Are breast implants safe?

The FDA’s longstanding position is that implants are safe as long as women understand they can have complications, including scarring, pain, swelling and implant rupture. However, the FDA has been grappling with how to manage a recently confirmed link to a rare cancer. FDA regulators said it is “impossible” for them to determine how frequently the cancer — a form of lymphoma — occurs because the U.S. does not track the total number of implants on the market. Estimates of the frequency of the disease range from 1 in 3,000 women to 1 in 50,000+. As of July 2019, the FDA requested that Allergan voluntarily recall certain breast implants and tissue expanders from the market. Get more information about breast implant removal here. Most confirmed cases of the disease, known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), have involved a particular brand of textured implant that we do not use. The disease is not breast cancer, but a form of cancer that attacks the immune system and usually forms in the scar tissue surrounding implants. It grows slowly. Doctors can successfully treat this disease by removing the implants.

What are the risks associated with breast augmentation?

Smoking, vaping and nicotine use increase the risk of complications after any surgery, including breast augmentation. As such, we strongly urge discontinuing the use of tobacco products one to two months prior to surgery, and one month after surgery, to ensure optimal healing and results. Some of the possible complications associated with breast augmentation include: Anesthesia risks Bleeding Blood clots Asymmetry Infection Changes in nipple or breast sensation Unfavorable scarring Wrong or faulty position of the implant Implant leakage or rupture The formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture) Fluid accumulation (seroma) Wrinkling of the skin over the implant Pain, which may persist Possibility of revision

Do you offer financing or special pricing?

At Fox Valley Plastic Surgery, we offer multiple discounts for cosmetic procedures: 15% off the surgeon’s fee for your second cosmetic procedure, and 30% off the surgeon’s fee for the third procedure. We also discount the operating room fee 50% for your second procedure and any that come after, while anesthesia charges by time. We also partner with reputable companies like CareCredit® and Alphaeon® Credit, which offer low or zero-interest financing to make your transformation more manageable. If you have any questions about payment or financing, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team will be happy to guide you through the available options to help you get the look you want with convenient monthly payments that fit your budget.

When can I return to work after my breast augmentation?

The ability to return to work depends on whether the implant was placed under or over the pectoral muscle, and the patient’s pain tolerance and motivation. If your implants are placed over the muscle (subglandular), you can expect to take two to three days off before returning to desk work. If your implants are placed under the muscle (submuscular), you should plan to take off five to seven days, by which time you can comfortably discontinue the use of pain killers. Lifting is absolutely forbidden for the first seven to 10 days, so an early return to work is not advised for patients with active jobs. Avoid strenuous activity for the first two weeks, and do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds before for the first six weeks (this includes small children and pets). While it is important to rest frequently during the first week, we recommend walking 15-20 minutes four times a day to help prevent blood clots from forming.

Are breast implants right for me?

Breast implants can help you achieve a fuller, more proportional figure, but there are several things to consider before undergoing breast augmentation, such as: Breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, and future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants Pregnancy, weight loss, and menopause may influence the appearance of augmented breasts over the course of your lifetime Breast augmentation patients require regular examinations to ensure the health of their breasts and the condition of their implants Patients who are considering implants should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of breast augmentation and make the decision that is right for them. Download booklets from the Patient Forms page to learn more. Specifically, please read at least one of these booklets: Mentor® Breast Implants Patient Education or Sientra® Breast Implants Patient Education.

Sylfirm X RF Microneedling for Skin Rejuvenation

Traditional microneedling creates tiny, controlled punctures in the skin, triggering the body’s wound-healing response to stimulate collagen and elastin production. RF microneedling takes this a step further with the addition of radiofrequency (RF) energy, gently heating the deeper tissues to contract existing collagen fibers while stimulating the cells (fibroblasts) responsible for new collagen growth. You’ll notice an immediate tightening effect, with long-term results that continue to develop over several months.

Key Details

Procedure Time: 90 minutes (30 for numbing, 45-60 for treatment)
Anesthesia: Topical numbing
Recovery: Minimal downtime
Results: Immediate tightening, final results develop for 3-6 months after treatment
Combination Procedures: PRP therapy, medical-grade skincare
Approximate Cost: $600 per treatment for face. Save 15% on a package of 3. Extra charge for neck, décolletage, and hands.

Why We Use Sylfirm X

At Fox Valley Plastic Surgery Medispa, we use Sylfirm X, the world’s first and only FDA-approved RF microneedling device featuring two distinct modes: ultra-short pulsed wave (PW) mode and continuous wave (CW) mode.

CW mode uses single, long pulses of energy to deliver uniform heat that reaches the entire dermal layer, making it effective for firming and tightening the skin.

PW mode is more selective, using short, rapid bursts of energy to target abnormal blood vessels, reducing redness and discoloration. This precision makes Sylfirm X highly effective at treating conditions like melasma and rosacea with no thermal damage.

What Can RF Microneedling Do?

RF microneedling with Sylfirm X addresses a wide range of concerns, making it one of our most versatile treatment options yet. No matter what your goals are, the combination of mechanical and thermal stimulation allows us to tackle multiple issues at once, including:

Rough, uneven skin texture
Fine lines and wrinkles
Enlarged pores
Acne scars
Discoloration
Stretch marks
Loss of elasticity
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Facial redness, melasma and rosacea
Thinning hair and hair loss

Sylfirm X is especially effective in delicate areas like around the eyes, neck and chest, where traditional methods may fall short. When paired with exosomes, growth factors or specialized serums, it can even support hair restoration in both men and women.

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Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Sylfirm X RF microneedling works well for most patients looking to improve their skin’s health and appearance. It is safe for all skin types, including darker skin tones, and provides excellent results with little to no downtime. You’re likely an excellent candidate if you’re:

Bothered by moderate skin laxity, fine lines, acne scars, stretch marks or melasma
In good overall health with no active infections or conditions in the treatment area
Have realistic expectations about potential results
Willing to commit to a series of treatments
Looking for gradual, lasting results rather than dramatic, overnight changes

RF microneedling can be performed nearly anywhere on the face or body. During your consultation, our skilled team will evaluate your needs and assess the overall health of your skin with VISIA Complexion Analysis to determine if this treatment option is right for you.

What to Expect Throughout the RF Microneedling Process

Consultation

Your Sylfirm X RF microneedling journey begins with a detailed consultation, where we’ll discuss your goals, review your skin’s current condition and capture high-resolution images with VISIA Complexion Analysis software to uncover concerns that aren’t always visible to the naked eye. This allows us to customize your treatment plan and track your results over time.

Preparation

Several days before treatment, we recommend discontinuing retinoids and any products containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid, as these can increase skin sensitivity and cause irritation. Sun exposure should also be limited in the weeks leading up to your appointment, and sunless tanner must be avoided two weeks prior to treatment. On treatment day, arrive with clean skin free from makeup, oils and perfumes. Your provider will cleanse the area and apply a topical numbing cream about 30 minutes before beginning.

Treatment

Sylfirm X typically takes about an hour, depending on the size and number of areas being treated. When planning your procedure, factor in extra time for numbing, photos and paperwork. Once your skin has been prepped, your provider will begin by moving the handpiece across the skin, creating microinjuries and delivering RF energy into the deeper dermis. You may feel some warmth and mild prickling as the needles penetrate the skin, but our patients find this tolerable with the topical numbing cream. Throughout treatment, we’ll monitor your skin’s response and adjust device settings as needed for optimal comfort and results.

RF Microneedling Recovery & Results

Recovery

Recovery is typically gentle and involves minimal downtime. Immediately after treatment, you’ll experience some redness, similar to a mild sunburn. This redness usually peaks within the first 24 hours and then gradually subsides over the next one to three days. Your skin may also feel tighter or more sensitive than usual, but an ice pack can be applied to calm and soothe treated areas. We recommend using gentle skincare products and avoiding harsh exfoliants or actives for the next few days for optimal healing.

Results

With Sylfirm X, you’ll notice an immediate improvement in skin firmness and texture. These results are progressive and cumulative, continuing to develop over time as collagen production increases and enhanced with subsequent treatments. Most patients benefit from a series of three to six sessions spaced four weeks apart, though the optimal number depends on your needs and skin’s condition.

Long-Term Care

Maintaining your results requires consistency and quality care. Your skin will thank you for the ongoing TLC! We recommend keeping your skin protected from the sun and following a skincare routine designed just for you. Our team can walk you through which products to use (and which to skip) so your skin stays healthy and glowing. Many of our patients also schedule a quick refresh every six to 12 months for the best long-term results.

Before & Afters

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Why Choose FVPS Medispa for RF Microneedling

At Fox Valley Plastic Surgery Medispa, we believe that excellent results come from the perfect combination of expert training, advanced techniques and personalized care you can trust. Our team brings over two decades of experience to every treatment, ensuring you receive not just the latest in aesthetic technology, but the expertise to use it safely and effectively. We also take the time to understand your goals, explain your options and create customized treatment plans to help you achieve the beautiful results you deserve.

VISIA skin analysis to help determine the best treatments & products for you
Every procedure is performed under the supervision of a board-certified plastic surgeon
Comprehensive treatment offerings utilizing the latest FDA-approved technology

“I have only had nothing but positive experiences at FVPS. Every staff member that I have come in contact with was always very pleasant, professional, and friendly. I strongly recommend FVPS for any cosmetic procedures and products. It’s always a positive life-changing experience.”

— Kelly S.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does RF microneedling differ from standard microneedling?

RF microneedling takes standard microneedling to the next level with radiofrequency technology. The RF energy is delivered into the deeper layers of the skin, heating the tissue to further stimulate collagen and elastin production. It also has a tightening effect, making it ideal for treating moderate wrinkles, skin laxity and acne scars.

Is RF microneedling painful?

RF microneedling with Sylfirm X is generally not considered painful and well-tolerated by most patients. It uses non-insulated needles for even energy distribution throughout the epidermis and dermis, minimizing the risk of “hot spots.” While you may feel some warmth or tingling, particularly in more sensitive areas, a topical numbing cream is applied to ensure a comfortable experience.

Who shouldn’t get RF microneedling?

While RF microneedling is suitable for most patients, it may not be ideal for those who:

Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Experiencing active acne, eczema or psoriasis
Have unhealed wounds in the treatment area
Are prone to keloid scarring
Currently taking Accutane (isotretinoin)
Have very sensitive skin
Are on blood thinning medications or have implantable medical devices

There are certain medications, such as blood thinners or supplements like fish oil, that you may need to pause before treatment. At your consultation, fully disclose all medications and supplements that you take, and do not stop taking medications until we advise you to do so.

How many treatments will I need?

Sylfirm X is a highly versatile treatment, so the number of sessions you may need depends on your goals. Some patients with melasma or age spots may only need a single treatment to achieve their desired results, while those with textural issues may need three to four treatments. Generally, three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart provide the optimal experience and outcome for most patients.

What are the risks associated with RF microneedling?

Sylfirm X has undergone more than 25 clinical studies demonstrating its safety and efficacy. Most patients experience few side effects and no major complications. The most commonly reported side effects include increased skin sensitivity, a feeling of tightness, temporary redness and swelling that resolves within a few days. We provided detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing, including recommendations for skincare and sun protection.

Start Your journey today

We invite you to discover how RF microneedling can address your skin concerns with proven results. Contact Fox Valley Plastic Surgery Medispa in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, today at (920) 233-1540 to schedule your consultation and explore your treatment options.

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