Secret RF Fractional Radiofrequency Microneedling

Large pores, unsightly acne scars, uneven skin tone and sagging skin? Secret RF utilizes cutting edge RF energy to help restore radiant skin!

• Intense collagen stimulation by radiofrequency signal leads to skin lifting, tightening and elimination of wrinkles and large pores
• No downtime, no bruising
• FDA approved

FAST FACTS

About: Secret RF is a fractional radiofrequency device that delivers radiofrequency energy through several tiny needles that puncture the skin at various depths in a controlled manner. This causes thermal damage to the targeted dermal layers, triggering the body’s natural healing response by producing collagen to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars, tighten lax skin, and smooth out the overall quality and texture of the skin. 

Safety: Radiofrequency microneedling has gone through multiple steps of clinical trials to win its FDA approval in NYC as a safe and effective treatment to improve the skin’s quality. SRF is non-ablative and fractional, causing minimal damage to superficial layers of the skin for a speedy recovery with minimal downtime.

Convenience: There is no preparation needed for Secret RF and the associated downtime is minimal. The procedure takes no longer than 30 – 60 minutes, making it quick and easy for even those with a busy schedule.

Cost: The average cost of Secret RF ranges $900 – 1600 per single session.

Efficacy: Several clinical trials in New York have proven Secret RF to be an effective and safe method to better the texture of the skin and reverse signs of aging, scarring, and uneven skin texture.

SECRET RF FRACTIONAL MICRONEEDLING: WHAT IS IT?

Uneven skin texture comes in many forms and affects nearly everyone beyond their teenage years. Whether it be acne scars, rhytids and wrinkles, discoloration, sun spots, freckles, or beginning signs of skin laxity, most of us have one or the other concern when it comes to the quality of our skin. In New York, which is a capital for self-obsession and self-improvement, a lot of models, actors, and social media influencers who may look perfect on magazine covers and in movies, naturally have textured skin that is oftentimes disguised with makeup and photoshop.

Secret RF is a minimally invasive skin tightening procedure that combines microneedling with the advanced technology of radiofrequency (RF) energy delivery. This controlled microneedling tool punctures the skin while simultaneously delivering thermal RF energy into deep dermal layers all the way down to the superficial musculoaponeurotic (SMAS) layer of the skin. Common outcomes of this process is heat- assisted transformation of local tissues. As a response to the punctures from the needles and thermal damage caused by the radiofrequency, the body’s natural healing response is triggered, stimulating collagen and elastin in the treated area. As a result, the treated tissues undergo thermal alteration and remodelling on a cellular level. The visual effect is that dermal layers become tighter, firmer, and stronger, causing a reduction in skin impurities and uneven texture. Dr. Schwarzburg notes that the treatment can be utilized on a variety of regions of the face, neck, decolletage, and body for a number of cosmetic purposes that can be useful to both men and women of various ages. At his cosmetic dermatology practice in NYC, Secret RF radiofrequency microneedling is one of the most popular treatments that delivers consistent and reproducible results for skin lifting and tightening.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND SECRET RF MICRONEEDLING

Secret RF microneedling utilizes both the benefits of microneedling and radiofrequency thermal energy in the form of a hand-held mechanical microneedling device equipped with 25 – 64 ultra-fine gold-coated needles. The maximum energy output is 50 W and can be adjusted to lower levels based on each individual patient’s needs. The mechanics behind the device allow the needles to pulse at different speeds and depths from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm maximum, allowing the punctures and radiofrequency to target various dermal layers including the deepest layer, SMAS, of the skin. Throughout this process, the device targets the structural system of the skin with controlled RF thermal damage of 60° Celcius. This causes neocollagenesis and microscopic scarring, as collagen production is stimulated as a natural healing response in the dermal layers and adjacent structures. Dr. Schwarzburg explains that the term “fractional microneedling” implies that only a certain fraction of the skin gets controlled thermal ablation through microneedling. During Secret RF treatment at Skinly Aesthetics clinic in New York depending on the settings anywhere from 20-50% in the treatment areas gets pierced, while the rest is left untouched. What this means is that undamaged columns of skin help neighboring thermally coagulated sections to repair faster leading to an overall healthier looking skin. As the puncture wounds close up, the surrounding skin get tighter as miniscarring leads to overall contraction of the cutaneous layer.

Collagen is a vital protein in the skin, responsible for its structure and function keeping it firm, strong, and supple. Collagen is the primary component to the skin’s healing response as you can observe in a small cut, for example. When you have a cut, it first turns into a scab, followed by skin tightening pulling the open cut back together – this is due to the effects of collagen induced contractioin. With Secret RF, the same phenomenon occurs, but in deeper dermal layers and covering a larger surface, such as the face, for an overall tightening and smoothing effect.

HOW DOES SECRET RF DIFFER FROM REGULAR MICRONEEDLING?

Traditional microneedling involves the use of a hand held device with several tiny needles attached to the tip. There are several types of microneedling tools, some of which are manually punctured into the skin, and others are mechanical and automatic. Regardless of how the needles are punctured into the skin, the aim is to cause micro-damage to the dermis, triggering the body to make more collagen and repair itself. This results in a more level-textured skin and can help reduce blemishes and repair textured skin.

Secret RF involves the same process, but is superior to traditional microneedling in that it simultaneously delivers thermal radiofrequency energy to deeper dermal tissues. Secret RF fractional microneedling is able to bring faster and more dramatic results to the table, and intensifies the efficacy of the treatment itself. Regular microneedling is typically performed bimonthly for an indefinite amount of time to maintain and perfect the condition of the skin, while Secret RF is able to diminish acne scars, lines, and other signs of aging in 1 – 3 sessions over the course of 1 – 3 months.

WHICH IS BETTER – SECRET RF OR REGULAR MECHANICAL MICRONEEDLING?

In essence, both Secret RF and regular mechanical microneedling function on the same principle; collagen stimulation via controlled damage of the dermis and surrounding structures. Secret RF is more powerful due to its additional benefit of radiofrequency ablative thermal energy, which induces intense inflammatory response with more collagen proliferation. Microneedling is suitable for nearly anyone looking to revamp their skin and give it a fresher, smoother glow. Secret RF on the other hand, is ideal for anyone, even more so for patients who have more severe textural irregularities like scarring and overall signs of aging like wrinkles and mild skin laxity. In some cases, Secret RF fractional microneedling will be a better option than regular microneedling, for example if you have deep acne scars, furrows, and loose skin. However, if you have cystic acne, the heat associated with the radiofrequency may enhance the spread of acne, rather than remedy it, in which case other treatments like the carbon laser facial may be more effective. The best way to determine whether fractional radiofrequency microneedling is best suited for your own skin is to come see Dr. Schwarzburg at his cosmetic surgery practice in New York. 

SECRET RF VS OTHER RESURFACING TREATMENTS

There are numerous methods of skin resurfacing on the market, all of which serve their unique purpose; however one of the primary advantages of radiofrequency microneedling is that it offers incredible results without causing physical injury to the epidermis otherwise brought about by ablative skin resurfacing treatments like chemical peels or aggressive lasers. Because RF microneedling bypasses the epidermis and targets deeper layers, it eliminates the side effects of skin peeling and blistering, severe post-procedural discomfort, risk of hyperpigmentation and scarring, and poses significantly less downtime than other skin resurfacing procedures. 

We all have things to do and places to be in NYC, whether that be work, social gatherings, or date nights. No one wants to sit at home for 2 weeks waiting for their skin to recover, regardless of the final result once the healing process is over. Taking this into account, many patients prefer this method over more intrusive dermal rejuvenation.

SECRET RF VS. FRAXEL LASER

Both Secret RF and Fraxel laser are designed to refine and improve the condition of the skin and its imperfections, though they differ in approach and functionality. Secret RF is an ablative microneedling tool targeting the SMAS layer of the skin, emitting electromagnetic thermal energy upon dermal penetration. Fraxel laser, on the other hand, is a non-ablative fractional laser remodeling that targets the epidermis and upper dermis, both of which are more superficial than the SMAS layer. As such, Fraxel is an excellent option if you have dark spots, sun damage, crepey skin, or pigmentation on the surface of your skin. If you’ve spent a lot of time in the sun, have freckles or hyperpigmentation that weren’t there in the past, then Fraxel is your answer. With so many options available, it is hard to differentiate between one or the other and to figure out which one is right for you. In some cases, both Fraxel and Secret RF are used because they serve different purposes and work beautifully in conjunction with one another, especially if you want to treat deep acne scars or wrinkles. 

In essence, Secret RF is ideal if you want to tighten your skin at deeper levels, while Fraxel covers the surface and more superficial concerns.

The best way to find out which treatment is right for you, is to consult with Dr. Schwarzburg at his clinic in New York, and he will fully analyze your particular case and compose the optimal course of action to meet your unique needs. Everyone’s skin is different, and there is no single approach that will suit every individual, which is why it is extremely important to consult with an experienced board certified cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist with an extraordinary understanding of the complexity of the cutaneous layers and anatomical structure of the area to be treated. 

WHY IS RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING SO POPULAR?

No one on the face of the earth has ever said, “I wish my skin was rougher”. Glowy, glossy, flawless skin is something that everyone strives for along all genders, ages, and professions. Unless you are 12 years old or below, the chances of you having this lustrous look are slim, which is completely normal. Our skin is affected by day to day life with its ebb and flow, from environmental factors like humidity, dryness, sun damage, and pollution, to lack of sleep, stress, and hormonal factors raising cortisol levels that are immediately evident on the surface. Some have it worse than others, but the bottom line is that clear skin generally makes life easier. Acne scars, wrinkles, uneven texture, all affect our self esteem and can make it uncomfortable to take selfies, feel confident at a job interview, apply makeup evenly, or look your very best on a photoshoot – yes, models and celebrities like Kendall Jenner struggle with this issue, just as you do!

There are a lot of ways to combat uneven skin, scarring, rhytids, and laxity, though many of them require time, patience, and in some cases, downtime meaning you need to take a week off from work to recover. One thing that we can all agree on is that fast, easy, and long term results are the best; this is why Secret RF is so popular. Not only will you see improvement within 1 month after your first session, but you will only need up to 3 sessions total over the course of 3 months to repair the problem area with minimal to no downtime. RF microneedling can be used to treat a wide range of dermal concerns from beginning signs of aging, mild skin laxity, and various types of scarring. It is also great for anyone looking to generally revamp their appearance with bi-annual maintenance sessions.

RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING TREATMENT AREAS

Because the needle applicator penetrates through all dermal layers deep down to the SMAS, it is fully adjustable in terms of settings to achieve a particular goal that the doctor has in mind. Whether it’s the depth of the needle punctures, speed of energy pulses, or Watt energy level output, this derma needling tool can be used on nearly any surface of the face, neck, and body. This minimally invasive technology proved itself extremely versatile, and is able to address almost any textural skin concern, whether it be the lines around your eyes and forehead that you’ve noticed becoming increasingly deeper over time, or deep acne scarring and dilated pores that you’ve been left with after finally recovering from your cystic acne breakouts, or stretch marks that became more prominent after pregnancy. 

Dr. Schwarzburg reminds that the neck and decolletage are extremely sensitive areas and are often neglected as most of his patients in New York tend to focus mainly on the face. Secret RF can remedy sun damage, mild lax skin, and melasma in these areas as well. If you’ve lost some weight and have noticed a bit of laxity around your belly, arms, or legs, Secret RF may be able to help as well depending on the severity of your case.

SECRET RF TO LIFT AND TIGHTEN THE NECK

Neck rejuvenation is a complicated and challenging multifactorial problem that requires different treatment approaches to achieve satisfying outcomes. For the longest time nonexcisional correction of facial soft tissue laxity has remained elusive. Various superficial improvements in skin texture could be achieved through chemical peels, non-ablative lasers, and advanced facials. However, as energy-assisted devices proliferated and the technology became more refined and precise the opportunities to improve neck laxity have expanded dramatically. Neck aging is a multifaceted process and is not just about the loss of skin elasticity. 

Fractional RF microneedling plays a critical role in this remodeling process by heating soft tissues to 50°C and the skin surface to 42°C triggering neocollagenesis, angiogenesis and elastogenesis. However, the best optimal results in tightening and contracting the skin around the neck can be achieved when a combination of different non-surgical modalities is used in combination as discussed below.

Abnormal fat distribution and migration result in submental and submandibular fullness obliterating a distinct mandibular border. Excess fat also results in the reduction of cervicomental angle, which normally measures 105-120 degrees between the distal tip of the chin and the middle of the neck, but gradually becomes less distinct. Abnormal fat accumulation in these compartments can be effectively reduced or totally removed via surgical or non-surgical modalities. Neck liposuction is an effective and proven solution to excess fat in the neck, but requires a long recovery period. CoolsSculpting chin cryolipolysis emerged as a minimally invasive alternative and works by freezing stubborn fat in the submental region in only 1-2 sessions without any kind of downtime. Kybella is an injectable medication that breaks down lipid cell wall and bursts fat cells to permanently eliminate under the chin fat. 

Overactive platysmal muscle adds another layer of complexity by shadowing neck and jaw profiles. Contracted platysmal muscle creates a hammock between the jawline and the clavicle resulting in a bow-string effect pulling away from the slim and tubular neck. Age-related changes to the fascia allow the contents of platysma to “bulge” creating classic long, vertical bands. Botox injections have proved to be an indispensable tool to keep strong platysmal contractions at bay, halt the progression of platysmal bands or stop them from developing altogether. Over time the skin itself gets stretched out from repetitive cycles of contraction-relaxation and starts resembling “turkey neck” or “turkey wattle” and if you are at that stage then botox injections will be fruitless. When Dr. Schwarzburg finds his patients in this condition his immediate recommendation is to start a series of Secret RF treatments to abate the skin laxity and to redrape the skin beautifully around the neck.   

Chin anatomy can’t be overlooked when dealing with the restoration of youthful neck contours. Age or pathological causes lead to demineralization of the lower jaw and teeth influencing the look of the overlying soft tissues, and creating a shortened submental space with distorted and faded anterior neck contour. Chin fillers offer an excellent remedy to receding bone and help recover distinct chin proportions to emphasize and heighten the neck length both anteriorly and in profile. 

Laxity of the mandibulocutaneous ligament contributes to jowling, which results from tethering of the descending facial tissues at this ligament. As the redundant skin accumulates lateral to the marionette lines it creates a characteristic tired or sad look, which most patients find extremely frustrating and unflattering. Strengthening of this ligament is critical to reverse downward descent of skin and subcutaneous tissues. The ligament is located deep in the subcutaneous layer and reaching this supporting structure requires needles to penetrate at least 4mm to exert tightening effects. Secret RF microneedling is capable of piercing the skin up to 5mm deep and spreading the energy sufficient to cause micro-scarring and microcontractions to lift and tighten the skin.

FRACTIONAL RF MICRONEEDLING FOR STRETCH MARKS

Most of us are prone to developing stretch marks – women more the men secondary to anatomical and hormonal differences. As the name suggests the unsightly skin stripes appear when the skin gets extremely stretched out secondary to pregnancy, hormonal changes during puberty, excessive weight loss or gain and even quick muscle growth. Most commonly the stretch marks are visible on the stomach, the butt and thigh regions. These unpleasant skin marks often leave us self-conscious and prevent from wearing a favorite swimsuit or enjoying our time on the beach in that pretty bikini. 

This “stretching” is actually a poorly healed tear in the second layer of your skin – dermis, while the top layer or epidermis remains intact. The classic presentation of stretch marks involves thinned-out, glossy or indented lines and streaks of varying length and width, which can be pink, white, purple or even brown in color. 

Secret RF fractional microneedling essentially repairs that faulty glitch in the healing process by stimulating collagen proliferation in the dermis and filling and reinforcing the thinned-out matrix with collagen. Over a series of 1-4 treatments, your skin will be completely revitalized allowing you to enjoy your life unrestricted and not limited by that skin imperfection.   

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR SECRET RF MICRONEEDLING?

Secret RF can be advantageous for most skin types and many concerns in terms of skin tone and quality. If you have blemishes, pockmarks, acne scars, or enlarged pores, this tool can be a great aid in correcting and potentially eliminating them for good. Crepey, wrinkly, tired looking loose skin can also be mitigated with 1 – 3 rounds of fractional microneedling.

Contraindications that will disqualify you from being a candidate for Secret RF include the tendency to form keloid scars, active eczema, psoriasis, or cystic acne in the area to be treated. You should also avoid microneedling if you are pregnant, and always consult with Dr. Schwarzburg who practices in New York City to confirm that it is safe for you to move forward with this ablative microneedling procedure.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE MY SECRET RF APPOINTMENT?

There is no preparation necessary for a radiofrequency facial, though it is best to avoid direct sun exposure for approximately one week prior to avoid making your skin more sensitive to the radiofrequency heat. Dr. Schwarzburg also recommends discontinuing blood thinners and alcohol 1 week beforehand, as it may increase bruising and extend your recovery time. If you are prone to bruising, you may take arnica supplements the day before your appointment to help mitigate minor hematomas, which sometimes form secondary to punctured tiny capillaries from the needles. You should also show up to your appointment with cleansed, makeup free skin. If you have any upcoming social events, be sure to consider 2 – 3 days of social downtime after your appointment and schedule accordingly.

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURAL PROCESS OF FRACTIONAL RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING?

The first step to getting your glowing skin is a consultation with Dr. Schwarzburg at his medical practice in NYC. At this time you will talk to him about what exactly is bothering you, how long it has been an issue and disclose your medical history to him. This is also the best time for you to direct any questions or concerns you might have, while he assembles the appropriate treatment plan to meet your aesthetic goals. 

On the day of your appointment, the area will be sanitized and makeup removed, followed by the application of a topical 20% lidocaine cream which will be left to settle for 20 – 30 minutes until numb. Once you are numb, the cream will be removed and the microneedling process can begin. If you are particularly sensitive to pain, you can ask Dr. Schwarzburg and his team about ProNox, a nitrous oxide and oxygen gas, that will keep you calm and minimize pain. Depending on your pain tolerance, the sensation is typically described as hot prickling. All together your Secret RF session will last 20 – 30 minutes after which you will be given ice packs and a special cream that should be applied thoroughly for the 5 – 7 days following to keep the skin hydrated and moist to prevent any complications and speed up the healing process.

HOW LONG IS THE PROCEDURE?

All in all you can expect to spend about 1 hour at your appointment. The first 20 – 30 minutes will be spent numbing, while the microneedling itself takes up to 30 minutes. If you tolerate everything well, it may take as little as 15 – 20 minutes – this also depends on the size of the surface area that you are getting treated.

IS RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING PAINFUL?

In general, most patients are able to manage the pain associated with electromagnetic radiofrequency ablation fairly well, though it can be somewhat uncomfortable. Lidocaine is always applied beforehand to make the needle punctures and heat of radiofrequency emissions less painful. Because the device targets deep dermis and the superficial muscular aponeurotic layer of the skin, which happens to be the deepest layer, most patients will still feel some discomfort. For those that have extreme sensitivities to pain, a mix of oxygen and nitrous gas may be used to make the procedure and patient more comfortable.

WHAT IS THE AFTERCARE AND DOWNTIME FOR FRACTIONAL LASER MICRONEEDLING?

Fractional RF microneedling has almost no downtime as the procedure is minimally invasive and partially ablative. You may experience some erythema, edema, and itching for approximately 3 days after your appointment; during this time you should forgo alcoholic beverages and heat, and skip the gym as it may increase inflammation. Redness and facial swelling are expected and necessary, they both signify that the treatment is working and that the controlled thermal injury activated the necessary repair mechanisms responsible for skin rejuvenation.

If you have any social outings, important face to face work meetings, or an occasion in which you would want to look your best, you should schedule your appointment accordingly and give yourself 3 days to recover from the associated side effects. In some cases, the micro-needles may puncture tiny blood vessels in the treated area, which can cause blood leakage under the skin, also known as bruising. Though this side effect is typically mild, you may apply a hot compress once the swelling has gone down to speed up the healing process of the bruising. Otherwise, you are free to resume normal activities immediately after your treatment without restriction.

IS IT OKAY TO APPLY MAKEUP AFTER RF LASER MICRONEEDLING?

Yes! It is okay to apply makeup to the treated area 24 hours after your Secret RF appointment. Because of the micro-wounds caused by the needle punctures, your skin should be clean until the wounds close up to avoid infection or irritation. Dr. Schwarzburg will give you a cream to apply for the following week to keep your skin moisturized, as dryness is common after the administration of any form of microneedling. If possible, try to skip your makeup routine until fully healed.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED TO GET SECRET RF?

The frequency of fractional ablative microneedling sessions depends on several factors and is different for everyone. In cases where you have deep acne scars, for example, Dr. Schwarzburg recommends that you need to get 3 – 4 sessions over the course of 3 – 4 months to achieve optimal results. If your goal is to generally improve the condition of your skin or maintain its youthful glow, then 1 – 3 yearly sessions will suffice. Your biological response also contributes to how many rounds you will need, as some of his patients in New York respond better than others and are able to attain excellent results after only 1 application.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS AFTER MY TREATMENT?

You will see immediate improvement after your initial radiofrequency facial session with smoother and plumper skin with increased luminosity. Dr. Schwarzburg’s patients in NYC universally report that the skin becomes soft and silky to touch with the healthy glow. However, one of the amazing benefits of Secret RF is that your skin continues to produce excess collagen for several weeks post treatment, ameliorating your results over time. In the case that you come back for more than just 1 round, your dermal radiance will be boosted over the course of 6 – 8 months becoming increasingly greater!

EVALUATING BEFORE AND AFTER RESULTS FOLLOWING RF MICRONEEDLING TREATMENT

Everyone has their own reasons for getting Secret RF skin remodeling. Maybe you’ve been struggling with the appearance of your face since your teenage years, dealing with cystic acne and the unfortunate aftereffect of craters and scarring. You might be noticing some changes in the elasticity of your skin along your jawline and neck, as it just doesn’t feel as firm and supple as it once was. It could also be as simple as wanting to maintain your fresh-faced glow as you enter the second half of your 20s. Regardless of your unique reason, you will see major improvements in all of the above after the appropriate number of radiofrequency microneedling sessions. Your skin will be tighter, smoother, more vibrant, and all in all healthier than before.

Most patients observe changes in their faces gradually improving over 1-3 months following their needling treatment. If prominent jowls were bothering you and you were tired of constantly thinking of how people perceived you, the change will be striking with skin smoothing out and snapping back to reveal an angular and sharp jawline. Turkey neck is another common complaint that makes patients opt for Secret RF microneedling. After 1-3 applications you will start noticing how the skin is draping itself nicely around the neck again with deep wrinkles fading away. All these processes happen because collagen levels increase rapidly and the skin “reglues” and reattaches itself to the deeper connective tissue layers. 

HOW LONG WILL MY SECRET RF RESULTS LAST?

The longevity of your results will last as long as you maintain them. In other words, there is no single procedure that will keep you looking young and fresh forever if you don’t keep up with a proper regimen by not only nourishing your body, staying hydrated, and using quality products, but by getting follow-up sessions every once in a while to keep the collagen boost going. Dr. Schwarzburg recommends check-ups every 6 months to analyze the status of your skin and to see if further maintenance is needed. 

WHAT OTHER PROCEDURES COMPLEMENT RF MICRONEEDLING?

Radiofrequency microneedling can be used in conjunction with various tools to give you that fresh faced look. First on the list is neurotoxins, which are the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic injectables on the market and include Botox procedures in New York alongside many others. Fine lines and wrinkles can be reduced with SRF, though they are caused by constant muscle contractions and facial expressions which can be temporarily diminished via intramuscular toxin injection, blocking the release of acetylcholine, and in turn minimizing the muscle contractions that otherwise lead to the formation of these pesky rhytids.

If your goal is to lift loose skin, radiofrequency energy can only do so much and is really only ideal for mild laxity. If you have severe sagginess, a better option in combination with Secret is a PDO thread lift, a minimally invasive, non-surgical facelift. 

An unflattering quality that can come about with age, lifestyle, genetics, and hormonal imbalances is hollowness and loss of facial fat under the eyes and in the cheeks. To further improve your overall facial aesthetic, dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane can be injected to fill in this lost volume for a fuller, plumper, and younger look. Other fillers like Radiesse can be used for jawline contouring in those of you wanting a more chiseled jawline in addition to the skin tightening effects of microneedling.

Finally, because Secret RF targets deeper dermal tissues, it typically does not address superficial concerns like hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and age spots. To solve these issues, Fraxel laser resurfacing is an excellent option to produce a more even skin tone and polish up its texture on a more superficial level.

For maintenance, many patients also opt for lighter microneedling and lasers including AquaGold intradermal infusions and carbon laser facials, which can be administered on a more regular basis.

IS SECRET RF SAFE? WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS?

Radiofrequency reparation is FDA approved in NYC as safe and effective and comes with little to no risks or side effects. Most patients experience redness, inflammation, itching, and mild discomfort for up to 3 days. Because the needles do puncture the skin in sometimes more vascular regions, there is always the possibility of a small blood vessel being punctured as well, causing subdermal blood leakage, in other terms, bruising. This goes away just as any other bruise would and is typically very mild. The itching is due to dryness, which can be mitigated with the cream provided to you by Dr. Schwarzburg after your appointment. Overall, your recovery should be quick and painless allowing you to resume normal activities within 2 – 3 days.

If the procedure if performed by an inexperienced provider with an incorrectly selected temperature of coagulation and the depth of penetration there is a high risk of developing skin burns and hyper- or hypopigmentation. That’s why Dr. Schwarzburg advises his patients who reside in New York to painstakingly approach provider selection.  

FRACTIONAL MICRONEEDLING PRICING IN NYC

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $1800 per single fractional microneedling session, which is contingent on numerous factors. The surface area that needs to be addressed is one of them, as a larger plane will take more time and more energy, increasing the cost of your treatment. In addition, the severity and complexity of your case plays a huge role, in that it determines the number of rounds needed to achieve your desired outcome. The number of sittings required will also affect the price, being that more sessions you need will consequently increase the overall cost. Finally, the qualifications and level of expertise of your provider will inevitably have an influence on your rate, given that a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist who specializes in such procedures and has many years of medical experience typically has a better understanding of the anatomical structure and complexities of the dermis and which mechanical settings will suit your needs the best. The skill level of nurse practitioner or esthetician may be harder to grasp, which is why their rates are oftentimes lower. Larger cities like NYC and LA generally are more expensive in all aspects, including in cosmetic and dermatological practices.

IS SECRET RF COVERED BY INSURANCE?

Cutera RF is a cosmetic treatment and is not a medical necessity. As such, it is not covered by insurance. Skinly Aesthetics does accept flexible spending FSA and HSA cards and offers payment plans allowing you to pay everything off in monthly increments.

DOES SECRET RF WORK TO TIGHTEN THE SKIN?

Yes, fractional ablative microneedling is designed to tighten the dermal layers via collagen induced contraction creating a firmer and lifted appearance of droopy skin. However, if you suffer from severe sagging in the jowls, turkey neck, or have loose skin as a result of significant weight loss in the abdominal region, RF microneedling will not suffice. Instead, you should consult with Dr. Schwarzburg and review other treatment options like a non-surgical PDO face lift.

WHAT IS THE BEST AGE TO START MICRONEEDLING?

Microneedling can be beneficial for patients of all ages. In some cases permitted by parental consent, even teenagers come into Dr. Schwarzburg’s NYC clinic to undergo radiofrequency microneedling if he finds that it could be advantageous for them. It is best to start looking into such treatments in your 20s, which is when the quality of your skin begins to degrade depending on your lifestyle and overall health. Collagen production begins to slow down in your mid 20s, making this the ideal time to seek preventative measures to maintain your sprightly glimmer and tone, rather than waiting for inevitable signs of aging to become physically visible.

RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING PROS AND CONS

There are many benefits that come with this rejuvenating tool, including its minimally invasive nature which reflects in its limited downtime, risks and side effects. Fractional facial microneedling is extremely effective as shown in various clinical trials in US and New York, and in Dr. Schwarzburg’s patients own results!

Downsides are that it may require more than just one session to reach your desired outcome, which goes on a case by case basis. It also does not replace a surgical facelift, though it does offer skin tightening in patients with minimal to mild laxity. Finally, it is not ideal for acne prone skin, as the heat emitted by the radiofrequency waves may cause more damage than good and spread the acne, rather than fix it.

TAKEAWAY

Secret RF is a minimally invasive collagen stimulating treatment that works to tighten the skin by targeting all dermal layers deep down to the SMAS layer. It can function as a means to smooth textured skin, treat scarring and irregularities, rhytids and wrinkles. Each session takes approximately 30 minutes, with minimal downtime, risks, or side effects. The number of sittings needed to acquire optimal results varies, though most patients can observe significant improvement after a single session. Others may need up to 4 sessions to get the radiance they would like to achieve.

WHERE DO I GO FOR SECRET RF IN NYC?

If you are on the search for the best place in NYC to get your RF microneedling, then Skinly Aesthetics on the Upper East Side in Manhattan is your spot. Dr. Schwarzburg is a board certified plastic surgeon with over a decade of experience, specializing in minimally invasive procedures, having perfected the execution of Secret RF to meet each of his patient’s individual needs. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Schwarzburg you can contact Skinly via call or text at (212) 774-4264 or email us at info@skinlyaesthetics.com.