The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) recently discussed the energy-based device (EBD) trends redefining non-surgical results in 2025, and into the future. “Energy-based devices are helping transform what’s possible in facial plastic surgery,” says Anthony E. Brissett, M.D., president of the AAFPRS, and a facial plastic surgeon based in Houston. “2025 is all about personalization, precision, and combining technologies to achieve results patients truly notice.” He notes that AAFPRS facial plastic surgeons are integrating EBDs and other non-surgical solutions to complement surgical outcomes, a powerful combination that delivers natural, lasting results while meeting the growing demand for less downtime and more customization.
Here are the EBD trends shaping 2025 – and setting the stage for 2026.
1. Lifting and Firming Without Surgery
As patients seek visible tightening and contouring without the commitment of surgery, quick-recovery combination treatments, sometimes called “weekend lifts,” are on the rise. Noninvasive ultrasound, fractional skin resurfacing, and light- or energy-based body remodeling therapies are increasingly used to stimulate collagen, tighten tissue, and improve skintone and texture. This approach is especially relevant for the growing number of patients experiencing post-weight-loss skin laxity, who benefit from energy-based tightening paired with injectables for volume restoration and, when needed, surgical refinement. Together, these synergistic treatments deliver comprehensive rejuvenation that meets today’s demand for efficient, customized results.
2. Boosting Laser Rejuvenation with Energy-Based Enhancements
Even gold-standard treatments like CO₂ laser resurfacing are evolving. By adding radiofrequency microneedling, targeted energy penetrates deep into the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin beyond the surface. This combination amplifies tightening, improves texture, and speeds recovery, showing how traditional laser therapies can achieve more comprehensive, energy-driven results.
3. Precision Resurfacing for Sensitive Skin
For patients seeking gentler rejuvenation, fractional Erbium or Erbium-RF resurfacing offers a precise, energy-focused alternative. These treatments remove thin layers of skin while sparing surrounding tissue, stimulating collagen and elastin deep in the dermis. The result: improved tone, texture, and firmness with faster healing, less redness, and minimal downtime. While less dramatic than full-field CO₂ resurfacing, this approach is ideal for refinement and subtle rejuvenation.