Skin Tightening

Nonsurgical skin tightening treatments are designed to firm the skin on the face and body. These therapies are popular, as they are much less invasive than surgical options, such as tummy tucks and facelifts. Many people claim that the results are similar. Also, when nonsurgical skin tightening methods are used, fewer complications result, making procedures less expensive and recoveries faster.

Because today’s non-invasive skin tightening treatments are based on new technologies, there still remains a gap in understanding their effectiveness and the effects of the procedures over the long-term. However, with that being said, most people find that these procedures do benefit them and improve their looks overall.

To understand the importance of skin tightening treatments, you need to learn more about collagen and elastin. When you are young, these substances are readily available in the skin. However, with the passage of time, the production of these skin proteins begins to slow. As a result, your skin begins losing its youthful suppleness, firmness, and elasticity. Compound this activity with facial movement, gravity, and environmental exposure, and your skin can appear la or wrinkled. Moreover, factors such as weight loss and pregnancy contribute to sagging, or striae or stretch marks on the stomach.

Nonsurgical skin tightening targets areas of the skin that promote the production of collagen beneath the skin’s surface or which have become loose. In-office treatments provide dependable results when they are applied by a trained dermatological specialist or board-certified doctor.

FAQ

What are radiofrequency (RF) treatments and how do they tighten the skin?

Radiofrequency (RF) treatments tighten the skin through the use of Secret RF, Thermage™ and Thermalift™. These procedures features a device that applies controlled radio waves to the part of the skin that needs tightening. The procedure is performed with anesthesia, or with a topical anesthetic, for people with sensitive skin. No recovery time is necessary.

How soon do I see improvements when I opt for radiofrequency treatments?

You will see some improvement right away, whether you schedule one treatment or several sessions. It takes about 4 months for you to realize full treatment benefits.

What is Secret RF™?

Secret RF™ is a firming radiofrequency treatment. A form of microneedling is used alongside radiofrequency (RF) waves. The procedure does not require the use of general anesthesia but rather a topical numbing cream. You will need to make several appointments to get the best results.

What skin tightening treatments are recommended for the face, neck, or abdomen?

For the lower part of the face and neck a popular skin tightening treatments include Ultherapy.

Do skin tightening treatments work, based on the current data?

From the limited research on the subject, noninvasive skin tightening therapies do work. While you won’t receive as dramatic results as surgical intervention, these treatments are an alternative to surgery.

Moreover, one 2015 review of radiofrequency (RF) methods concluded that 96% of studies showed RF skin tightening achieved visible and significant results. Another promising study found that RF therapy was an efficient way to remove facial wrinkling and lines.

Is skin tightening covered by health Insurance?

No. These treatments fall under the category of cosmetic procedures, and therefore are not covered by health or medical insurance. However, you can arrange financing with some doctors to cover the costs.

What are the more invasive treatments for skin tightening?

While the aforementioned non-invasive treatments are often chosen for tightening the skin, you can still tighten saggy skin, or skin that does not respond well to less invasive options. Other alternatives include liposuction, tummy tucks, and face or brow lifts. What you decide on will be based on your overall goals, budget, and the recommendations of your plastic surgeon or dermatologist.

What do costs for skin-tightening include?

Costs depend on the treatment you elect, the number of appointments or sessions, and how many skin areas you plan to target

What side effects might I experience after an RF skin tightening treatment?

Side effects are usually mild to moderate, and may include some swelling, redness, tingling, bruising, and soreness. In rare instances, the skin may burn. By having skin tightening performed by a trained or licensed practitioner, you greatly reduce serious complications.

How many RF skin-tightening treatments do I need to schedule?

You will experience results after 3 treatments. One study showed that participants had a high-satisfaction rating.