Morpheus 8

How does it work?

1. Small needles penetrate the skin and deliver radiofrequency heat and energy into specific, adjustable depths (more shallow for thinner skin such as around the eyes and upper face, deeper for areas with more fat such as under the chin). These micro-injuries trigger your body’s natural wound-healing response, which increases the production of 

1. Collagen (give definition here)

2. Elastin

3. Fibroblasts 

2. Once the needles are in the skin, RF (radiofrequency) energy is delivered directly to the dermis and subdermal layers. This heat has two major effects:

1. Immediate tissue contraction. RF heat causes collagen fibers to contact right away, giving instant tightening. 

2. Long-term skin remodeling. RF heat stimulates fibroblasts to produce new collagen, new elastin, and fat remodeling in deeper areas. This process continues for 3-6 months, leading to firmer, thicker, and tighter skin. 

Anyone who is interested in tightening and brightening the skin, regardless of age. Common conditions that respond well to Morpheus8 are

• Stretch marks

• Sagging jowls, cheeks, or neck

• Accumulation of fat in the jowls or under the chin

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Under eye crepiness and sagging

• Acne scars

• Deep, cystic acne

• Enlarged pores

• Skin crepiness on arms, legs, knees, elbows, and hands

• Thickened, rough, and dull skin

• Rosacea, redness, and vascularization

• Excessive sweating in underarms

Morpheus8 is not just for the face! Any area with skin can be treated! While the face and neck are certainly most popular, other frequently treated areas include 

• Knees

• Hands

• Armpits (for sweating)

• Underside of arms (“bat wings”)

• Genital labia (for non-surgical labioplasty)

• Depth control. It can reach deeper than traditional microneedling – down to fat layer – allowing tightening of both skin and underlying tissue. The settings can also be adjusted for more shallow depths that are appropriate for delicate and thinner skin. 

• Fractional technology. The needles heat the skin in miniscule columns (called microthermal zones) and leave the surrounding tissue intact. The surrounding tissue provides stem cells and healing signals that lead to the growth of new skin cells. This fractional technology leads to great results while minimizing the risks of scarring and irregular pigmentation that can result from other more aggressive therapies. 

• Dual action. Mechanical (needle penetration) + thermal (radiofrequency) stimulation combined gives much stronger results than either alone. 

For best results we recommend a series of three Morpheus treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart. Additional treatments can certainly be done, but we recommend waiting at least 6 months in order to see the results from the initial treatments. We recommend a touch-up treatment at least once a year, but some people choose to do 2-3 touch-up treatments each year.

Although some tightening will take place immediately, most of the tightening will occur gradually over 6-12 weeks after the last treatment and full collagen remodeling can usually be seen between 3-6 months.

This all depends on the health of your skin! A good rule of thumb is to remember that once your body grows new skin cells they will start aging at the same rate as the rest of your body. This aging process is accelerated by stress, poor diet, poor sleep, and excessive sun exposure. In order to get the most out of your treatments we highly recommend doing everything you can to optimize your internal health.

1. The photo session. Our specialized 3D advanced imaging (Quantificare) allows us to capture high-resolution facial images and analyze skin quality, volume, symmetry, pigmentation, and aging changes. It provides objective measurements to support precise treatment planning, track results over time, and enhance patient outcomes. Photos will be taken before a treatment package is started and 6 months after the last treatment is complete. 

2. The consultation. Once photos are taken and analyzed, you will meet with one of our highly trained team members to discuss your areas of greatest concern, your desired outcome, and any additional recommendations that can maximize your results. Should you desire to proceed, we will supply you with numbing cream and pain meds to be taken at home before your treatment. 

3. Scheduling. If you are doing a series we recommend getting them all scheduled up front to avoid any delays in the optimal timing (spaced every 4-6 weeks)

4. The procedure. Plan on approximately 1 hour from beginning to end. 

   • The week before: focus on nutrient-dense foods, especially those high in vitamin C (for help with collagen production). Some patients will use this time to take advantage of our nutritional IV therapies to prepare their bodies for ideal healing. 

   • 60 minutes before (at home): Apply the numbing cream to clean skin and take your pre-treatment meds (e.g. Tylenol, nervous system calmer such as xanax, prescription analgesics). Make sure to apply the numbing cream to the entire face AND neck. Get all of your errands done before because you will definitely want to go straight home after.

   • Upon arrival at the clinic: We will get you comfortable and situated. If you desire Pro-nox it will be started right before the procedure.

   • After instructions (see our “After Care” section). Expect significant redness right after treatment. Tenderness (similar to a sunburn) is expected, but there should be minimal pain. You will likely want to go straight home and avoid public appearances immediately after.

5. The follow up photo session and consultation. Once the treatment series is complete, we recommend a follow-up photo session and consultation 6 months later. 

Depending on the settings, Morpheus8 can be a little or a lot uncomfortable. Higher RF settings and deeper needle penetration usually give more profound results, but they also give greater discomfort. 

For this reason we have several recommendations for keeping the procedure as comfortable as possible:

1. Topical numbing cream: We have our numbing cream specially formulated by a compounding pharmacy, and it is essential for a Morpheus8 procedure. It is the same cream we give our patients for microneedling treatments, and it is most effective if applied at least 45-60 minutes before your appointment. Most patients pick up a small sample of cream from the office and apply it at home before their procedure.

2. Pro-Nox (aka laughing gas): This is patient-controlled inhaled analgesia that delivers 50/50 nitrous oxide and oxygen to help reduce pain, anxiety, and discomfort during medical and aesthetic procedures. Patients self-administer it through a handheld mouthpiece. Its calming and analgesic effects take place very quickly (usually within a few deep breaths), and they also disappear quickly once the inhalation is stopped. Pro-nox is easy to use and can be included with any procedure in our office, including prozolone, facial injections, laser treatments, or bodysculpting. First-timers will be given new tubing that can be reused each visit thereafter. The cost of the Pro-nox is $50 if you are using new tubing and $35 if you are re-using your own tubing, so don’t forget to bring your own tubing from home if you have it! (*We even have some patients keep it in their car so they don’t forget it.) 

3. Oral prescription pain relievers: We offer a powerful non-narcotic analgesic that has similar pain-relieving properties to narcotics but without the central nervous effects such as drowsiness and decreased respiration. It costs an extra $50 and must be taken at least an hour before the treatment for maximum effect. 

4. Over the counter pain meds: We recommend taking two extra strength Tylenol at least 60 minutes before the procedure. Please avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs (e.g. meloxicam, naproxen) because they can increase the risk of bruising and impact the healing process.

5. Nervous system calmers: Did you know that anxiety and stress can actually worsen pain? This is because stress amplifies how the brain perceives and processes sensory signals. When a person is anxious, the body activates the stress response and releases chemicals that heighten alertness and sensitizes the nervous system. This lowers the pain threshold so that stimuli that might normally feel uncomfortable are perceived as more painful. We highly recommend taking extra steps to calm the nervous system, and we have multiple herbal options available (e.g. Soothing Calm, Relax, Tranquil Mind).  Some people who are more prone to serious anxiety might even choose to use a prescription medication such as Xanax.

After you have completed a Morpheus8 treatment you are on your way to brighter, tighter, more youthful skin! Below is a summary of what you can expect through the healing process. It takes several months to see the full effects of your treatments, so we are including a few tips on how to maximize your benefits.

Expected post-procedure effects

• Day 1: Most people will experience redness and heat immediately after the treatment. This is normal. Both the heat and the redness usually dissipate within a few hours. Occasionally,  certain patients will experience an exaggerated response with swelling and prolonged redness. In these cases benadryl or other antihistamines can help. Rarely, patients will experience excessive swelling that may require 1-2 days of prescription oral steroids. 

• Days 2-3: skin might start to feel rough, like sandpaper, with small pinpoint scabs. Do not pick or remove scabs!  This may cause scarring.

• Days 3-7: swelling, redness, and tenderness should be mostly resolved. Skin will still feel a little dry and rough, and remaining dead skin cells can be gently exfoliated with a washcloth and gentle cleanser. Avoid harsh exfoliants for at least 10 days.

• Weeks 1-2: skin is usually noticeably brighter.

• Months 2+: skin will continue to tighten for several months after the procedure. 

Post-procedure instructions

• Allow skin to breathe for remainder of treatment day (minimal creams and lotions)

• Expect sensitivity to hot water for 24-72 hours

• Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours (and up to 72 hours if possible)

• Avoid direct sun exposure 2-3 days and use spf 30+ sunscreen thereafter. 

• Oral arnica can be used to limit bruising

• Limit activity that will increase body heat (strenuous exercise, sun exposure) for 24 hours

• Need for pain meds is very rare, but if they are needed avoid NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, motrin, naproxen). Tylenol is okay. 

It is important to remember that Morpheus8 works by creating micro-traumas in the skin. These cause the body to engage the healing process, making newer more youthful cells. Your ability to make new cells is highly dependent on your overall health. Below is a list of recommendations to get the most out of your treatment. 

• Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens

• Supplements to promote healing (sold at Wholesome Health):

  • Power Vites 2 capsules daily: these provide premium quality micronutrients, including trace minerals, that are necessary for the body to produce newer, more youthful skin

  • Omega Nourish 2 capsules daily: these provide essential fatty acids that help diminish dullness of the skin and promote supple, nourished skin

  • Skin, Hair, and Nails 2 capsules daily: these provide a proprietary blend of biotin, vitamin E, and botanicals known for their ability to support skin healing and collagen production. These botanicals include Kelp, Horsetail, Rosehip, Pumpkin, Milk Thistle, Calendula, and Pansy.

• Collagen: this helps provide the essential amino acids that serve as building blocks for newer, more youthful skin. 

• To use as a protective barrier while the skin is healing:

  • Miracle Balm

• Use only premium-quality skin products. Our favorite is our Reversal line of skin care products. This line includes the following:
  • Seaweed Soap-Free Cleanser
  • Vanilla Tea Toner
  • Daytime Cell Repair
  • Nighttime Intensive Cell Repair
  • Luminescent Firming Eye Complex

If you are on our membership plan, feel free to continue your other monthly treatments. The only treatment we recommend against is microneedling (because Morpheus8 is RF microneedling). 

• Other laser, IPL, and facial treatments should be spaced two weeks before or after Morpheus8 treatments). 

• Botox needs to be spaced before or after Morpheus8 by two weeks. 

• Dermal fillers. We recommend waiting until the Morpheus8 series is completed.

• PDO threads. We recommend waiting until the Morpheus8 series is completed.

Follow up photos

Because it takes months to see the final tightening and brightening effects of Morpheus8, we recommend patients return for follow up photos 6 months after the last treatment

Follow up Morpheus8 treatments

Once the initial package of 3 is completed, we recommend a yearly touch-up treatment. Some patients prefer 2-3 yearly treatments. 

You are welcome to call (208-557-0200) or text (208-214-8413) for a free consultation.

You cannot receive Morpheus 8 if you are experiencing:

• Active infection or inflammation at the treatment site such as bacterial, fungal, or viral infections or cold sores (active herpes simplex)

• Pregnancy. Radiofrequency has not been studied in pregnancy, so it is best to avoid altogether until after delivery.

• Implanted electrical devices such as pacemakers, nerve stimulators, cochlear implants, and implanted cardio-defibrillators (ICDs). The concern is that the RF energy can interfere with the device function. 

• High risk bleeding disorders or use of certain anticoagulants. If you have questions or concerns about this it is best to discuss with the doctor managing the issue. 

• Uncontrolled autoimmune or connective tissue disorders (ie lupus, scleroderma). These conditions may impair healing or provoke reactions. 

• Conditions that lead to abnormal wound healing

• Accutane (or other isotretinoin) use within the past 6 months due to impaired healing

Please notify Dr. Wheeler if any of the following apply to you:

• Recent sunburn or tanning. These can increase the risk of inflammation and/or pigmentation problems. It is particularly important to make sure any sunburns have totally healed first. 

• Dermatitis or open wounds. Microneedling should only be done on intact skin that is in good condition.

• Active cystic or severe acne. Although Morpheus can greatly help with acne scarring, active acne should be avoided because of the risk of spread.

• Recent fillers or neurotoxin in the treatment zone. It is best to wait at least 2 weeks before or after treatment. 

• Metal implants near the treatment area (ie facial plates/screws, dental implants)

• History of post-inflammatory hypo- or hypo-pigmentation. This is particularly pertinent for darker Fitzpatrik skin types and can require adjustments in settings.

• Immune suppression, including suppression from chemotherapy or corticosteroids.

• Photosensitizing medications can increase risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation

• Blood thinners (aspirin, Plavix, warfarin) may increase bleeding and/or bruising

Morpheus8 is very safe, but there are always risks involved with any treatment involving skin penetration or radiofrequency energy. Most side effects are mild and temporary but others are more serious and require careful consideration. 

Common side effects:

• Redness and swelling

• Mild bruising and pinpoint scabbing

• Tenderness or warmth

• Temporary skin roughness

• Mild itching and dryness during healing

Less common side effects:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This is more of a risk with darker skin. It is usually temporary but can take weeks to months to resolve.

• Exaggerated swelling (can last for weeks)

• Prolonged redness (1-2 weeks)

• Acne flares or folliculitis that can lead to a need for antibiotics

• Temporary numbness or tingling that is the result of nerve irritation and is temporary

• Track marks that might take weeks to months to resolve, especially when higher settings are used

Rare side effects:

• Burns or fat atrophy. This is usually a result of inappropriate settings or an inexperienced clinician performing the procedure. 

• Scarring or fibrosis. This is more likely to happen with people who have skin disorders and abnormal healing tendencies.

• Infection. Although very rare, infections can become serious and need to be evaluated and treated promptly.

• Nerve injury. Extremely rare and usually resolves without need for treatment

How to minimize risks:

• Only do the procedure with someone with appropriate experience, training, and supervision

• Pretreat with antivirals if prone to cold sores

• Avoid excessive sun exposure before treatment, and regularly use SPF 30+ sunscreen

• Space out treatments appropriately (4-6 weeks)

While some patients prefer to do a single treatment, Morpheus8 gives more profound results and costs less when done in a package. We recommend a minimum of three treatments. Our current prices are as follows.

Single treatment: $1500. This includes:

• Advanced 3D facial analysis before treatment (not after)

• A free consultation

• Morpheus8 treatment

• *a post-treatment 3D analysis can be done for its regular fee of $250

Package pricing: Buy two, get one free ($3000). This includes:

• Advanced 3D facial analysis before AND after treatment

• A free consultation

• Morpheus8 treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart

(These costs do not include the Pro-Nox or prescription analgesic)

If you are interested in some extra boost to your results, we recommend any of the following.

Topical treatments immediately after the procedure:

• PRP is short for platelet-rich plasma. It is a therapeutic technique for skin rejuvenation that relies on healing properties found within your own blood cells. Platelets perform many important functions and are best known for their role in the clotting process. Within platelets are found small granules of chemicals collectively known as growth factors. To prepare for the procedure we will draw from your vein a small amount of blood which is then centrifuged and separated into two components: the red blood cells and the plasma. The plasma is the portion containing the platelets and growth factors and is the part that will be injected back into the skin. When this happens the skin will receive signals to lay down new tissue, collage, and elastin, helping to provide a more youthful, vibrant appearance. When added to the Morpheus8 treatment, PRP will be applied topically to the skin immediately after treatment. You will also be given a small syringe to take home and can be done as often as you would like and helps support the results obtained by other aesthetics treatments (lasers, IPL, microneedling, chemical peels, morpheus, etc). We recommend waiting 2-5 days after your Mopheus treatment to get the best results out of a PRP boost. ($110 for members, $250 for non-members)

• Exosomes improve the skin by increasing the chemicals responsible for cell-to-cell communications that accelerate skin repair and regeneration. They are tiny vesicles derived from stem cells, and they contain natural growth factors, peptides, lipids, and genetic signals that optimize skin function. When applied to the skin after Morpheus8 treatments they signal the fibroblasts other skin cells to produce collagen and elastin, and they reduce inflammation and improve cell turnover. They also regulate pigmentation, enhance wound healing, and strengthen the skin barrier. ($250)

• VAMP (often called salmon sperm-derived skin booster) helps the skin primarily through polynucleotides (PN) or polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), which are DNA fragments extracted from salmon. These molecules act as biostimulators that support the skin’s own repair and regeneration process by stimulating fibroblasts to make new collagen. They also improve cell turnover, tissue repair, microcirculation, and hydration, resulting in firmer, smoother, and more supple skin with healthier texture and tone. ($150)

Injectable treatments between treatments within a series

• Sculptra is a biostimulatory injectable that gradually restores facial volume by stimulating collagen production. It improves skin thickness, elasticity, and firmness while softening wrinkles and giving a more natural appearance than can be achieved with fillers alone. 

Sometimes our patients need treatments that are more aggressive with skin tightening or fat sculpting. For this reason we also offer FaceTite, BodyTite, and Quantum procedures.

What are they?

All three are minimally invasive RF-assisted contouring procedures designed to tighten loose skin and reduce localized fat. They use small internal and external probes to deliver controlled RF energy beneath the skin, which melts fat and contracts the connective tissue while stimulating collagen production. 

These procedures require no general anesthesia and are done in the comfort of our office. They are relatively quick procedures that take anywhere between one and four hours from start to finish (larger areas may be longer).

What is the difference between the three? 

FaceTite and BodyTite procedures are usually aimed toward areas of greater skin laxity and unwanted fat deposits. They are usually done in conjunction with a mid to moderate amount of liposuction. As opposed to other fat-reducing procedures that reduce fat but results in greater skin laxity, (e.g. Coolsculpting or traditional liposuction) these sculpt AND tighten simultaneously, giving superior results. 

Areas commonly targeted include the following: 

FaceTite 

• Submentum (under the chin)

• Jowls

• Sagging cheeks

• Sagging neck

BodyTite

• Postpartum belly with saggy, stretched out skin

• Stubborn fat pockets

• Arm sagging and laxity (e.g. “bat wings” and who came up with this term?)

Our Quantum procedure also utilizes RF energy, but the probe is slightly different (internal only) and it targets milder cases of skin laxity and fat sculpting. Quantum is better suited for patients who have milder skin laxity and prefer less recovery time.

How does the procedure work? 

Small incisions are made in the skin, and they serve as entry points for the probes and cannulas that will deliver the RF energy and aspirate unwanted fat. The area is infiltrated with special numbing fluid after which the RF probes deliver the energy that will tighten the connective tissue and destroy or liquify unwanted fat. After the RF is delivered, liposuction may or may not be performed. Most patients are comfortable but awake and talking through the procedure.

What is the recovery time like? 

Most patients are back to work within a few days, but some will have more swelling and discomfort depending on which procedure was done. 

What is the cost? 

Most procedures cost anywhere between $3k-$6K depending on the area being treated.