Skin Treatments

RF Microneedling

 

RF microneedling treatments may assist in supporting skin health and addressing texture-related concerns. These treatments are performed by qualified practitioners who assess individual skin conditions and provide an approach that aims to promote skin repair while targeting areas such as uneven texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, and scarring.

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Elegant, harmonious, authentic.

How RF Microneedling Works

RF microneedling consultations consider techniques to address skin texture, fine lines, acne scarring, uneven tone, and pore appearance. During a consultation, we assess factors such as skin type, condition, thickness, hydration levels, history of scarring, sun damage, and overall skin dynamics to determine whether this treatment is suitable for you.

While individual experiences differ, RF microneedling treatments may assist with:

  • Supporting a more even skin texture over time
  • Contributing to refined pore appearance
  • Softening the look of fine lines and superficial creases
  • Aiding the appearance of acne scars or other superficial pitting
  • Promoting skin repair in areas of concern

This treatment category uses fractional microneedle radiofrequency (FMR) systems, where electronically controlled microneedles deliver energy to targeted skin layers, creating controlled thermal effects. Energy reaches the epidermis and dermis (non-insulated needles) or dermis only (insulated needles). Your practitioner will discuss the procedure in detail, including expected outcomes, potential risks, side effects, recovery timelines, and available alternatives like topical therapies or lasers. A personalised assessment ensures any treatment plan aligns with your medical history, skin goals, lifestyle factors, and preferences.

Responses vary between individuals due to factors such as age, genetics, lifestyle (e.g., sun exposure, smoking), skin type (dry, oily, combination), severity of concerns, and adherence to aftercare. A thorough consultation is essential to determine suitability, set realistic expectations, and provide clear, evidence-based information before proceeding. Not everyone will see the same degree of change, and multiple sessions are often recommended for progressive support.

Our Devices

Morpheus8

Morpheus8 is a fractional RF microneedling device that delivers energy at varying depths beneath the skin surface. This controlled approach allows practitioners to address concerns such as uneven texture, fine lines, enlarged pores, and superficial scarring.

  • Adjustable depth settings for personalised treatment
  • May assist with skin tightening and texture refinement
  • Suitable for areas including the face, neck, and jawline
  • Treatments performed with topical numbing for comfort

Individual responses vary, and multiple sessions are often recommended to support gradual improvements. Your practitioner will discuss suitability, expected outcomes, and possible risks during consultation.

Ellisys™ Plus

The Ellisys™ Plus Radio Frequency Skin Needling System is a computerised device programmed to deliver precise energy at the right depth and frequency. This helps reduce operator variability while maintaining flexibility for practitioners.

  • Features insulated and non-insulated tips for versatility
  • May assist with concerns such as acne scarring, stretchmarks, and general texture irregularities
  • Compact design with built-in safety parameters
  • TGA listed (June 2024)

As with all RF microneedling treatments, Ellisys™ Plus requires a thorough consultation to determine suitability. Side effects such as redness, swelling, or temporary sensitivity are possible and will be discussed openly before treatment.

Areas Treated and Benefits

During your consultation, our qualified practitioners assess skin condition across the face, neck, and body, discussing areas where RF microneedling treatments may be appropriate. These treatments focus on texture-related concerns in regions showing signs of unevenness, fine lines, enlarged pores, or superficial scarring from acne or other causes. Suitability, treatment depth, number of passes, and expected outcomes vary between individuals based on skin resilience and history—all details are explained clearly before proceeding.

  • Face (full): May assist in texture refinement and pore appearance.
  • Neck: Can support texture in areas affected by sun exposure.
  • Cheeks: Often considered for uneven texture or acne pitting.
  • Forehead: May assist with fine lines or texture irregularities.
  • Around the eyes: Considered cautiously for crepiness, depending on skin thinness.
  • Upper lip and chin: May support superficial lines or scars.
  • Scarring areas (e.g., T-zone, jawline, abdomen): Can aid pitted scars or stretch marks post-assessment.
What to Expect: Treatment Process and Schedule

RF microneedling consultations last 30-60 minutes, delivered with precision by qualified practitioners using sterile, adjustable devices. We prioritise clear discussions on your skin goals, full medical history (including allergies, medications, recent treatments), skin analysis, and expectations for a straightforward, informed experience.

Preparation phase:

  • Avoid blood thinners, alcohol, supplements (e.g., aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E), or retinoids for 7 days as advised to minimise bruising risk.
  • Skip strenuous activity, heat exposure (saunas, hot yoga), or excessive sun on the day before treatment.
  • Discontinue active topicals (e.g., AHAs, benzoyl peroxide) 3-5 days prior if directed.

Treatment day:

  • Complete a skin health consultation to confirm suitability, review medical history, perform patch tests if needed, and map treatment zones.
  • Skin cleansed thoroughly; topical numbing applied 20-45 minutes prior for comfort.
  • Treatment: Device glides over skin with controlled micro-channels and RF energy; mild tingling, warmth, or pricking possible. Real-time adjustments for depth and energy based on feedback.
  • The procedure takes 20-60 minutes depending on areas treated.

Aftercare:

  • Apply ice or soothing serum for redness/swelling (resolves in hours to days).
  • Avoid rubbing, makeup, exercise, saunas, swimming, or direct sun for 48-72 hours; no skincare with active ingredients (retinols, acids) for 5-7 days.
  • Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare, hyaluronic acid serum, and broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily. Keep skin hydrated.

Schedule & results:

  • Initial redness/peeling peaks at 24-72 hours, subsides in 3-7 days.
  • Subtle changes in 3-7 days; further response at 4-6 weeks as skin responds.
  • Series of 3-6 sessions every 4-6 weeks recommended, then maintenance every 6-12 months based on response.
  • Progress reviewed at follow-ups (2 weeks post-series start) to adjust plan or explore adjuncts.
Side Effects and Safety

RF microneedling, when administered by qualified practitioners using sterile protocols and medical-grade devices like Morpheus8 and Ellisys, has an established safety profile. Common temporary effects include redness (like sunburn), swelling, pinpoint bleeding or crusting, dryness, flaking, or mild itching—these typically resolve within 2-7 days using ice, gentle moisturisers, or prescribed healing aids. Prolonged redness, hyperpigmentation (especially in darker skin), milia, or infection (rare) may occur but usually self-correct in 1-2 weeks with aftercare. Uneven results or irritation from depth settings can happen but are addressed in follow-ups.

Serious risks such as allergic reactions to topicals, herpes reactivation (in prone individuals), scarring (in keloid formers), or granulomas are minimised through pre-screening, custom settings, hygiene, and post-care guidance—but possible with any skin resurfacing treatment. Consultations screen for contraindications like active acne/infections, eczema, rosacea flares, pregnancy, breastfeeding, isotretinoin use (within 6-12 months), or clotting disorders. Not suitable for everyone; alternatives like chemical peels, LED therapy, or topicals discussed openly. Clinical data supports its profile when protocols are followed, yet individual skin biology, healing capacity, and compliance matter—safety protocols ensure thorough checks every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions
What is RF microneedling, and how does it differ from standard microneedling?

RF microneedling combines fine microneedles with radiofrequency energy to deliver controlled heat to targeted skin layers. Unlike standard microneedling, which creates micro-channels for topical absorption, RF adds thermal energy to promote tissue repair. Devices like Morpheus8 and Ellisys use insulated or non-insulated needles for precise depth control—epidermis/dermis or dermis only. Your practitioner explains device selection based on your skin assessment during consultation.

Is RF microneedling suitable for my skin type or condition?

Suitability depends on individual factors like skin type (Fitzpatrick scale), thickness, sensitivity, and concerns such as acne scarring or texture unevenness. It’s often suitable for most adult skin types when customised, but consultations screen for conditions like active infections, eczema, or darker tones prone to pigmentation changes. Practitioners adjust depths and energy to match your skin’s resilience, ensuring a tailored approach.

What should I expect during the treatment session?

Sessions start with a skin health consultation to confirm suitability and map areas. Skin is cleansed, and topical numbing is applied for 20-45 minutes. The device creates micro-channels while delivering RF energy—mild warmth, tingling, or pricking may occur, with real-time adjustments for comfort. Duration is 20-60 minutes based on areas treated. Post-treatment, soothing serums are applied, and aftercare instructions provided.

What are the common side effects, and how are they managed?

Temporary effects include redness (sunburn-like), swelling, pinpoint bleeding, dryness, flaking, or mild itching, resolving in 2-7 days. These are managed with ice packs, gentle moisturisers, hyaluronic acid, and SPF 50+. Rarer issues like prolonged redness or hyperpigmentation (more common in darker skin) self-resolve with aftercare, but follow-ups monitor progress. Strict sterile protocols minimise infection risk (<5%).

How many sessions will I need, and what is the timeline for results?

A series of 3-6 sessions every 4-6 weeks is often recommended, with maintenance every 6-12 months based on response. Initial redness subsides in 3-7 days; subtle texture changes appear in 3-7 days, with further response at 4-6 weeks as skin repair processes. Progress is reviewed at 2-week follow-ups to adjust plans. Individual timelines vary by age, genetics, lifestyle, and aftercare adherence.

What aftercare should I follow?

For 48-72 hours: Avoid rubbing, makeup, exercise, saunas, swimming, or direct sun. For 5-7 days: No active skincare (retinols, acids). Use fragrance-free cleansers, hyaluronic acid serums, and broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily. Stay hydrated and protect from the sun. Detailed instructions are given post-treatment to support recovery.

Can RF microneedling be combined with other treatments?

Yes, after full recovery (2-4 weeks). For example, lasers or peels after 4 weeks; injectables sequenced per advice. Avoid same-day aggressive treatments. Practitioners plan combinations like skin boosters or topicals to complement RF, always prioritising skin tolerance and spacing.

Who performs the treatments, and what qualifications do they have?

Qualified practitioners trained in medical aesthetic procedures at our clinic deliver treatments. They follow strict protocols for sterility, device calibration, hygiene, and customisation under oversight. Extensive experience ensures precision and safety—consultations confirm their approach suits your needs.

 

Are there any contraindications or risks I should know about?

Yes, treatment is not suitable if pregnant, breastfeeding, with active infections, eczema/rosacea flares, keloid scarring history, recent isotretinoin (6-12 months), open wounds, or clotting disorders. Risks like allergic reactions, herpes reactivation, or rare scarring are minimised via screening but possible. Alternatives (e.g., topicals, LED) are discussed openly. Consultation is mandatory for full risk assessment.

Is a consultation required before treatment?

Yes, a mandatory consultation assesses your skin, medical history, goals, and suitability. It sets realistic expectations, reviews risks/benefits, and confirms the best device (Morpheus8 or Ellisys). No treatment proceeds without clearance.

Why Patients Choose Us for RF Microneedling

Expertise in Natural-Looking Outcomes

Our qualified practioners use evidence-based techniques tailored to individual anatomy, aiming for results that complement and refine your natural features. Outcomes vary based on personal factors such as age, skin type, and overall health—realistic expectations will be discussed during your consultation. We prioritise a balanced approach, carefully considering facial harmony and the recovery process.

Personalised Consultation Process

We start with thorough assessments to understand your unique concerns and goals, developing a plan suited to your needs. This includes discussing potential risks, benefits, and alternatives openly. Every outcome depends on individual characteristics; our focus is informed decision-making.

Comprehensive Patient Support

From initial consultation through recovery, we provide clear guidance on aftercare, follow-ups, and addressing concerns. Our protocols emphasise safety, risks, and realistic recovery timelines. Schedule a consultation to explore options with us.

Schedule  a  Consultation

 

Ph (02) 9101 4707
Fax (02) 9182 0092
office@drvladillie.com.au

 

Sydney Centre for Plastic Surgery

Suite 1702, Westfield Tower 2
101 Grafton St
Bondi Junction NSW 2022

 

Gosford Private Medical Centre

Suite 4, 12 Jarrett St
North Gosford NSW 2250

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