RF Facial Lifting

RF lifting (RF stands for radio frequency) is a procedure that heats the skin and subcutaneous fat tissue by passing a high-frequency electrical current through them or by exposing them to a high-frequency electric field in order to achieve the desired cosmetic effect.

There are many devices available for RF lifting, and manufacturers incorporate various versions of RF technology into them: different frequencies and current strengths may be used, programs for automatically adjusting parameters during the procedure may be implemented, and various methods for reducing the pain associated with heating may be employed.

However, the actual effect of RF lifting is achieved solely by raising the temperature in the tissues, and this procedure involves inflicting controlled thermal damage on the tissues, which triggers reparative processes within them. Therefore, a procedure will be effective only if it ensures a sufficient increase in temperature at the desired depth for the required duration.

If the skin is heated to less than 42°C, the procedure will be completely safe, but the result will be comparable to the effect of applying a heating pad.

When exposed to temperatures of 43–44°C, denaturation changes begin to occur in proteins, ensuring the desired result. The safe duration during which such a temperature can be maintained in the tissue without the risk of burns is measured in minutes.

Heating to 45–50°C produces a pronounced effect, but the duration of exposure to such temperatures must be measured in seconds. For example, heating a tissue area to 50°C should not exceed 20 seconds per treatment session.

The maximum effect is achieved when the tissue temperature exceeds 50°C. Such temperatures require even shorter exposure times. Exposure with these parameters is implemented in Thermage technology.

Heating tissues above 60°C is not used in RF lifting, as it leads to severe thermal damage.

Thus, the effectiveness of the procedure depends both on the physician’s qualifications—who must strike a delicate balance between effectiveness and safety while accounting for the patient’s individual characteristics—and on the equipment used, which must allow for precise dosing of the treatment.

Compatibility with Other Procedures

On the one hand, RF lifting is a completely self-sufficient procedure; on the other hand, it perfectly complements other treatments, such as photorejuvenation, chemical peels, and mesotherapy.

The use of radiofrequency lifting helps maintain the effects of plastic surgery in the long term, eliminating the need for repeat surgeries.