Are Metal Implants a Contraindication to Radio Frequency?

• 01 How Does Radio Frequency Work?
• 02 What is Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Used For?
• 03 I Have Metal Implants, Can I Use Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Devices?
• 04 Can I Get an In-Clinic Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Devices with Metal Implants?
• 05 Can I use a Radio Frequency At-Home Skin Tightening Device With Metal Implants?
• 06 Alternatives to Radio Frequency Skin Tightening for Patients with Metal Implants
• 07 The Takeaway

5-minute read

Radio frequency skin tightening is a skin rejuvenation technique that claims to boost the production of new collagen and tighten sagging skin as we age. It promises to smooth out fine lines, improve elasticity, and balance the skin’s appearance. Unlike other anti-aging techniques such as LED light therapy, radio frequency uses thermal, ie ‘heat’ energy to deliver its benefits. The application of heat energy raises concerns for those with metal implants in the face or body such as metal pins, plates, prostheses, or cosmetic implants.

How Does Radio Frequency Work? 

Radio frequency currents are delivered in continuous wave mode and can create heat derived from the skin tissue itself. Electrical currents, when applied to the skin create thermal energy triggering a physiological response to modify the appearance of the skin and reduce subcutaneous fat. The application of thermal energy releases heat-shock proteins that produce new collagen. The physiological response also alters the metabolism of stored fat cells to mobilize them releasing stored energy.

What is Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Used For?

Radio frequency treatments targe the face and body. Body treatments focus on contouring and reducing stubborn fat, while facial treatments aim to enhance skin elasticity and smooth fine lines. It can also treat dull skin tone, acne scarring, uneven skin tone and texture.

I Have Metal Implants, Can I Use Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Devices?

Many people have metal implants originating from various medical procedures. These implants can include screws, rods, wires, pins, or plates used by orthopedic surgeons to repair fractures and worn joints. Other types include arterial stents, metal dental implants, and electronic devices like cardiac pacemakers and cochlear implants. These implants have been identified as contraindications to radio frequency treatments but it doesn’t mean that you cannot undergo any radio frequency treatments, it may just be a case of tailoring your treatment.

Bipolar radio frequency (RF) devices are a popular choice for skin tightening and other aesthetic treatments because they focus RF energy specifically on the treatment area. This design ensures that the energy stays within the targeted zone, providing more precise control over the electromagnetic waves. This reduces the risk of adverse interactions with metal implants. Monopolar radio frequency uses a grounding pad and the radio frequency waves travel between two points in the body. This increases the likelihood that the electromagnetic waves come into contact with metal plates, potentially causing excessive heating or movement of the plates.

Can I Get an In-Clinic Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Devices with Metal Implants?

If you are getting a radio frequency treatment in-clinic, speak directly to your therapist if you have metal implants. They may decide to try another skin-tightening technique or avoid the area where the metal is implanted - eg the knee and the surrounding area.

Can I use a Radio Frequency At-Home Skin Tightening Device With Metal Implants?

Whether a device might interfere with a metal implant typically depends on its energy output. Most at-home radio frequency devices do not have an energy output high enough to cause overheating and generally will not affect the implant. Many devices also include built-in features to prevent overheating, ensuring safe use even without professional supervision. However, it’s best to avoid direct application on the area where the metal is located and to focus on surrounding areas instead. For example, if you have a metal implant in your ankle, using a home radio frequency device on your face is generally safe.

Alternatives to Radio Frequency Skin Tightening for Patients with Metal Implants

If you've been advised against radio frequency skin tightening because of metal implants but still want comparable results, there are many alternative treatments providing similar benefits

• Ultrasound Therapy: Ultrasound treatments bypass metal implants and focus on stimulating collagen without heating any metal components
• Microneedling: This is a mechanical method for collagen induction and skin rejuvenation that does not involve RF, making it safe for those with metal implants.
• Laser Treatments: Depending on the desired outcome, certain laser treatments may be viable to improve skin texture and smooth fine lines

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The Takeaway

Radio frequency skin tightening offers impressive results for rejuvenating and firming the skin, but it’s essential to consider any contraindications, such as metal implants. While certain types of RF devices, like bipolar RF, can be safer options by confining energy to specific treatment zones, it’s still wise to discuss any concerns with your therapist or consult your device’s guidelines if you’re using an at-home option. For those advised to avoid RF due to implants, alternatives like ultrasound therapy, microneedling, or specific laser treatments can provide similar skin-enhancing benefits without the risk of interference.

  written by Sophie Flair