Morpheus8 Treatment

Morpheus8 Pre & Post Care Instructions

Ten to Fourteen Days Before Treatment

• Depending on your procedure, you may have received an Alastin Procedure Enhancement Kit. The kit includes an Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream, Alastin Skin Nectar, Ultra-Light Moisturizer, and SilkSheild Mineral Sun Block.
• Alastin Skincare was created by a Plastic Surgeon and has become the gold standard to enhance fascial procedures such as Morpheus8 and Laser therapy. Results from multiple studies show that Alastin speeds your recovery and improves the overall results.
• We recommend you use the kit twice a day (the Sun Block only needs to be used in the mornings). The kit will prep your skin to clean out old collagen and elastin to make room for new skin to grow. 

One Week Before Treatment

• Stop taking NSAID medicines such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and Naproxen since they interfere with normal blood clotting. Check medication labels for the active ingredient.
• You may take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for pain not to exceed 3000 mg a day.
• Discontinue any irritant type of topical products or treatment products such as Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula), scrubs, or anything perceived as ‘active’ skincare.
• No prolonged sun exposure to the area being treated. Sunburned skin can not be treated with Morpheus8.
• If you have a history of Herpes breakouts, you will need to start preventive medication three days before your treatment. Please talk to your provider if you have this issue and were not given a prescription for medication.

Day of Treatment

• Shower as usual.
• Do not apply any lotion, powder, oils, or other products to treatment areas.
• Cleanse the area and do not apply make-up if you plan to treat the face/neck area.
• If you have long hair, bring a hairband to pull it back.

What to Expect During Your Treatment

• When you arrive, you will review and sign your consent forms. You can review these forms here.
• You will be taken to an exam room and have photographs taken.
• We will clean your skin and apply a topical anesthetic to the treated area.
• You will need to let the numbing cream sit for 45-60 minutes (We use a potent numbing cream, but it takes time to work). We encourage you to bring something to keep yourself occupied while the numbing cream works.  Bring a book, a magazine, a computer, or headphones to use while you wait.  We can provide you with a wi-fi connection if needed.
• After 30 – 45 minutes, Dr. Simmons will come in and add extra numbing medication if needed. The use of local nerve blocks, tumescent numbing, and Pro-Nox are discussed during your consultation and before your procedure.
• If you have used Pro-Nox in the past, you should have your tubing. Make sure to bring your tubing with you for your treatment.
• Once you are numb, your treatment will begin.
• Feel free to bring earbuds to wear during your procedure if noise and people talking make you anxious or nervous.

Moprheus8 Post Treatment – Face/Neck

Keep in mind that thousands of tiny holes were just created in your skin.  Your skin is very vulnerable to bacteria, UV light, dirt, and other things your skin typically protects you against.  It takes 2-3 days for these small holes to close.

Immediately post-procedure

Keep in mind that thousands of tiny holes were just created in your skin.  Your skin is very vulnerable to bacteria, UV light, dirt, and other things your skin typically protects you against.  It takes 2-3 days for these small holes to close.

• If purchased, we will apply PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) immediately after your treatment to enhance your results.
• Alastin Skin Nectar will be applied to your skin. We keep our own supply in our office so you don’t have to bring yours.
• We will apply CeraVe Healing Ointment or Aquaphor immediately after treatment. 
• Note: The company that makes Morpheus8 only recommends Aquaphor. However, based on experience, Dr. Simmons suggests CeraVe Healing Ointment, PRP, and Alastin Skin Nectar to help maximize your results. 

The first 48 hours

• Wash your face with the Alastin Gentle Cleansing Cream twice a day, apply Alastin Skin Nectar to the treated areas, and reapply the barrier protector (CeraVe Healing Ointment or Aquaphor).
• The goal of barrier protection is to protect your skin. The physical barrier will help protect your skin while the tiny holes created by Morpheus8 heal.
• Use clean pillowcases and keep your hair and hands away from your face as much as possible. 

Day 3-7 post-procedure

• Continue to use the Alastin Gentle Cleansing Cream followed by the Alastin Skin Nectar. You should have enough to get you through day 7. If you run out, you can purchase more from our office or chose your own gentle wash to clean your skin.
• Avoid retinol, retinoids, acids (Hyaluronic Acid is ok), Vit C, and other serums.  Hyaluronic Acid is a moisturizing product that CAN be used on the skin.

Applying make-up

• You can begin to apply make-up on day three after your procedure. For example, if you had your procedure on a Wednesday, you could apply make-up Saturday morning.
• It is recommended that you buy new make-up brushes/sponges or clean your current brushes before you start using them on your skin.
• For the first week, less is more. Although the tiny holes made by Morpheus8 are closed, the skin is still susceptible to being irritated.

Sunblock

•  Your best protection moving forward is sunblock. Sun exposure will damage and age your skin faster than you realize.  Regardless of your skincare routine, sunblock should be part of your routine.  If you are unsure of what type to use, you can read our skincare tips at https://personalmd.net/skincare.
• Do not use chemical sunscreens (oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate). The top layers of skin that generally protect you from the sun have been removed by Morpheus8, making you more sensitive to these chemicals.  
• In addition to reducing the aging process, sunblock will reduce your future risk of skin cancer.

Data: Studies have shown the following products can improve the results of Morpheus8

• Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar (an FDA patent for post-procedure has been submitted) – $200 (Personal MD’s choice).
• Defenage 8-in-1 Bioserum (after 48 hours). Randomized split studies show Defenge 8-in-1 provides superior results to other moisturizers.  $200
• NeoCutis Biocream – commonly recommended by Dermatologist – $100

Common Concerns and Questions

• Skin changes: It is typical for your skin to feel tender, develop minor bruises, form small scabs, or have a chicken skin appearance. These findings result from the micro pins used on your face/neck and will heal within a few days after your treatment.
• Some patients report that their skin can peel for the first 3-7 days after treatment. Use gentle moisturizers to keep the skin hydrated.  Also, in the evenings, you can add a thicker ointment like Aquaphor or CeraVe Healing Ointment to cover the skin.  Applying ointment after your evening skincare is called “slugging.” Dr. Simmons finds this to be a great addition to your evening skincare two-three times per week if you DON’T have oily skin.
• Most patients report the redness to be gone in 24-48 hours. However, some patients report the redness can last 3-7 days depending on the area treated, the amount of energy used, and which tips your provider used.  For example, the resurfacing tip creates more damage to the top skin layers, making the redness more visible and a longer healing time. 
• Swelling is also common immediately after your treatment and can take a few days to go down. Do not apply ice to the swollen areas as it can slow the healing process. The swelling will go down.  If it is more than expected, please contact Dr. Simmons.
• In a few cases, some minor burns or scratches will be found. Do your best not to pick at the scabs to avoid scaring.  Apply moisturizer as needed to keep the itching down to a minimum.  These small areas will heal within 10-14 days.
• Use a soothing cleanser or face wash with lukewarm water to cleanse the face and gently dry the treated skin until it heals. Always make sure that your hands are clean when touching the treated area.
• Hydrate – Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Staying hydrated will help your skin heal faster.
• If the swelling, redness, or scabs are more than you were expecting, call Dr. Simmons for advice. It is rarely needed, but Dr. Simmons may add topical prescription steroids, oral steroids, or antibiotics depending on the situation.

What to Avoid

To ensure proper healing, be sure to observe the following:

• For the first 48 hours post-treatment, do NOT use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acid, Retinol (Vitamin A), Vitamin C (in a low pH formula), or anything perceived as ‘active’ skincare. Simmons highly recommends the Alastin Skin Care line as it is specifically designed for post-procedure care.
• Avoid intentional and direct sunlight for at least 48 hours, including tanning beds.
• Avoid allowing hot water to hit the treated area.
• Do not take baths or swim for at least 72 hours post-treatment (and up to one week if possible).
• Avoid hot tubs for one week after treatment. Hot tubs can burn your skin and generally harbor more bacteria than regular water.
• No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 48 hours post-treatment.

 One week post-procedure

Resume your daily skincare routine.  See our Skincare sheet for guidelines and recommendations.  

Morpheus8 Chest and Body

Post Procedure Recommendations

 Keep in mind that thousands of tiny holes were just created in your skin.  Your skin is very vulnerable to bacteria, UV light, dirt, and other things your skin typically helps you avoid.  It takes 3-4 days for these small holes to close.

The body has less blood flow than the face, so it is essential to be patient as the skin slowly heals

Immediately post-procedure

We will apply Aquaphor to the treated area.  Note: Aquaphor is the product recommended by the company that makes Morpheus8.

We will apply Saran Wrap or Tegaderm over the Aquaphor.  These plastic barriers help hold in moisture, protect your skin from dirt and grime, and keep the Aquaphor from getting on your clothes.

When you get home

Remove the Saran Wrap/Tegaderm cover once you get home and settle.

You can reapply a thin layer of Aquaphor once you remove the protective covering.

Put on clean and comfortable clothing.

Try to relax and avoid doing anything strenuous for the first 24-48 hours.

The first 72 hours

Redness and swelling are common immediately after your treatment and can last a few days.  The redness and swelling will go down with a bit of time.  Do not apply ice to the area.  Let the swelling go down naturally.

When you wash your skin, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser.  Please remember your skin is susceptible, so do not allow hot water to hit the treated area directly.

If your skin itches, you can add two tablespoons of white vinegar in 1 cup of water or 1% Hydrocortisone (Cortaid 10%).  Apply either of these directly to the areas that are itching, then cover it with Aquaphor.

We encourage you to apply Aquaphor to the treated area twice a day during the first few days.  Aquaphor will keep your skin protected and help you avoid infection and irritation to the skin.

Days 4-14 post-procedure

Scabs and Itching

• Expect the treated area to start to form small scabs and itch. It is common to have minor scratch marks and tiny linear burns after a treatment.  Keep the areas protected with Aquaphor and do not scratch or pick at the scabs.  See examples below of scabs and marks commonly observed post-body Morpheus8 treatments. 
• These scratches and burns are superficial and usually heal over the first 14 days without scarring.
• Continue to use your skin moisturizer, cortisone, and the white vinegar preparation outlined above to help keep the itch to a minimum.
• You can also add Zyrtec or Benadryl 2-3 times per day to help with itching.
• If Dr. Simmons has given you a prescription for Vistaril (Hydroxyzine), you can use it to help with the itching in the evenings. It is recommended you only take Vistaril at night since it makes most people groggy and tired.

It is typical for your skin to feel tender, develop minor bruises, and you may have a chicken skin (bumpy) appearance. 

• Bumpy skin is more common on the face and neck. Use cortisone to calm the irritated skin and keep the area coated with Aquaphor.
• Some patients report their skin peels for the first 3-7 days after treatment. You can also use cortisone before applying the Aquaphor to help the peeling heal.
• Aquaphor and other moisturizers keep the skin hydrated.
• Most patients report the redness to be gone in 48 hours, but we have had patients report the redness lasting 3-7 days.
• Use a soothing cleanser with lukewarm water to cleanse the treated area.
• Always make sure that your hands are clean when touching the treated area.
• HYDRATE – Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Staying hydrated will help your skin heal faster.

Common Questions

• Sunblocks: At 72 hours after the procedure, you can expose your skin to the sun. However, you should apply a moisturizer with a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF30 when you are outside.
  • Do not use chemical sunscreens (oxybenzone, avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, and octinoxate). The top layers of skin that generally protect you from the sun have been removed by Morpheus8, making you more sensitive to these chemicals.
  • In addition to reducing your future risk of skin cancer, sunscreens reduce wrinkles and slow the aging process.

What to Avoid

To ensure proper healing, be sure to observe the following:

• Avoid intentional and direct sunlight for at least 72 hours, including tanning beds.
• Avoid allowing hot water to hit the treated area.
• Do not take baths or swim for at least 72 hours post-treatment (and up to one week if possible).
• Avoid hot tubs for one week after your treatment. Hot tubs can burn your skin and generally harbor more bacteria than regular water.
• No exercising or strenuous activity for the first 72 hours post-treatment. Your skin is vulnerable to sweat and the bacteria commonly found on gym equipment.

Two weeks post-procedure

Your skin should well on its way to being healed.  It will help if you continue using daily moisturizer and protect your skin from the sun by using SPF 30+ and avoiding tanning beds.

Your skin will slowly tighten as new collagen forms and a new fibrin network grows.  Three treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart have been shown to have optimum results.  Most patients report noticing the most significant changes in their skin between four and six months after their third treatment.  It is hard to be patient, but it will be worth it. 

Skin Care Basics

Nelson X. Simmons, MD 

Skin is the largest organ of the human body.  Caring for your skin is critical.  Click on the link to read my tips on caring for your skin.

Link to Skincare Tips