Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing
LInes, wrinkles, Acne Scars
Informed Consent and
Before and After Care Instructions
Congratulations on scheduling your cosmetic procedure at Spa 35 Medical Spa.
Use the Information below to learn how to prepare for your treatment and how to maximize your experience after your procedure.
The informed consent form for each procedure also provides important information. Please be sure to read it before signing. Ask a Spa 35 team member to answer your questions before scheduling your procedure.
Call Spa 35 with any questions or concerns regarding your treatment at 208-367-0700. After business hours select option 4 for urgent after-hours assistance. If you have an emergency call 911.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Treatment Purpose
Sublative RF is a cosmetic energy-based procedure that helps improve textural irregularities, large pores, loose skin, scars, fine line, luminosity and wrinkles. Your skin is rejuvenated by deep dermal heating with radio frequency energy, which stimulates dermal rebuilding and the production of collagen. Sublative RF can be utilized to refresh old or sun damaged skin, as well as to improve the appearance of acne scars.
Because the Sublative RF uses radio frequency energy it is a great solution for fine lines and rough texture around the eyes (other laser-based treatments can cause eye damage). Sublative RF treatments can be adjusted to match your available downtime, ranging from 1-5 days. Sublative RF is safe for all skin types.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Consent for Treatment
Informed consent documents are used to communicate information about the proposed cosmetic treatment along with disclosure of risks and alternative forms of treatment(s). Despite Sublative RF’s high level of efficacy and safety, it is not free of side effects. As a patient you have the right to be informed about your treatment so that you may make the decision whether to proceed with the Sublative RF treatment or decline after knowing the risks involved. This disclosure is to inform you about the risks, side effects and possible complications related to the Sublative RF prior to your treatment. This disclosure should not be considered all-inclusive in defining other methods of care and risks encountered. Spa 35 may provide you with additional or different information which is based on all the facts in your particular case and the state of medical knowledge.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Risks and Treatment Experience
There are both risks, and complications associated with all treatment procedures of the skin. Although the majority of patients do not experience these complications, you should understand the risks and potential complications of laser skin treatment.
Potential risks and experiences include, but are not limited to:
Erythema and edema- Redness and swelling of the treated area can be expected and usually subside within five days but can take longer. Expect irritation, itching, and/or a mild burning sensation, similar to a moderate or severe sunburn. Blistering, scabbing and temporary bruising are also possible.
Discomfort – There can be some discomfort during the Sublative RF treatment, particularly when using higher energy levels during your treatment.
Scarring- Although normal healing after the procedure is expected, abnormal scars may occur. Additional treatments may be needed to treat scarring. Strict adherence to all advised post-operative instructions will reduce the possibility of scarring.
Infections- Although infection following laser skin treatment is unusual, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections can occur. Herpetic outbreaks can be triggered by Sublative RF resurfacing treatments. An outbreak increases the risk of scarring. This applies to both individuals with a past history of Herpes simplex virus infections and individuals with no known history of Herpes simplex virus infections. Specific medications may be prescribed and taken both prior to and following the laser treatment procedure in order to suppress an infection from this virus. Should any type of skin infection occur, additional treatment including antibiotics may be necessary.
Numbing agent reactions- Your skin may be numbed using an analgesic agent(s) as part of your Sublative RF Resurfacing procedure. Analgesics typically include but are not limited to benzocaine, lidocaine, tetracaine and epinephrine. There is the possibility of complications, injury, and even death from analgesics.
Prescribed medications- Systemic reactions may result from drugs used during the procedure and prescription medicines.
Photosensitizing medication complications- Some over the counter and prescription medications can increase the risk of burning. We are unable to treat clients that are on ACCUTANE, and PHOTOSENSITIZING medications.
Hyperpigmentation (darkening) and hypopigmentation (lightening)- Sublative RF treatments may potentially change the natural color of your skin. Skin redness usually lasts 2 days to 3 weeks and occasionally 3 months following laser skin treatment. Darkening and lightening of the skin in the treated areas can occasionally occur. Mostly it is transient, lasting up to six months, but in rare cases it can be permanent. Occasionally these pigmentary changes occur despite appropriate protection from the sun. A line of demarcation between normal skin and skin treated with energy-based devices can occur.
Scarring- Although normal healing after the procedure is expected, abnormal scars may occur both in the skin and deeper tissues. In rare cases, keloid scars may result. Scars may be unattractive and of different color than the surrounding skin. Additional treatments may be needed to treat scarring. Strict adherence to all advised post-operative instructions will reduce the possibility of scarring.
Contraindications. If you have any of the following it is important they were included in your medical history review prior to Sublative RF resurfacing procedure:
Pacemaker or internal defibrillator
Superficial metal or other implants
History of skin cancer
Severe concurrent medical conditions, such as cardiac disorders
Impaired immune system due to immunosuppressive diseases such as AIDS and HIV
Diseases which may be stimulated by light at the wavelengths used, such as history of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Porphyria, and Epilepsy.
Poorly controlled endocrine disorders, such as Diabetes.
Any active condition in the treatment area, such as sores, Psoriasis, eczema, and rash.
History of skin disorders, keloids, abnormal wound healing, as well as very dry and fragile skin.
History of bleeding coagulopathies, or use of anticoagulants.
Use of medications, herbs, food supplements, and vitamins known to induce photosensitivity to light exposure at the wavelengths used, such as Isotretinoin (Accutane) within last 6 months, Tetracyclines, or St. John's Wort within the last two weeks.
Facial laser resurfacing and deep chemical peeling within the last three months, if face is treated.
Any surgical procedure in the treatment area within the last three months or before complete healing.
Treating over tattoo or permanent makeup.
Excessively tanned skin from sun, sun-beds or tanning creams within the last two weeks.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Pre Treatment Instructions
It is prudent to follow some simple guidelines before your treatment. These guidelines can reduce possible side effects associated with the procedure and make all the difference between a fair result and a great result.
Hydrate - Drink at least eight glasses of water per day to completely hydrate your skin.
Self-Tanner- Stop self-tanner for four weeks prior to treatment.
Skin Care- Stop exfoliating skin care products, such as retinols and glycolic acid, for one week before your treatment.
Over the Counter Medications- Avoid aspirin, Motrin and Ibuprofen for one week prior to your treatment.
Supplements- Avoid fish oil, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other supplements one week before treatment.
Alcohol- Avoid alcohol for five days prior to treatment.
Accutane- Inform your provider if you have taken Accutane (oral acne medication) in the past year.
Ice Packs- Store ice packs in your freezer for use after you get home from procedure.
Prescription Medications- We may provide you with an antiviral prescription to take before your appointment to decrease the risk of a herpetic outbreak. Take your first tablet 24 hours before your treatment and follow instructions on the bottle. Take other medications that may be prescribed for anxiety or pain management as instructed on the bottle. Stop taking prescription medications that may increase the risk of bruising as instructed and in coordination with your physician.
Special Events- Schedule your treatment at least four weeks prior to a special event i.e., wedding, vacation, speaking engagement, to allow time for the healing process.
Photographs- Take at home photos to monitor your skin improvement.
Secure a ride for after treatment- You must secure a ride home if you choose to use prescribed pain and/or anxiety medication.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Treatment Day Instructions
Make-up- Please arrive for your appointment without make-up
Clothing- Wear comfortable clothing with an open collar.
Prescription Medications- Bring any medications we have prescribed for your treatment.
Transportation arrangements – Some medications may restrict your ability to drive home after your procedure. Please coordinate transportation home after your procedure if you chose to take such medications.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Post Treatment Instruction
Redness- Immediately after treatment, most patients will experience redness, as well as heat or tingling sensations that may last up to several hours.
Scabs- Tiny scabs may form post treatment and may remain for a few days. Do not touch or scratch scabs; they will shed off naturally.
Post-treatment discomfort- If you feel post-treatment discomfort, you may apply cold compresses and/or use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve).
Sleep with head elevated- Sleeping with your head elevated (above the heart), for the first night, will help decrease any swelling you may experience.
At-home skincare- Use a mild cleanser, no exfoliants or scrubs until fully healed. Avoid topical products such as retinols and glycolic acid products for one week after treatment. Apply a gentle, fragrance free, non-comedogenic moisturizing cream liberally starting 12 hours after treatment.
Sun exposure- Avoid direct sunlight on the treated area and use sunscreen SPF 30+ with zinc oxide for 4-6 weeks after treatment. Lifetime daily sunblock use is always recommended.
Social downtime- Anticipate some social down-time following your treatment.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Treatment schedule
We recommend an initial series of 3-5 Sublative RF procedures spaced at intervals of 4-6 weeks. Annual maintenance re-treatment is suggested to maintain your results and to offset the effects of chronological aging, sun exposure and environmental skin damage.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Alternative Treatments
Having no treatment is an option. Other treatments that are potential options include; CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Pixel Er:YAG Laser Resurfacing, Picoway Resolve Laser Treatment, Chemical Peels, Microneedling (with PRP), Cosmetic Surgery, topical skin care products (Vitamin A, glycolic acid)
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Synergistic Treatments
Treatments that may enhance or maintain your Sublative RF cosmetic results include: Picoway Resolve Laser treatment, additional Sublative RF treatments, CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Pixel Er:YAG Laser Resurfacing, Chemical Peels, Microneedling (with PRP), Cosmetic Surgery, topical skin care products (Vitamin A, glycolic acid).
Prescription strength Vitamin A, such as Tretinoin, has been shown to stimulate dermal health and delay common symptoms of chronological aging and sun exposure induced skin damage.
Sublative RF Skin Resurfacing - Acknowledgement
I have read and understand the Informed Consent documentation and been informed about what I must do and "not do" before, during and after my treatment. I agree to follow the pre and post care instructions carefully. I understand that compliance with recommended pre and post procedure guidelines are crucial for healing, prevention of scarring, and other side effects and complications.
I completed an accurate medical history document. If there are any issues that are not covered by the medical history form which I think are relevant to my treatment, I will inform Spa 35 prior to my treatment. I will also notify Spa 35 of any changes in my health or medical care as they occur during my treatment program.
I confirm that I am not pregnant or breastfeeding at this time.
Photographs: I give permission for my photographs to be used to help document my treatment course. Complete confidentiality will be maintained.
No guarantee, warranty, or assurance has been made to me as to the results that may be obtained. I am aware that follow-up treatments may be necessary for desired results. Clinical results will vary per patient. I agree to adhere to all safety precautions and regulations during the treatment. Some people are unable to complete the treatment due to discomfort. No refunds will be given for treatments received.
I recognize that during the course of the treatment, medical treatment or anesthesia, unforeseen conditions may necessitate different procedures than those above. I therefore authorize Spa 35 providers to perform such other procedures that are in the exercise of his or her professional judgment necessary and desirable. The authority granted under this paragraph shall include all conditions that require treatment and are not known to the provider at the time the procedure is begun.
I understand and agree that all services rendered to me are charged directly to me and that I am personally responsible for payment.
The nature and purpose of the treatment have been explained to me. I have read and understand this agreement. All of my questions have been answered to my satisfaction and I consent to the terms of this agreement. Alternative methods of treatment and their risks and benefits have been explained to me and I understand that I have the right to refuse treatment.
If I experience any major or life-threatening symptoms, I will call 911 immediately. For non-emergency questions I will call Spa 35 at 208-367-0700, (for after-hours concerns selection option #4).
I release Spa 35, medical staff, and specific technicians from liability associated with this procedure. I certify that I am a competent adult of at least 18 years of age. This Consent Form is freely and voluntarily executed and shall be binding upon my spouse, relatives, legal representatives, heirs, administrators, successors, and assigns.
By signing below I consent to and authorize Spa 35 to perform this treatment(s) and to deliver any post treatment medical services that may be necessary.
Please contact the Spa 35 team if you have questions about Sublative RF and/or information on this webpage.
Why Chose Spa 35 Med Spa for Your Cosmetic Treatments?
The medical providers at Spa 35 Med Spa have been delivering cosmetic services for thirteen years. Our staff includes Nurse Practitioners, Registered Nurses and Aestheticians.
Experience - Spa 35 Med Spa has been helping clients Look and Feel their Best for twelve years.
Medical Staff - The team is led by Nurse Practitioners and composed of Registered Nurses and aesthetic skin care professionals. Botox and filler injections are performed by medically trained injectors, not estheticians.
Industry Leadership - Warren Danforth, the Spa 35 owner, is a Key Opinion Leader for Candela Medicals's Medical Spa Program. Candela Medical is a global non-surgical aesthetic device company and the maker of Profound RF Skin Tightening, CO2RE CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Sublative RF Resurfacing and Picoway Tattoo removal devices.
Broad Scope of Expertise - From Botox to CoolSculpting Fat Reduction and Vaginal Rejuvenation, Spa 35® Med Spa has an extensive set of experience to help you reach your goals. This means you get the expertise to help you select the service(s) are right for you and your budget.
Photographs on this website are used to illustrate how services are used and their potential impact on your appearance. Your results will not completely match any photographs. Genetics, sun exposure, diet and exercise all influence your results. The Spa 35 Med Spa team strongly encourages all of our clients to maximize their lifestyle choices.