How do fillers affect RF microneedling outcomes?

Radio frequency microneedling can be performed after fillers are placed but we recommend waiting at least a week before doing so.  Most microneedling depth is 2-4 mm with most fillers injected in deeper layers.  The good news about RF microneedling is that it stimulates collagen and elastin over time for wrinkle reduction and skin tightening. 

There is a common misconception about this issue. RFM heats tissue to 65-70C for milliseconds. HA fillers (Restylane products) are heated to 115-120C for 15-20 minutes to sterilize them. It is impossible for the RFM to affect the HA filler and I will often do both at the same visit. Other fillers such as Sculptra, Bellafill, and Radiesse are fine as well to be done on same day. It makes no sense to wait 1-2 weeks for the RFM after fillers because nothing has changed in that time period.

Microneedling with RF can be done with different types of fillers after a period of 1-2 weeks depending on the type of filler which was injected. The best approach is an evaluation prior to procedure to assess the area of the fillers and type of fillers uses. Both are a great combination to help collagen formation.