EMFACE — RF + HIFES Facial Lifting

EMFACE combines two simultaneous energy modalities in a single 20-minute facial treatment: synchronised radiofrequency (RF) heats the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin production, while high-intensity facial electrical stimulation (HIFES) activates and strengthens the underlying facial muscles — an effect achievable only with this system, not with conventional RF or microcurrent devices. Clinical data published by BTL Aesthetics shows 37% wrinkle reduction, 23% lifting effect and 30% increase in facial muscle tone after a standard course. At Petra Clinic the treatment is delivered via flat applicators applied to the forehead and cheeks with no needles, no anaesthetic and no downtime. Results develop over the treatment series and continue improving for weeks afterwards.

EMFACE at Petra Clinic uses the BTL EMFACE system, which is unique in simultaneously delivering synchronised radiofrequency energy and HIFES (high-intensity facial electrical stimulation) through hands-free applicators positioned on the forehead and cheeks. The RF component heats the dermis to approximately 42–43°C, triggering a controlled thermal injury response that drives new collagen and elastin fibre formation — the same mechanism used in other RF skin-tightening devices, but here applied to facial contours rather than the body. The HIFES component is novel: it forces supra-maximal contractions of the orbicularis oculi, frontalis and zygomaticus muscles, which cannot be achieved with voluntary exercise. Over a course of treatments this builds and lifts the muscular scaffold that gives the face its three-dimensional shape, addressing the volumetric deflation that no skin-only treatment can reverse. Each 20-minute session requires no preparation beyond arriving with clean, makeup-free skin. The applicators are held in position by a gentle vacuum and deliver the two energies simultaneously throughout the session. Mild warmth and occasional twitching sensations are typical and generally well tolerated without analgesics. Immediately after the session clients can return to full activities. Petra Clinic's evidence-based course is 5 sessions at weekly or biweekly intervals, with published clinical outcomes showing 37% mean reduction in wrinkles, 23% lifting effect and 30% increase in facial muscle tone. Maintenance is typically one session every three to four months after the initial course is complete. EMFACE is particularly suited to clients who are not ready for injectable treatments or who want to complement their existing botulinum toxin or filler programme with structural muscle-lifting.