Can radiofrequency based tightening procedures “melt” fillers?

Dr. Irwin
March 18, 2013
Greetings! I am beginning a series of Tripolar treatments to tighten the face and neck. I was advised this would not melt any filler because they will be using the "tightening" temperature and not the fat melting temperature. Is this true? Thank you very much!

There is really no scientific data or studies on this but it would depend on the level in the dermis that the filler was placed.   If the filler is placed (like Sculptra)  below the dermis (the layer with all the collagen, etec.) then the radiofrequency shouldn’t affect it. 

Some fillers like Restylane, Juvederm or Belotero may be placed high in the dermis or even at the dermal-epidermal (barrier layer) junction, and then it’s possible the heat generated from the radiofrequncy could affect it.    

Dr. I

Next, learn more about Ulthera and Thermage or skin tightening.  

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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