Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening in Belgium: what to expect and where to find trusted clinics

Skin aging is accompanied by a progressive decrease in collagen and elastin production. This natural evolution leads to loss of firmness, sagging of the facial oval, appearance of wrinkles, and alteration of skin texture.

Radiofrequency (RF) constitutes a non-invasive therapeutic option aimed at stimulating neocollagenesis without resorting to surgery. Its efficacy and safety profile are documented by numerous clinical studies, which explains its increasing use in aesthetic medicine.

Find a trusted aesthetic clinic in Belgium specializing in radiofrequency skin tightening →

What is cutaneous radiofrequency and how does it act on the skin?

Radiofrequency is a medical technology based on the emission of electromagnetic waves, generally between 0.3 and 10 MHz. These waves generate a controlled thermal elevation in skin tissues through the Joule effect, when electrical energy encounters the natural resistance of biological tissues.

Unlike laser technologies, which target specific chromophores such as melanin or hemoglobin, radiofrequency acts independently of skin pigmentation. It can thus be used safely on all phototypes, including dark skin.

During treatment, dermal temperature is generally maintained between 38 and 42°C. This controlled thermal elevation triggers two complementary biological mechanisms: an immediate contraction of existing collagen fibers and progressive stimulation of fibroblasts, responsible for synthesizing new collagen and elastin.

How radiofrequency works: action on collagen and neocollagenesis

The action of radiofrequency on the dermis is based on biological phenomena well described in scientific literature.

Thermal elevation causes partial and reversible denaturation of existing collagen fibers, leading to immediate contraction of these fibers. This effect explains the slight tightening sometimes observed from the first sessions.

Simultaneously, heat induces a controlled inflammatory reaction at the dermal level. This biological response stimulates fibroblast activity, increasing production of type I and III collagen as well as elastin synthesis.

Histological analyses and skin biopsies have shown a measurable increase in dermal collagen, beginning shortly after treatment and continuing for several months, up to approximately six months after the last session.

Find a trusted aesthetic clinic in Belgium specializing in radiofrequency skin tightening →

Types of radiofrequency for skin: monopolar, bipolar and multipolar

Monopolar radiofrequency

Monopolar radiofrequency uses an active electrode applied to the treated area and a return electrode placed at a distance on the body. The current passes through tissues between these two points, allowing deep penetration reaching the reticular dermis and hypodermis.

This technology is primarily used for body treatments or skin laxity requiring deep action.

Bipolar radiofrequency

Bipolar radiofrequency concentrates current between two closely positioned electrodes on the treated area. Penetration depth corresponds approximately to half the distance between electrodes.

It allows precise control of the thermal zone and is particularly adapted to delicate regions, such as the eye contour.

Multipolar radiofrequency

Multipolar radiofrequency combines several electrodes to simultaneously treat different dermal depths. Clinical studies show it offers a good balance between efficacy, tolerance and comfort, with a favorable side effect profile.

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Clinical indications of radiofrequency for skin tightening

Face and neck

Radiofrequency is used to treat mild to moderate skin laxity of the face and neck, particularly:

Sagging of facial oval and jowls
Periorbital and eyelid laxity
Facial wrinkles (frown lines, crow's feet, nasolabial folds)
Neck skin laxity and loss of cervico-mental definition

Clinical studies report skin tightening improvement rates of approximately 70 to 75% three months after treatment, with high patient satisfaction rates.

Body

At the body level, radiofrequency is used to improve skin laxity after pregnancy or weight loss, particularly on the abdomen, arms and inner thighs.

It is also used in cellulite management, by improving microcirculation, lymphatic drainage and remodeling of subcutaneous connective tissue.

Find a trusted aesthetic clinic in Belgium specializing in radiofrequency skin tightening →

Radiofrequency session: procedure and treatment protocol

Consultation and initial evaluation

Before any treatment, a medical consultation is essential. It allows evaluation of skin quality, degree of laxity, patient expectations and absence of contraindications.

A personalized protocol is established, generally comprising 4 to 6 sessions spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart.

Radiofrequency session

The skin is cleansed then covered with a conductive gel. The applicator is moved methodically over the treated area to ensure homogeneous energy distribution.

Modern devices integrate real-time thermal control, guaranteeing treatment safety.

Session duration varies according to area: approximately 20 to 30 minutes for complete face and 15 minutes for neck.

Tolerance and sensations during treatment

Radiofrequency is generally well tolerated. The perceived sensation corresponds to progressive heat, sometimes more pronounced at bony areas.

Current protocols, based on multiple passes at moderate energy, have significantly reduced discomfort. Clinical studies report that only 5% of patients describe treatment as too painful.

Find a trusted aesthetic clinic in Belgium specializing in radiofrequency skin tightening →

Results of cutaneous radiofrequency: when to see them and how long do they last

Timeline of improvements

Treatment effects appear progressively:

Immediate phase: slight tensing effect linked to contraction of existing collagen
Between 1 and 3 months: progressive improvement of firmness and skin density
Between 3 and 6 months: optimal results corresponding to peak neocollagenesis

Studies report satisfaction rates between 80 and 90%, with lasting improvement of skin laxity and texture.

Duration of results and maintenance sessions

Results are not permanent, as skin aging continues naturally. Effects are generally observed for 12 months.

Maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months allow prolonging treatment benefits.

Price of radiofrequency in Belgium

In Belgium, the average cost of a radiofrequency session for complete face is approximately €350.

A complete protocol of 4 to 6 sessions represents an investment between €1,400 and €2,100. These treatments are generally not reimbursed, as they are considered aesthetic.

Contraindications of cutaneous radiofrequency

Radiofrequency is contraindicated particularly in case of:

Pacemaker or electronic implant
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Metallic implants in treated area
Active skin infection
Certain autoimmune diseases
Recent hyaluronic acid or botulinum toxin injections (recommended delay of 2 to 4 weeks)

FAQ about radiofrequency

Find a trusted aesthetic clinic in Belgium specializing in radiofrequency skin tightening →

Is radiofrequency painful?

Radiofrequency is generally well tolerated. The treatment induces a sensation of progressive heat, sometimes more pronounced on certain bony areas such as the jaw. Current protocols, based on multiple passes at moderate energy, have considerably improved comfort. Recent studies indicate that approximately 5% of patients describe the treatment as too uncomfortable.

How many radiofrequency sessions are necessary?

A standard protocol generally comprises 4 to 6 sessions, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. The exact number depends on age, skin quality, degree of laxity and aesthetic objectives defined during the medical consultation.

When do radiofrequency results become visible?

A slight tensing effect may be observed immediately after the session, linked to contraction of existing collagen. Clinically significant improvements appear progressively between 1 and 6 months, with optimal results generally observed between 3 and 6 months, corresponding to the peak of neocollagenesis.

Does the treatment require social downtime?

No. Radiofrequency does not require social downtime. Patients can resume their daily activities immediately after the session. Transient redness may appear, but it usually disappears within a few hours.

Can radiofrequency be combined with other aesthetic treatments?

Yes. Radiofrequency can be integrated into a combined therapeutic approach, particularly with microneedling, superficial peels or LED treatments. It can also be associated with hyaluronic acid injections, respecting an appropriate medical delay. The protocol must always be defined by a physician.

Is radiofrequency suitable for all skin types?

Yes. Unlike laser technologies, radiofrequency does not interact with melanin. It can therefore be used safely on all skin phototypes, from very fair to very dark skin.

Are radiofrequency results permanent?

Results are not permanent, as skin aging continues naturally. Maintenance sessions every 6 to 12 months allow maintaining treatment benefits.

Can radiofrequency be beneficial after 60 years of age?

Yes. Radiofrequency can be performed after 60 years of age, although results are generally more modest than in younger patients. It is particularly indicated for mild to moderate laxity or in a preventive and skin maintenance approach.

Can men benefit from radiofrequency?

Yes. The mechanisms of action of radiofrequency are identical in men and women. Clinical studies show comparable results, regardless of sex.

What is the difference between radiofrequency and Thermage?

Thermage is a specific monopolar radiofrequency technology, among the first to have been widely used. Other devices, such as EndyMed, Venus or BTL Exilis, are based on different configurations (bipolar, multipolar) with specific parameters and indications. Efficacy depends more on the technology employed and practitioner expertise than on the brand itself.

Medical sources and references

Shu X, Wan R, Huo W, et al. Effectiveness of a radiofrequency device for rejuvenation of aged skin at home: a randomized split-face clinical trial. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2022;12(4):871-883. doi:10.1007/s13555-022-00699-w
El-Domyati M, El-Ammawi TS, Medhat W, et al. Radiofrequency facial rejuvenation: evidence-based effect. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2011;10(2):124-130. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2011.00551.x
Kaplan H, Gat A. Clinical and histopathological results following TriPollar radiofrequency skin treatments. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2009;11(2):78-84. doi:10.1080/14764170902792181
Kang HJ, Woo YJ, Park KY, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of a novel monopolar radiofrequency device for skin tightening: a prospective randomized controlled study. Dermatol Ther. 2025;15(1):251-263. doi:10.1007/s13555-024-01298-2
Taub AF, Tucker RD, Palange A. Facial tightening with an advanced 4-MHz monopolar radiofrequency device. J Drugs Dermatol. 2012;11(11):1288-1294.
Hantash BM, Ubeid AA, Chang H, et al. Bipolar fractional radiofrequency treatment induces neoelastogenesis and neocollagenesis. Lasers Surg Med. 2009;41(1):1-9. doi:10.1002/lsm.20731
Carruthers J, Fabi S, Weiss R. Monopolar radiofrequency for skin tightening: our experience and a review of the literature. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(Suppl 12):S168-S173. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000000232
Fitzpatrick R, Geronemus R, Goldberg D, et al. Multicenter study of noninvasive radiofrequency for periorbital tissue tightening. Lasers Surg Med. 2003;33(4):232-242. doi:10.1002/lsm.10225
Dover JS, Zelickson B, 14 Physician Consensus Panel. Results of a survey of 5,700 patient monopolar radiofrequency facial skin tightening treatments: assessment of a low-energy multiple-pass technique leading to a clinical end point algorithm. Dermatol Surg. 2007;33(8):900-907. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2007.33188.x
Alexiades M, Berube D. Randomized, blinded, 3-arm study comparing the TriPollar home-use and TriPollar REGEN professional radiofrequency devices. J Drugs Dermatol. 2015;14(11):1288-1293.
Alster TS, Tanzi E. Improvement of neck and cheek laxity with a nonablative radiofrequency device: a lifting experience. Dermatol Surg. 2004;30(4 Pt 1):503-507. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2004.30143.x
Manuskiatti W, Wachirakaphan C, Lektrakul N, Varothai S. Circumference reduction and cellulite treatment with a TriPollar radiofrequency device: a pilot study. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2009;23(7):820-827. doi:10.1111/j.1468-3083.2009.03168.x
El-Domyati M, Barakat M, Awad S, et al. Multiple microneedling sessions for minimally invasive facial rejuvenation: an objective assessment. Int J Dermatol. 2015;54(12):1361-1369. doi:10.1111/ijd.12761
Alexiades M. Randomized, split-face clinical trial of a novel fractional radiofrequency device at 2 output power levels for skin rejuvenation. Dermatol Surg. 2013;39(11):1661-1669. doi:10.1111/dsu.12335
Sadick NS, Makino Y. Selective electro-thermolysis in aesthetic medicine: a review. Lasers Surg Med. 2004;34(2):91-97. doi:10.1002/lsm.10239

Medical Disclaimer
This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is based on peer-reviewed medical research, clinical guidelines, and expert-reviewed medical literature to provide clear, reliable, and up-to-date information for patients. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
We do not promote any specific treatment, product, or provider, and there are no conflicts of interest influencing the content.
All before-and-after photos shown on this page are licensed stock images intended for illustrative purposes only. They do not depict actual patients of the surgeons listed on our site. Results may vary based on individual anatomy and treatment plans.

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Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening in Belgium: what to expect and where to find trusted clinics

What is cutaneous radiofrequency and how does it act on the skin?

How radiofrequency works: action on collagen and neocollagenesis

Types of radiofrequency for skin: monopolar, bipolar and multipolar

Monopolar radiofrequency

Bipolar radiofrequency

Multipolar radiofrequency

Clinical indications of radiofrequency for skin tightening

Face and neck

Body

Radiofrequency session: procedure and treatment protocol

Consultation and initial evaluation

Radiofrequency session

Tolerance and sensations during treatment

Results of cutaneous radiofrequency: when to see them and how long do they last

Timeline of improvements

Duration of results and maintenance sessions

Price of radiofrequency in Belgium

Contraindications of cutaneous radiofrequency

FAQ about radiofrequency

Is radiofrequency painful?

How many radiofrequency sessions are necessary?

When do radiofrequency results become visible?

Does the treatment require social downtime?

Can radiofrequency be combined with other aesthetic treatments?

Is radiofrequency suitable for all skin types?

Are radiofrequency results permanent?

Can radiofrequency be beneficial after 60 years of age?

Can men benefit from radiofrequency?

What is the difference between radiofrequency and Thermage?

Medical sources and references

Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening can help with:

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Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening in the major cities of Belgium

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