A. Radiofrequency skin tightening with the Exilis device is a popular option for patients in their 30's, 40's and 50's who want a non-surgical option for improving early jowls and jawline sagging. It is truly a preventative to postpone or negate the need for a facelift. It is not for severe laxity. It works this way: The triple helix molecule of collagen is heated by the radiofrequency energy of Exilis in a very safe and controlled delivery. The heat disrupts the bonds and denatures the collagen, stimulating a wound healing response for renewed collagen deposition and remodeling. The full effect is seen 3 months from the 4th and final session in most patients. Many patients also see an immediate tightening effect that lasts several days from the contraction of each treatment.
Q. I am hearing a lot about radiofrequency devices for tightening the skin and body contouring. Please explain what this is and who is a candidate.
A. I am most familiar with the Exilis device which has been used in my office since the fall of 2010. The radiofrequency energy is used to deliver a precise volume of heat deep beneath the skin to heat tissue. The RF energy excites the molecules so rapidly, the movement of these molecules create deep heat. Since the RF energy is "color-blind" it is safe on all skin types, even tanned skin. RF energy can deliver more heat to large areas and can do that quickly. Depending on the handpiece used, the energy is delivered to tighten under the skin or go deeper into the fat to melt it and tighten the tissue above the fat. Anyone who needs subtle skin tightening or 1-3 inches of fat removal would be a candidate. It is not a substitute for a face lift in severe cases of laxity, not a substitute for a tummy tuck for someone with a large amount of skin and fat to be removed.
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Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology
Mary P. Lupo, M.D. - Connect on Linkedin
Our mission at the Lupo Center is to provide patients with innovative, effective, and ethical care to make each person look and feel their personal best. To fulfill our goal, we provide state-of-the-art medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments to all patients.
Board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor of dermatology Mary P. Lupo, MD, has been a leader in the field of non-surgical rejuvenation since 1983. She travels internationally to teach her innovative techniques, and her reputation brings in patients from around the country. She started the first formal residency training program for injectables and peels in 1983 at Tulane Medical School and served as past president of the Women’s Dermatologic Society, adjunct professor of dermatology at Tulane, and a founder of Cosmetic Boot Camp. Dr. Lupo holds membership in many prestigious dermatology associations, participates in clinical trials for the approval of new drugs and devices, and acts as an advisor for numerous aesthetic-minded companies.
Dr. Lupo was recently recognized as a trailblazer for women in dermatology and for her dedication to educating dermatology residents and fellows.
She has also received the following awards:
- 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 from the 𝐃𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 - Recognizes full-time academicians who have dedicated their careers to educating dermatology residents and fellows;
- 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐦𝐚 𝐁𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐝, 𝐌𝐃 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 and 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 from the 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 - Recognizes dermatologists of national prominence who have been trailblazers for women in some aspect of dermatology.
Dr. Lupo has authored over 90 published articles and book chapters and has spoken on various dermatological topics at nearly 480 national and international meetings and seminars.
