RF microneedling is a minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatment that uses radiofrequency energy and microneedling to stimulate new collagen and elastin production. Morpheus8 and Vivace use this technology to tighten and restore your skin for a youthful glow to both the face and the body. Some of the benefits of these treatments include not only tighter skin and improved structural support, but also a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles, shrinking pores, scar improvement, and overall texture refinement. Unlike most laser devices, Morpheus8 and Vivace safely treat all skin types. By penetrating the skin down at the appropriate levels based on your custom needs, patients can achieve healthier, more beautiful skin.

Austin Plastic Surgeon is one of the select few providers in Austin offering this radiofrequency microneedling treatment. With additional locations in San Antonio and West Lake Hills, we serve patients all over Eastern Texas with both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Our talented staff of medical professionals is dedicated to helping every patient achieve their cosmetic goals.

To schedule a private consultation with a member of our team, contact us online or call:

What is RF Microneedling?

When radiofrequency energy and microneedling are combined, devices like Morpheus8 and Vivace treat the skin in two different ways. Microneedling is the process of making tiny punctures in the skin with small needles, causing controlled damage to the dermis. During RF microneedling, the needles contain technology that emits focused radiofrequency waves while penetrating the skin.

This energy delivers thermal heating to the dermis which initiates rapid regeneration of cells, leading to increased collagen and elastin fibers. ⁽¹⁾

Combining both radiofrequency waves and microneedling works to alter the internal structure of the skin. It is also routinely utilized to reduce skin laxity (sagging) on both the face and body. ⁽²⁾ The ability to control the depth of the needles also allows providers to easily target skin and fatty tissue to improve results for patients. When adipose tissue interacts with RF, fat cells die, leading to the slimming and tightening of the treatment area. The providers at Austin Plastic Surgeon’s Medspa use the Morpheus8 and Vivace RF microneedling devices to achieve optimal skin rejuvenation.

The Device

Because of its ultra-thin needles and customization properties, both Morpheus8 and Vivace are also a safe and effective way to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and on the forehead. ⁽³⁾ Using multiple settings and needle depths, our providers can create personalized treatment plans for our patients. Deeper needle settings can target unwanted fat, whereas a shallower depth can target fine lines. RF microneedling is suitable for all skin types and tones, making this treatment optimal for a wide range of patients.

Benefits of Morpheus8 & Vivace Treatment

RF microneedling benefits patients by:

Good Candidates for RF Microneedling

Ideal candidates for Morpheus8 or Vivace treatment may experience:

To qualify for treatment, patients should be in good health with reasonable expectations. They are non-smokers or are willing to quit in the weeks leading up to their RF microneedling appointment. Those who are pregnant, take Accutane, or have active skin conditions may not be optimal candidates. Please let our providers know if you have a pacemaker or metal plates from previous surgeries as these may negatively interact with radiofrequency.

Initial Consultation at Austin Plastic Surgeon

At your private consultation, you will meet our staff. We will review your medical history and conduct a physical exam to determine the best treatment for you. Your provider will inquire about your skin type and tendencies to better plan your procedure. We will talk through your needs and answer any questions during this appointment to ensure you are comfortable and ready to receive the results you deserve!

Your provider will:

Preparation

Before your Morpheus8 or Vivace treatments, please avoid:

RF Microneedling Treatment Process

Your provider starts the procedure process by cleansing the treatment area. Next, they apply a topical anesthetic and wait about 30-45 minutes until you are comfortable. Pro-Nox or “laughing gas” is another complimentary option to help keep you as comfortable as possible during your treatment. To treat the skin, they pass the Morpheus8 or Vivace device over the area, applying the needles in the predetermined depths. The tips of the needles release RF directly into the deeper skin layers to instigate the healing process.

When finished, your provider applies a soothing solution on the skin to eliminate any discomfort. This is a simple and quick procedure. Depending on the area being treated and its size, RF microneedling takes about 30-45 to complete. The application of topical anesthetic cream and allowing it to take effect elongates the total treatment time.

Recovery & Results

Immediately after this procedure, you may return to work and your daily activities. Post-treatment effects include some swelling and redness. Your provider may recommend applying ice to reduce these effects quickly. You should wear sun protection whenever in direct sunlight as your skin will be extremely sensitive after RF microneedling. Make sure to cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser following this treatment to avoid irritation or negative reactions. It is best to wait until the next day to apply makeup and continue your normal skincare routine.

Throughout your treatment plan, your skin’s radiance returns. Scarring and fine lines dissipate as collagen builds and works to rejuvenate the skin from the inside out. Morpheus8 and Vivace offer the best results when it is done as a series of three treatments. We schedule these around every 4 weeks apart to give your skin time to heal and regenerate properly.

Corresponding & Complementary Treatments

Biostimulants

For the ultimate collagen combo, the team at Austin Plastic Surgeon will often recommend combining this treatment with biostimulant injections such as Sculptra and Hyperdilute Radiesse. These products help take your collagen and elastin stimulation to the next level utilizing a sandwich technique by layering the biostimulants immediately after your RF Microneedling treatment. This is also one of our favorite treatments to combat the dreaded “Ozempic face” that can happen with weight loss.

Dermaplaning

If you are searching for a non-invasive way to resurface your skin, dermaplaning may be a great alternative to more invasive treatments. Your provider uses a special tool to carefully remove dead skin cells and “peach fuzz” hair without causing external irritation to the skin. Dermaplaning can replace chemical peels or microdermabrasion as a safe and quick solution to dull skin. This treatment removes the outermost layer of skin without creating punctures, resulting in smooth and bright skin after one treatment.

SkinCeuticals Micropeel

To completely resurface the skin and add nutrients, providers can apply a chemical peel after dermaplaning. A SkinCeuticals micropeel is a customizable peel designed for individual skin conditions, types, and patient circumstances. There are five popular micropeel solutions: Sensitive Skin Solution, Pigment Balancing Peel, The Micropeel 20 Solution, SkinCeuticals Gel Peel SM, and Micropeel Plus. Each one treats specific skin concerns and reaches a different depth to penetrate the skin and remove damaged layers. This results in a smooth, radiant, and revitalized complexion.

To read more about our medspa services and cosmetic procedures, please follow our blog.

Cost of RF Microneedling Treatments in Austin

The cost of RF microneedling procedures varies greatly between patients. During your initial consultation, your provider explains your treatment plan and the estimated cost. Schedule yours today by calling your nearest location at:

FAQ

References

1. Swanson E. A Systematic Review of Subsurface Radiofrequency Treatments in Plastic Surgery. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2022;89(3):274-285. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000003093
2. Yu V, Juhász MLW, Mesinkovska NA. Subcutaneous Radiofrequency Microneedling for the Treatment of Thigh Skin Laxity Caused by Weight Loss: A Case Study. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2019;12(6):60-62. Accessed December 11, 2023. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6624002/
3. Ko Eun Kim, Jong Heon Park, Tae Woong Seul, Il Hwan Kim, Hwa Jung Ryu. Periorbital Skin Rejuvenation of Asian Skin Using Microneedle Fractional Radiofrequency. Annals of Dermatology. 2023;35(5):360-360. doi:https://doi.org/10.5021/ad.22.217