Microneedling with a Dermapen-like machine or with RF?

First of all neither one will do much for the brown spots. Microneedling, with or without RF, is a treatment that improves skin texture (pores, fine lines, etc.), but not for discoloration. Of course, the additional RF is a big plus when it comes to tightening potential.  In our office, we offer both plain microneedling (the Eclipse Pen) and microneedling with radiofrequency (the Intensif treatment), and I do believe Intensif is better for middle-age and older patients. The downtime is great however, at 2-3 days of redness versus several hours with plain microneedling.  Be well! 

Microneedling alone is great for aging skin, and with RF, that will help some with sagging. Skin discoloration can be treated multiple ways- laser resurfacing and chemical peels are a couple. At our office we are thrilled with the results of microneedling with the addition of PRP (Vampire Facial). If you're going to go the extra mile, I'd suggest going with PRP. If you really want the platinum treatment, get all 3.

We use the Vivace and there is a 500 dollar price difference because the RF with Vivace delivers outstanding results and superior to the pen.