Skin Tightening Treatments

There are several different methods and devices used in non-surgical skin tightening procedures, including focused ultrasound, radiofrequency (RF), microneedling with RF, thread lifts and micro-coring.

Let’s take a closer look at each:

Ultrasound: Energy-based devices that use ultrasound technology to tighten the skin include Ultherapy® and Sofwave™. They work by using focused ultrasound to stimulate the production of collagen in the deeper layers of the skin. Since collagen is a critical protein that gives the skin its structure and firmness, these therapies can help to reduce laxity in the brows, face and neck region.

Radiofrequency (RF): Radiofrequency energy based devices like Thermage® use RF energy to do much the same thing as ultrasound. The heat produced by the device travels into the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production. While ultrasound therapy is typically used around the face and neck, RF therapy may also be used in areas like the arms, abdomen and thighs.

Radiofrequency microneedling (RF microneedling): To further stimulate collagen production, some popular RF energy-based devices–such as Morpheus8™, Sylfirm X® and Profound®–are combined with microneedling, which entails the use of very small needles to create tiny punctures in your skin. These “micro-injuries” trigger the body’s natural healing response, improving skin tone and firming the targeted areas. Each device has some unique features, like the depth they penetrate into the skin, which can be discussed with your physician as you consider options.

Thread Lift: A thread lift is not an energy-based device like the above devices but rather a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of dissolvable threads into the skin through small incisions. These threads, made of biocompatible material, can be used to support sagging tissue. Thread lifts are commonly performed on the midface, jowls, and neck. Incisions are typically closed with adhesive strips or sutures. Although thread lifts are considered “non-invasive”, they should not be taken lightly as there may be rare but serious associated risks such as infection, extrusion, and nerve injuries. Additionally, the outcomes and longevity may be variable and unpredictable.

Micro-coring: Micro-coring is a novel facial rejuvenation method that removes part of the skin to combat wrinkles and smooth out the targeted areas. The most popular micro-coring treatment, Ellacor®, works by piercing the skin with small hollow needles. These needles remove excess tissue, making the skin tighter. The small size of these needles allows for the reduction of excess skin volume without the production of scars.

Except for thread lifting, the results of most skin tightening treatments typically occur over time and utilize the natural processes of your body, such as collagen production.

Changes are typically not drastic or immediate. And the duration of results can vary for not just each procedure but for each individual patient, depending on factors like age, skin condition, and lifestyle. This means the downtime and the number of treatments required to achieve ideal outcomes will be different for everyone based on the technology that is used.

A key point is that while these procedures can provide long-term benefits and provide improvements in skin laxity, they cannot achieve the results one would expect with a facelift, brow lift or neck lift. These treatments also do not improve volume loss, which is better addressed with fillers or fat grafting. Ideal candidates for these energy-based devices are generally in the 30- to 50-year-old age range; they can expect results to last from six months to two years.

Beyond surgical options like a facelift, patients can also explore therapies like laser resurfacing and smoothing treatments. Given the fast pace of advances in recent years, there are now a myriad of non-invasive options to explore depending on your goals, timeline, and desired outcomes.

Providers of these treatments should have specific training on the procedures they offer, from the manufacturer or otherwise. Mastery of the technique is a must. And a board certification in a related field, like dermatology or plastic surgery, is always a plus.

Before you go

Be sure to discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history with the provider before the procedure. Let them know about any previous aesthetic treatments you’ve had, especially in the areas you’re targeting and any medications you’re currently taking.

Instructions for how to prepare will vary based on the treatment you choose, but they often include avoiding certain substances (like alcohol and tobacco) and staying hydrated. You’ll typically be asked not to wear makeup on skincare products on the day itself. Whatever the guidelines, be sure to follow them closely.

During the procedure

Depending on the treatment, the provider might apply a numbing cream or local anesthesia to the treatment area to minimize discomfort. You should expect to spend less than an hour undergoing minimally invasive techniques, like basic RF treatments, and up to two hours for more involved procedures, like a thread lift.

Skin Tightening Treatment Aftercare

Your provider should give you post-procedure instructions. Again, depending on the treatment, these guidelines can vary, but they’ll often include avoiding sun exposure and certain activities or medications.

After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, bruising or tenderness in the treated areas. The duration of discomfort can vary, from a few hours to several days. But even with the more involved techniques, such feelings should have subsided within a week.