Morpheus8 Body is an advanced microneedling device designed to revitalize aging and scarred skin. It utilizes the power of radiofrequency (RF) energy and sterile, tiny needles to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. Morpheus8 stimulates the body’s own natural healing processes for smoother, firmer skin with better elasticity.

Morpheus8 Body is a specialized treatment for many parts of the body including, but not limited to the arms, legs, abdomen, chest, and buttocks. Many common concerns affecting facial skin, such as acne scars, sagging skin, excess fat, and large pores can also occur on the skin in other places. With Morpheus8 Body, these specific problems can be targeted with precision in one of the most minimally invasive ways possible. 

As an adjunct clinical professor at the Stanford University School of Medicine and a board-certified plastic surgeon that has been practicing for over 20 years, Dr. Joshua Korman is dedicated to offering his patients the latest, most effective procedures so that they can love their results. Dr. Korman’s success has allowed him to expand his practices to three locations in California. To get in touch with our team, call (650) 864-1725 for the Mountain View location, (831) 293-7182 for Carmel, and (669) 666-9161 for San Jose. Or, just send us an email through our contact page. 

About Microneedling 

Physicians have been exploring the benefits of microneedling since the early 1900s. Early devices, however, were primitive. In the late ’90s, Dr. Desmond Fernandes pioneered the modern microneedling “stamp” and dermaroller- a device with microneedles that rolls onto the skin. While dermarollers have been improved upon and are still used in the present day, more sophisticated equipment has been developed since. 

Today’s microneedling techniques used today are extremely safe and effective.(1) Morpheus8 recently gained FDA approval for dermatological use. (4) Doctors everywhere are now realizing the full potential of incorporating microneedling services into their practices. 

The Science of Microneedling with RF

Basic microneedling devices feature needles that are 0.5 to 3 mm in length and 0.1 to 0.25 mm in diameter, so the tiny punctures are barely visible to the naked eye, and are referred to as micro-injuries. These tiny wounds cause a few different reactions from the skin that all contribute to its repair. One reaction is the release of Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) which causes the rapid increase of fibroblast cells- cells that produce collagen and elastin. Collagen is a protein that gives structure to your skin through its fibrous lattice formations, while elastin provides elasticity- the ability of the skin to stretch and rebound back into place, and hyaluronic acid maintains hydration. (2) All of these proteins work together to form healthy, beautiful skin. 

Microneedling also causes the breakdown of atrophic scar tissue and the rearrangement of collagen in hypertrophic scars. Atrophic scars cause indentations and dips in the skin rather than raised areas caused by hypertrophic scars. With both types, there is an abnormal structure of collagen. 

Usually, collagen proteins are arranged in a lattice formation, but in scar tissue, they are arranged in a parallel formation. Microneedles can break down this irregular pattern and stimulate more blood flow needed to restore normal skin tone and texture. (1)

Radiofrequency (RF) energy can be used in tandem with microneedling to enhance its effects. It can help with the formation of new blood vessels that help transport nutrients to atrophic and hypertrophic scars. (3)  Normal collagen arrangement can slowly be restored. 

Radiofrequency energy is a form of electromagnetic current that can be delivered through skin, fat, or muscle to generate a thermal effect. RF generates heat as a result of different tissue resistance or impedance to the electromagnetic current. This means that heat is produced when the tissues’ inherent resistance converts the electrical current to thermal energy. If RF is applied directly to the fat layer beneath the skin, it can destroy fat cells without harming the surface of the skin. (3) The qualities of RF make it a great addition to microneedling for your body due to its effects on cellulite- the buildup of fatty tissue that gets distorted by connective fibers. Cellulite becomes visible as collagen fibers retract and fat cells continue to grow. It can create a lumpy appearance on your thighs, buttocks, or midsection. 

Benefits of Morpheus8 Body 

Apart from being a simple, minimally invasive procedure, there are quite a few other benefits that attract prospective patients: 

  • Short recovery time: Although patients often experience redness and swelling, they are able to resume most normal activities immediately after a session.
  • Reduce the appearance of cellulite: Morpheus8 Body penetrates into the fat layer and disrupts the thick fibers that create the look of cellulite. (4)
  • Increased body confidence: With just a few sessions, you will have confidence knowing that your skin is healthy-looking, firm, and with fewer blemishes. Long gone are the days of feeling self-conscious of your scars and other imperfections; they can all be repaired with your skin’s own healing abilities. 
  • Helps fade wrinkles: Collagen and elastin production form lattices within the skin to fill out indentations 
  • Reduces the appearance of scars: The production of new collagen can fill atrophic scars. With raised, hypertrophic scars, Morpheus8 can break down the structure of collagen that causes these scars for smoother skin.

Candidates 

If you struggle with sagging skin from aging or cellulite, atrophic scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun-damaged skin, and fine wrinkles, you might qualify as a candidate for Morpheus8 Body. If you have ever experienced any of these below, Dr. Korman might suggest another treatment: 

  • Diabetes 
  • Thyroid dysfunction 
  • Sores, scabs, psoraisis, or other skin conditions within the treatment area 
  • Keloids 
  • Endocrine and thyroid disorders 

Personal Consultation 

During your consultation, a trained professional will review your medical history, medications you’re currently taking and if Morpheus8 Body is the right treatment for you. We are committed to ensuring you get the best services that fit your needs. We take careful precautions and safety measures very seriously; we want to leave our patients raving about their results! 

Dr. Korman has three locations in California that are managed by a caring, knowledgeable staff that is ready to help. You can call (650) 864-1725 (Mountain View), (831) 293-7182 (Carmel), or (669) 666-9161 (San Jose), or schedule a free consultation directly from our website. 

Though Dr. Korman was rated “Top Doc” by Castle and Connolly from 2017 to 2023, he is also an educator, innovator, researcher, and one who has 20 years of practice putting the needs of his patients above all else. 

Preparation 

Preparation for Morpheus8 Body is similar to that of a typical microneedling session. For four weeks prior to the treatment, you should avoid all forms of tanning and excessive sun exposure. The inflammation from an acute sunburn or even just a light tan can raise the risk of infection and discomfort after the Morpheus8 Body procedure. While waxing and lasering your hair should be avoided for at least a couple of weeks prior, shaving may be required the day before. Gently shaving the area can make it easier for the device to reach the subdermal layer. 

We will also review your medical history and may recommend that you stop taking blood thinners and other medications that thin the blood.

Procedure Steps

The procedure itself is very simple and is over after just a few steps. First, the designated area of treatment will be cleansed and disinfected, and a topical numbing cream will be applied. After about 35 to 45 minutes, a trained technician will place the Morpheus8 Body device on your skin. The needles will collectively penetrate your skin once, and emit pulses of radiofrequency energy. The handpiece will then be moved to a different location to evenly treat the desired areas. With areas of thin skin, the technician will reduce the energy and needle depth of penetration.(5) The average procedure takes 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the size of the area being treated. 

Recovery for Morpheus8 Body

The recovery for this procedure consists of aftercare instructions that should be followed carefully to ensure the results are maximized to their fullest potential. First, a preventative antibiotic ointment will be prescribed to avoid any complications from infection. After your treatment, you’ll be advised to keep the area cleansed with gentle soap and water. A fan or A/C unit can be used to cool down the area and reduce inflammation or discomfort. 

A healing moisturizer will be prescribed since some patients experience dryness. If your treated area is exposed to the sun, you’ll be advised to lather on a doctor-approved sunscreen that provides at least 30 SPF. Both of these products should only be used 24 to 72 hours after the Morpheus8 treatment. Swelling and redness are normal and should subside within one week. 

Results 

Morpheus8 Body can give you taut, refreshed, younger-looking skin by using the power of your body’s own healing abilities. For some patients, this can let them avoid the regular upkeep of dermal fillers or the long recovery of a facelift. For other patients, Morpheus8 is an effective way to extend or enhance the results from other treatments, so that they can continue to enjoy a rejuvenated appearance. Your skin’s texture will begin to improve as collagen and elastin work their magic. Scars and discoloration will begin to fade as your skin tone levels out to provide a more uniform pigmentation. Cellulite dimples will become less apparent after a course of treatments with Morpheus8 Body. Other blemishes like stretch marks on the abdomen or buttocks, and fine lines on the decolletage or around the knees can diminish significantly. 

The time it takes for results to show up varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the conditions being treated, and the number of treatments required to achieve their desired results. While some patients experience a noticeable difference after just one session, we recommend at least three sessions scheduled a month apart to see optimal results. It’s important to keep in mind that because Morpheus8 Body stimulates the production of natural collagen, results aren’t visible overnight. It can take about three months for the increased levels of collagen to create visible, long-lasting results. 

Complementary Procedures 

Dr. Korman offers a variety of minimally-invasive and non-invasive options to consider as well: 

  • Emsculpt– Electromagnetic pulses work to contract muscles so that they become more defined. 
  • Hydrafacial– Utilizes advanced exfoliation and hydration techniques to improve pigmentation and fade fine lines 
  • Microneedling– Involves the same operations as Morpheus8 Body, but without the RF energy features
  • Nova Thread Lift– Dissolvable thread are inserted under the skin to stimulate collagen production 
  • ThermiTight– Radiofrequency energy (RF) is used to tighten sagging skin
  • Ultherapy– Ultrasound energy is used to tighten skin and increase collagen production 

To learn more about these procedures and more, take a look at Dr. Korman’s blog. 

Cost of Morpheus8 Body

Because Morpheus8 Body can be used to cover specific areas of the body, the cost of treatment will depend on the size of the areas, and the number of sessions needed to achieve your desired results. Dr. Korman and his team are committed to meeting or even exceeding your expectations, so schedule a free consultation to learn more about pricing, and to get an estimate for treating your unique concerns.!

FAQ 

Does Morpheus8 Body hurt? 

With a topical numbing cream, most patients find the treatment tolerable. If you are still feeling some pain, injected local anesthesia can help avoid discomfort. 

Where can Morpheus8 Body be used? 

Morpheus8 Body can be used on the legs, arms, flanks, hips, abdomen and buttocks. 

Does Morpheus8 Body cause bleeding?

Sometimes, a tiny amount of blood is present. If you’re not currently taking medication that thins the blood, the bleeding can be more prominent. 

References 

  1. Singh A, Yadav S. Microneedling: Advances and widening horizons. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2016;7(4):244-254. doi:10.4103/2229-5178.185468. 
  2. Masson F. Skin hydration and hyaluronic acid. Annales de Dermatologie et de Venereologie. 2010 Apr;137 Suppl 1:S23-5. DOI: 10.1016/s0151-9638(10)70005-3. PMID: 20435251. 
  3. Dayan, Erez MD*; Burns, A. Jay MD†; Rohrich, Rod J. MD‡; Theodorou, Spero MD§. The Use of Radiofrequency in Aesthetic Surgery. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open 8(8):p e2861, August 2020. | DOI: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000002861 
  4. Ugonabo, N, Ward, R, Chapas, A. A clinical study to evaluate the safety and efficacy performance of the Morpheus8 applicator for the treatment of cellulite: A case series. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022; 21(Suppl. 1): S20- S23. doi: 10.1111/jocd.15283 
  5. Morpheus8 Body Applicator Operator Manual.; 2020. Accessed June 9, 2023. https://octanecdn.com/skiniquemedspacom/skiniquemedspacom_741399698.pdf