Radiofrequency Microneedling

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Algonquin, IL

Radiofrequency (RF) microneedling is a non-surgical aesthetic procedure that combines microscopic needle punctures with radiofrequency energy to treat concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, drooping skin, and uneven texture. (1) The RF device delivers energy into deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and elastin remodeling, hyaluronic acid production, and to help restore the skin’s youthful, supple appearance.

Utku Dolen, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is proud to deliver Pixel 8 RF Microneedling treatments at Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery for patients in Algonquin, Illinois, and surrounding areas. With gentle precision, Dr. Dolen uses the handheld device to penetrate the skin with healing, restorative energy—producing lasting effects.

If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of RF microneedling treatments with Dr. Dolen, call our office at (847) 854-3522 to schedule a personal consultation.

Cities We Serve

  • Barrington
  • Schamburg
  • Hoffman Estates
  • Arlington Heights
  • McHenry
  • Crystal Lake
  • Lake in the Hills
  • Algonquin
  • St. Charles
  • Union
  • Huntley
  • Carpentersville
  • DeKalb
  • Marengo
  • Woodstock
  • Carry
  • Bartlett
  • Streamwood
  • Wauconda
  • Dundee
  • Elgin
  • Aurora
  • Naperville
  • Fox Lake

About Radiofrequency Microneedling

RF microneedling is a customizable, minimally invasive aesthetic treatment that encourages collagen and elastin production for rejuvenating effects and little to no downtime. It has been shown to reduce wrinkles, improve skin tone and texture, and effectively increase skin hydration. (2) Tiny needles create micro-punctures in the top layer of the skin, whereby the fractional bipolar radiofrequency energy can penetrate to deeper layers of the dermis with controlled thermal stimulation.

Targeted RF microneedling can address the face, neck, and any other areas that typically show signs of aging. Effective across different skin types, the treatment can also treat acne scars, hyperpigmentation, and melasma (3) thanks to its ability to promote the generation of wound-healing growth factors beneath the skin’s surface.

Pixel 8 RF Microneedling

As one of the non-surgical treatments available at Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery, Pixel 8 RF microneedling is prized for its ability to boost collagen and stimulate the regeneration of elastin cells. As the device moves over the skin’s surface and triggers a healing response, it delivers radiofrequency energy into the skin’s deeper layers, heating the skin to activate further collagen production. The powerful combination of these two processes results in firmer, smoother, and more youthful-looking skin.

Benefits

There are numerous benefits to RF microneedling for individuals looking to improve the appearance of their skin without surgery and with minimal downtime.

The treatment can successfully treat wrinkles, acne scars, enlarged pores, mild skin laxity, and hyperpigmentation.

It can be applied to the face, as well as other areas of the body, like the neck and hands.

Patients benefit from subtle, natural-looking enhancements that inspire confidence.

Candidates

Potential candidates for RF microneedling should be in relatively good health and free from any rashes or skin infections in or around the targeted treatment areas. RF microneedling suits most skin types. It is especially beneficial for individuals who wish to address a wide range of skin concerns, including mild to moderate skin laxity, fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, dull skin tone, and other signs of aging.

Personal Consultation

Your personal consultation with Dr. Dolen provides the perfect opportunity to discuss your skin concerns and treatment goals with a top plastic surgeon who is passionate about sharing his knowledge and delivering the highest level of patient care. Dr. Dolen will evaluate your skin quality, including the presence of any scarring, and explain how RF microneedling delivers effective results. You will be able to ask any questions you may have and discuss any recommended corresponding procedures.

To learn more about RF microneedling and schedule your personal consultation, call our office at (847) 854-3522.

Preparation

For most non-surgical aesthetic procedures, including RF microneedling, preparation is minimal. Dr. Dolen recommends that patients stay well-hydrated, avoid excessive sun exposure, and protect skin with a gentle beauty routine. You may receive additional guidelines during your personal consultation, depending on your concerns, skin health, and medical history. Following all preparatory guidelines will facilitate a smooth, effective procedure with optimal results.

Procedure

Before your procedure, Dr. Dolen or a member of his team will cleanse the targeted skin area, and they may apply a topical anesthetic to enhance your comfort. Your specialist will use the RF microneedling device to administer microscopic punctures to the skin, delivering thermal radiofrequency energy to deeper layers of the dermis. The heat promotes regeneration of healthy skin-building cells in targeted areas.

Depending on the size of the treatment area, sessions typically last 20-30 minutes, after which you may return to your daily activities.

Recovery

Patients typically experience little to no downtime with few restrictions. Treated areas may look red, have minor swelling, or feel tender to the touch during the first 24 hours, but this fades quickly. Once any signs of irritation subside, patients may return to their regular makeup or beauty routines. While some enhancements may be immediately apparent, most signs of improvement will develop gradually over the course of multiple treatments in the following weeks and months.

Results

Because of the collagen and elastin-stimulating effects of RF microneedling, you will notice firmer, smoother skin over time. The appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and melasma will gradually fade. Results may vary depending on age, skin health, daily UV exposure, and habits like smoking and drinking, but the increased collagen and elastin production can last for years, especially with regular maintenance sessions. A healthy, daily skincare routine and sun protection can also help extend the benefits of treatment.

Corresponding Procedures

Many patients wish to avoid surgery but still seek the restorative benefits that clinically-backed aesthetic treatments can provide. Dr. Dolen and his team offer a variety of nonsurgical treatment options that can complement RF microneedling for a well-rounded rejuvenation experience. At your personal consultation, be sure to discuss all of your options as they pertain to your treatment goals.

Neuromodulators

Neuromodulators such as Botox and Xeomin temporarily prevent specific muscle contractions in the face, causing wrinkles and fine lines to relax and slow new ones from forming. In conjunction with RF microneedling, these treatments reduce the appearance of aging and can become a part of your regular beauty maintenance routine.

Soft Tissue Fillers

Dr. Dolen uses injectable fillers containing hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance that promotes hydration and plumpness. These fillers add volume, contour, and shape where needed, filling in wrinkles and creases. They work harmoniously with RF microneedling to promote smoother, more youthful-looking skin.

Cost of Radiofrequency Microneedling in Algonquin, Illinois

The cost of your RF microneedling treatment will depend on the extent and complexity of the treatment area and how many sessions are required to deliver ideal results. It will also depend on whether you choose to combine this therapy with any other procedures. Your specialist will provide you with a comprehensive price estimate during your consultation.

Schedule your appointment today by calling our office at (847) 854-3522!

FAQ

Is RF microneedling safe?

RF microneedling is generally considered to be safe and effective for skin rejuvenation when performed by trained, licensed aesthetic professionals using FDA-cleared devices. All our RF microneedling procedures are performed at our state-of-the-art office with approved devices under the supervision of a qualified provider.

How is this treatment different from regular microneedling?

The topical micropunctures of traditional microneedling promote the synthesis of collagen and elastin for healing. With the addition of thermal radiofrequency energy in the deeper layers of the dermis, cell regeneration is extended, delivering more sustained skin rejuvenation.

How many RF microneedling sessions will I need?

Patients typically see the best results after 1-3 treatments over the course of 3 months, though this varies depending on concern.

Does RF microneedling treatment hurt?

Some patients experience mild discomfort, typically described as a warming or prickly sensation. Some areas may be more sensitive.

Can I get microneedling without RF?

Yes, for patients who do not want the added radiofrequency energy to the microneedling procedure, microneedling can be offered as a standalone procedure. Even without radiofrequency energy, microneedling can have great benefits for the skin.

References

  1. Chandra S, Mysore V, Shah S, Malayanur D, S R S. Physics of fractional microneedle radiofrequency – A review. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2024 Jul-Sep;17(3):177-183. doi: 10.25259/jcas_98_23. Epub 2024 Aug 29. PMID: 39483649; PMCID: PMC11497551. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11497551/
  2. Malarz D, Czyżewski Ł, Olczak-Kowalczyk D. Microneedle radiofrequency for skin rejuvenation: bridging image-derived metrics and photographic assessment. Front Med (Lausanne). 2025 Nov 25;12:1710949. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2025.1710949. PMID: 41377812; PMCID: PMC12685671. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12685671/
  3. Hamadani F, Vranis NM. The Role of Fractional Radiofrequency in Long-term Acne Remission and Reduction of Acne Scar Load. Aesthet Surg J. 2025 Jan 16;45(Supplement_1):S23-S31. doi: 10.1093/asj/sjae150. PMID: 39817790; PMCID: PMC11736774. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11736774/