Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning: Essential 2025

Why Understanding Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning Matters Before Your First Appointment

Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning are the three pillars for deciding if this innovative skin rejuvenation procedure is right for you. If you’re frustrated by stubborn wrinkles and sagging skin that haven’t responded to other treatments, Ellacor offers a non-surgical solution with real, visible results.

Quick Answer: Ellacor at a Glance

• Average Cost: $3,000–$9,000 (varies by treatment area, provider expertise, and number of sessions)
• Ideal Candidates: Adults 22+ with Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV, moderate to severe wrinkles, mild to moderate skin laxity
• Treatment Planning: Typically 2–3 sessions spaced 30 days apart, each lasting about 30 minutes in-office
• Key Contraindications: Pregnancy, bleeding disorders, active skin infections, recent facial surgery or filler injections
• FDA Clearance: Approved for moderate to severe wrinkles in the mid-to-lower face

Ellacor uses a groundbreaking technology called Micro-Coring™ to remove thousands of tiny columns of excess skin without heat, lasers, or surgery. Your body’s natural healing response closes these micro-cores and stimulates collagen, leading to tighter, smoother skin. Clinical studies report that over 90% of patients showed visible improvement in moderate to severe wrinkles, and 86% were highly satisfied with their results.

Unlike energy-based devices, Ellacor physically removes up to 8% of skin in the treatment area without leaving scars. This makes it a unique option for those who want something more impactful than microneedling but aren’t ready for a surgical facelift. However, not everyone is a candidate, and costs vary. Understanding your eligibility, pricing, and treatment plan is essential before booking an appointment.

I’m Daniel J. Farrugia MD, PhD, FACS, a board-certified surgeon at BodyLuxe in Chicago. While I specialize in awake body contouring, I stay informed on emerging technologies like Ellacor to help patients understand all their options for Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning. This guide provides a clear, evidence-based overview to help you make a confident decision.

Ready to explore your options? Let’s break down exactly how Ellacor works, who it’s best for, what it costs, and how to plan your treatment journey.

What is Ellacor and How Does It Work?

Ellacor is an FDA-approved treatment for non-surgical skin rejuvenation that addresses moderate to severe wrinkles by physically removing micro-portions of skin. It offers a unique approach to skin tightening and wrinkle reduction.

The Science Behind Micro-Coring™ Technology

Ellacor’s innovative Micro-Coring™ technology uses hollow needles less than 0.5mm in diameter to extract 6,000 to 12,000 tiny columns of dermal and epidermal tissue per session. Unlike devices that use heat, Ellacor mechanically removes skin. These micro-cores are so small they heal without scarring, which allows for rapid healing and minimizes the risk of thermal damage.

After the micro-cores are removed, the body’s natural healing response closes the openings as the surrounding skin realigns. This process stimulates new collagen and elastin, improving the skin’s architecture for a tighter, smoother complexion. The technology is based on the scientific principle that very small, full-thickness skin injuries can heal without a scar, as supported by scientific research on scarless healing.

Primary Benefits and Treated Areas

So, what can you expect from this micro-coring magic? The primary benefits of Ellacor treatment include:

• Significant Wrinkle Reduction: Ellacor is FDA-approved to treat moderate and severe wrinkles in the mid-to-lower face.
• Improved Skin Laxity: By removing excess skin and stimulating collagen, it effectively tightens mild to moderately sagging skin.
• Natural-Looking Results: Because it works with your body’s natural healing processes, the results are subtle yet impactful, leaving you looking refreshed, not “done.”
• Minimal Downtime: Compared to surgical options, Ellacor offers a much quicker recovery.
• No Scarring: The micro-cores are so tiny that they heal without visible scars.
• No Thermal Energy: This means less risk of thermal damage to surrounding tissues.

The FDA-approved treatment areas for Ellacor are the mid-to-lower face, including:

• Mid-face: Addressing general skin laxity and wrinkles.
• Lower face: Targeting issues around the jawline and chin.
• Jowls: Helping to define the jawline by tightening sagging skin.
• Perioral lines: Smoothing wrinkles around the mouth.

Some providers also use Ellacor off-label for other areas, such as the upper lip lines, nasolabial folds, chin wrinkles, and even on body areas like arms and knees, based on clinical judgment. However, FDA approval is specifically for the mid-to-lower face in skin types I-IV.

If you’re looking for advanced solutions to refresh your skin, Ellacor is a fantastic option in our toolkit. To see how Ellacor fits into a broader spectrum of aesthetic possibilities, we invite you to explore our advanced skin tightening solutions.

A Deep Dive into Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning

Understanding Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning is paramount for anyone considering this innovative procedure. We want to ensure you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Determining Your Candidacy for Ellacor

Determining if you are an ideal candidate for Ellacor involves a thorough assessment of your skin, medical history, and aesthetic goals.

Ideal candidates typically meet the following criteria:

• Age: Adults aged 22 years or older.
• Skin Type: Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV (pale white to light brown skin). A separate clinical study is needed for darker skin types (V and VI) to evaluate protocols and minimize risks like hyperpigmentation.
• Wrinkles: Individuals with moderate to severe wrinkles, particularly around the mouth, eyes, and cheeks.
• Skin Laxity: Patients experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity or “crepey” skin who are looking for a non-surgical solution.
• Overall Health: Generally healthy individuals with a BMI ≤ 30.
• Expectations: Those with realistic expectations, understanding that results are significant but not as dramatic as a surgical facelift.

Contraindications for Ellacor treatment are extensive and crucial to review:

• Pregnancy or Nursing: Safety has not been established for these groups.
• Open Wounds, Sores, or Irritated Skin: In the treatment area.
• Allergies: To stainless steel or any medications used during the procedure (e.g., lidocaine, bupivacaine, chlorhexidine).
• Bleeding Disorders: Or taking high doses of anti-coagulants or blood-thinning substances (e.g., aspirin, NSAIDs, warfarin) within the previous 14 days.
• Dermatological/Autoimmune Conditions: That may affect treatment outcome, including but not limited to: actinic keratosis, rosacea, melasma, active acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, eczema, or lupus.
• Systemic or Acute Local Skin Infections: Such as Hepatitis disorders or HIV infection.
• Chemotherapy, High-Dose Corticosteroid Use, or Radiation: In the treatment area.
• Recent Facial Surgery: Within the last 12 months.
• Recent Injections/Treatments: Dermal fillers, fat, or botulinum toxin in the treatment area during the previous six months.
• Scars: Less than six months old in the treatment area.
• Dermatosis: Skin tumors, keloids or predisposition to keloids, warts, or birthmarks in the treatment area.
• Implants: Silicone or synthetic material implanted in the treatment area.
• Bony Orbital Rim or Mucous Membranes: Ellacor should not be used in these areas.

This comprehensive list highlights why a detailed consultation is essential.

Understanding the Factors Influencing Ellacor Cost

The cost of Ellacor is a key part of your planning. Based on current market trends in Chicago, treatment typically ranges from $2,000 to $9,000 USD per session. Specific pricing examples include:

• Mid/Lower Face: Starting at $3,700.00/treatment
• Mid/Lower Face & Submental: Starting at $3,900.00/treatment
• Mid/Lower Face & Neck: Starting at $4,100.00/treatment
• Lower Face | Jowls | Jawline: Around $6,950.00 USD
• Lower Face | Jowls | Jawline | Neck: Around $8,950.00 USD
• Arms OR Legs: Around $8,950.00 USD (off-label body treatments)

This pricing is influenced by several factors:

1. Treatment Area Size and Number: Treating a larger area or multiple areas will increase the cost.
2. Number of Sessions Required: Most patients need 1-3 treatments for optimal results, which affects the overall cost.
3. Provider’s Expertise and Location: Highly experienced, board-certified providers in metropolitan areas like Chicago may have different pricing structures.
4. Included Services: Some clinics may include aftercare products and exosomes in the treatment cost.

These figures are per treatment, and a series is often recommended. During your consultation, we provide a detailed, personalized cost breakdown. To make your goals more accessible, we offer various payment options. You can learn about our medical financing options to find a suitable plan.

The Importance of Consultation for Your Ellacor Treatment Planning

A comprehensive consultation is the first and most critical step in your Ellacor journey and the cornerstone of effective Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning.

During your consultation, we will:

• Assess Your Skin Quality and Condition: To determine if Ellacor is the most appropriate treatment.
• Discuss Your Aesthetic Goals: To understand what you hope to achieve.
• Review Your Medical History: To identify any contraindications.
• Set Realistic Expectations: By discussing anticipated outcomes and timelines.
• Develop a Personalized Treatment Plan: Recommending the optimal number of sessions (typically 1-3) spaced 30-60 days apart.
• Provide a Detailed Cost Estimate: Giving you a clear understanding of the total Ellacor Cost.

Our commitment to evidence-based practice means every treatment plan is customized to your unique needs for natural, proportionate results. We empower you with knowledge, so we encourage you to find out what to expect during your consultation before your visit.

The Ellacor Patient Journey: From Preparation to Long-Lasting Results

Starting on any aesthetic journey comes with questions, and we’re here to guide you through every step of your Ellacor experience.

Preparing for Your Ellacor Procedure

Proper preparation ensures a smooth procedure and optimal healing. Here’s what to do:

• Avoid Blood Thinners: For at least one to two weeks before treatment, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen (NSAIDs), and fish oil to reduce bruising risk.
• Sun Exposure Avoidance: Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks prior to your session.
• Alcohol, Caffeine, and Cigarettes: Abstain from alcohol for at least 48 hours and caffeine and cigarettes for 24 hours before your procedure to minimize bruising and promote healing.
• Clean, Makeup-Free Skin: Arrive at your appointment with clean, makeup-free skin in the treatment area.
• Anesthesia Plan: We will discuss your personalized anesthesia plan, which typically includes topical numbing cream and local injections (like lidocaine) for your comfort.

We provide a complete list of guidelines during your consultation. For a general overview, see what to expect the week leading up to your procedure.

What to Expect During the 30-Minute Treatment

The Ellacor procedure is efficient and performed in our Chicago clinic.

• In-Office and Quick: The treatment takes about 30 minutes, but plan to be at our office for about two hours to allow for numbing.
• Numbing Process: After cleansing your skin, we apply a topical numbing cream for about an hour, followed by local anesthetic injections for improved comfort. With these protocols, most patients in clinical trials reported pain as less than 2 on a 0-10 scale.
• Precision Application: Once you are numb, we use the Ellacor handpiece to treat the target areas in a grid-like pattern. An integrated vacuum system immediately removes the micro-cores of skin.
• Sensation: You might feel some pressure or a mild tugging sensation. Pinpoint bleeding is common but subsides quickly with gentle pressure. The micro-cores begin closing immediately, so no stitches or bandages are needed.

Navigating Downtime, Recovery, and Aftercare

A key advantage of Ellacor is its short downtime compared to surgery. Understanding the recovery process is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring the best results.

• Expected Downtime: Most patients experience social downtime of 3-7 days. Some feel comfortable in public after 3-4 days, while others may prefer up to a week or two.
• Common Side Effects: Expect mild to moderate redness and swelling, similar to a sunburn. Other common side effects include bruising, tightness, dryness, a rough skin texture, peeling, and small circular marks. These generally resolve within a few days, though mild redness can linger.
• Aftercare Instructions: We provide comprehensive aftercare instructions. Key recommendations include:
  • Occlusive Ointment: Apply an occlusive dressing like petroleum jelly for the first 24-48 hours.
  • Gentle Skincare: Use only gentle cleansers and moisturizers. Avoid harsh scrubs and active ingredients like retinol initially.
  • Makeup and Harsh Products: Avoid makeup for at least 72 hours, and ideally for up to a week.
  • Sun Protection: This is paramount! Avoid direct sun exposure during recovery and consistently use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) afterward.
  • Avoid Strenuous Activity: For the first few days, avoid heavy exercise or activities that cause excessive sweating.

Following these guidelines is crucial for optimal healing and minimizing complication risks. For more details, consult our detailed aftercare guidance.

How Ellacor Compares to Other Rejuvenation Procedures Offered at BodyLuxe

At BodyLuxe, we offer a range of cutting-edge aesthetic solutions. While Ellacor is a fantastic option for non-surgical wrinkle reduction, it’s helpful to see how it compares to other treatments we offer in Chicago, like Renuvion and FormSculpt.

Key Distinctions:

• Tissue Removal vs. Energy-Based: Ellacor physically removes tiny amounts of skin without scarring. Renuvion and FormSculpt use energy (plasma and radiofrequency) to contract tissue and stimulate collagen.
• Target Concerns: Ellacor excels at treating moderate wrinkles and mild-to-moderate skin laxity in the mid-to-lower face. Renuvion and FormSculpt are often chosen for more significant skin laxity and body contouring.
• Invasiveness: All three are minimally invasive. Renuvion and FormSculpt require tiny incisions for subdermal access, while Ellacor works on the skin’s surface.

Choosing the right procedure depends on your specific concerns and goals. During your consultation, we’ll discuss all available options to find the best treatment for you.

We offer a comprehensive suite of aesthetic services. Learn more about our advanced options by visiting our MedSpa procedures page.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ellacor

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning.

How long do Ellacor results last?

Ellacor results are considered long-lasting because the procedure removes skin and stimulates new collagen. However, the natural aging process continues, and longevity is influenced by age, skin quality, genetics, and lifestyle.

Initial improvements appear within weeks, with optimal results developing 3-6 months after the final treatment. To maintain your look, a consistent skincare regimen and diligent sun protection (broad-spectrum SPF 30+) are essential. Some patients opt for maintenance sessions every few years to combat ongoing aging.

Is the Ellacor procedure painful?

Patient comfort is a top priority. The Ellacor procedure is generally well-tolerated due to our robust pain management.

Before treatment, we apply a topical numbing cream for about an hour, followed by local anesthetic injections (like lidocaine) to ensure the area is thoroughly numbed. This combination minimizes discomfort; most patients in clinical trials reported a pain level of less than 2 on a 0-10 scale.

After the procedure, you may experience mild soreness, tenderness, or tightness, similar to a sunburn. This is manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and usually subsides within a few days.

What are the potential risks and side effects?

Like any medical procedure, Ellacor has potential risks and side effects. It is considered safe when performed by a qualified provider on a suitable candidate.

Common Side Effects (typically resolve within days to a week):

• Redness: Similar to a sunburn.
• Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling in the treated area.
• Bruising: Some bruising may occur.
• Tightness/Dryness/Roughness: The skin may feel tight, dry, or rough as it heals.
• Peeling: Light peeling can occur.
• Circular Marks: Tiny, temporary marks where the micro-cores were removed.

Less Common or Rare Risks (important to discuss during consultation):

• Pigmentation Changes: Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening) can occur, particularly if sun protection is not followed. This is why Ellacor is indicated for Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV.
• Infection: A small risk exists with any procedure that breaks the skin. We adhere to strict sterilization protocols to minimize this.
• Prolonged Redness: In some cases, redness may last longer than anticipated.
• Scarring: While designed to be scarless, individuals with a history of keloids may be at higher risk.
• Tissue Necrosis: Extremely rare, but possible.
• Anesthetic Risks: Risks associated with local anesthesia are generally minimal.

Choosing an experienced, board-certified provider is crucial for minimizing risks. We prioritize your safety above all else. For a detailed review of safety information, consult the official More on Ellacor’s safety profile page.

Conclusion: Is Ellacor the Right Choice for You?

We’ve explored the fascinating world of Ellacor, delving into its innovative Micro-Coring™ technology, its impressive benefits for wrinkle reduction and skin tightening, and the crucial aspects of Ellacor Cost, Candidacy, and Treatment Planning. This non-surgical procedure offers a unique solution for those seeking to refresh their appearance without the extensive downtime or invasiveness of traditional surgery.

Ellacor stands out as a powerful option for treating moderate to severe wrinkles and mild to moderate skin laxity in the mid-to-lower face. It delivers natural-looking results by physically removing tiny, excess micro-portions of skin and stimulating your body’s own collagen production, all without leaving scars. For many patients in Chicago, it represents that coveted middle ground: more impactful than superficial treatments, yet less commitment than a facelift.

However, as we’ve emphasized, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your unique skin type, specific concerns, medical history, and aesthetic goals all play a vital role in determining if Ellacor is the right choice for you. That’s why a personalized consultation is not just recommended, but essential.

At BodyLuxe, we are committed to providing you with evidence-based care, transparent information, and results that are natural, proportionate, and what we like to call “snatched but believable.” We’re here to help you steer your options and start on a journey that leaves you feeling confident and refreshed.

If you’re ready to explore how Ellacor can help you achieve your aesthetic aspirations, we invite you to schedule your consultation to discuss skin tightening in Chicago. Let’s find if Ellacor can open up a more youthful, confident you.