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Beverly Hills  ·  Century City

Dr. Carlo Honrado

M.D., F.A.C.S.  —  Facial Plastic Surgery

HomeTreatmentsMicroneedling RF
Radiofrequency Energy

Microneedling RF

Dual-action collagen induction with precision radiofrequency energy delivery

Microneedling RF (Radiofrequency Microneedling) combines the collagen-stimulating action of fine microneedles with the tissue-remodeling power of radiofrequency energy. At Dr. Honrado's practice, this treatment is performed with the SylfirmX system — an FDA-cleared dual-wave (pulsed and continuous) RF microneedling platform that not only firms and smooths but also calms redness and improves pigment irregularity, with a favorable safety profile across all skin tones. It addresses skin laxity, texture, pore size, and acne scarring at a deeper tissue level than standard microneedling alone, with less surface disruption than ablative laser resurfacing. Treatments may be finished with a topical Exosome or Secretome application to accelerate healing, minimize downtime, and enhance results.

Treatment Overview

Session Time

Treatment takes approximately 60–90 minutes including topical numbing preparation (30–45 minutes). No general anesthesia required.

Downtime

Most patients experience only mild redness for 24–48 hours, with little to no swelling. Social activities can typically be resumed within about 12 hours, and makeup may be applied after 24 hours. Sun protection is essential during recovery.

Results Timeline

Initial improvement in skin texture may be visible within 2–4 weeks. Collagen remodeling continues for 3–6 months after each session. A series of 3 treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart is typically recommended for optimal results.

Performing Physician

Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Beverly Hills · Century City

What It Does

RF microneedling may address acne scars and post-inflammatory textural changes, fine lines and early wrinkles, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture and tone, mild to moderate skin laxity, and overall skin quality. The combination of mechanical injury (microneedles) and thermal energy (RF) triggers a robust collagen and elastin remodeling response in the dermis — deeper and more sustained than surface-level treatments alone.

How It Works

Insulated microneedles penetrate to a precisely calibrated depth and deliver focused radiofrequency energy directly into the dermis. This dual action creates both mechanical micro-channels that stimulate the wound-healing cascade and thermal zones that denature existing collagen and induce new collagen synthesis. Because the RF energy is delivered below the skin surface via insulated needles, the epidermis is largely preserved — reducing surface downtime while achieving significant dermal remodeling. The SylfirmX platform cycles between a continuous wave for deep collagen tightening and a pulsed wave that selectively targets superficial vessels and pigment, allowing a single device to address firmness, redness, and tone together.

Concerns Addressed

What Microneedling RF May Address

Acne scars (ice pick, rolling, boxcar types)
Fine lines and early wrinkles
Enlarged pores
Uneven skin texture and tone
Mild to moderate skin laxity
Post-inflammatory textural changes
Overall skin tightening and rejuvenation
The Process

What to Expect

1

Skin Assessment

Dr. Honrado evaluates skin type, Fitzpatrick classification, concerns, and treatment history to calibrate the appropriate needle depth and RF energy level.

2

Topical Numbing

Numbing cream is applied 30–45 minutes before treatment to minimize discomfort.

3

Treatment

The RF microneedling handpiece is passed over the treatment area in precise overlapping passes. Needle depth and RF intensity are adjusted by anatomical zone.

4

Post-Treatment Protocol

A calming serum and broad-spectrum SPF are applied immediately after treatment. A specific skincare protocol is provided for the healing phase.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Related Treatments

PRF — Platelet Rich Fibrin Laser Skin Resurfacing Microneedling

Next Step

Ready to learn if Microneedling RF is right for you?

A formal consultation with Dr. Honrado allows for personalized assessment of your anatomy and goals.

Book a Consultation

Content reviewed by Carlo Honrado, M.D., F.A.C.S.  ·  2026-05-16

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