The purpose of this informed consent form is to provide written information regarding the risks and potential adverse outcomes relating to the procedure named above. This material serves as a supplement to the discussion you have with your doctor. It is important that you fully understand this information, so please read this document thoroughly. If you have any questions regarding the procedure, please address your concerns with your doctor at the time of your consultation.

What is Radiofrequency Microneedling?

This procedure involves insertion of fine electrodes mechanically into the skin followed by the discharge of small amount of radio frequency energy at the desired depth. This procedure leads to the stimulation of new collagen production and restructuring of old collagen bundles in the skin. Multiple sessions may be required and your skin may continue to improve till 3 months – 6 months after a treatment.

Intended benefits RF Microneedling include but are not limited to the reduction of acne scars, other scars, photo ageing, stretch marks, skin laxity, improvement of skin texture, wrinkles and fine lines.

It should be understood that all procedures carry certain risks. The potential risks and complications from this type of procedure include but are not limited to:

Pain: The stinging or burning sensation from the procedure can produce a moderate amount of discomfort. An anaesthetic cream, local anaesthesia injections and cool air jet will typically be used to minimise discomfort.

Redness and Swelling: Redness and swelling typical of a bad sunburn can occur in treated area. The redness and swelling will typically subside in 1 to 7 days, but could last longer. The effects can be minimised with the application of cool compresses if required.

Skin Darkening/Lightening: Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation) rarely occurs in the treated areas and will usually fade within 1 to 6 months. This reaction is more common when treated areas are exposed to the sun. Hypopigmentation or light spots can appear as a delayed response to treatment. Pale areas can darken or re-pigment in several months, but it could be permanent. It is extremely important to protect the treated area from sun exposure with a hat and sunscreen for 6 weeks after treatment and carefully adhere to all post-treatment instructions.

Blisters and abrasions: Blistering and/or abrasions are uncommon but can develop with treatment. Blisters and or abrasions will go away within 2 to 5 days and may be followed by a scab. The scab will disappear during the natural wound healing process of the skin. During this time, the area should not be manipulated or picked, which can lead to scarring.

Infection: Bacterial, viral or fungal infections can occur post procedure. Infections can cause redness and swelling and resolve or progress into cellulitis requiring treatment. RF Microneedling could trigger a recurrence of cold sores (Herpes simplex infections) or acne form eruptions which may require treatment. These problems may resolve in time, but medical intervention may be required in some cases, and long-term effects may persist in rare cases.

Scarring: There is a risk of skin scarring, including abnormal raised and/or depressed scars with any minimally invasive procedure. Careful adherence to all advised postoperative instructions will help reduce the possibility of this occurrence.

Dissatisfaction: As with all treatments, the precise degree of improvement cannot be guaranteed. The outcome’s subjective nature also means dissatisfaction is a possible outcome regardless of effectiveness of treatment. It should be understood that the effect of all treatments may gradually wear off and additional treatments may be necessary to acquire the desired effect, and further charges will apply if more treatments are required.

POST CARE - Radiofrequency Microneedling

While there are limited side effects from RF Microneedling, there are a few post-treatment instructions you should be aware of. 

The Day of the Procedure:

1. Please do not wear any make-up, facial perfume or after-shave.
2. If you have any signs of a skin infection in the area to be treated, we may have to reschedule the procedure to prevent any complications that may occur. Inform and discuss this with the Doctor.
3. Expect to be with us for between 30-60 minutes, depending on the extent of your treatment.

Post-Procedural Instructions:

1. After the treatment, you may experience some soreness and pain over the treated areas. Over the counter analgesic medication can be taken in case of discomfort.
2. Mild swelling redness and bruising can occasionally occur and may be noticeable for a few days.
3. The treated area may be tender to touch. You might feel the suture underneath the skin as a result of the area being swollen/inflamed. This is normal and will improve over the first week and should be gone after 3-4 weeks.
4. Should you experience severe pain or swelling in the treated area/s, contact us immediately.
5. Expect 10-14 days for the skin to fully recover its natural aspect. However, you can resume most normal activities within 1-3 days.
6. Follow-up appointments to ensure the skin is responding and healing as it should are made with your treating doctor at 2-4 weeks after procedure.

7. Strict sun protection is advised for a few days after the procedure to avoid any adverse effects of the treatment.

What to do/not do after the Procedure:

1. Try to find some “social downtime” for the first week following treatment. It will be difficult to adhere to the above when meeting friends/family etc.
2. Keep your head elevated for the first week when sleeping. Use a second pillow or elevate the head-part of the bed. Sleep face-up and not on the treated areas (1 week).
3. Wash and dry your face gently, without rubbing or massaging (2 weeks).
4. Avoid active skin care ingredients for 1 week post treatment.
5. Avoid direct sunlight and do not use tanning beds (3 weeks).

If you have any issues or concerns following your procedure, please call the clinic and your treating doctor will get back to you as soon as possible.