What is Aluma?

Aluma is a radio frequency based technology that treats unwanted wrinkles and loose skin on the face and neck areas. The treatment promotes the development of collagen in areas where age and the elements have left depressions in the skin or loose skin which can result in wrinkles. Aluma targets the area to be treated between two electrodes which transmit radio frequency to the dermis, the second deepest layer of the skin, causing new collagen to form in those areas. This leaves the first layer of skin, or the epidermis, untouched.

Who is a candidate for Aluma?

Anyone looking to treat wrinkles and loose skin in a non-invasive way can benefit from Aluma. Without surgery or injections, Aluma offers patients a toned and wrinkle free appearance without extensive treatment times, prolonged healing times or excessive discomfort.

What areas does Aluma treat?

Aluma is typically used on the face, near the eyes, neck, abdomen, knees, arms, and perhaps other areas. If a patient desires to have another area treated, this can be discussed with a trained medical professional who is experienced with Aluma.

Who is not a candidate for Aluma?

Anyone looking to see a dramatic alteration to their appearance may need a more invasive procedure that requires actual surgery with anesthesia and a longer recovery time. Aluma works best for the treatment of wrinkles and even loose or sagging skin in some areas, but for more dramatic changes, surgery may be necessary.

Does Aluma offer permanent results?

Over time the skin will inevitably age and wrinkles can recur with time and exposure to the elements. Aluma’s results are long lasting and not considered temporary in the same way that say, Botox would be. As time goes by the skin will respond to the wear and tear of life and aging, yet Aluma can help to enhance one’s collagen level which diminishes the signs of aging.

How is the procedure done?

Treatment with Aluma is rather simple, does not involve incisions, anesthesia, or lengthy office visits. A trained and experienced health care professional will discuss the patient’s goals and decide on what areas to treat. Treatments start by cleansing the skin and then target areas are treated with a conductive lotion which helps the Aluma hand piece to treat the dermis layer of skin. The hand piece then suctions up skin in the treatment area and the radio frequency waves are then sent to the suctioned skin. The dermis is affected by the waves, promoting the growth of new collagen, while the epidermis is left untouched. Patients usually undergo the procedure without feeling any pain and no numbing is necessary. They may feel heat sensations as the procedure is completed, as the radio frequency heats up the dermis. Once the procedure is over, the patient is free to leave, having only spent about 15-45 minutes on the treatment. Repeat treatments may be necessary to achieve the desired results and are usually scheduled weekly. Every patient’s skin is unique and the number of necessary treatments depends on the individual patient.

What is the recovery like?

Patients usually do not notice any substantial effects other than perhaps minor swelling because the skin has been stimulated and is repairing itself. Since the procedure is not invasive, the skin does not have a substantial “recovery” time other than what occurs beneath the skin’s surface and beyond what the eyes can see. Patients can return to their regular everyday activities right away.

When are the results apparent?

The results are usually increasingly apparent over the course of a few months and every patient’s skin varies. Some patients may notice changes within three-five treatments and others may notice changes more gradually.

How many sessions are necessary?

Since every patient’s skin is unique, the number of needed sessions will vary however most physicians treat with Aluma in a six session series, with one session every week. Once that series is over, any further sessions may be discussed with your doctor.

What are the advantages of Aluma over other procedures?

• Non-invasive
• No anesthesia
• Simple procedure with minimal treatment time
• Mild side effects
• Patient can return to work or other everyday activities after the procedure
• No incisions
• Treats dermis rather than epidermis so the patient doesn’t experience excessive peeling or pain on the outer layer
• Lower treatment costs

Is Aluma approved for use in the USA?

Yes, Aluma was FDA approved in October of 2005 to tighten skin and treat wrinkles in the USA.

Is Aluma covered by health insurance providers?

Since Aluma is considered a cosmetic procedure, it likely is not covered by health insurance. It is still a good idea to discuss what options are available with a health insurance provider and treating physician.

What is the treatment cost of Aluma?

Most doctors treat patients for about $300+ per session, depending on the size of the area to be treated. Discussing and finalizing costs prior to starting treatments is always recommended.