At Bella Plastic Surgery, we use the Potenza RF to perform this treatment, tailoring the settings to the needs of each treatment area.
What is Potenza RF Microneedling?
Potenza RF Microneedling combines two technologies:
- Micro-Needling – Very fine needles create controlled micro-channels in the skin.
- Radiofrequency Energy – This is delivered through the micro-needles into deeper layers of tissue.
The combination of these two technologies enables controlled energy delivery at specific depths within the skin. This stimulates natural tissue responses involved in skin repair and regeneration.
What is Radiofrequency (RF)?
Radiofrequency (RF) is a form of electromagnetic energy that can be delivered into the skin to generate controlled heat within the tissues. When RF energy reaches the dermis, it can stimulate biological processes involved in producing collagen and elastin, the two structural proteins that support skin and provide elasticity.
Several types of RF energy delivery can be used, depending on requirements.
- Bipolar RF – uses two electrodes close together, allowing energy to travel between them, typically targeting more superficial skin layers.
- Monopolar RF – uses a single electrode and a grounding pad, allowing energy to reach deeper dermal layers.
- Multipolar RF – uses multiple electrodes to distribute energy across the treatment area and can deliver energy to intermediate skin depths.
- Unipolar RF – delivers energy at superficial to mid-level depths in skin tissue.
The RF Micro-Needling Treatment
During treatment, micro-needles are placed into the skin to create controlled micro-injuries. At the same time, radiofrequency energy is delivered into the surrounding tissue.
This combination of mechanical stimulation and controlled heat can activate natural healing responses in the skin. These may include stimulation of collagen production, elastin formation, and other tissue responses involved in skin repair. These changes occur gradually as the skin undergoes its natural healing cycle.
TreatmentAreas
At Bella Plastic Surgery, we usually recommend RF Micro-Needling for certain body areas, including:
- the outer arms
- the submental area (under the chin)
Treatment of these areas may support skin tightening and address the appearance of small, localised fat deposits.
Although RF Skin Needling can help reduce small fat deposits, it is usually not recommended for facial treatments unless there is a specific concern about excess facial fat. However, it may be more appropriate to consider alternative treatments for facial skin conditions, depending on the condition being addressed.
Comfort During Treatment
To help minimise sensations during the procedure, a topical anaesthetic cream is typically applied to the treatment area before RF Micro-Needling. Most patients tolerate the procedure well; however, sensitivity varies depending on the treatment area and individual pain response.
After-Care & Healing
Following your treatment, your treating cosmetic nurse will provide verbal and written after-care instructions.
After treatment, the treated area typically appears red and feels slightly warm or tender. Some individuals may also experience bruising, mild swelling or small amounts of fluid weeping from the skin soon after the procedure. These effects are usually temporary and resolve as the skin heals, although healing time can vary depending on the treatment area and individual healing response.
During recovery, keep the area clean and dry, and allow the scabbing to resolve naturally without disturbing or picking the skin.
Avoid direct sunlight for at least four weeks after treatment.
Avoid active skincare products, including exfoliating acids, retinol or bleaching agents, for at least two weeks.
You will be given a topical cream which should be applied several times daily as directed until the treated area has healed.
Cost of Treatment
The cost of RF Micro-Needling treatment varies depending on the number of recommended sessions, the area being treated, and your individual treatment plan. All costs will be discussed during your consultation after we have assessed the area and determined whether RF Micro-Needling is suitable for you.
Risks & Complications
As with any dermal procedure, RF Micro-Needling carries some risks. Although these complications are uncommon, they may occur. They include delayed or slower-than-expected healing, infection, and changes in pigmentation (e.g., temporary or permanent lightening or darkening of the treated area).
Some patients may experience blistering, crusting or a recurrence of the treated lesion. In rare cases, scarring may develop, including hypertrophic or keloid scarring, in individuals predisposed to this type of healing response.
