Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Boston, MA

Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling Boston, MA

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is a skin rejuvenation treatment that combines the benefits of traditional microneedling with advanced aesthetic technology. (1) This treatment can revitalize the health and appearance of your skin without the use of incisions or anesthesia. Instead, RF microneedling stimulates the body’s natural regenerative processes to remodel your skin, helping you look as youthful as you feel.

JL Plastic Surgery is one of the leading aesthetic practices in Eastern Massachusetts and has made it our mission to help every individual achieve natural-looking yet transformative results in both surgical and non-surgical procedures. Our team is led by Dr. Jeffrey Lee, a double board-certified, Harvard-trained plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Lee is known for his deep knowledge and expertise, and for the passion and care he brings to his patients.

To learn more about what you can achieve with RF microneedling, please contact us online or call (617) 340-2822 to schedule a consultation.

About Radiofrequency Microneedling

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is a non-surgical treatment that can revitalize your skin’s health, elasticity, and appearance. This treatment has two main components: the mechanical effect of the needles and the administration of RF energy.

The RF microneedling device features several rows of extremely fine needles. As the device moves across the skin, these needles create controlled micropunctures on the surface. As this occurs, the needles will also emit RF energy to the underlying layers of your skin. These two components work together to enhance collagen production and tighten the skin, restoring a tighter, smoother, and more vibrant appearance. (1)

Benefits

Radiofrequency treatments offer several benefits, with one of the most notable being their powerful rejuvenation effects. Under the expert care of Dr. Lee, patients regularly experience advantages like:

  • Skin Rejuvenation: RF microneedling can improve your skin’s firmness, texture, and tone, providing a more refreshed and revitalized look and feel.
  • Stimulated Collagen Production: The combination of thermal energy and controlled skin puncturing can enhance neocollagenesis, a vital component of maintaining smooth and healthy skin.
  • Non-Surgical Treatment: This treatment does not require general anesthesia, incisions, or a lengthy recovery time, allowing you to enhance your appearance with ease.
  • Safe For All Skin Types: RF microneedling can address all skin types and tones, making most individuals eligible for treatment.
  • Reduced Signs of Aging: This treatment can soften and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, creases, and fine lines by tightening and contracting the skin.
  • Smoother Skin: RF microneedling can remodel the skin, reducing any textural concerns caused by facial scars, enlarged pores, dry or rough skin, and more.

Candidates

Candidates for RF microneedling typically include anyone interested in enhancing the appearance and health of their skin using non-invasive techniques. This treatment is safe for all skin types and tones and can address numerous concerns, including:

  • Enlarged Pores
  • Loose or Lax Skin
  • Wrinkles
  • Creases
  • Melasma
  • Facial Scarring
  • Pigmentation Concerns
  • Stretch Marks (2)

Anyone interested in this treatment should be in good overall health with realistic expectations about their results. Dr. Lee will determine if RF microneedling suits your circumstances during your personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

The best way to determine if RF microneedling is right for you is by attending a personal consultation. During this consultation, Dr. Lee or another specialist will meet with you individually to discuss what RF microneedling is and how this treatment works. They will ask you several questions regarding your medical history, concerns, and treatment goals, and will also evaluate the condition and quality of your skin.

These details will determine your candidacy and create your treatment plan. We will also dedicate time to answering any questions you may have, as we want you to feel confident and empowered as you proceed with treatment.

To schedule this consultation and receive your personalized treatment plan, please contact us online or call (617) 340-2822.

Preparation

After scheduling your treatment, you will receive a set of preparation instructions. These instructions vary for each patient depending on the details of their treatment plan, but closely following them facilitates a smooth recovery and optimal results.

You may need to modify your medication intake to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements. You may also need to avoid using skincare products that alter your skin’s barrier function, such as retinoids, chemical peels, or exfoliants, leading up to the appointment. Please also cease all nicotine and alcohol use several weeks beforehand.

As a non-surgical treatment, preparation for RF microneedling is relatively straightforward, but patients should still attentively follow all information they receive.

Procedure

At the beginning of your treatment, youe provider will cleanse and sanitize your skin to remove any product residue or oils. If requested, they may use Pronox to improve your experience. This is a combination of nitrous oxide and oxygen that minimizes any potential discomfort while keeping you awake and conscious, meaning you will be able to drive home without complications.

We will adjust the settings of the RF microneedling device according to your skin type and concerns, then administer it to the treatment area. The device will create uniform punctures on the surface of the skin while simultaneously emitting RF energy into the underlying layers to stimulate collagen growth. We will continue to use the device until we address the entire treatment area. We will conclude your treatment by applying a soothing ointment to calm your skin and improve your results.

Recovery

After your treatment, we will provide you with detailed recovery instructions. You will be able to return to your routine immediately, as RF microneedling has no significant downtime. It is common to experience swelling, bruising, or mild peeling, but these effects are temporary and typically subside within 24-48 hours. Discomfort is generally minimal, and most patients do not require pain medications.

As your skin recovers, you will need to avoid using any harsh skincare products or makeup. You will also need to keep your skin moisturized and use sunscreen daily, although it is best to avoid direct or excessive sun exposure in general.

Results

You may see initial improvements in the appearance of your skin in the weeks following your treatment. More significant enhancements become visible over the following several months as your collagen levels increase. (3) You will experience tighter and smoother skin, as well as a more even tone and complexion. You can also enjoy a more youthful-looking appearance, as this treatment can effectively reduce visible signs of aging, irregular pigmentation, and more.

It is important to note that while you can experience significant improvements after one treatment session, patients usually benefit the most from a series of regular treatments.

Corresponding Procedures

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a rejuvenation treatment that can enhance skin appearance and stimulate neocollagenesis. This treatment can address several different concerns, including fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, sagging skin, acne scarring, and more. At JL Plastic Surgery, we offer:

Ablative Lasers: Ablative lasers can remove the outermost layers of skin to reveal the fresh, unaffected layers underneath. These lasers can address more significant concerns and irregularities, but require a slightly longer recovery.

To learn more about the other treatments that you can pair with your RF microneedling, please read Dr. Lee’s blog.

Cost of RF Skin Tightening in Boston, Massachusetts

The cost of your RF skin tightening treatment can vary depending on the size of the treatment area, the type and extent of concerns present, whether you include any additional treatments, and several other factors. During your consultation, we will provide a comprehensive cost estimate after establishing your microneedling plan. JL Plastic Surgery additionally offers financing options for those interested.

To learn more about the cost of your tailored skin tightening treatment, please contact us online or call (617) 340-2822.

FAQ

What is RF microneedling?

RF microneedling is a treatment that combines regular microneedling with radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten the skin.

What makes RF microneedling different from traditional microneedling?

Traditional microneedling creates rows of controlled punctures to trigger the body’s regenerative responses. RF microneedling takes this a step further by emitting thermal energy into the underlying layers of your skin, further enhancing the effects of your treatment.

Does RF microneedling hurt?

While this treatment is not widely regarded as being painful, it can be uncomfortable for those more sensitive to pain. If desired, you may choose to use Pronox nitrous oxide to minimize any potential discomfort. This is an FDA-approved blend of nitrous oxide and oxygen that leaves you awake yet comfortable.

How many RF microneedling treatment sessions will I need?

The number of treatment sessions necessary to achieve your desired results varies depending on your treatment goals, the extent of the corrections, as well as the condition and quality of your skin. During your consultation, we will recommend a certain number of treatment sessions.

Can I combine RF microneedling with another skin-rejuvenation treatment?

Yes, many patients choose to combine their treatment for more comprehensive results. For more information and personalized recommendations, please schedule a consultation.

References

  1. Orr Shauly, Marxen T, Menon A, Gould DJ, Leslie Riggle Miller, Losken A. Radiofrequency Microneedling: Technology, Devices and Indications in the Modern Plastic Surgery Practice. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2023;5. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojad100
  2. Litchman G, Nair PA, Badri T, Kelly SE. Microneedling. Nih.gov. Published September 26, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459344/#article-38285.s4
  3. Nguyen L, Bartholomeusz J, Schneider SW, Herberger K. Histological and clinical dose-response analysis of radiofrequency microneedling treatment for skin rejuvenation. Lasers in Medical Science. 2025;40(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-025-04335-9