Aging is both a subtle and complicated process with many moving parts. Hence, if you’re looking for a truly effective solution that delivers natural-looking results, you need something that can intervene with the physiological processes behind aging instead of simply covering up the superficial signs. It is at this deeper level (literally speaking) that next-generation microneedling treatments like Morpheus8 operate.
From the texture and tone of the skin to your facial contours and much more, Morpheus8 is one of the most comprehensive non-surgical rejuvenation treatments on the market. Our physician-led team at Lively Wellness & Aesthetics relies on this treatment But what exactly is Morpheus8, and who is it for? Read on for a comprehensive guide to this next-generation skin resurfacing treatment platform.
What Is Morpheus8?
Morpheus8 is a non-surgical skin rejuvenating treatment that combines two clinically tested approaches—microneedling and radiofrequency energy—to stimulate vital healing processes beneath the skin. This results in a comprehensive resurfacing effect that addresses a wide range of aesthetic concerns, including dark spots, uneven skin texture, and much more. But before diving any further into the many benefits of synergizing these two treatments, it’s important to first understand how each works.
Microneedling Triggers Key Healing Processes
Microneedling involves the use of very fine needles (typically between 0.25 and 2 mm in length) to create micro-channels in the skin. Why do this, you might ask? The answer is found in your body’s natural physiology. When the needle-tipped applicator creates micro-channels around the treatment area, your body registers them as “injuries” that require healing. This prompts the production and maturation of collagen fibers and elastin, which help to improve the skin’s overall structure. Over time, collagen fibers mature and proliferate, allowing for enhanced results.
Radiofrequency Energy Heats Deep Tissue Layers
The underlying premise is very similar with radiofrequency energy, though the mechanism used to bring about these healing responses is different. Instead of causing hundreds of tiny, controlled injuries to the superficial skin layers, radiofrequency energy produces a heating effect in deeper tissue layers. Thanks to the tightly controlled parameters, the heat energy comfortably and evenly targets these tissue layers while leaving surrounding tissues largely unaffected Once again, your body responds with the production and proliferation of collagen and other vital healing factors.
Applications and Benefits of Morpheus8 Microneedling
By combining radiofrequency energy and microneedling into one holistic and highly effective treatment, Morpheus8 provides an even broader range of benefits and applications. These include, but are not limited to the following:
- Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Minimizing hyperpigmentation (dark spots), sun spots, and more
- Improving acne scars
- Enhancing the skin’s elasticity and radiance
- Shrinking oversized pores
- Improving the effects of topical products and other treatments
- Evening out skin tone
What Makes Morpheus8 Different from Other Microneedling Treatments?
Thanks to the combined nature of the Morpheus8 skin rejuvenation platform, it carries several advantages over other microneedling treatments. Namely, Morpheus8 is able to access deeper layers of tissue. Where other treatments (even with longer needles) typically do not penetrate past the level of the dermis, Morpheus8 can reach the subcutaneous tissues. This allows the treatment to more effectively remodel these underlying tissues for improved skin tightening and contouring.
Another advantage to engaging with deeper tissue layers is the ability to produce more dramatic results. Where standard microneedling (or radiofrequency) treatments are effective for tightening the skin and reducing more superficial imperfections, Morpheus8 can also reduce the appearance of more deeply rooted scars. It can also produce more dramatic results when it comes to skin tightening and resurfacing.
Finally, while finding the most effective treatment frequency is a process unique to each patient’s case (more on this below), Morpheus8 generally requires fewer sessions than microneedling to produce the results you’re looking for.
How to Know If You’re a Good Candidate for Morpheus8 Treatment
Morpheus8 can deliver results for patients across a wide age range, but is most commonly sought after by patients in their 30s and 40s. Patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond may still be eligible for Morpheus8 treatment. A
Speaking of, the majority of people in reasonably good overall health will qualify for this skin rejuvenation treatment. However, these factors may impact your eligibility:
- Skin infections in or around the treatment area
- Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, etc.)
- Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Diabetes
- Certain medications and supplements
- Recent cosmetic and/or surgical procedures
Keep in mind that not all of these factors automatically disqualify you for Morpheus8 treatment, and there are several others not mentioned above that may impact your eligibility. The best practice when determining your eligibility is to consult with a reputable provider. Our team at Lively Wellness & Aesthetics will work with you to ensure you are confidently well-informed about every aspect of your treatment.
Pairing Morpheus8 With Other Cosmetic Treatments
As a versatile and minimally invasive procedure, Morpheus8 pairs well with several complementary cosmetic treatments. Combining treatments allows for more thorough and precise targeting of an even wider range of aesthetic concerns. Three of the treatments most commonly paired with Morpheus8 microneedling include neurotoxin injections, dermal fillers, and laser skin resurfacing.
Neurotoxin Injectables and Morpheus8
Now available in a suite of anti-aging injectables, including Dysport, Botox, Jeuveau, and others, neurotoxins complement the effects of Morpheus8 treatment by dramatically reducing fine lines.
Most neurotoxin injectables are formulated with one of several variations of botulinum toxin. This compound interferes with the communication between the nerves and the muscles they activate. This allows the muscles to relax for an extended period of time, reducing the wrinkles caused by repeated muscle contraction (as with facial expressions like smiling, squinting, etc.).
Together, neurotoxin injectables and Morpheus8 allow for a more powerful rejuvenation, improving texture, dynamic wrinkles, and much more.
Dermal Fillers and Morpheus8
Formulated with a potent moisture-retaining substance (hyaluronic acid), wrinkle fillers deliver powerful anti-aging effects with instant results and very little downtime. Where neurotoxin injections are more effective for dynamic wrinkles, dermal fillers have proven their efficacy for static wrinkles. In addition to minimizing fine lines, fillers add volume to the cheeks, lips, and under-eye areas for a more youthful and refreshed look. Finally, fillers (depending on the formulation) can also enhance jawline definition and other natural contours when administered by a skilled professional.
Combining dermal filler injections with Morpheus8 treatment as part of a comprehensive anti-aging treatment plan allows for more effective targeting of volume loss and fine lines in addition to the many benefits of Morpheus8.
Laser Skin Resurfacing and Morpheus8
Finally, laser skin resurfacing technologies bolster the collagen-boosting effects of Morpheus8 treatment for more powerful results. In laser scar revision treatment, for example, carefully concentrated beams of light penetrate deep tissue layers to stimulate key healing processes. This helps to remodel the damaged area, including scar tissue.
Morpheus8 amplifies this effect by helping the tissue surrounding the scar to be more flush with the scar’s edges, de-emphasizing its appearance and helping it to fade more effectively. This is in addition to its ability to enhance your natural contours, minimize hyperpigmentation, and much more.If you’re considering combining both of these treatments, our team at Lively Wellness & Aesthetics is happy to meet with you and explore potential options
Results, Recovery Process, and Ongoing Maintenance
How long does it take to see results after Morpheus8 treatment? What post-treatment effects should one expect? What’s the best way to preserve results over the long-term? These are some of the most common questions we hear regarding the recovery and aftercare process following Morpheus8 treatment. Read on for a concise breakdown of everything you need for a safe and smooth recovery.
What to Expect Immediately After Morpheus8
Though Morpheus8 is a very safe and well-tolerated procedure, it is not completely without side effects—some common, some rare.
Common Morpheus8 Side Effects
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Itching
- Sensitivity
- Dryness
Rare Morpheus8 Side Effects
- Infection
- Scarring
- Skin darkening
While the more common treatment effects are an expected, natural part of the process, the good news is that both these and the rare side effects can be mitigated by high safety and quality standards. This is why our team at Lively Wellness & Aesthetics always follows these top standards while providing customized treatment plans for each patient.
Results and Maintenance
While you will likely see some early improvements in the texture, tone, and overall quality of your skin within the first week after your most recent Morpheus8 session, it will take longer than one week to see your full results.
This is because of the initial aftereffects of the treatment and the crescendoing effect of increasing collagen activity. While some early results will be visible, waiting for the redness and swelling to subside and allowing the collagen fibers to mature over the ensuing weeks will reveal the full results. Typically, results continue to improve from just after treatment to roughly three months after the fact.
As for how best to care for your skin following treatment, we will provide you with a personalized set of aftercare instructions. Generally, it’s important to keep your skin protected, including avoiding extreme temperatures and powerful or potentially irritating topical products, for a set period of time following your procedure. As always, applying sunscreen regularly, keeping the skin hydrated, and avoiding smoking will help to preserve you results in the months following treatments.
Morpheus8 FAQ
How many treatment sessions will I need?
This is best determined between you and your treatment provider. The optimal number of Morpheus8 treatments for your situation can vary based on several individualized factors, including your aesthetic concerns, age, skin type, and several others.
Is Morpheus8 covered by insurance?
Since it is usually classified as an elective cosmetic procedure, Morpheus8 is typically not covered by insurance policies. In rare instances, Morpheus8 may be indicated for a medical condition, or to supplement a surgery, in which case it may be medically justified and covered by insurance. In either case, double checking with your policy prior to pursuing treatment is always the best practice.
Does Morpheus8 work on all skin types?
Morpheus8 is safe and effective for the vast majority of skin types, including sensitive skin, loose skin, light and dark tones, and more. Treatment parameters can be customized to accommodate all types of skin and a wide range of aesthetic concerns.
Is Morpheus8 FDA approved?
Yes, Morpheus8 is FDA approved, and it was the first treatment of its kind to receive FDA clearance for “tissue contraction using fractional radiofrequency microneedling, per FDA verbiage.
Choose Lively Wellness & Aesthetics for a Transformative Morpheus8 Treatment Plan
Dr. Charles Lively and the rest of our team at Lively Wellness & Aesthetics are deeply committed to providing personalized care for every patient that walks through our doors. As your Morpheus8 provider, we will partner with you to create a customized care plan that delivers everything you need and everything you don’t. Whether you’re a first time patient or if you’ve undergone several similar treatments before, we encourage every patient to be open with their goals and expectations so we can deliver top-quality results.
Contact us for a consultation today, and we’ll work with you to make your visions of beautifully renewed skin come to life.
