What is better laser resurfacing or radio frequency to improve saggy skin on the face? (photos)

Question

I'm woman 32 years old, Hispanic skin and acne scars, never overwheight but I've had a laxity and flaccidity problem on my skin years ago since young, my body's skin in general never looked firm and it has always looked saggy. At my early 20's I started to have expression lines and saggy skin overall in my cheeks, eyelids and one side dropped eyebrow. I took picture but it looks worst in person. I had treatments that didn't work, i don't know what is better for this problem:laser, RF or other?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Both Laser Resurfacing and Radio Frequency treatments are popular methods used to improve the appearance of saggy skin on the face. However, the choice between the two often depends on the individual's skin type, the severity of the sagging, and their personal preference. Here's a comparison to help you understand both treatments:
1. **Laser Resurfacing**: This treatment uses concentrated beams of light to remove damaged skin cells layer by layer, promoting the growth of new, tighter, and healthier skin cells. It can be very effective for addressing wrinkles and fine lines, pigmentation issues, and improving overall skin texture. However, laser resurfacing can cause discomfort during the procedure, and recovery time can be longer (up to two weeks in some cases), as the skin needs time to heal and regenerate.
2. **Radio Frequency (RF)**: RF treatments use energy waves to heat the deep layer of your skin known as the dermis. This heat stimulates the production of collagen, which in turn helps to lift and tighten the skin. RF is generally less invasive than laser resurfacing and has a shorter recovery time. It is often recommended for mild to moderate skin sagging. However, multiple sessions may be required to achieve the desired result, and the effects may not be as dramatic or long-lasting as with laser resurfacing.
Both treatments have their pros and cons, and the best option for you will depend on various factors such as your skin type, your tolerance for downtime, and your specific cosmetic goals. It's advisable to consult with a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon to discuss these options in detail and decide which treatment is most suitable for you.

Michael S. Mall, MD · Answer

You did not specify which treatments you have had previously. However, there are two issues that you mention. First is the acne scarring. Even with Hispanic skin type, micro-fractionated CO2 laser treatments with a laser such as Accupulse II from Lumenis can be used successfully to treat the acne scars. The sagging skin can be successfully tightened with either RF laser such as Venus Legacy, or infrared heat with an oldie but reliable laser from Cutera called Titan with 2-4 treatments.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Fractional laser is an amazing and highly effective treatment in our office. We use the laser treatment to help with acne scars, large pores, fine wrinkles, tissue collagen loss, scars, sebaceous hyperplasia, active acne, and for brightening dark pigmentation. Although there are very strong fractional lasers such as CO2 laser, we use lighter treatments for corrective skincare and maintenance of results. Our Thulium fractional laser, clear and brilliant laser, and Ultra Thulium laser are excellent options in our clinic. We also perform CO2 fractional and erbium depending on skin tone and tolerance for downtime. Patients do have to use a Melarase cream before and after treatment to help further reduce pigmentation after laser. Dark spots can improve with these treatments. I recommend fractional laser for incisional scars as well, especially after plastic surgery.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Roya Rakhshani, MD · Answer

Hello; I would be concerned using any ablative, or resurfacing Lasers as you may get hyperpigmentation. Microneedling RF will help with skin texture and laxity. You can always combine it with Lasergenesis for better results.

What is better laser resurfacing or radio frequency to improve saggy skin on the face? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser resurfacing versus microneedling

Answer: Laser resurfacing versus microneedling

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What is better laser resurfacing or radio frequency to improve saggy skin on the face? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Laser resurfacing versus microneedling

Answer: Laser resurfacing versus microneedling

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.