In contemporary plastic surgery, non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments are increasingly used to complement — or in some cases, provide an alternative to — more invasive procedures. Ignite RF falls within this category, using a thermal-based approach that may support tissue contraction.

Dr Mark Kohout, Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney, incorporates technology such as Ignite RF into his clinical practice when appropriate. Patient selection is based on individual needs, medical history, and treatment goals. Evidence-informed strategies are used to assess whether Ignite RF may be suitable either as a standalone option or as part of a broader care plan.

Examples include:

• Combining Ignite RF with liposuction to support skin retraction – In procedures where fat is removed, RF energy may assist in promoting tissue contraction in selected patients, depending on skin quality and other factors.
• Using it post-surgery to support tissue response and firmness – For some individuals, RF may be introduced during the post-operative phase with the aim of supporting soft tissue recovery and structural integrity.
• Offering it as an option for patients not suited for surgery – For patients who are not candidates for general anaesthesia or have contraindications to surgery, RF technology may be considered as a less invasive alternative, subject to clinical assessment.

This approach aligns with modern principles of tailoring procedural choices to each patient’s specific clinical presentation, goals, and suitability for treatment.

What to Expect During a Consultation with Dr Mark Kohout

A consultation is an important step in assessing whether Ignite RF may be a suitable treatment option. During this meeting, Dr Mark Kohout conducts a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, aesthetic concerns, and treatment goals. He also explains the nature of the procedure and provides information on expected outcomes, potential risks, and recovery considerations.

The consultation includes:

• A clinical examination of the area(s) of concern – This helps assess the degree of laxity and determine whether RF treatment may be appropriate, or whether other surgical or non-surgical options should be considered based on the individual presentation.
• A review of patient expectations and treatment objectives – This discussion helps align the treatment approach with what may be realistically achieved, based on factors such as skin quality and responsiveness to radiofrequency energy.
• A discussion of treatment alternatives (surgical and non-surgical) – Patients are informed about available options, such as surgical excision or laser-based therapies, and how these may differ from Ignite RF in terms of approach and recovery time.
• A review of any relevant medical contraindications – Considerations such as pregnancy, the presence of pacemakers, or certain skin conditions are discussed to evaluate whether the treatment is appropriate and safe for the individual.

This process supports informed decision-making and allows patients to understand the potential benefits and limitations of the treatment before proceeding.

What Happens During the Ignite RF Procedure?

The Ignite RF procedure is typically performed in a clinical setting. Local anaesthetic is used to support patient comfort during the session. A small cannula is inserted beneath the skin through a small entry point, and radiofrequency energy is applied to the targeted area.

The procedure generally involves the following steps:

• Cleansing of the treatment area – The skin is thoroughly cleaned to help reduce infection risk and prepare for the sterile procedure.
• Administration of local anaesthetic – A numbing solution is applied to help minimise discomfort during cannula insertion and energy delivery.
• Insertion of the RF cannula through a small puncture site – The cannula is guided beneath the skin to deliver energy to targeted tissues.
• Controlled delivery of thermal energy with real-time temperature monitoring – Skin temperature is monitored throughout the procedure to help regulate thermal exposure and support consistent energy application.

The session duration may vary depending on the treatment area, though many procedures are completed within approximately one hour.

Following the procedure, patients may experience:

• Mild swelling or redness – These effects are generally short-term and tend to resolve within a few days.
• Temporary tightness or tenderness in the treated area – This is a common response to tissue heating and is usually well tolerated.
• Use of a compression garment (in some cases) – Compression may be recommended to assist with tissue support and help minimise post-procedure swelling.

Most patients are able to return to their usual daily activities soon after treatment, although specific aftercare instructions will be tailored to individual clinical needs.

Understanding Risks and Considerations

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with Ignite RF. Temporary effects such as redness, swelling, bruising, or sensitivity may occur following treatment. While more serious complications are less common, all relevant risks and considerations will be discussed in detail during the consultation.

Potential considerations include:

• Skin burns if energy delivery is not properly controlled – This is a known procedural risk. Appropriate technique and temperature monitoring are used to help reduce its likelihood.
• Temporary numbness or changes in sensation – These may occur in the treated area and are usually self-limiting, though patients are advised of this possibility in advance.
• Uneven contour or prolonged swelling – Variability in individual tissue response may lead to mild irregularities. These often resolve over time or may be reviewed during follow-up appointments if needed.

These risks are considered in every treatment plan. Dr Mark Kohout, a Specialist Plastic Surgeon based in Sydney, assesses each patient’s clinical needs to determine whether Ignite RF is appropriate, with patient safety and individual suitability guiding all treatment recommendations.