Abstract: Methods and apparatus for electrosurgically treating human skin. The skin may be treated by applying thermal energy to the dermis to shrink the skin following liposuction, or to induce collagen deposition at the site of a wrinkle for wrinkle reduction or removal. In another embodiment, a method involves electrosurgically removing or modifying tissue in the head or neck to provide a face-lift or a neck-lift. In one embodiment, the working end of an electrosurgical instrument is positioned in at least close proximity to the dermis by approaching the dermis from the underside (reverse side) of the skin.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for electrosurgically treating human skin. The skin may be treated by applying thermal energy to the dermis to shrink the skin following liposuction, or to induce collagen deposition at the site of a wrinkle for wrinkle reduction or removal. In another embodiment, a method involves electrosurgically removing or modifying tissue in the head or neck to provide a face-lift or a neck-lift. In one embodiment, the working end of an electrosurgical instrument is positioned in at least close proximity to the dermis by approaching the dermis from the underside (reverse side) of the skin.

Abstract: Electrosurgical systems, apparatus, and methods for the controlled ablation, cutting, forming voids, or otherwise treating skin tissue. An electrosurgical apparatus of the invention includes a treatment assembly including a plurality of treatment units, each treatment unit having an active electrode terminal adapted for the controlled, localized ablation of skin tissue. A method of performing an autologous hair transplant procedure includes electrosurgically forming a plurality of graft sockets in a recipient region of skin tissue. Each of the plurality of graft sockets comprises a void in the skin tissue, formed by positioning a treatment unit in at least close proximity to the skin surface in the recipient region, and thereafter applying a high frequency voltage between the active electrode terminal and a return electrode. Apparatus and methods for epilating the skin are also disclosed.