What is Morpheus 8?
I've been wanting to do Morpheus for a few years now. Basically ever since I heard Katherine (@kgmtl) mention it on her page, and saw her results. That chiseled sculpted jawline is life. Finally the stars finally aligned for me to start treatment at Avant Dermatology with Dr. Sheila who is an influencer herself but also an incredibly well known dermatologist. Not to mention she looks way younger than her age, and I'm just so in awe of how much she's accomplished in such a short period of time. With all of that said, I surveyed the Instagram fam and asked what questions everyone had. In addition, we also built our own questions after doing extensive research about the procedure so I'm going to dive into the general explanation of what it is, and then go into the questions to make this an easy reference for those interested in learning more about Morpheus8 by InMode.
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor nor do I have any medical background. Do not use any of the information in this post as medical advice, as I am not qualified to tell you anything other than my opinion. In addition, Morpheus8 treatment was kindly gifted to me by Dr. Sheila and Avant Dermatology. This blog post is not an obligation, but I wanted to write this post because it'll serve as a great resource long-term.
What is Morpheus 8?
Morpheus8 is a newer microneedling treatment developed to be more effective than other types of microneedling treatments. Morpheus8 stimulates remodeling in the adipose tissue of the dermis. Designed by In Mode Aesthetics, a leading manufacturer in the radiofrequency technology arena, Morpheus8 is the only device that combines radiofrequency with the microneedling technique. On its own, microneedling provokes a healing response in which collagen proliferation increases. With Morpheus8, collagen increase is only the icing on the cake. By inserting radiofrequency energy to tissue approximately 4mm deep, this device prompts tissue remodeling that includes thickening and tightening. (Source: FosterMD)
Another explanation reads:
The Morpheus8 (InMode Aesthetic Solutions) is a fractional RF device with programmable penetration depth and energy delivery. The 24 coated needles penetrate into the subdermal tissue, leading to coagulation of fat as well as contraction of the reticular dermis and surrounding connective tissue. At the same time, directional RF energy stimulates neocollagenesis, elastogenesis, and angiogenesis (Source: Oxford Academic.)
What are the benefits?
This treatment is used for any area with fine lines, bad texture, discoloration or acne scarring. More importantly (for me) it helps your own skin start producing more collagen.
Interestingly enough, this is an effective alternative for cases that don't require a facelift/necklift and is minimally invasive (research study which used Morpheus 8 in its study.) This treatment is excellent for combating general aging and sagginess because it does have a tightening effect on the skin. I felt this tightening almost immediately, and now on day 3 post treatment it feels more solid and lessy saggy and laxed.
How long can the effects last on average?
Dr. Sheila specified that the results are long-term and permanent, but the thing is that the skin will continue to age. This means upkeep every few years (or more frequently depending on your budget) would be a good addition to the overall skin routine because it will help combat that aging.
How long until the results can be seen?
It usually takes a few weeks to see results in the skin, but some changes can be more immediate.
How much does the treatment cost for the face and neck?
On average, it seems that each treatment could be $900-$1,200. With that said, the recommendation is for 3 treatments total, each a month apart to give the skin time to heal. The result is better with the three treatments, in comparison to just one. My total treatment cost is $4,200 for all three treatments.
What's the pain level?
It's a spicy treatment, I'm not going to sugarcoat that. Even with almost two hours of numbing, I did start to get uncomfortable towards the end of the treatment. We didn't get to do my neck so the next time should be even more interesting. The first area was under the right eye which is the thinnest skin on the face, and it was definitely a zap. However the more painful areas were nose, upper and lower lip, and then the chin. This treatment is excellent for zapping some of that double chin area, and sculpting the jawline but those areas can be spicy. As we were doing the chin, I definitely had to squeeze my hands and lift my legs up. I was a little squirmy worm. In summary it was mainly a 5/10 and then got to a 7 or 8 towards the end.
Does the technician undergo training with this specific device?
Morpheus8 can be used only by laser technicians which requires additional certifications. The laser technician also needs to be trained by by a board-certified surgeon and supervised by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Each state also has different laws in terms of certifications required, but the really cool thing is that Dr. Sheila is a trainer for Morpheus8 and actually teaches her colleagues how to use the device because she's so savvy with it. Fun fact: she's published several research papers sharing her settings to the treatment because she has had hundreds of patients go through Morpheus8.
How long can you expect redness and/ or swelling after treatment?
This will vary for everyone. From various sources it says that it can be 2 days to 2 weeks. The redness and sensitivity will diminish over a few days.
How long does each treatment take?
The numbing takes the longest. I was numbing for over an hour and a half (can be 2+ hours) and this ensures the procedure is as comfortable as possible. I was in the office from 1:15 PM to 4:40 PM just to give some perspective. The actual treatment itself was 30-45 minutes long.
Can this be used to help with stretch marks?
Yes, Dr. Sheila confirmed that Morpheus8 can be used on cellulite and stretch marks. It has positive benefits in these categories, so it's definitely something to consider if you're looking for improvement with those two.
Why are 3 treatments recommended?
Since this treatment goes down on a cellular level, the frequency of it is going to have the most impact. From the studies run and the results seen, it appears that the final results are magnified with 3 total treatments in the three month timespan.
How does Morpheus affect previous Botox and filler? Does it dissolve it?
Dr. Sheila mentioned that there isn't any effect on Botox, but there could be some melting of filler depending on how deep and hard the Morpheus8 wand is taken. In some cases when a patient has wanted to remove filler, she has gone in with Morpheus8 to help dissolve it given the Morpheus8 wand has heat that penetrates deep into the skin.
What's the downtime?
The care instructions specify not to use any actives on the skin for at least 7 days. This means no vitamin C, no retinols, etc. Gentle cleanser and moisturizer in the evenings, and add an SPF in the daytime. The skin is super sensitive during this time so it's important not to spend much (or any) time in the sun.
What other questions do you have?
adaxAvant gets you $75 off any service at Avant Dermatology. You can thank me later bb!