What is Radio Frequency Needling?
Radio Frequency Needling, also known as RF Microneedling, is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers thermal energy directly into the deeper layers of the dermis. The process involves using a specialized device equipped with fine, gold-plated needles that create controlled micro-injuries in the skin.
Simultaneously, these needles emit radiofrequency energy, generating heat at precise depths. This dual-action approach aims to trigger a robust wound-healing response, stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin fibres while tightening existing foundational structures.
What makes a suitable candidate for Radio Frequency Needling?
A suitable candidate for Radio Frequency Needling is typically an adult experiencing mild to moderate skin sagging, enlarged pores, fine lines, or certain types of acne scarring. Because the RF energy is delivered beneath the surface, this treatment is often suitable for a wider range of skin types compared to some traditional laser therapies.
Candidates should be in good general health, have no active skin infections or inflammatory conditions in the treatment area, and maintain realistic expectations regarding the gradual improvement in skin quality. A clinical consultation at our Collins Street practice is essential to ensure the treatment aligns with your skin concerns and medical history.
What are the Radio Frequency Needling options?
When considering skin tightening and resurfacing, patients may explore several Radio Frequency Needling options and related alternatives. These include:
- Targeted Depth Treatments: Adjusting the needle depth to treat different areas, such as shallower settings for the delicate eye area and deeper settings for the cheeks or neck.
- Fractional RF Alternatives: Non-needling radiofrequency treatments that focus on surface tightening.
- Laser Resurfacing: Utilizing light energy instead of mechanical needles for skin texture improvement.
- Surgical Options: For individuals with significant skin excess, surgical procedures like a facelift or neck lift may be more appropriate and will be discussed during your consultation if non-surgical options are unlikely to meet your goals.
Before & Afters
Disclaimer: All surgeries before & afters shown on this website are performed by Dr Mirkazemi and are published with consent by our patients. They are not guarantees that your results will be the same or similar as results will vary between individuals. The content on our page is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Any surgery or invasive procedure carries risks and has a recovery time. Before proceeding, please seek medical advice from an appropriately qualified medical practitioner. During your consultation, Dr Mirkazemi will carefully evaluate each individual and provide an honest and realistic assessment of what can be expected from the procedure.
Radio Frequency Needling techniques
The technique for Radio Frequency Needling involves a systematic application of the device across the treatment area. After a topical numbing agent is applied, the handpiece is moved across the skin in a precise pattern.
- Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Needles: Depending on the clinical goal, insulated needles may be used to protect the top layer of skin and deliver heat only to the deeper dermis, or non-insulated needles may be used to treat the entire thickness of the tissue.
- Variable Pulse Duration: The duration of the RF energy pulse is adjusted based on whether the goal is skin tightening or scar remodeling.
- Layered Delivery: Your provider may use multiple “passes” at different depths in a single session to ensure a comprehensive architectural improvement from the deep dermis to the surface.
Recovery after Radio Frequency Needling
Recovery following Radio Frequency Needling is relatively efficient, though it involves a visible healing phase.
By week one, immediately after treatment, the skin will appear red and slightly swollen, similar to a moderate sunburn. Fine “grid” marks or tiny crusts may form at the needle entry points; these typically shed within 3 to 7 days. Patients are advised to use gentle skincare and strict sun protection during this period.
By month one, the initial surface healing is complete, and the skin often begins to feel smoother. Internally, the collagen induction process is in its early stages.
By month three, the clinical alterations in skin firmness and texture become more evident as the new collagen network matures. For many patients, a series of 3 to 4 treatments is recommended to achieve the most significant and long-lasting results.
How much does Radio Frequency Needling cost?
The cost of Radio Frequency Needling in Melbourne is determined by the size of the treatment area and the number of sessions required to address specific concerns like deep scarring or laxity.
Because each treatment is customized, whether focusing on the full face, neck, or specific scar tissue, pricing is provided on a case-by-case basis. During your consultation at Collins St Plastic Surgery, we will provide a detailed quote based on your personalized treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions for Radio Frequency Needling
Specific Risks and Complications For Radio Frequency Needling
RF microneedling is a non-surgical procedure that combines traditional microneedling with radiofrequency energy to address skin texture and volume loss. While this treatment does not involve major surgery, it is classified as a higher-risk non-surgical procedure. It carries potential clinical risks and side effects that must be considered before proceeding.
The following list outlines possible complications associated with RF microneedling. These risks are not exhaustive, and the likelihood of experiencing them can vary based on your skin type, medical history, and healing response.
Immediate Post-Treatment Effects
- Erythema (Redness) and Oedema (Swelling): It is common for the treated area to appear red and swollen immediately following the procedure. While typically temporary, in some patients, this may persist longer than the expected recovery timeframe.
- Discomfort and Sensitivity: During and after the treatment, patients may experience heat sensations, stinging, or localized tenderness.
- Bruising and Petechiae: The mechanical action of the needles may cause bruising or small purple spots (petechiae) under the skin, which generally resolve within several days.
Clinical Risks and Complications
- Pigmentary Changes: There is a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) or hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin). This risk is higher in patients with darker skin tones or those who experience sun exposure shortly after treatment.
- Infection: Any procedure that bypasses the skin barrier carries a risk of bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. This includes the potential reactivation of the herpes simplex virus (cold sores) if the treatment is performed around the mouth.
- Scarring: Although rare with correct clinical settings, abnormal wound healing can lead to permanent scarring or changes in skin texture.
- Grid Marks or “Patterning”: In some instances, the pattern of the needle pins may remain visible on the skin for an extended period during the healing process.
- Skin Sensitivity or Allergic Reaction: Patients may develop a reaction to topical anaesthetics used during the procedure or to post-treatment skin care products applied to the micro-channels.
Recovery and Expectations
- Dryness and Flaking: As the skin begins to heal and modify its structure, patients often experience a period of dryness, tight skin, or mild peeling.
- Varying Clinical Results: Anatomical outcomes are individual. RF microneedling is intended to address specific skin concerns, but it may not achieve the patient’s desired anatomical change in a single session.
- Need for Multiple Treatments: To address deeper wrinkles or significant volume loss, a series of treatments is often required. Results are considered long-lasting but may change over time due to the natural ageing process.
General Risks & Complications of Non-Surgical Treatments
While non-surgical cosmetic treatments are minimally invasive and typically involve less downtime than surgery, they are still medical procedures and carry potential risks.
These may include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, infection, allergic reactions, asymmetry, skin discoloration, vascular compromise (in rare cases), and unsatisfactory aesthetic outcomes. Certain treatments such as injectables, lasers, and energy-based devices also carry procedure-specific risks depending on the area treated and the product or technology used. Individual factors including medical history, medications, autoimmune conditions, and smoking can influence healing and outcomes.
A thorough consultation and adherence to aftercare instructions are essential to minimise complications and ensure safe, optimal results.
