Of the hardware techniques for skin rejuvenation and facial oval restoration, ultrasound and radio waves are the most popular. They are painless, have virtually no side effects, and are cumulative and long-lasting. Which is better - SMAS or RF-lifting is determined individually depending on the problem to be eliminated.
Hardware Rejuvenation Principle of Action
Both techniques are based on a local increase in facial tissue temperature. SMAS-lifting differs from RF-lifting in the method of heating. In the first case, high-intensity focused ultrasound is used, in the second electric high-frequency radio waves.
Heating triggers neocollagenesis - the formation of new collagen and elastic skin fibres. This process provides a non-surgical face lift effect.
Depth of exposure
The difference between SMAS-lifting and RF-lifting (for face, neck, décolleté) is the depth of wave penetration. Ultrasound can reach 4.5 mm, while radio waves can reach up to 3.5 mm. Wave work at different depths is made possible by the device's attachments, which the aesthetician selects according to the type and condition of the skin.
Mechanism of the lifting effect of SMAS
Focused ultrasound creates tiny coagulation zones at the SMAS level with a diameter thinner than a human hair.
The points of thermal action "contract" and immediately reduce the volume of the tissue. Neocollagenesis is triggered, regeneration is stimulated and microcirculation is improved.
The stretching of the SMAS fixation points is removed and the structure that performs the skeletal and support function in the skin is restored.
In addition to the epidermis and dermis, ultrasound lifting also affects the subcutaneous fat layer and the superficial musculoaponeurotic system. These are the muscles and connective tissue that cover and connect the facial muscles. The smas starts at the ears, covers almost the entire cheek area, and moves into the neck area. This layer is covered with tendon discs (aponeurosis) and connective sheaths (fascia).
Mechanism of RF lifting effect
In radiofrequency treatment, tissues are heated drop by drop, affecting the dermis and restoring the cellular composition of the epidermis without traumatizing it. Such heating results in sculpting the contours of the facial oval, smoothing wrinkles, restoring elasticity to the skin of the face and body, as well as correcting scars and stretch marks, excessive sweating and hair loss.
Despite the differences in the principle and depth of the treatment, SMAS and RF-lifting tightens the soft tissues of the face and body, increases the elasticity and firmness of the skin, resulting in smooth, radiant and lifted skin.
General principle of the approach to the types of SMAS-lifting or RF-lifting procedures
Which is better - SMAS-lifting or RF-lifting of the face will be determined in a particular case by a cosmetologist depending on the age and type of skin aging. The method of radio waves is recommended for patients after the age of 25, ultrasound - from 35 years. With deformed-edematous or tired type of aging, SMAS-lifting is shown, with fine wrinkled - RF-lifting.
Facial skin with deformed-edematous type is flabby, dense, but has a healthy color. Wrinkles are weakly expressed. There are folds on the neck and in the décolletage zone, drooping eyelids, "breeches", a "second" chin and bags under the eyes.
The tired type is characterized by pronounced nasoretic folds and nasoretic furrows. The corners of the eyes and mouth are lowered, the complexion is sallow.
In the fine wrinkled type, many fine lines are formed. The skin is dry, sensitive and pigmented, with a tendency to peel. The facial oval is not deformed and swelling is very rare.
How are radiofrequency and SMAS lifting procedures similar?
- Scope. RF and SMAS lifting is used to correct aesthetic imperfections on the face and neck, décolleté, periorbital zone (around the eyes). The technology is also suitable for correction of defects on the body - in the abdomen, thighs, etc.
- The nature of the manipulation. Procedures belong to the hardware series.
- Absence of unpleasant sensations. According to reviews, patients do not experience severe discomfort either during or after the session.
- Versatility in all seasons. Treatments can be carried out at any time of the year.
- Little invasiveness. The procedures do not affect the integrity of the skin.
- Simple and fast enough recovery. During the rehabilitation period, you can live at your usual pace. Bruises, burns, etc. do not form on the correction zone. For maximum results, only the cosmetologist's recommendations should be followed.
Differences between SMAS and RF lifting
- Principle of action. The essence of Ulthera therapy is the action of focused ultrasound. RF-lifting transforms the skin by the action of radiofrequency pulses.
- Depth of action. Radiofrequency lifting (for the face) works up to a depth of 3.5 mm of tissue. Smas-therapy allows to penetrate deep layers of the skin up to 4.5 mm, affecting muscle layers.
- Number of treatments. In the case of the RF-method, the number of treatments is determined by the beautician. She takes into account the initial condition of the skin, the type of problem and other factors. The recommended course may include 5-10 treatments. One session in the correction zone is enough to achieve a lasting therapeutic effect with SMAS-lifting.
- Duration of effect. It depends on the individual characteristics of the patient, the consistency of compliance with the recommendations of the doctor. However, at the end of the course of radiofrequency lifting, the effect will be observed for six months, and from SMAS-therapy - 1.5-2 years.
- Age restriction. Radiofrequency lifting can be used from the age of 18, smas-lifting is recommended after the age of 35.
- Prices. You can calculate the price for a course of therapy and one session.
It is important to remember that
When choosing between a SMAS lift and an RF lift, it is important to consider not only the type of procedure, but also the qualifications of the physician, budget, and individual skin characteristics and needs. A consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon is a key step in determining the best procedure for you.
It should also be remembered that RF lifting is a "softer" method and the effect is achieved more gradually in relation to the number of procedures, more naturally, with less strain on the body. Smas-lifting is a more cardinal and "harder" method - it is performed in one procedure and is not recommended to be repeated more often than in 18 months.
Conclusion
SMAS-lifting and RF-lifting are two modern and effective methods of combating the signs of skin aging and maintaining its youthfulness. The choice between them depends on your personal preferences, expectations and the individual characteristics of your skin. The decision should be made in collaboration with an experienced cosmetic surgeon who can help you determine the best course of action to achieve the desired results. Regardless of the choice, both methods offer the opportunity to look younger and fresher, giving you confidence and enjoyment in your appearance.
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