Facial laxity is one of the primary aesthetic concerns from the age of 35–40 onwards. Many people seek alternatives to surgical facelift procedures that allow the skin to be tightened without a scalpel or prolonged recovery time.
Amongst the available technologies, radiofrequency has established itself as one of the most widely used options in aesthetic dermatology.
But does it really work? In which cases is it indicated? What results can be expected?
Monopolar radiofrequency: how it works
Monopolar radiofrequency uses electromagnetic energy to generate controlled heat in the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue.
Upon reaching therapeutic temperatures of between 40–45°C in the dermis, the heat causes immediate contraction of the existing collagen fibres and stimulates the production of new collagen over the following weeks. The result is a progressive remodelling of the tissue, which translates into greater firmness and improved skin texture.
In which cases is it indicated?
Scientific evidence supports its use in patients with mild to moderate facial laxity, loss of mandibular definition, and cervical laxity. It is also useful when the goal is to progressively improve overall skin quality without any downtime. It is important to emphasise that it does not replace a surgical facelift when there is excess skin, but it can be an effective alternative for patients seeking progressive results without surgery.
When do results become visible?
The effect occurs in two phases:
- Immediate effect: Due to the thermal contraction of existing collagen.
- Progressive effect: Resulting from the formation of new collagen in the weeks that follow.
Improvement typically becomes more evident between 6 and 12 weeks after treatment and may be maintained for several months, depending on the patient and the protocol used.
How many sessions are required?
There I no single answer. Some monopolar radiofrequency protocols are designed to deliver a single high-energy session per year, with results that consolidate over the course of several months. Other systems work with lower energy levels distributed across multiple sessions, allowing for a more gradual approach adapted to more sensitive skin. The number of sessions depends on factors such as the degree of laxity, the area treated, the individual skin response, and the device used.
Is it painful? Is there any downtime?
During the treatment, an intense but tolerable sensation of heat is perceived. Many devices incorporate cooling systems to protect the epidermis and improve comfort. Following the session, mild erythema, a residual sensation of heat, and slight transient inflammation may occur, all of a passing nature. In the majority of cases, the patient is able to resume their normal daily activities on the same day.
Is it safe?
The adverse effects described in clinical studies are generally mild and self-limiting: redness, mild oedema, and some sensitivity in the treated area.
Conclusion
Monopolar radiofrequency is today one of the best-supported options in the scientific literature for treating mild to moderate facial laxity without the need for surgery. Its capacity to stimulate collagen production from the deeper layers of the skin allows for improved skin firmness, definition of the mandibular contour, and the achievement of progressive, natural-looking results, with minimal downtime and without interfering with daily life.
However, in cases of severe laxity or significant excess skin, surgical facelift remains a more effective alternative. But for those seeking real results without undergoing surgery, monopolar radiofrequency can be a highly valuable tool, provided it is correctly indicated.
If you are considering improving facial laxity without surgery, a dermatological assessment will determine whether this is the most appropriate technology for your individual case.
