Accent XL does not have such side effects and restores the healthy texture of the skin. In the beginning, the treatment is performed 4 times a month and later can be performed once every 1-3 months as required. Repeated treatment can maintain youthful conditions and effectively slow the aging process. However, a pause in the treatment returns the skin to the original condition and many patients come back for regular repeated treatments.

I also encounter a lot of patients who want to add 1-2 yearly Thermage CPT, HIFU or local injections of filler or botulinum toxin to their regular Accent XL therapy. Accent XL is generally highly satisfactory but it is accepted more as a regular anti-aging skin care and better outcome can be obtained through more aggressive treatment.

 

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Different doctors prefer different devices and RF devices other than Accent XL can be used. ePlus or eMax that offer various handpieces other than RF can bring different benefits. As they bring immediate results and have wide indications, they can be used as a more aggressive anti-aging treatment. Repeated IPL treatments added with fractional RF irradiation of ePlus can bring a more aggressive ablation to the superficial layer of the skin. This combination is popular among aesthetic dermatologists as it tackles most of the skin lesions and brings quick improvements. I also use eMax extensively in patients who desire immediate improvement without resorting to drastic methods.

RF devices are not only effective on the facial skin. It is also applied to body contouring procedures targeting subcutaneous fat. However, Japanese people tend to trust the diet or weight reduction more for body improvements and contouring procedures are not as popular. I will discuss this topic in greater detail in the following articles.

RF uses a common and ordinary range of frequencies. Unlike light beams that have different absorption targets depending on the frequency or wavelength, etc., the single purpose of RF is the thermal effect. Various manufacturers offer different options of heating modes. However, the basic principle of RF treatment is dielectric heating based on the impedance (electrical resistance) of the tissues with dielectric properties. More important aspects of RF therapy is choosing the right device and reaching an agreement with the patient in terms of expectations. Rather than mechanical specifications, the doctor’s creativity and know-how can determine outcome of RF therapy.

 

-To be continued-