Aging, fine lines and wrinkles have developed the need of various facial rejuvenating procedures for correcting the physiologic process of aging. Since years, non-surgical procedures like botulinum toxins, fillers and thread lifts have been used for achieving a youthful appearance. Each of them has their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Other than these, radiofrequency and micro-needling has also been used for various cosmetic procedures. Radiofrequency is a non-invasive procedure which increases the body temperature causing thermal damage to the deeper layers of skin through the process of laser skin tightening. It rejuvenates the skin by neo-collagenases and corrects the laxity, sagging and wrinkles. While micro-needling This non ablative technology which uses electric current instead of a light source and it is also been used for treating scarring, acne vulgaris and cellulites. Micro-needling, also known as “Collagen Induction Therapy” works by enhancing the natural ability of the skin to repair and remodel. This procedure uses small sharp needles which penetrate the skin to form micro-channels in the outer layer of the skin. This procedure rejuvenates the skin by reducing the wrinkles, stretch marks and acne scars. It enhances the wound healing cascade and formation of new collagen. Unlike other technique, it preserves the epidermis by preventing risk of dyspigmentation and inflammation. It increases the collagen production and stimulates keratinocytes. The micro-needling technique forms microchannels which allow the percolation of various topical medications and growth factors to reach the dermis. it is also indicated for vitiligo, periorbital hyper-melanosis and melasma.
Recently, a novel technique with the use of micro-needling with radiofrequency has been introduced. This novel technique combines the benefit of both micro-needling and radiofrequency. Laser skin tightening provides a controlled skin damage and stimulates growth of healthy new skin. In comparison with lasers, chemical peels, dermabrasion, fillers and botulinum toxin, this technique is safer and minimally invasive.
Laser Skin Tightening targets:
- Acne scars
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Stretch marks
- Appearance of large pores.
- Cellulites
- Loose skin
- Hyperhidrosis
- Post injury scarring
In combination of this technique with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), gives deeper penetration of the PRP into the skin and enhances the production of collagen and elastin.
Laser Skin Tightening Indications:
- Early signs of aging
- Realistic expectations
- Laser Skin Tightening Contraindications:
- Active cold sore, acnes, etc
- Active skin infection
- Psoriasis
- Patients on anticoagulants
- Patient with history of cancer or on chemotherapeutic agents
- Patients on radiation therapy
- History of keloids, hypertrophic scarring and poor healing
MORPHEUS 8:
A newly invented device which works on the same principle. It concentrates the radiofrequency waves up to subdermal layer thereby remodelling the adipose tissue. It is the first and only full body fractional technology that coagulates the fat and contract the connective tissue. it can be used or upper face, arms, jowls and abdomen.
Laser Skin Tightening Procedure:
Step 1: Asepsis
The area that is to be treated is cleaned with an antiseptic solution and the surgery is performed under complete asepsis.
Step 2: Anaesthesia
This technique is a day- care procedure that is performed under topical anaesthesia. Topical anaesthesia applied in the areas to be anaesthetised before the procedure.
Step 3: Radiofrequency With Micro- Needling
The device is rolled over the skin at low pace and evenly. Radiofrequency waves provide the thermal energy, At the same time, micro-needling makes small wounds in the skin. Thus, this device provides the radiofrequency waves are travelled through the microneedles and delivered to the skin. The procedure takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4: Haemostasis
Pin- point areas of blood is seen over the skin surface. This signifies the penetration of the needle into the dermis where the dermal plexus are present. Due to the thermal energy that is emitted out from the device, helps in the haemostasis.
Laser Skin Tightening Post Operative Instructions:
Application of ice (helps in reducing the selling and discomfort) Sunscreen with SPF > 30 to be used for few weeks after the treatment. Topical antibiotics may be prescribed Hygiene to be maintained with gentle facewash Avoidance of strong makeup or deodorants for a month.A study done by Nguyen et al, concludes that micro- needling with radiofrequency helps in skin tightening treatments for face, jaw line and neck region. Patients experienced mild to moderate pain. However, with accurate pain management, this study proved it to be safe and efficient in facial rejuvenation procedure. According to a study done in 2019, excessive sweating was treated with Micro-needling with radiofrequency. It facilitates reduction in the number and size of sweat glands. A split-face, double-blinded study was done to evaluate the efficacy of micro-needling and radiofrequency with polynucleotides (PN) versus Radiofrequency alone. The study concluded that melasma was better treated with radiofrequency with micro-needling than radiofrequency alone.
Results will be seen after a month or two and last long for approximately a year.
Common Side Effects Of Laser Skin Tightening
- Dryness
- Redness
- Swelling
- Acnes might flare-up
- Cold sore breakout
- These side effects might last for a few hours or day.
Rare Side Effects Of Laser Skin Tightening
- Infection
- persisting swelling or redness
- prolonged bleeding
- bruising
- headache
Niamtu et al, discussed a rare case report of temporary greater auricular nerve palsy on radiofrequency with micro-needling. However in comparison with other surgical and non-surgical procedures of facial rejuvenation, this novel technique proves to be safer and efficient. Combining micro-needling and radiofrequency energy while undergoing the best skin tightening treatment is one of the best ways to treat signs of aging and feel more confident in your skin.
In conclusion, if you are looking for the best skin tightening treatments for face, Dr. Mohan Thomas aesthetics provides the best skin tightening treatment and laser skin tightening. Dr. Mohan Thomas aesthetics has expertise in various cosmetic surgeries, including laser skin tightening. With refinements and advancements in medical technology, they aim to provide high-quality surgical procedures, with safety being a top priority throughout.