How Long Can Microcurrent Treatments Around the Eyes Last? Tri Valley Plastic Surgery

I actually need an upper blepharoplasty, but I decided to look for a short-term solution for the holidays. Will 3 or 4 sessions in one month give noticeable results for at least a few weeks?

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Thanks for the question Vetta - Microcurrent treatments have been around for over 100 years aimed at treating everything from weight loss to depression to most recently skin tightening. Many people (usually non-MDs) supporting this treatment quote a U of Washington study "Using frequency specific micro amperage performed at the University of Washington indicated a 10-14% increase in the production of collagen, 48% increase in elastin production, and a 38% increase in blood circulation over the course of 20 days of use of the current." This study looked at electrical microcurrents in wound healing and invovled continuous current and like everything there are no easy answers to whether concepts in a lab translate into clinical treatments. People have used this data to claim skin tightening effects. Treatments like laser and even thermage can achieve skin tightening by actually applying energy to the dermis causing collagen remodeling - a proven mechanism for skin tightening. Microcurrent technology is much less clear in its ability to tighten skin. I don't see the mechanism. The other issue is lid skin can be very fine and refractory to even established non-surgical techniques (I don't know of any successful usages of thermage for lid tightening). My suggestion would be to discuss your issue with a board certified plastic surgeon. You may find an upper bleph is a straightforward, low complication way to permanently solve your problems. I hope this helps. Steven Williams, MD Tri Valley Plastic Surgery 4000 Dublin Blvd. Suite 300 Dublin, CA 94568 (925) 875-0700 www.trivalleyplasticsurgery.com