Renuvion®/J-Plasma®

Consultations offered at our two convenient locations in La Jolla and Carmel Valley, San Diego

Renuvion (Renuvion®), also known as J-Plasma (J-Plasma®), is an advanced technology available for achieving smoother, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin. (1) By combining helium plasma with radiofrequency (RF) energy, this innovative treatment produces precise, controlled tissue contraction beneath the skin’s surface while simultaneously stimulating collagen regeneration for long-term tightening. It offers potentially transformative results when utilized along with body contouring procedures to refine and magnify your ultimate outcome.

At his La Jolla and Carmel Valley operating locations, Dr. Daniel Brown, a board-certified plastic surgeon, and his skilled team provide Renuvion/J-Plasma treatments for patients who want to restore youthful firmness and definition to their bodies. Known for his artistry and commitment to natural results, Dr. Brown takes a personalized approach with every patient.

If you are ready to tighten your skin with minimal downtime, schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Brown today by calling (619) 461-1500 or contacting our office online. We conduct consultations both in-person and virtually, depending on patient preference and location.

About Renuvion/J-Plasma

Renuvion/J-Plasma uses a combination of helium gas and radiofrequency energy to create a plasma arc. Dr. Brown applies this high-energy plasma beneath the skin with a thin wand inserted via small entry points. The thermal energy generated by the plasma and the almost immediate heating/cooling cycle results in safe, immediate tissue contraction and triggers collagen deposition, repair, and remodeling that continue to improve your result for several months after the procedure. (2)

This unique technology allows Dr. Brown to tighten the skin from within, producing firmer, smoother contours and restoring youthful definition. Dr. Brown can perform Renuvion as a standalone procedure or pair it with other procedures, such as liposuction or an arm lift, for enhanced body contouring. When we combine it with fat removal, it helps the skin retract smoothly around the body’s new contours, creating a sculpted, refined look. (3)

Dr. Brown frequently uses Renuvion on the abdomen, thighs, arms, back, and neck. (2)

Benefits of Skin Tightening

Renuvion provides numerous benefits, including:

  • Immediate tightening with continued improvement over several months
  • Smaller entry points instead of large surgical incisions, resulting in minimal scarring
  • Versatility in treating multiple areas of the body
  • Compatibility with liposuction and excisional procedures for improved contouring results
  • Long-lasting outcomes supported by collagen regeneration
  • Natural enhancement without an artificial or overdone appearance

Ideal Candidates

Renuvion is ideal for individuals who want firmer, tighter skin but are not ready for or do not require excisional surgery. Patients who benefit most from Renuvion are those with:

  • Mild to moderate skin laxity in the abdomen, arms, neck, thighs, and more
  • Stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits
  • Good general health without major underlying conditions
  • Realistic expectations about achievable outcomes

Even if you are unsure whether Renuvion is right for you, Dr. Brown encourages you to schedule a consultation, where we explore your possibilities and determine your candidacy.

Personal Consultation

Every Renuvion treatment Dr. Brown performs begins with a personal consultation at either his La Jolla or Carmel Valley office. During this appointment, Dr. Brown will take time to learn about your goals, review your medical history, and examine the areas you hope to improve. He will explain how Renuvion works, how it differs from other tightening procedures, and what results you can expect.

If you are interested in addressing multiple concerns at once, he may recommend combining Renuvion with another body contouring treatment. The consultation is also your opportunity to ask questions about preparation, recovery, and the longevity of your results. After collecting the necessary information, Dr. Brown will personalize a treatment plan to your anatomy, goals, and comfort level.

To begin your journey toward firmer, rejuvenated skin, schedule either an in-person or virtual personal consultation with Dr. Brown by calling (619) 461-1500 or reaching out online today.

Preparation

Preparation for Renuvion is straightforward but important to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery. Dr. Brown and his team will provide detailed instructions based on your medical history and treatment plan. In general, we advise patients to avoid nicotine products, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications or supplements for several weeks before the procedure. We also recommend arranging transportation home and assistance during your initial healing period. Dr. Brown may prescribe medication to manage mild discomfort or swelling after treatment; we recommend that you pick these up in advance.

Procedure

Dr. Brown performs Renuvion on an outpatient basis in our accredited surgical facility. The procedure typically takes between 45 minutes and two hours, depending on the number and size of areas he treats. Dr. Brown will create small entry points near the treatment areas and insert a slender handpiece beneath the skin, which delivers the helium plasma and radiofrequency energy. (2) The helium rapidly cools the tissue, while the RF energy gently heats it, creating an immediate tightening effect without damaging surrounding areas. (1)

This dual-action energy triggers contraction of collagen fibers and stimulates the formation of new collagen over time. The results are both immediate and progressive, with tightening and improved skin texture continuing for several months after the procedure.

Recovery

Renuvion recovery is often shorter than that of excisional methods. Most patients experience mild swelling, bruising, or tenderness for one to two weeks, though these effects typically resolve quickly. Dr. Brown may recommend that patients wear a light compression garment for a short period to minimize swelling. Patients can typically return to work and light daily activities within a few days, but they need to postpone more strenuous exercise for about two to three weeks or until Dr. Brown provides clearance.

Dr. Brown and his team will provide detailed aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up visits to ensure your recovery progresses smoothly. His enhanced recovery program emphasizes patient comfort, rapid healing, and personalized care throughout every step of your journey.

Results

The final results of Renuvion appear gradually and improve over time. (3) Many patients notice visible tightening immediately after their procedure, and they see continued improvement as new collagen forms beneath the skin. (3) Final results generally develop within three to six months. The treatment typically delivers natural-looking rejuvenation that restores confidence.

Corresponding and Combination Procedures

Dr. Brown can perform Renuvion alone or in combination with other cosmetic treatments for enhanced results. Dr. Brown most frequently performs this treatment in conjunction with:

Liposuction

Combining Renuvion with liposuction allows Dr. Brown to remove unwanted fat while simultaneously tightening the skin over the newly sculpted contours. This pairing produces a smoother and more defined silhouette. Many patients request Renuvion after liposuction to tighten mild to moderate loose skin.

Tummy Tuck

For patients with significant abdominal laxity, Renuvion can complement a tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck by further tightening the abdominal skin and surrounding areas to ensure a seamless, natural result.

Cost of Renuvion in La Jolla, Carmel Valley, and San Diego

The cost of Renuvion varies depending on the number of treatment areas, the complexity of the procedure, and whether we combine it with other treatments. During your consultation, Dr. Brown will provide a personalized estimate and discuss financing options to make your treatment as accessible as possible.

Schedule your treatment today to plan your Renuvion treatment. If you have any questions, please call our La Jolla or Carmel Valley offices directly at (619) 461-1500.

FAQ

How does Renuvion work?

Renuvion combines helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to tighten tissues beneath the skin. This dual-energy process contracts existing collagen and stimulates new collagen formation for long-lasting firmness.

Is Renuvion/J-Plasma painful?

We perform Renuvion after administering local anesthesia and sedation to ensure your comfort. Most patients describe mild tenderness afterward, which resolves within days.

When will I see results from Renuvion?

You will see some improvements immediately after your treatment, with final results becoming visible within three to six months as collagen rebuilds.

How long do Renuvion results last?

Results can last for several years when patients maintain healthy habits and a stable weight.

What areas can Renuvion treat?

Renuvion can treat nearly any area with mild to moderate skin laxity and where a more defined contour is desired, including the abdomen, arms, thighs, back, lower face, and neck.

How long is the downtime from a Renuvion treatment?

Most patients resume light activities within a few days and resume more strenuous activities in two to three weeks.

References

  1. Driscoll CR, Davidson AL, Marturano MN, Kortesis BG, Gaurav Bharti. Expansion of Renuvion Application to Areas Beyond the Submental Region: Review and Experience. Aesthetic Surgery Journal Open Forum. 2024;6. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asjof/ojae041
  2. Gentile RD. Renuvion RF-Helium Plasma for Subdermal Skin Tightening, Facial Contouring and Skin Rejuvenation of the Face and Neck. Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine. Published online May 5, 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/fpsam.2020.0070
  3. Kluska M, Deal RC, Summers K, Chang S. A Retrospective Review Comparing Renuvion Helium Plasma Radiofrequency with BodyTite Bipolar Radiofrequency after Liposuction or Body Contouring. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Global Open. 2024;12(8):e6024-e6024. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000006024