Tighten your skin with Dr. Christine Bishara, the founder of From Within Medical, a medical wellness practice that places emphasis on the mind-body and gut-brain axis to prevent and manage disease. She specializes in helping people’s wellness.

With over 20 years of clinical experience, time and time again, Dr. Bishara has discovered that the connection between these systems plays a significant role in disease prevention and management, but it has not been adequately addressed.

Dr. Bishara is Board certified in Internal Medicine by the National Board of Physicians and Surgeons and is certified in Integrative Medical Weight Loss by the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. She has previously served as Assistant Professor and Clinical Preceptor at New York Medical College. Her professional experience has spanned academically and clinically in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Haute Beauty had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Christine Bishara to discuss Morpheus 8 which is used to tighten skin. 

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

HB: What is Morpheus 8?

The most recent advances in non-surgical skin rejuvenation include the Morpheus 8 devices. Morpheus 8 combines both micro-needling and radiofrequency to treat the epidermis and the underlying dermis for maximum results. Micro-needling is a technique that creates tiny puncture wounds in the superficial dermis to stimulate and increase the production of collagen, elastin, and new skin cells.

Radiofrequency is a type of energy that has been scientifically proven to promote collagen remodeling by delivering the thermal energy of radiofrequency waves to deeper layers of tissue via adjustable microneedles. Morpheus 8 doesn’t just address superficial tissue as micro-needling does- it directs energy towards the adipose fat that is notorious for creating jowls, bra, rolls, and more. Morpheus 8 can also prevent and reverse the signs of aging by effectively targeting deep tissue, leading to fractional remodeling of the skin and stimulation of collagen production. Wrinkles, lines and saggy skin are markedly diminished as a result.

HB: Is Radio Frequency safe?

Several radiofrequency devices have been developed in the past decade. The energy has been studied to be safe and effective. The energy used in skin tightening is in the ballpark of 450 kilohertz, which is on the slow end of the radio frequency range. To put it in greater perspective, the wavelength used in radiofrequency skin tightening is about 100 million times slower than visible light, and over 1 billion times slower than an X-ray.

HB: Why is Morpheus 8 better than micro-needling?

Most micro-needling devices can penetrate 1-2 mm beneath the skin. During a Morpheus 8 treatment, we can adjust the micro-needles to a depth of up to 4 millimeters which is deeper than any other micro-needling device. Combined with the fractional technology and heat, there is no other comparative non-invasive treatment on the market.

HB: Is micro-needling with radiofrequency painful?

It is important to us that our patients have access to the treatments they want without the fear of intolerable discomfort. Micro-needling with radiofrequency is conducted after a topical anesthetic has been applied to the skin. Within approximately thirty minutes, the cream desensitizes epidermal nerve endings to reduce the sensations from radio frequency to very mild heat. This also significantly reduces or eliminates the sensation of the micro-needles passing over the skin.

HB: Who is a candidate for micro-needling with RF?

Many adults are excellent candidates for micro-needling with radiofrequency since our skin starts to lose elasticity in our thirties. Radiofrequency treatments are ideal for you if you are searching for facial rejuvenation and skin tightening. The minimally-invasive technique is an ideal way to prevent the signs of aging through a more conservative and noninvasive method. Patients who are interested in achieving tighter, smoother skin but prefer to do so without surgery and its risks may be ideal candidates. Individuals who have previously undergone facelifts and are seeking maintenance are also great candidates. It also eliminates or reduces the appearance of:

• Acne or acne scars
• Poor skin texture
• Sun damage
• Deep lines and creases
• Mild neck sagging or jowls
• Enlarged pores
• Stretch marks
• Small pockets of fat or laxity of abdominal skin
• Excess sweating
• Additionally, although not listed as a specific indication, many patients also
• note improved appearance of cellulite treated areas.

HB: Are there any side effects after treatment with Morpheus 8 and are there contraindications?

Side effects of Morpheus 8 may include transient redness and swelling. It is possible that some patients may experience temporary bruising. The micro-needling aspect of treatment may leave tiny points on the skin that crust and flake off. This should be expected and usually resolves within 3-7 days. Most people are able to leave the office with mild redness which resolves within 24-48 hours. Some conditions such as implantation of any metal devices are contraindicated. We will discuss the side effects and contraindications you might experience during your consultation and help you make a decision regarding the extent of your treatment plan.

How many treatments are needed to see results?

Optimal results are achieved through a series of 3-4 treatments depending on the area being treated. Treatment sessions last about 15 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size of the area treated. Treatments are spaced over a period of 3-5 weeks and improvement is frequently seen after just one treatment. We can make an accurate estimate of treatment outcome by observing the condition of your skin, including texture, tone, and laxity, during your consultation.

HB: How soon after treatment can I wear makeup?

It is usually possible to apply makeup as soon as the day after treatment.

HB: Can I combine Morpheus 8 treatment with PRP?

All Morpheus treatments can be combined with PRP which can enhance the healing and rejuvenation process.

If you’d like to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn if you are a candidate for the procedure, please email or call our office at info@fromwithinmedical.com or 646-844-2677