What is radio frequency?
It is a minimally invasive method for treating skin aging and sagging of the face and body, providing a more "youthful and refreshed" appearance without ablating the skin or using injections. Electromagnetic energy produced by specialized electromedical devices penetrates the dermis and reaches the superficial muscle layer. As it passes through the tissues, it encounters resistance, which is converted into thermal energy capable of inducing skin restructuring.
At the temperature achieved in the deep dermis, collagen denatures, and its molecules rearrange, becoming shorter and thicker. Additionally, there is an increase in protein synthesis in fibroblasts, resulting in collagen production and an increase in the number and thickness of elastic fibers. All of this occurs safely without causing thermal damage or tissue necrosis.
What are the main indications for radio frequency in aesthetic medicine?
The primary indication for radiofrequency treatment is addressing skin laxity on both the face and body. Radiofrequency enhances the appearance of aged skin and epidermal texture, resulting in firmer tissues and reduced skin laxity. The induced vasoactive processes also positively affect skin complexion. The ultimate outcome is increased dermal thickness and a lifting effect, leading to a more toned appearance of the face and body.
Radiofrequency is also recommended for the treatment of acne, serving as a supportive therapy to promote the healing processes of pustules and improve the appearance of scars, primarily due to the stimulation of fibroblasts through its thermal action.
How is radio frequency done?
The therapy involves moving a handpiece over the skin's surface. Various areas can be treated, including the face, neck, décolleté, arms, inner and outer thighs, buttocks, and abdomen.
The treatment is not painful; in fact, it often produces a pleasant sensation of warmth. Transient erythema (redness) may occur, and in exceptional cases, there may be first-degree burns, which are typically localized and quickly resolve, leaving the skin's surface entirely normal. Sun and UV lamp exposure is not recommended immediately after the treatment.
The therapeutic protocol varies depending on the equipment used. Initial effects on skin restructuring can be seen on the face after just a few sessions, and this improvement continues for about a year. In other areas, results may be achieved more slowly. After completing the treatment cycle, it's essential to plan maintenance sessions.
The outcome of the treatment cannot be predicted in advance because it depends on the patient's clinical response and individual starting conditions.