Question
I read about a new procedure that heats up layers of facial skin using radiofrequency. It's supposed to help promote collagen on wrinkles and sags. Can you tell me if this really works, is it painful, and what is the cost?
Answer
Ten years ago, the only option we had to lift and tighten sagging skin was surgery. Today, there are a number of noninvasive skin treatments that can lift and tighten the skin without surgery. These noninvasive skin tightening treatments typically use either radiofrequency or ultrasound energy to heat and tighten the skin and subcutaneous tissues.
The good news is that these noninvasive treatments really do work, but it's important to have realistic expectations as the results are much more modest compared to surgery. These treatments are best suited for patients with mild to moderate signs of aging who seek mild to moderate improvement, with little to no downtime or side effects. These treatments are not a substitute for a surgical lift.
It is important to undergo an evaluation by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who performs both surgical and non-surgical treatments, so you can get a full and realistic opinion regarding which type of treatment is best for you.
Generally speaking, today's noninvasive skin tightening treatments are comfortable and can be easily performed in the office without requiring anesthesia. The radiofrequency-based treatments typically require a series of 4-8 treatments for best results, and the ultrasound-based require only a single treatment. The cost of these treatments is typically several thousand dollars.