Facial Sculpting with Microcurrent
Microcurrent facial sculpting is a rising trend, but buyer beware the cosmetic surgery fads. Like lasers, the term “microcurrent” sounds sexy and high-tech. But the reality of microcurrents is that they are a lot of hype and very little science. The use of microcurrent devices is essentially unregulated. FDA clearance of these devices is very simple for the manufacturers because the amount of current used is so small. The marketing for microcurrents would have you believe that by stimulating your facial muscles, your face becomes more toned and appears lifted and more youthful. There is no evidence that this is true.
The Truth About Microcurrents
Quacks have been touting the value of electrical current for healing for about as long as man has controlled electricity. Obviously, high voltage, high amperage devices are dangerous. What we are talking about here is very low levels of electrical current. Remember the adage that every good lie begins with a grain of truth. It is easy to understand that if you lift weights consistently enough, the muscles become toned. Proponents of microcurrent devices make the argument that the electricity of these devices will stimulate and tone the facial muscles and this will tone and improve the face, getting rid of wrinkles at the same time. Sounds great. The only problem is that there is not a single scientific study that supports this idea. We call this “phony science.” Microcurrents cannot, and will not lift and reposition the facial tissues. Even the claims of mild improvement are unproven. The harm here is that you are wasting your time and money and being deceived in the process.
Why all the Hype?
The hype surrounding microcurrent facial sculpting machines with unrealistic before and after pictures are equally misleading. Typically these before and after pictures show a loose neck and jowls next to a youthful and sculpted jawline and neck. These pictures could show the same person, but it is unlikely the differences were the result of microcurrent facial sculpting. The smooth, wrinkle-free neck is most likely the result of a little Photoshop magic and lighting, not microcurrent. These treatments offer empty promises. The treatment does not compare to a facelift or nonsurgical facial fillers.
About Dr. Steinsapir
Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified eye surgeon and fellowship-trained in oculoplastic surgery and cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles where he specializes in balanced facial cosmetic surgery for natural results, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques, fast recovery time, and leadership in medical technology. Dr. Steinsapir has a private practice and also serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and training make him an expert in cosmetic surgery, which can be a vital part of your evidence-based treatment plan.
Services described may be “off-label” and lack FDA approval. This article is informational and does not constitute an advertisement for off-label treatment. No services should be provided without a good faith examination by a licensed physician and an informed consent with a discussion of risks, benefits, alternatives, and the likelihood of treatment success. Only you and your treating physician or surgeon can determine if a treatment is right for you.
