When it comes to skin rejuvenation, Morpheus8 has been labeled a game-changer. Lindsay Lohan, Kim Kardashian and Ali Landry have all publicly praised the treatment for its ability to tighten, lift and smooth. However, Morpheus8 is not without its challenges. The treatment is one that many say you can really feel, and in some cases may require some downtime. Despite these drawbacks, many continue to seek it out by name due to its reputation for impressive results. This advanced microneedling treatment combines radio frequency technology to offer a deeper solution. But what exactly can Morpheus8 treat, and what areas are best for this procedure?
Featured Experts
- Elie Levine, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York
- Robert G. Bonillas, MD is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Scottsdale, AZ
- Ava Shamban, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, CA
What Can Morpheus8 Treat?
Morpheus8 is designed to address a range of skin concerns, from superficial issues like fine lines and wrinkles to deeper problems such as sagging skin and stubborn fat deposits. New York plastic surgeon Elie Levine, MD explains, “The most common applications for Morpheus8 are skin tightening and deep resurfacing needs.” This versatility makes it a popular choice for those looking to achieve smoother, firmer skin without undergoing invasive surgery.
In addition to skin tightening, Morpheus8 is also effective in treating acne scars, burns, stretch marks, cellulite and areas with excess fat. “Morpheus8 penetrates much deeper than traditional microneedling. While traditional microneedling can promote some collagen production and improve skin texture,” Dr. Levine adds. “Morpheus8 has a much stronger ability to stimulate collagen, improve skin quality and promote skin tightening.”
The combination of deep tissue penetration and radio frequency energy allows Morpheus8 to address these varied issues with precision and efficacy.
What Areas Does Morpheus8 Treat?
Morpheus8’s versatility extends to the areas it can treat. While it’s commonly used on the face and neck, it can also be applied to the body. Scottsdale, AZ plastic surgeon Robert G. Bonillas, MD explains, “Morpheus8 can be used on both the face and neck but also on the body using the body handpiece.” The ability to penetrate as deep as 7-8 mm beneath the outer skin layer allows Morpheus8 to target both the deep skin layers and underlying fat tissue.
For the face and neck, Morpheus8 is ideal for tightening sagging skin and reducing wrinkles. It can also help with contouring, especially in areas like the cheeks and under the chin. On the body, it’s effective in treating mild skin laxity and small fat deposits. Dr. Bonillas mentions that it’s particularly useful for treating excess fat under the chin and tightening small areas of the body such as the arms, abdomen and thighs.
How Does Morpheus8 Work?
Morpheus8 uses a handheld device with fine needles to deliver radio-frequency energy at various depths. This technology creates tissue contraction and stimulates collagen formation (neocollagenesis), leading to tighter and more rejuvenated skin. Dr. Bonillas describes it as “microneedling on steroids,” emphasizing its unique ability to penetrate deeper and concentrate energy in the treatment area.
Who Should Skip It?
Morpheus8 is ideal for just about any type of patient and is indicated for any skin type says Dr. Bonillas. “Certain precautions have to be taken for darker skin types, however, all patients will see benefits from these treatments.” Patients who are pregnant, nursing, have a pacemaker or internal defibrillator, have a weak immune system, have tattoos over the areas of concern or a history of Accutane use within last 6 months should not undergo the treatment.
“Also, if you have any active skin conditions such as psoriasis, rash, eczema, or open sores, or have recently undergone injectables such as Botox or soft tissue fillers, you should avoid Morpheus8 treatment until these issues are resolved and your doctor has agreed that a safe period has passed,” he adds.
What Should Patients Expect?
Patients should be prepared for some discomfort during the procedure. Dr. Levine explains that Morpheus8 can be uncomfortable, but topical numbing agents and other anesthetic options are available to manage this. Dr. Bonillas notes, “If the provider is only using a topical anesthetic and you’re not feeling much discomfort, then likely you are not getting a very aggressive treatment, and results may vary.”
According to both Dr. Levine and Dr. Bonillas, Morpheus8 can be uncomfortable. However, there are several ways to manage this discomfort. “A combination of topical numbing and nitrous oxide can be quite effective in reducing discomfort,” notes Dr. Levine. “For those who prefer to feel nothing at all, twilight sedation or anesthesia can be used.”
What Is Recovery Like?
Post-treatment, patients can expect a sunburn-like feeling, which generally dissipates within an hour. The skin may remain red for up to 24 hours, and there might be a noticeable stamping pattern from the needles for a few days. Dr. Bonillas suggests using antibiotic ointment or hydrating cream then transitioning back to your routine. “Aftercare treatments include using an antibiotic ointment and/or hydrating cream twice daily for the first three days, then normal skin-care regimens and makeup can be resumed,” he says. Patients are instructed to use sunscreen and avoid sun exposure for the first two weeks. Avoiding sun exposure and using sunscreen for the first two weeks is recommended.
How Many Sessions Do You Need?
According to Beverly Hills, CA dermatologist Ava Shamban, MD you’ll get the best outcome with a series. “”For optimal results, it’s often recommended to undergo three to four sessions, spaced about four to six weeks apart,” notes Dr. Shamban.
Combining Morpheus8 With Other Treatments
Morpheus8 can be combined with other cosmetic procedures for enhanced results. It’s not unusual to combine Morpheus8 with liposuction for body contouring or other skin-tightening techniques. “Performing liposuction in this area to reduce the fat, then finishing with Morpheus8 for overall skin contraction, results in superior outcomes compared to liposuction alone,” says Dr. Bonillas. Similarly, he notes that it can also complement lower eyelid lifts to improve overall contours and maximize skin tightening.
“Morpheus can be paired with other ultrasound treatments, and it works well with resurfacing lasers like Clear + Brilliant or IPL,” adds Dr. Shamban. “Hydrafacial is another great companion to Morpheus8, as it cleanses pores and removes dead skin cells before treatment.”
While its deep penetration and radio frequency technology make it a unique and versatile option, Morpheus8 continues to be a patient favorite for its capacity to target various skin concerns across different areas. For those seeking a noninvasive solution, it remains a powerhouse for achieving firmer, smoother and more youthful skin.
