Renuvion is a radiofrequency energy-based skin tightening device that is the only device that has FDA clearance for use after liposuction as well as for contracting subcutaneous soft tissue. The device combines helium gas to create plasma energy, which targets collagen that is exposed during liposuction or other treatments to help cause soft tissue contraction and tightening of the loose areas. The in-office treatments can be done with local anesthesia or combined with larger procedures performed under general anesthetic.
Dr. Glenn Lyle at Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center utilizes this device during liposuction of the back, flanks, abdomen, arms, and inner thighs to improve tightening of the skin. Renuvion skin tightening in Raleigh can also be used to treat loose neck skin and facial skin in selected patients who are suitable candidates.
Dr. Glenn Lyle was among the first to use this technology in the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill area and offers this to patients in Wake Forest, Cary, Morrisville, Apex, Clayton and surrounding areas in North Carolina.
Why Renuvion?
Liposuction frequently causes some degree of loosening of the overlying skin, and energy-based devices can help maximize the contraction or tightening of the skin. Collagen, when exposed to energy, will contract (shrink) and often build new collagen, a process known as neocollagenesis. There are many devices in Raleigh that treat areas with external energy to help tighten skin, but Renuvion utilizes direct treatment under the skin, which is done with a handpiece with a thin, pencil-like probe that is inserted into the same small incisions used for liposuction. When the device is activated, a spark-like flash of plasma energy is emitted, which targets exposed fibers between the skin and underlying muscle or fascia. The helium gas rapidly cools the spot down to avoid damage to surrounding tissues. The probe is passed in a slow and steady fashion throughout the area that was liposuctioned or loosened. The energy levels can be adjusted to ensure the proper delivery of plasma-generated heat to the specific area. Results usually take at least 3 months to become significant and often improve even with time.
Formerly known as J Plasma, Renuvion has become more popular and is being incorporated into surgical procedures more often. This technology may be especially helpful for patients who have had major weight loss and resultant loosening of skin tone. With the popularity of GLP-1 injections like Ozempic, Mounjaro, or Zepbound, patients are losing weight and noticing looser skin. Renuvion may be a good procedure to help those patients.
Is Anesthesia Needed for Renuvion Skin Tightening?
Yes. Local anesthesia is always used—a solution called tumescent fluid is placed into the fat layer to reduce discomfort and shrink blood vessels, making the procedure safer and more comfortable. This fluid is also used even when patients are under general anesthesia or heavy sedation. When larger areas are treated, such as 360-degree liposuction, or when the procedure will take several hours, Dr. Lyle usually utilizes general anesthesia or heavy sedation to make it more comfortable and reduce the risk of lidocaine toxicity. Even in those cases, tumescent technique is used. For smaller areas such as the neck, bra roll, inner thighs, or even abdomen – Renuvion Skin Tightening can be done with local anesthesia alone. Some patients in Raleigh are offered a mild oral sedative if they have a driver to safely transport them home after the Renuvion skin tightening procedure.
What to Expect After Renuvion Skin Tightening?
When patients have Renuvion, they will often be sent home in a compression garment which helps reduce swelling and compress the treated area. These garments must be worn steadily for several weeks to months depending on the area. As time goes on, they can be used for part of the day. The first few days you will experience some discomfort in the treated areas, but this is usually managed by oral analgesics like Tylenol, anti-inflammatories, or mild narcotics. Patients will have dressings to absorb fluid, as there is often light drainage from the incisions which can spot the gauze dressings. Bruising is usually mild, but areas that underwent liposuction will often exhibit bruising for up to two weeks. We give our patients oral Arnica montana – a botanical agent that reduces bruising and swelling. Topical creams and gels are also offered, such as Alastin® TransForm Body Treatment, which helps speed up results by helping your own body’s ability to remove broken-down fat cells. Recovery in Raleigh is usually fairly rapid, with return to normal activities within a week unless Renuvion skin tightening was used in conjunction with other procedures like tummy tuck or breast surgery. Treated areas may feel numb for several months.
Complications are uncommon but can include changes in sensation, thermal burns, skin deformities, pigmentation changes, and scarring.
Renuvion FAQs
Yes, Renuvion is versatile and can be applied to smaller or delicate areas. For instance, Renuvion has been effectively used to tighten skin around the eyes, providing subtle rejuvenation without invasive surgery in Raleigh, and to address loose skin around the knees, enhancing confidence in previously troublesome areas.
Renuvion’s mechanism targets subdermal tissues, minimizing the risk of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, which can be concerns with some laser treatments. However, individual assessments are crucial, and a consultation with a qualified provider is recommended to determine suitability based on specific skin types and concerns.
Absolutely. Renuvion is often combined with procedures like liposuction to enhance overall results. For example, after fat removal via liposuction, Renuvion can be used to tighten the remaining skin, leading to a more contoured appearance. It’s also paired with treatments like thread lifts or chin implants to address multiple aesthetic concerns simultaneously.
Dr. Lyle and his staff are the best! Dr. Lyle performed a breast revision that was needed for my breast reconstruction, due to a double mastectomy. After 4 years of breast surgeries, I’m finally able look in the mirror and feel normal! I can’t thank Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center enough!
Dr. Lyle, Brittany and Haley are absolutely AMAZING. From the beginning of my consultation to the post op they have all been so kind, helpful, knowledgeable and made me feel so comfortable and at ease. This was a huge decision to have this procedure done and I couldn’t be more grateful and thankful for the experience I had with the entire staff. Everyone is always smiles and delightful I couldn’t ask for a better group of individuals. Thank you for everything and all you do. You are all the BEST.
I had a mommy makeover and did it breaking it into two surgeries instead of at the same time. Dr Lyle and his staff were awesome!!! They made me feel comfortable, explained everything thoroughly and helped me through each process!!!! I highly recommend this team if you are looking for a good, professional, reliable, and trustworthy place to go for surgery!!! I am so thankful I found this place!!!
I am 4 weeks post Botox and filler and I could not be happier with my results! Lyle Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center’s new office is absolutely beautiful, so light and bright. The staff is so welcoming and helpful. The results couldn’t have been better! Thank you for making me feel so great and beautiful!!
Dr. Lyle and his staff are not only knowledgeable in all aspects of their field, but also they are super friendly and accommodating to their patients. I feel like family when visiting; always greeted with a warm welcome. The cutting-edge equipment and techniques give me peace of mind. Each visit feels like a mini vacation!
I am a 2 time cancer survivor and Dr. LYLE has been my cancer surgeon since I was 29. I got cancer at 29 then again at 43 and I am 49 now. He stopped doing breast reconstruction after I got my second cancer and he still came and did my reconstruction. He didn’t have to but he did. He has been my surgeon for 20 years now. Stephanie at the office is great too.
Dr. Lyle and his team are excellent. Moved here from Texas and sought out the most highly rated and experienced doctor. He and his team go above and beyond and provide guidance that helps in making procedure decisions. If you are seeking superb care, supportive team and excellent results, Dr. Lyle and his team should be your choice.
Dr. Lyle and his staff are not only knowledgeable in all aspects of their field, but also they are super friendly and accommodating to their patients. I feel like family when visiting; always greeted with a warm welcome. The cutting-edge equipment and techniques give me peace of mind. Each visit feels like a mini vacation!