EMBRACE RF2
Latest Skin Tightening
A state-of-the-art, minimally invasive procedure that combines deep radio-frequency (RF) energy with advanced Morpheus8 microneedling. Achieve transformative results without surgical downtime.
What is EMBRACE RF2?
EMBRACE RF2 is designed to tighten loose skin, reshape facial or body contours, smooth texture, and rejuvenate your appearance, without the need for a surgical facelift. The procedure uses Morpheus8 Scale & Burst to target multiple layers simultaneously.
All EMBRACE RF2 treatments are performed by Dr Edwin Anthony GMC 4776646 following a detailed consultation to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
For patients requiring fat removal alongside skin tightening, VASER liposuction London may be recommended as an alternative or complementary treatment.
Why EMBRACERF2 Might Be Right for You
Targeted Laxity
If you have mild-to-moderate skin laxity, early signs of ageing, or slight tissue sagging (e.g. along the jawline, neck, cheeks, or other areas).
Non-Surgical Preference
If you want natural-looking skin tightening, improved definition, and smoother texture, but prefer to avoid major gold standard surgery and long recovery.
Multi-Layer Rejuvenation
If you value multi-layer rejuvenation, addressing deeper skin and fat tissue and surface skin quality in the same session.
The Procedure
Recovery & Downtime
- The procedure is usually done under local anaesthetic or IV Sedation, making it comfortable.
- Tiny microneedles deliver RF energy deep under the skin combined with a small thin cannula that delivers energy in the target zone under the skin, stimulating your skin’s natural healing response.
- As new collagen and elastin form, your skin becomes firmer, tighter and more youthful-looking.
Recovery & Downtime
- After treatment, you may experience some redness, mild swelling or warmth, similar to a mild sunburn. This usually subsides in a few days.
- Most patients can return to normal activities within 2-3 days, though full skin recovery takes up to 1–2 weeks depending on the depth of treatment.
What Results to Expect and When
Quick Improvements
Small initial improvements in skin tone, firmness and smoothness may appear within a couple of weeks.
Peak Transformation (2–3 Months)
Over the next 2–3 months, as your body builds new collagen and elastin, you’ll often see more noticeable lifting, tightening, refined contours and improved skin texture.
Lasting Effects
Results can last a long time depending on your skin quality, lifestyle and whether you follow maintenance recommendations.
Aftercare & Things to Know
- Keep the treated area moisturised, and avoid harsh skincare products (strong acids, exfoliants) for at least a few days.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, protecting new skin is vital to maintain results.
- Avoid excessive heat, sun exposure, and vigorous exercise for a few days post-treatment.
- As with any advanced skin therapy, outcomes vary depending on skin quality, age, smoking, sun exposure & healing.
Ready to experience advanced contouring?
EmbraceRF2 combines subdermal radiofrequency with Morpheus8 Scale & Burst microneedling in one session to tighten mild to moderate laxity of the face, jawline and neck. Dr Edwin Anthony performs it for adults at Langham Hospital, Marylebone, London.
What EmbraceRF2 is and how it works
EmbraceRF2 treats two layers at once. Beneath the skin, a fine cannula delivers radiofrequency energy (at Contoura Medical, using QuantumRF) to contract the fibrous connective tissue that supports the jawline and neck. At the surface, Morpheus8 Scale & Burst microneedling places radiofrequency energy at several depths in the skin through fine needles, to stimulate collagen and improve texture, fine lines and pores.
The idea is simple: one part tightens from underneath, the other improves the quality of the skin you see. Because a cannula is placed under the skin, EmbraceRF2 is a minimally invasive surgical procedure rather than a facial, and it is carried out in theatre.
Who it suits, and who it does not
- Adults aged 18 and over with mild to moderate laxity of the jawline, jowls, neck or under the chin
- Crepey or textured skin alongside early sagging
- Selected body areas such as the abdomen, arms, inner thighs, knees and bra line
- People who want improvement without a facelift, and accept that it is not the same as one
It is not the right choice if you have marked jowls, heavy neck bands or a lot of hanging skin. A facelift lifts and removes skin, which radiofrequency cannot do. If you have a true double chin with fat, a treatment that also removes fat may suit you better.
The procedure day at Langham Hospital
- Preparation. Photographs are taken and the treatment zones marked. A strong numbing cream is applied.
- Anaesthetic. Local anaesthetic, or IV sedation given by an anaesthetist for larger or more sensitive areas.
- Subdermal stage. The fine cannula treats the tissue under the skin through tiny entry points.
- Morpheus8 Scale & Burst stage. Microneedling radiofrequency is applied across the surface at tailored depths.
- Aftercare. Soothing care is applied and you are given written aftercare instructions.
Recovery timeline
- Days 1 to 3: redness, warmth and a feeling like mild sunburn. Pinpoint marks from the needles.
- Days 2 to 5: swelling settles, sometimes more slowly on the neck. Most people return to work within 1 to 3 days.
- Weeks 1 to 2: any bruising fades and the skin surface recovers fully.
- Weeks 6 to 12: tightening and texture improvement become more noticeable as collagen builds.
- Months 3 to 6: continued gradual improvement.
Avoid strong acids, exfoliants, saunas and vigorous exercise for a few days, and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
Results and what the evidence shows
The combination of subdermal radiofrequency and Morpheus8 was described in a 2019 study of 247 patients treated with Morpheus8 together with an earlier subdermal radiofrequency device. It reported that 93% were pleased with their results. Prolonged swelling beyond six weeks occurred in 4.8%, a hardened area beyond 12 weeks in 3.2% and temporary nerve weakness (neuropraxia) in 1.2%. The study was funded by the manufacturer, InMode, and did not use the exact devices used today.
Many patients maintain their results for a long time, although ageing continues. A maintenance Morpheus8 Scale & Burst session every 12 to 18 months is common.
Risks and safety
- Common: redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising and a dry, rough feel for a few days
- Less common: prolonged swelling, lumps or firmness during healing, temporary numbness
- Uncommon: post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, infection, burns and temporary nerve weakness affecting the smile
How it compares
| Factor | EmbraceRF2 | Thermage FLX | Facelift |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach | Subdermal RF plus microneedling RF | Non-invasive RF through the skin | Surgical lift and skin removal |
| Best for | Mild to moderate laxity with texture change | Early laxity, no downtime wanted | Marked jowls and neck laxity |
| Anaesthetic | Local or IV sedation | None needed | Usually general |
| Downtime | About 1 to 3 days off work | Minimal | About 2 to 4 weeks |
The NHS notes that recovery from a facelift takes about 2 to 4 weeks and that the full effect can take 6 to 9 months to appear. If you want no downtime at all, Thermage FLX is a gentler, non-surgical option with more modest results.
Why patients choose Dr Edwin Anthony
- Dr Edwin Anthony, Lead Clinician, Contoura Medical (GMC 4776646), personally performs every EmbraceRF2 treatment
- Over 1,500 VASER procedures and 14 years of dedicated VASER practice with subdermal energy devices
- MRCS (Edinburgh), Trinity College Dublin graduate, NHS plastic surgery and burns training
- Regulated services provided under Langham Hospital's CQC registration
Related procedures
Consultations take place with Dr Edwin Anthony at Langham Hospital, 77 Hallam Street, Marylebone, London W1W 5HB, 2 minutes' walk from Great Portland Street and Regent's Park stations, or by video. Call 020 3890 1911. Consultation fees are fixed and are not deducted from treatment prices. Your full price is confirmed in writing after consultation, with any theatre fees and IV sedation itemised. Book a consultation
Speak to Dr Edwin Anthony
Consultations take place at Langham Hospital, 77 Hallam Street, Marylebone, London W1W 5HB, or by video. Consultation fees are fixed and are not deducted from treatment prices.
Frequently asked questions
What is EmbraceRF2?
EmbraceRF2 is a minimally invasive skin tightening procedure that combines two treatments in one session. A fine cannula delivers radiofrequency energy beneath the skin to contract the supporting tissue, and Morpheus8 Scale & Burst microneedling treats the skin itself for texture, fine lines and firmness. It is mainly used on the jawline, jowls and neck.
How is EmbraceRF2 different from Morpheus8 Scale & Burst alone?
Morpheus8 Scale & Burst on its own works within the skin, improving texture and firmness. EmbraceRF2 adds subdermal radiofrequency through a cannula, which contracts the deeper supporting tissue. That extra layer matters most for jawline and neck laxity. If your concern is mainly skin texture, microneedling alone may be enough.
Who is a good candidate for EmbraceRF2?
Adults with mild to moderate laxity of the jawline, jowls or neck, often with crepey texture, who want improvement without a facelift. You may be better served by surgery if you have marked jowls, heavy neck bands or hanging skin. Realistic expectations matter: this is tightening, not a surgical lift.
Does EmbraceRF2 hurt?
Most patients describe intense heat or pressure rather than sharp pain. Comfort is managed with strong numbing cream and local anaesthetic, and IV sedation is available for larger or more sensitive areas. The jawline and neck are usually the most sensitive. Afterwards the skin feels warm and tender for a day or two.
What is the downtime after EmbraceRF2?
Redness usually lasts 24 to 72 hours and swelling 2 to 5 days, sometimes longer on the neck. Pinpoint marks fade within a few days, and bruising can take up to two weeks. Most people return to work within 1 to 3 days and feel socially comfortable within about a week.
When will I see results from EmbraceRF2?
Some early tightening may be noticeable within days to weeks. The main improvement builds over 6 to 12 weeks as new collagen forms, and it can continue for three to six months. We review you with photographs so progress is compared fairly rather than judged in the mirror.
How many EmbraceRF2 sessions will I need?
For the face and neck, one or two sessions are typical. Body areas with crepey skin sometimes need more. Your plan depends on the degree of laxity, your skin quality and how much downtime you can accept. A maintenance Morpheus8 Scale & Burst session every 12 to 18 months is common.
Is EmbraceRF2 safe for darker skin tones?
Radiofrequency treatments can be used across a wide range of skin tones, but settings and aftercare matter. Darker skin is more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so energy levels are adjusted and strict sun protection is essential. A history of keloid scarring needs careful discussion before treatment.
How much does EmbraceRF2 cost?
The price depends on the areas treated and whether EmbraceRF2 is combined with another procedure. Your full cost is confirmed in writing after consultation, with any theatre fees and IV sedation itemised. Our price list shows current fees, and finance is available through Chrysalis Finance for eligible patients.
Who performs EmbraceRF2 at Contoura Medical?
Every EmbraceRF2 treatment is performed personally by Dr Edwin Anthony, Lead Clinician at Contoura Medical, GMC 4776646, following a detailed consultation. He holds MRCS (Edinburgh), trained in NHS plastic surgery and burns units and has performed over 1,500 VASER procedures. Treatment takes place at Langham Hospital, Marylebone.
Sources
Your journey with Contoura
A clear, unhurried process, led by Dr Edwin Anthony from first conversation to final review.
- 01
Consultation
Meet Dr Anthony in person at Langham Hospital or by video. A full assessment of your goals and suitability.
- 02
Your written plan
Your options, expected results, recovery and full costs in writing. You'll always have time to reflect before booking surgery.
- 03
Your procedure
Performed personally by Dr Anthony in a hospital setting at Langham Hospital, Marylebone.
- 04
Aftercare
Follow-up reviews and support from our patient care team throughout your recovery.