SKIN TIGHTENING
Nonsurgical Skin Tightening – Ultrasound Skin Tightening – Radiofrequency Skin Tightening – Laser Skin Tightening – Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Skin Tightening
Introduction
We understand that there are many ways to address fine lines and wrinkles, but what can we do about skin that has lost its elasticity? No amount of makeup, diet or exercise will improve sagging skin. Before considering surgical remedies, non-surgical skin tightening could offer a significant benefit. It is a popular procedure and there are several methods that produce remarkable results.
Who Is a Candidate for Skin Tightening?
- A person who has sagging skin on the face, neck, or anywhere on the body.
- A person who is in good overall health
- A person who wishes to diminish the signs of aging by rejuvenating the skin with a non-surgical procedure
Who Is Not a Candidate for Skin Tightening?
- A person who has chronic health problems or a woman who is pregnant
- A person who wishes to see immediate results, as most methods take several treatments over time to produce results
SKIN TIGHTENING Procedure
There are 4 procedures currently approved for nonsurgical skin tightening:
- Ultrasound – Heat is applied deep into the skin to cause the body to produce collagen. Results are visible within 2-6 months after a single treatment.
- Radiofrequency – The tissue beneath the skin is heated with a handheld device. Although some tightening can be felt immediately, full results will not be apparent until 6 months later. Multiple treatments may be required to produce desired results.
- Laser – Laser skin rejuvenation utilizes a single wavelength or combination of several different wavelengths to create an injury to the skin that will result in new collagen formation and subsequent skin tightening. One or more than one treatment may be required, and final results will not be evident until up to 6 months later.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) – After providing eye protection, a handpiece directs infrared light heat to the deep layer of the skin. Multiple treatments may be required.
- Procedures for currently available cellulite reduction use one or more of the following technologies:
- Laser
- Vacuum
- Mechanical massage
- Infrared light
- Ultrasound high-frequency sound waves
- Magnetic pulsed fields
- Multipolar radio frequency ±
- It is very important to closely follow any instructions that are given to you by your cosmetic surgeon.
- In most cases, patients can return to normal activities immediately following non-surgical skin tightening.
- Patients may experience mild redness, swelling or bruising after a skin-tightening procedure.
Notes
The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are rare.
Are you considering a Skin Tightening procedure? Visit our Find a Surgeon Directory to find a highly-qualified cosmetic surgeon near you.
Reviewed by J. Kevin Duplechain, MD, who specializes in facial cosmetic surgery and skincare in Lafayette, Louisiana.