Renuvion in Raleigh, NC

 What is Renuvion Skin Tightening?

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 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 Raleigh NC utilizes this device during liposuction of the back, flanks, abdomen arms and inner thighs to improve tightening of the skin. It 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 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 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 GLP1  injections like Ozempic, Mounjauro or Zepbound- patients are losing weight and noticing looser skin. Renuvion maybe 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 or 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 reducing the risk of lidocaine toxicity. Even in those cases, tumescent technique is used. For smaller areas such as the neck, bra roll, inner thighs even abdomen - Renuvion Skin Tightening can be done with local anesthesa alone. Some patient are offered a mild oral sedative is they hav a driver to safely transport them home after the 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 n the treated areas but usually managed by oral analgesics like Tylenol or 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 liposuctioned areas 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 cremes 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 is usually fairly rapid with return to normal activities within a week unless Renuvion 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.