At ALEA Health, more and more patients are asking about Morpheus8 treatments. Most people understandably become self-conscious about wrinkles and saggy skin as they age. Unfortunately, our skin naturally loses its firmness and elasticity as we age. Even top-of-the-line creams and serums aren’t cutting it for many patients anymore. Yet invasive surgery seems too extreme, expensive, or time-consuming. 

The good news is that new non-surgical cosmetics technologies can now offer the option of a lower price tag and less recovery time, but with similar benefits of a facelift. Morpheus8 is one of those treatments, and my patients have been consistently thrilled with the results. Morpheus8 can help lift, and tighten sagging skin, and even address acne scars and stretch marks.  

What is Morpheus8?

Morpheus8 is a treatment that combines microneedling technology with radiofrequency therapy to stimulate natural collagen production, reduce excess adipose (fat) tissue, and help resurface the skin. Morpheus8 can be used on the face, neck, and body to tighten and firm sagging or wrinkled problem areas. Unlike some non-surgical cosmetic technologies, Morpheus8 works well on all skin tones. 

Using a handheld device, tiny, hair-like needles create micro-punctures in the skin while radiofrequency (RF) energy is channeled below the skin’s surface. The micro-punctures trigger your natural healing responses by boosting collagen production–which is amplified by RF energy

What does Morpheus8 treat?

Morpheus8 treats several common skin issues:

1. Wrinkles and creases on the face and neck
2. Sagging skin on the lower face, or “jowls” underneath the chin and jaw
3. Sun-damaged skin
4. Loose skin anywhere on the body, such as “bra fat”
5. Active acne
6. Acne scars, or other types of scars, such as post-operative scars or scars secondary to injury
7. Stretch marks
8. Hyperpigmentation or “age spots”
9. Stretch marks 
10. Large pores

Where can Morpheus8 treat?

Morpheus8 is FDA-cleared to treat any area on the body that could benefit from RF microneedling skin rejuvenation. Customized to target your specific skin goals and concerns, Morpheus8 improves skin texture, tones and tightens the skin, diminishes the signs of aging, and reduces the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Some of the most common treatment areas include:

•  Face
• Neck
• Abdomen
• Buttocks
• Thighs
• Legs

What Makes Morpheus8 Quick and Easy?

Downtime is one of the most common reasons patients put off having more extensive cosmetic procedures. Morpheus8, in contrast, offers visible results without a very invasive manner. 

The treatment is quick and is done in the office. It usually takes anywhere between 20-60 minutes, depending on how many areas are treated. 

We will first numb your face with a topical anesthetic about 60 minutes before your procedure to ensure that you are comfortable. Then, your treatment with Morpheus8 will start, usually, as you lie in a reclined position. Morpheus8 has an excellent balance between results and comfort: many patients report that treatment is more comfortable than other skin tightening methods they’ve experienced in the past. Because Morpheus 8 delivers energy below the skin’s surface, the RF energy does not pass through the sensitive surface of the skin—reducing the sensation of heat and overall discomfort. Most patients report a “pricking” sensation but don’t feel like treatments are painful and ultimately report the results are well worth it.

All practices are different, but after the procedure, we have a post-treatment regimen with a medical-grade hyaluronic acid serum, which further enhances the results while protecting your healing skin. Immediately after, you may experience temporary redness and tenderness (similar to a sunburn), but these effects are short-lived and easily tolerated. 

How long is recovery after Morpheus8?

One of the biggest advantages of Morpheus8 treatment is that there is virtually no downtime. Many patients return to work and/or resume regular activities the day after treatment. You’ll want to wait 24-48 hours before wearing makeup and keep the area well-moisturized for 2-5 days following the procedure. You may experience some redness and a little swelling, but these should subside completely within a week and are easily concealed with cosmetics. Be sure, however, to avoid direct sunlight for a full week after treatment. As always, if you are experiencing unusual pain or any worrisome symptoms, call our office and let us know.   

Because Morpheus8 works in part by stimulating natural collagen production, results will take a little while to materialize fully. You will see a difference within a few days, yes, but the most impressive results will show up at about 3 weeks and may continue to improve for up to 3 months before stabilizing. Most patients will need between 2 and 4 Morpheus8 treatments to achieve maximum results, and those treatments will need to be spaced 4-6 weeks apart to allow skin and tissue adequate time to heal. After this initial series of treatments, you will likely only need one maintenance treatment per year.