What’s Better – SMAS or RF Microneedles Lifting

Principle of Action in Apparatus Rejuvenation

Both methods are based on local tissue heating of the face. SMAS-lifting differs from RF microneedles lifting in the way heat is applied. In SMAS-lifting, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is used, while RF microneedles lifting relies on high-frequency electrical radio waves.

The heating process triggers neocollagenesis – the formation of new collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This process provides the effect of non-surgical face lifting.

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Depth of Impact

The difference between SMAS-lifting and RF microneedles lifting lies in the depth of wave penetration. HIFU can reach depths of 4.5 mm, while RF microneedles waves go as deep as 3.5 mm. The depth of the impact is determined by the device’s applicator, which the Provider adjusts according to the skin type and condition.

Besides affecting the epidermis and dermis, HIFU lifting also impacts the subcutaneous fat layer and the superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS). These are the muscles and connective tissues that cover and connect facial muscles. SMAS-lifting begins around the ears, covers most of the cheek area, and extends to the neck. This layer is covered by tendon plates (aponeurosis) and connective tissue membranes (fascia). The procedure strengthens these structures, thereby tightening and improving the contours of the face, reducing asymmetry, sagging in the eyelids and cheekbones, and the appearance of a double chin.

In contrast, RF microneedling heating occurs in a more capillary-like manner, impacting both the dermis and rejuvenating the epidermis without damaging it. As a result, RF microneedling helps contours the face, smooth out wrinkles, restore skin firmness, and also correct scars, stretch marks, excessive sweating, and hair loss.

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Results of Apparatus Lifting

After one session of either RF microneedling or SMAS-lifting, the processes of natural rejuvenation of the face are activated. The skin looks healthy and tightened. However, more noticeable results require some time. The effects of the procedure continue to improve over the next 2-3 months.

SMAS-lifting differs from RF microneedling lifting in depth of action: RF microneedles waves work at the dermis level, eliminating fine lines and smoothing deeper wrinkles, while HIFU impulses provide multi-level action, offering three-dimensional natural lifting of the soft tissues, reducing fat pockets in the cheekbones, lower jaw, and under-chin areas.

Despite the difference in the principle and depth of action, both SMAS and RF microneedling lifting tighten soft tissues, enhance skin elasticity, and leave it smooth, radiant, and firmer.

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Course Duration

The course of RF microneedling face lifting consists of 3-10 sessions, typically performed with a frequency of once a month, depending on the problem being addressed. Follow-up treatment is recommended after 6-12 months.

HIFU lifting is performed with intervals of 3-6 months, depending on individual needs. The course includes 1-3 procedures per year, with maintenance sessions occurring every 6-12 months after 2-3 years. The effects of the procedure are enhanced when combined with injection-based rejuvenation techniques using polylactic acid and hyaluronic acid.

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Which Method to Choose?

The choice between SMAS-lifting or RF microneedling depends on the patient's age and skin aging type. The RF microneedling method is recommended for patients over 18 years old, while HIFU lifting is more suitable for those aged 30 and beyond. SMAS-lifting is ideal for the deformation-edematous or fatigued type of aging, while RF microneedles lifting is better for the fine-wrinkle type.

For the deformation-edematous type, the skin is loose, thick, but still healthy-looking. Wrinkles are minimally visible, but issues like sagging eyelids, "jowls," "double chin," and malar bags under the eyes often occur.

For the fatigued type, noticeable nasolabial folds and nasojugal grooves appear. The corners of the eyes and mouth droop, and the skin tone looks dull.

The fine-wrinkle type is characterized by numerous small wrinkles. The skin is dry, sensitive, pigmented, and prone to peeling. The face contour is not deformed, and swelling is rare.

To maintain youth and beauty over the years, you don’t have to resort to plastic surgery. Regular apparatus lifting treatments are enough. However, there’s no universal method. The best option is selected by a provider after a preliminary apparatus and genetic diagnosis.