Vivace – fractionated radio frequency microneedle system

Radiofrequency microneedling systems are one of the most advanced approaches in aesthetic medicine. They are used in the treatment of scars, stretch marks, to erase wrinkles of different depths, shrinking pores, skin rejuvenation, therapies for acne and its consequences. The effectiveness of microneedle systems is similar to that of laser procedures, but the recovery period is significantly shorter and the minimal risk of hyperpigmentation makes them suitable for all skin types.

Vivace is a last generation combined system that combines the capabilities of microneedling with radio frequency. The action of Vivace is conditioned by a special tip with 36 gold-plated microneedles. They penetrate the skin at a precisely selected depth, controlled by a precision motor, after which a radio frequency of a certain duration is emitted. The purely mechanical traumatization of the skin by the needles stimulates collagen and elastin, and in cases of scar healing, pathological tissue is destroyed and this helps to restore normal architecture. Radiofrequency further stimulates the processes of collagen formation and elastinogenesis, leading to the formation of controlled thermal injury and coagulation in the dermis and epidermis.

In addition to radiofrequency and microneedles, the device has a blue and red LED source with anti-inflammatory or rejuvenating and regenerating effects, respectively. The combination of a blue LED and a radiofrequency microneedle system make the device unparalleled in the treatment of inflamed forms of acne. Due to the extreme precision of the Vivace, trauma to the surrounding tissue is minimal and the motor in the tip results in even penetration and minimal pain sensations. The procedure has a short recovery period and is suitable for all skin types, with almost no risk of pigmentation.

Before the procedure, the areas are anaesthetized with an anaesthetic cream, which stays for 15 to 20 minutes, after which they are cleaned and the skin is treated using the tip of the device. Due to the extremely small size of the needles and the pre-anesthesia, sensations can range from mild to moderate burning and moderate pain, strongest at the time of the prick itself, due to the emission of the radio frequency. They largely depend on the treated area, the operating parameters of the device and the desired result.

Each area is treated 2 to 3 times, after which a restorative cream is applied to the face, and if performed for rejuvenation and treatment of scars and stretch marks, the procedure can be combined with PRP.

The total duration, together with the pain relief time, depends on the area treated and is on average about 60 minutes.

The procedure is contraindicated in people with pacemakers, metal implants in the treatment areas, including dental implants, bleeding problems and those on anticoagulant therapy, pregnant women, history of hypertrophic scarring/ keloids.

After the procedure, the areas are red, swollen, with increased temperature and sensitivity to touch, most pronounced a few hours after the procedure. The redness and swelling usually subside after 24 to 48 hours, and depending on the parameters of the work, it is possible that the skin peels 3-4 days after the procedure. Increased sensitivity may last up to 2 weeks.

The effect of the procedure becomes visible after a few weeks due to the time required for collagen and elastin synthesis, as well as skin remodeling. Maximum effect is observed after a few months. With proper care, the results achieved last for years.

After the procedure, the areas should not be wet for 24 hours. Alcohol intake, saunas and heavy exercise should be avoided for up to 3 days after the procedure. Smoking for several hours before and after is not desirable. The use of sunscreen immediately after the procedure and for the next three weeks is mandatory. For maximum recovery and optimal effect, a restorative cream can be added to the care of the areas.

The effect of the procedure is cumulative, which necessitates the need for several sessions. The optimal number of treatments depends on the desired effect and the area, and in most cases 3-4 treatments are prescribed with an interval of 2-3 weeks to a month between them. Re-treatment or maintenance therapy is performed after about half a year, when the maximum effect of the previous sessions becomes visible.