin tightening does not yield the same results as its surgical counterpart, a major benefit of RF is that the heat produces collagen. And while results may appear more modest, it is important to keep in mind that new healthy collagen is incredibly beneficial and at the very least, will work to slow the signs of aging. For this reason, radio frequency skin tightening is also effective as a preventative treatment for keeping those very first signs of aging at bay.
One significant advantage of using radio frequency over other similar technologies like lasers is that the low frequency allows for a deeper penetration. This is instrumental in improving the skin’s tone, as well as in lifting and sculpting the tissues into a more youthful and elastic surface. Lasers operate for the most part just on the surface level. Additionally, RF can safely and effectively be used with different skin tones, without posing a risk for permanent discoloration.
Here at Iorio Plastic Surgery we offer the most effective technologies on the market, the Exilis Ultra 360. The Exilis Ultra 360 sets itself apart as being the only device to simultaneously combine radiofrequency and ultrasound during treatment to tighten skin and also to reduce some fat. This powerful energy pairing ensures higher patient satisfaction than many other competing skin tightening technologies. Its effectiveness also requires fewer treatment sessions – between 2 to 4 based on individual needs, in order to achieve optimal results. Additionally, the device’s built-in cooling system offers a pain free and safe therapy, which allows for greater precision and efficiency when targeting the desired areas for treatment. The typical areas for treatment include face/neck, arms, flanks, abdomen and inner thighs.
Post-treatment, patients may experience some common side effects, though they are typically minimal and will resolve quickly. These include redness, mild swelling and oversensitivity to the treated area.
The ideal candidate for this treatment is someone who is experiencing a degree of skin looseness or is looking for a preventative measure for slowing the signs of aging. Older patients with significantly looser skin may require a surgical treatment to achieve their desired results.
With the upsides being that it is quick, comfortable, and requires no downtime, it is no surprise that RF skin tightening is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after ways for patient’s to enhance their appearance and their confidence.
Call us today at Iorio Plastic Surgery to book a consultation with our Physician Assistant, Christinna who can provide a customized treatment plan for your desired area of concern.