10 to 40 minutes. For simple procedures such as acne scars, your treatment is over in less than 10 minutes. For more complex procedures such as facial & neck laxity, it takes 40 minutes or more.

Typically, 2- 5 days, depending on settings. Settings depend on the clinical findings. As a guide; 

• Acne scar M8 treatments; 2-3 days.
• Facial laxity M8 treatments; 3-5 days.
• Neck laxity M8 treatments; 5+ days.
• Double chin M8 treatments: 2-4 days.

The industry leaders include-

• Top tier devices: Morpheus8, Infini, Genius, Potenza
• Second tier devices: Secret RFM, Intensif, Matrix, Profound

In truth the settings matter more than the device itself, especially for top tier devices. The results are comparable within this group, however in some the parameters require a little more ‘tweaking’ for optimal results.

*This is my option only, as I only have experiences with the devices listed above.

Both treatments can produce good results, however with the Ultraformer MPT, we get more predictable skin tightening & contouring of the lower face.

Lasers are better at treating surface changes such as skin quality, namely fine lines, medium depth wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores & sun damage. 

RF microneedling devices such as Morpheus are indicated for treating deeper pathology, namely laxity in the dermis & fat. For effective skin tightening, all the layers in the skin must be treated, hence why we combine treatmentsLaser are better treatments for skin texture as it improves skin quality (pigment, fine lines, blemishes, sun spots, age spots). 

Without fluffing around, yes. It hurts. Hence why we –

1. Use specialist strength numbing gel
2. Provide nerve blocks
3. Use laughing gas
4. Provide conscious sedation

My nurses & I are results driven- this means we will provide the best possible treatments & come up with methods to make your treatment as comfortable as possible.

For best results, most patients need a series of 1-3 sessions, spaced out 4-8 weeks.

• For mild laxity, only one session is required.
• For atrophic scars: up to 3 or more sessions are recommended

Peak collagen remodelling occurs 3-6 months after your final Morpheus8 session.

Skin tightening; results seen in as little as 7 days. This is due to immediate collagen contraction, which is different from delayed collagen remodelling (takes 8 to 12 weeks).

For atrophic acne scars it can take 16 weeks+ for best results.

Acne scar revision should be based on treating the scar type & not a device allocated algorithm. Rolling & atrophic scars can respond to RF microneedling, often as adjunct to surgical subcision.

IMO there is a level playing field for tier one RFM devices such as Genius RF, Infini, Potenza & Morpheus8. Tier two devices such as Secret RF, Intensif, & Profound can deliver similar results as tier one with off label settings. In summary- it is in the settings, not the device.

RF microneedling is best combined with treatments to treat the upper layers of skin, or to improve dermal remodelling. Here are my favourite combinations.

• Morpheus 8 + fractional laser: This combination provides skin rejuvenation & collagen remodelling in both the upper and lower dermis.
• Morpheus 8 + PDO monos: This combination provides skin tightening in all layers.
• Morpheus 8 + subcision: Is a powerful treatment for deep atrophic acne scars.

  

RF microneedling can improve neck laxity, double chins & neck wrinkling. For optimal results, we recommend a series of three to four treatments, administered over the course of 3- 5 months. RFM is best combined with dermal fillers such as Profhilo to stimulate maximal collagen production.

Approximately 18 to 36 months. I use Morpheus8 as part of a combination strategy to improve collagen production & laxity. Treatments are aimed to ‘reset’ the aging clock. From there you will age in time (everyone does). 

The aim is thus focused to maintain results. This can be achieved with collagen stimulating skin boosters, skin care & dermal heating devices such as Tempsure, Pelleve, NuEra.

As treatments tighten facial skin RF micro needling can  slim down the face & neck.

Most of the results come from tightening of collagen, as RFM is not very efficient at fat destruction. RF or ultrasound maybe considered in those who are adversed to chinliposuction.

Ultraformer MPT is another highly effective solution for under chin fat & lower face contouring. HIFU is much better at reducing fat from the under chin area as well as superficial fat pads.

M8 candidates range in age from 20 to 60, depending on concerns. 

• 20-35: correction of acne scars, treatment of mild laxity.
• 35-60: correction of skin laxity & sag of the face & neck.

*A great combination is the use of M8 & collagen stimulating injectables such as Profhilo. This treatment gives amazing results with little or no downtime.

M8 is a great option for the eye area. RF energy tightens loose eyelid skin, improves dark circles, reduces wrinkles & provides better skin tone. M8 is another treatment option for eye bags.

I also use the Potenza RFM for this area as I think it has an advantage over the Morpheus8. M8 has the advantage in body tightening as the needles go deeper.

Side effects are different from expected outcomes. It is normal for patients to experience a sunburn-like flush for 1-3 days following Morpheus8. In some cases, it can last up to 6 days. Pimples or pustules can be seen in some cases. It is usually self-limiting. Side effects include:

• Prolonged swelling
• Significant bruising.
• Scabbing
• Prolonged pigment changes
• Gridding that lasts for 2-4 months

Performed with precision & skill, Morpheus8 is unlikely to cause nerve damage.

Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon will provide you with tumescent anesthesia to reduce the chances of hitting the marginal mandibular nerve along the jawline. 

Other nerves such as the supraorbital (supplies sensation on the forehead) can be damaged if needle length is too deep. This can happen with any device & is not limited to Morpheus8.

The pre-sets on the device can guide novice users. 

I do rank Morpheus8 as one of the best RF microneedling devices around, with similar results as Genius RFM & Potenza RFM.  

Morpheus8 has sequential delivery of RF energy within one penetration cycle, this means the needle can treat up to 3 depths. This translates to faster, more efficient delivery of energy, with greater patient comfort. 

Please follow the guidelines after the procedure. Acne outbreaks are not uncommon following Morpheus8. It is due to-

• True acne due to occlusive creams post treatment.
• Sterile pimples due to inflammation

If you do experience a severe outbreak of pimples, call the clinic to be reviewed by our nurses. 

Your skin may feel tight and dry for 10-14 days, depending on the settings including the intensity of the treatment. A simple topical moisturizing lotion can be used to help you recover. Our nurses will guide you through the recovery process & when you can restart your own skincare products.

Dr Van Park & I use the Secret RFM. Though not as powerful as the Potenza, Genius & M8, nevertheless it is a great device for skin tightening & anti-aging.

For contouring we prefer the HIFU or Ultraformer, often in combination with collagen stimulating injectables.