Morpheus 8

Ageing of the face and neck is not limited to the superficial epidermis: it affects the deep dermis, the network of fibrous septa and the subcutaneous fat compartments.

With InMode’s Morpheus8 fractional radiofrequency, Dr Afshin Yousefpour offers a minimally invasive approach to improve skin firmness and quality in some cases of early to moderate laxity. Treatment aims for a natural result, without guaranteeing the absence of marks or complications.

The protocol, step by step.

1. Step 1

   Assessment and mapping

   Assessment of laxity, skin quality and contraindications; choice of depths and tips suited to each area.

2. Step 2

   Preparation and anaesthesia

   Topical anaesthesia according to the protocol, supplemented if needed by local nerve blocks to limit discomfort.

3. Step 3

   Fractional radiofrequency session

   Energy delivered through insulated micro-needles at depths suited to the target tissues, for subcutaneous remodelling and dermal stimulation.

4. Step 4

   Protocol and follow-up

   The document plans 2 to 3 sessions 4 to 6 weeks apart, sometimes a fourth session, then yearly maintenance depending on progress and indication.

The surgical difference: Dr Yousefpour’s approach

Morpheus8 delivers thermal energy through insulated micro-needles, at depths of up to 4 mm depending on the settings and the areas of the face and neck. Knowledge of anatomy allows the treatment to be adapted to tissue thickness and neighbouring structures.

• Precise pulses: taking into account the course of the nerves, especially the mandibular and temporal branches of the facial nerve, and the vascular network when choosing the settings. This care aims to reduce risks without eliminating them.

• Targeted tissues: depths adjusted to the skin and subcutaneous compartments, with settings of 3 to 4 mm described for some areas under the chin and 1 to 2 mm for dermal stimulation. These values are not an identical protocol for every patient.

• Pain management: topical anaesthesia and, if needed, local nerve blocks for comfort; feelings of heat or discomfort remain possible.

• Combined approach: possibly part of an overall plan with CO2 laser, botulinum toxin or regenerative treatments, with personalised indications and timing.

How it works: biostimulation and remodelling

• Bipolar thermal fractionation: energy delivered at the needle tips to create controlled coagulation zones. Insulating the needles aims to limit surface heating, without ruling out burns or marks.

• New collagen and elastin: the repair process after thermal stimulation promotes remodelling of collagen and elastin fibres over time.

• Tightening of the fibro-septal network: aiming to re-tension the fibrous strands connecting the skin to the deeper structures.

Targeted indications

Treatment is adapted to the area, skin quality and degree of laxity. The areas around the eyes need particular assessment.

• Jawline: early sagging, jowls and loss of definition; a firmer lower face.

• Under the chin and double chin: moderate excess fat and laxity; targeted thermal action on the subcutaneous tissues and a better contour.

• Neck and décolleté: crepey skin and horizontal lines; improved skin density and firmness.

• Around the eyes and cheeks: early malar bags and crepey lower eyelids, with suitable tips and settings.

• Around the mouth: smoker’s lines (“barcode lines”) and marionette lines; better texture and fewer fine lines.

• Texture and pores: atrophic acne scars, dull skin and enlarged pores; dermal remodelling.

What is the difference between Morpheus8, HIFU and CO2 laser?

• The CO2 laser acts on the superficial and middle layers of the skin through ablation and heat, especially for pigmentation, texture and fine lines.

• Focused ultrasound (HIFU) creates coagulation points at targeted depths, working differently from skin resurfacing.

• Morpheus8 combines micro-needles and radiofrequency to treat the dermis and some subcutaneous tissues, up to 4 mm depending on the settings. Indications, recovery and risks differ; the choice depends on clinical examination.

How many sessions are needed, and how often?

Dr Yousefpour’s protocol usually involves 2 to 3 sessions 4 to 6 weeks apart. A fourth may be considered for some indications, such as acne scars or more marked laxity. A yearly maintenance session can be offered depending on the result and how it evolves.

When can I return to work?

It depends on the visible after-effects and on your work. The first two days may bring diffuse redness and slight swelling. From day 2 to day 5, small crusts may remain; they can take up to seven days to disappear.

A tinted post-procedure cream or suitable sunscreen can be considered after 48 hours, depending on the state of the skin and the doctor’s instructions. Do not apply make-up to an area that is still open or irritated without the doctor’s agreement.

Is Morpheus8 suitable for all skin types?

The document describes possible use on skin types I to VI. That does not mean there is no risk of pigmentation: skin type, history, sun exposure and settings must be assessed individually. Pigment changes can occur, particularly on UV-exposed skin.

Goals and limits of treatment

Morpheus8 aims to improve tissue quality, reduce moderate skin laxity and even out the skin texture of the face and neck. The effect varies with the skin and the individual response.

It does not replace a full face and neck lift or surgical excision when there is significant sagging or excess skin. Alternatives are discussed at consultation.

Contraindications and situations to report

Tell Dr Yousefpour about your history, implants and treatments to confirm the indication and the precautions needed.

• Pacemaker, internal defibrillator or active electronic implant.

• Metal implants in the immediate area: to be reported. The document states that stable dental implants are generally not a contraindication, but their situation must be checked by the doctor.

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

• Active skin infection, active herpes or acute inflammatory acne in the area.

• Recent oral isotretinoin: the document mentions the last six months. The applicable interval must be confirmed individually; do not stop any prescribed treatment without medical advice.

• Severe healing problems or a history of keloid scars.

Usual progress and expected after-effects

• Redness and swelling for 24 to 72 hours, depending on the intensity of treatment.

• Grid marks and micro-crusts at the needle entry points, usually fading within 3 to 7 days.

• Dryness and tightness, usually improved by the prescribed moisturising care.

Possible complications

Even with suitable settings and anatomical precautions, the procedure carries risks.

• Pigment changes: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, sometimes persistent, encouraged by UV.

• Bacterial infection or herpes reactivation: prevention or treatment with medication only as medically prescribed.

• Localised haematomas and bruising, usually temporary.

• Altered sensation: changes in skin sensation, often temporary, to be followed up if they persist.

• Persistent pinpoint marks, minor irregularities or unusual healing.

• The thermal energy can also cause a burn or tissue injury; any abnormal change must be reported to the doctor.

Precautions and care around the sessions

• Do not touch, rub or pick the micro-crusts; follow the cleansing and moisturising instructions given at the practice.

• Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sun protection every day for at least one month after each session, depending on the state of the skin, avoiding direct exposure and using physical protection.

• Stop exfoliating cosmetics — fruit acids, retinol and scrubs — five days before and seven days after as instructed. If a product is prescribed as a medical treatment, ask the prescriber before changing anything.

Information and informed consent

Before treatment, Dr Afshin Yousefpour, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, discusses with you your expectations, the benefits, limits, alternatives, cost and risks. You must be able to ask your questions and receive clear explanations before deciding.

Written consent is obtained at the practice after this discussion. This page sets out the medical information in the document provided; it contains no identity fields or signature and reading it does not count as consent given online.