There are multiple non-surgical technologies available for non-surgical skin tightening. Morpheus8® has established itself as one of the most effective. It uses radio waves to cause heating and minor trauma to the deepest layers of the skin, which in turn stimulates a healing response that can firm and tighten the skin and improve skin texture.
As with any technology, the device is only as good as the user. Dr. Goldman’s team has extensive experience with this and other technologies, allowing us to customize the treatment for you. Morpheus8® has adjustable settings, including depth and power, that allow our advanced practice providers to be more or less aggressive with treatments and to treat different skin types or areas of the face and body.
Morpheus8® is non-ablative, meaning it does not damage the top layer of the skin like resurfacing lasers do. This means there is minimal to no downtime after the procedure because healing occurs in the deeper layers of the skin. (If you are interested in skin resurfacing for sun damage and wrinkles, please refer to our laser section. If you are not sure which treatment is best for you, consult with us virtually or in person to find out more about these and other options.)
The most commonly treated areas are the neck, face, thighs, and upper arms. Morpheus8® can also be combined with other treatments, like Aveli for cellulite or Coolsculpting for fat reduction and skin tightening. Dr. Goldman even uses it as an adjunct to facial rejuvenation surgery.
Morpheus8® is a non-surgical treatment designed to rejuvenate and revitalize the skin through advanced fractional radiofrequency technology. Combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy, Morpheus8® targets deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture, tone, and elasticity.
This innovative procedure is ideal for addressing various skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and uneven skin texture. By penetrating beneath the surface, Morpheus8® encourages the skin’s natural healing process, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance. This minimally invasive treatment offers significant benefits with minimal downtime, making it a popular choice for those seeking effective skin rejuvenation.
Before your procedure, you'll have a consultation with our expert team to discuss your goals and create a personalized treatment plan. This includes reviewing your medical history and addressing any questions you may have to make sure Morpheus8® is right for you.
On the day of your treatment, a topical numbing cream will be applied for about 30 minutes to the treatment area to help you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. Then, the Morpheus8® device will be gently pressed against your skin. The radiofrequency energy will be delivered, which produces a heat sensation. This can be intense for some patients. The treatment typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated.
After the procedure, you may notice redness, swelling, or mild discomfort, similar to a mild sunburn. These effects are temporary and usually subside within 1-3 days. You can return to your regular activities the next day, but we recommend avoiding sun exposure for a week or less.
Yes, Morpheus8® is suitable for every skin type and skin tone. Because the treatment is non-ablative (does not damage the skin surface), all skin types, including dark skin types, can be treated with minimal risk of hyperpigmentation. Settings are adjusted for darker skin, so finding providers experienced with this technology, like Dr. Goldman’s team, is critical.
Morpheus8® is versatile and can be used on any body part that needs collagen renewal. The most common target areas are the lower face and the neck, but Morpheus8® can also be used on the decolletage, chest, arms, abdomen, back, waist, hips, buttocks, knees, and thighs. Settings are adjusted depending on the site being treated, so the provider must be experienced with this technology to get the best results. Since Dr. Goldman’s team also has extensive experience with surgical options, like Dr. Goldman’s deep plane face lift and 360 abdominoplasty, we can also let you know if non-surgical treatment is realistic to meet your goals.
The number of Morpheus8® sessions required for optimal results varies, but most patients have 3-4 treatments, spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Skin healing (and therefore tightening) continues for 3-6 months after each treatment, so end results are typically observed within that time frame.
The factors that influence the number of Morpheus8® sessions you need include:
During your initial consultation, we’ll work together to determine a personalized treatment plan based on your goals and needs, to see if Morpheus8® is right for you.
Collagen and elastin production and development take time; the final results typically are evident 3-6 months after the last treatment session. However, early effects are often visible a month or so after each treatment session.
Morpheus8® is safe with minimal side effects, including temporary redness, swelling, and minor discomfort. Bruising occasionally occurs and is typically mild. Pigmentary changes are rare but can happen. Some patients experience mild, temporary sensitivity or numbness of the skin. Hair loss can occur, so men cannot treat hair-bearing areas of their face or neck if they do not want to risk some loss of beard follicles.
To find out if Morpheus8® radiofrequency microneedling is right for you, and to find out about other non-surgical and surgical options for your skin, feel free to contact Dr. Goldman’s team at Beachwood Plastic Surgery, Westlake Plastic Surgery, The Surgeon's Spa - Beachwood, or The Surgeon's Spa - Westlake today.
