Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details: 1 Revolutionary Look

Why Micro-Coring Is Changing the Conversation About Facial Aging

Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details center on a groundbreaking FDA-cleared technology called Micro-Coring™ that removes tiny columns of excess skin—up to 8% per session—without heat, incisions, or scarring. Unlike traditional laser or radiofrequency devices that injure the skin to trigger healing, Ellacor’s hollow needles (less than 0.5mm in diameter) physically extract micro-cores of tissue, allowing the body’s natural healing response to realign and contract the remaining skin for a tighter, smoother appearance.

Quick Overview: What Happens During Ellacor Treatment

• Procedure time: Under 30 minutes for the face and under-chin area
• Anesthesia: Local numbing (topical + injections); no general anesthesia required
• Pain level: Rated ~2 out of 10 in clinical trials
• Downtime: Typically 3–7 days of redness, swelling, and small circular marks
• Number of sessions: Most patients need 2–3 treatments spaced 30 days apart
• Results timeline: Visible improvement in weeks; full results at 3–6 months
• Longevity: Long-lasting (5–7 years), with maintenance treatments as needed
• FDA indication: Moderate to severe wrinkles in the mid and lower face for adults 22+ with Fitzpatrick skin types I–IV

Who it treats: Patients with sagging jowls, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, chin wrinkles, and upper-lip lines who want natural-looking improvement without surgery.

For many women frustrated by facial aging that diet, skincare, and injectables can’t fix—but who aren’t ready for the scalpel—Ellacor fills a critical gap. As one Chicago plastic surgeon noted, “Prior to Ellacor, options to treat wrinkles and lax skin with devices were limited and often disappointing.” The procedure bridges the space between energy-based treatments and a full facelift, offering measurable skin removal with minimal downtime and no thermal injury.

I’m Daniel J Farrugia MD, PhD, FACS, a board-certified surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons who focuses on awake, minimally invasive procedures at BodyLuxe in Chicago. While my primary expertise lies in body contouring under local anesthesia, I closely follow innovations in facial rejuvenation, including Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details, because they reflect the same patient-centered philosophy: achieving natural, long-lasting results with less trauma, faster recovery, and transparent education about candidacy and risks.

Understanding Micro-Coring: How Ellacor Works

At BodyLuxe, we are always seeking innovative, evidence-based solutions that align with our commitment to natural, proportionate results. The Ellacor System with Micro-Coring® Technology represents a significant leap forward in non-surgical skin rejuvenation. It’s a first-of-its-kind treatment designed to improve the appearance of moderate to severe wrinkles and excess skin, particularly in the mid and lower face.

So, what exactly is this Micro-Coring™ procedure? Unlike many other skin revitalization devices that use heat generated by laser, radiofrequency, or ultrasound energy to induce intentional thermal injury, Ellacor takes a different approach. It employs specially designed hollow needles to precisely remove micro-cores of skin—both dermal and epidermal tissue—on a micro-scale. These micro-cores are incredibly small, with an internal diameter less than 0.5mm. This dimension is crucial because it falls below the threshold known to cause visible scarring, allowing the skin to heal without evidence of scars. In fact, scientific research supports the concept of scarless healing for very small, full-thickness skin injuries. For more on this, you can refer to relevant studies on scarless wound healing, such as those discussed in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine.

The genius of Ellacor lies in its mechanism of action. When these tiny columns of skin are removed, the body’s natural healing response is immediately triggered. The remaining skin quickly realigns and contracts to close these micro-cores, leading to an improved skin architecture. This process stimulates new collagen and elastin production, which are vital proteins for skin firmness and elasticity. The result is a visible reduction in wrinkles and a tightening effect on mild to moderately sagging skin. Because no heat is involved, there’s no risk of unintended thermal injury, contributing to a gentler healing process.

Comparing Ellacor to other treatments, such as microneedling, highlights its unique advantage. While microneedling uses small needles to create micro-injuries that stimulate collagen, it only displaces tissue. Ellacor, conversely, physically removes skin, making it a more direct approach to reducing skin volume and achieving noticeable contraction. This fractional tissue extraction technique makes Ellacor a powerful tool for those seeking significant improvements without the invasiveness of surgery.

We believe this technology offers a “sweet spot” for treating areas like perioral aging (lines around the mouth), jowls, and the lower face, providing a solution that was previously difficult to achieve without surgery. The ability to remove up to 8% of skin volume in a single treatment, without leaving visible scars, truly positions Ellacor as a disruptive technology in aesthetic medicine.

Your Journey: Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details

At BodyLuxe, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and understanding throughout your aesthetic journey. If you’re considering Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details, here’s what you can expect as you start on this innovative path to skin rejuvenation.

The Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. This is our opportunity to understand your aesthetic goals, assess your unique skin concerns, and determine if Ellacor is the right treatment for you. We’ll discuss your medical history in detail, including any pre-existing conditions, medications, or previous aesthetic procedures. Our board-certified surgeon will evaluate your skin quality, degree of wrinkles, and laxity, focusing on areas like your mid and lower face, jowls, and marionette lines.

During this discussion, we’ll set realistic expectations about the outcomes, recovery process, and the number of sessions typically needed to achieve your desired results. We believe in transparent communication, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision. This initial step is crucial for creating a personalized treatment plan custom to your specific needs. For more details on what to expect during this important first meeting, please visit our guide on What to Expect During Your Consultation.

Preparing for Your Ellacor Treatment

Once you’ve decided to proceed, we’ll provide you with detailed pre-procedure guidelines to ensure optimal safety and results. These instructions are designed to minimize risks and prepare your skin for the treatment.

Typically, we advise our patients to:

• Avoid Blood Thinners: For two weeks prior to your appointment, you should avoid blood-thinning agents such as aspirin, ibuprofen, certain herbal medications, and supplements like grapeseed extract, Vitamin E, or fish oil. These can increase the risk of bruising.
• Sun Exposure Avoidance: Steer clear of direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks before your treatment. Sunburn or tanned skin can make the treatment area more sensitive and increase the risk of complications.
• Skincare Product Restrictions: We may ask you to temporarily discontinue certain active skincare products, such as retinoids or strong exfoliants, a few days before your procedure to prevent skin irritation.
• Medication Review: Always provide a complete list of all medications and supplements you are taking. We will review these to ensure they don’t interfere with the Ellacor treatment or healing process. If you are on high-dose NSAIDs or blood thinners, we may need you to pause these for 14 days, with your physician’s approval.
• Facial Hair: If you have excessive facial hair in the treatment area, we recommend shaving it with an electric-powered shaver one day prior to minimize skin abrasions.

Adhering to these guidelines is essential for a smooth procedure and recovery. For information on other non-invasive aesthetic options and how they might fit into your overall plan, explore our Medspa Procedures.

The Day of the Procedure: What to Expect

On the day of your Ellacor treatment, we want you to feel comfortable and at ease. We recommend arriving with your face, chin, and neck free of makeup, lotions, or other skincare products. Wearing comfortable clothing without high necks or collars is also a good idea.

The actual Ellacor procedure is remarkably efficient. It typically takes about 30 minutes or less to treat the entire mid and lower face, and under the chin. To ensure your comfort, we prioritize effective pain management. We will apply a topical numbing cream, followed by local anesthetic injections to the treatment area. Patients in clinical trials reported the pain level during the procedure as less than 2 on a 0-10 scale, indicating it is generally well-tolerated.

Once the area is numb, our skilled practitioner will use the Ellacor handpiece, which contains the array of hollow needles. This device is moved across the skin in a precise grid pattern. It features an integrated vacuum system that gently stabilizes the skin during the micro-coring process, ensuring accurate and consistent tissue removal. You might hear a soft suctioning sound and feel a light pressure as the micro-cores are extracted. Pinpoint bleeding is common but minor and stops quickly. The micro-cores begin to close rapidly, often before you even leave our clinic.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After your Ellacor treatment, proper post-procedure care is paramount for optimal healing and results. While Ellacor offers less downtime than more invasive surgeries, you should still anticipate a recovery period.

• Downtime: The typical downtime ranges from 3 to 7 days, though this can vary by individual and treatment settings. You may experience common side effects such as redness, swelling, and mild bruising. Some patients also report a feeling of dryness, roughness, or tightness in the treated area, along with small circular marks where the micro-cores were removed. These usually subside within the first few days, but mild redness and grid marks can linger for a month or longer.
• Aftercare Instructions: We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. Generally, this includes:
  • Cleansing: Gently cleanse the treated area twice daily with water and a mild facial cleanser. Pat dry with a clean, soft towel or paper towel.
  • Occlusive Ointments: Apply a light film of a protective occlusive ointment, such as petrolatum or Aquaphor, to the treated area for the first 24-48 hours, or as directed. This helps create a barrier for healing.
  • Avoiding Makeup and Certain Activities: Refrain from applying makeup, shaving, or waxing the treated area until the micro-cores have completely closed (typically 3-5 days). Also, avoid strenuous exercise, contact sports, or activities that cause excessive sweating for a few days. Do not submerge the treated area in water (pools, oceans) until fully healed.
  • Sun Protection: Avoid direct and prolonged sun exposure for at least a week after treatment. Once your skin has healed, it is crucial to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily to protect your refreshd skin and maintain your results.
  • Hygiene: Use a clean towel each time you pat dry your face, or use disposable paper towels. Avoid picking or scratching the treated area. If you wear a mask, use a clean one daily and change it if soiled.

Following these instructions diligently will help ensure a smooth healing process and contribute to the best possible outcome. For more general aftercare advice that complements your Ellacor recovery, you can refer to our Aftercare guide.

Candidacy, Safety, and Expected Results

Understanding who is an ideal candidate, what the potential risks are, and what realistic results look like is crucial for anyone considering Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details.

Who is an Ideal Candidate for Ellacor?

Ellacor is an excellent option for individuals seeking noticeable improvement in their skin without undergoing invasive surgery. The treatment is specifically indicated for:

• Age: Adults aged 22 years or older.
• Wrinkles and Laxity: Those with moderate to severe wrinkles and mild to moderate skin laxity in the mid and lower face. This includes common concerns such as:
  • Jowls: Mild sagging along the jawline.
  • Nasolabial Folds: The lines running from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth.
  • Marionette Lines: The lines extending downwards from the corners of the mouth.
  • Chin Wrinkles: Lines and folds in the chin area.
  • Upper Lip Lines: Fine lines around the mouth.
• Skin Type: Ellacor is FDA-cleared for Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV. This includes light to medium skin tones. We emphasize that individuals with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick V and VI) have not yet been clinically evaluated for Ellacor, and separate studies are needed to determine its safety and effectiveness for these skin tones. We always prioritize your safety and will assess your skin type carefully. You can learn more about the Fitzpatrick Scale and its relevance in aesthetic treatments through resources like Clinical Trials Fitzpatrick Scale.

Ellacor is particularly well-suited for patients who are not yet ready for a surgical facelift but desire results beyond what traditional non-invasive treatments can offer. It can also serve as a maintenance treatment for younger patients looking to stave off future facelifts.

Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details: Contraindications and Risks

While Ellacor is considered safe for appropriate candidates, certain conditions or circumstances may make you unsuitable for the procedure. We will thoroughly review your medical history to ensure your safety.

Contraindications (when Ellacor should not be used):

• Pregnancy/Nursing: Not approved for expectant or lactating mothers.
• Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking high doses of anticoagulants/blood thinners (including high-dose NSAIDs) should avoid treatment due to increased risk of bruising and prolonged healing.
• Keloid History: A history of keloid formation or abnormal wound healing.
• Recent Procedures/Surgery: If you’ve had dermal fillers, fat, or botulinum toxin injections in the treatment area within the last six months, or facial surgery within the last 12 months. Recent scars (less than six months old) in the treatment area are also a contraindication.
• Active Infections/Skin Conditions: Presence of open wounds, sores, irritated skin, active infections (including herpes simplex), or certain dermatological/autoimmune conditions (e.g., rosacea, melasma, acne, psoriasis, lupus) in the treatment area.
• Allergies: Known allergies to stainless steel, local anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine), or other components used during the procedure.
• Implants: Areas with implanted materials or within the bony orbital rim.
• Other Medical Conditions: Systemic infections (Hepatitis, HIV), immunosuppression, or those undergoing chemotherapy or high-dose corticosteroid use.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:
It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects, which we will discuss in detail during your consultation.

• Common Side Effects: These are generally mild and temporary, including redness, swelling, bruising, burning sensation, dryness, roughness, tightness/pulling of skin, crusting, mild pain/discomfort, tenderness, tingling, pinpoint bleeding, numbness, skin peeling, and small circular marks. These typically resolve within days to a few weeks.
• Less Common/Rare Side Effects: Though rare, more significant side effects can include persistent itching, hyper/hypopigmentation (darker or lighter spots), hematoma, infection, scarring, skin irregularities (uneven texture or tone), skin necrosis (tissue death), or anesthesia toxicity. While we take every precaution, these are possibilities that we want you to be fully informed about.

Choosing a highly qualified and experienced provider, like the board-certified surgeon at BodyLuxe, is your best defense against complications. We adhere to strict best practices to minimize risks and ensure your safety.

Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details: Results and Longevity

One of the most exciting aspects of Ellacor is the natural-looking, long-lasting results it can provide.

• Timeline for Results: While some patients may notice initial improvements in skin laxity and wrinkling within a few weeks of their first treatment, the full results develop gradually. This is because the body needs time to produce new collagen and for the skin to fully contract and remodel. Most patients see their final results appearing three to six months after their last treatment session.
• Number of Treatments: Most individuals require a series of two to three Ellacor treatments to achieve optimal results. These sessions are typically spaced approximately one month apart. Your personalized treatment plan will outline the recommended number of sessions for your specific goals.
• Long-Lasting Results: The results from Ellacor are considered long-lasting. Many patients enjoy their refreshd appearance for 5 to 7 years. However, the natural aging process continues. Factors such as your age, skin quality, daily skincare routine, sun exposure habits, and overall lifestyle (e.g., smoking, alcohol, diet, hydration) can influence how long your results last.
• Maintenance Treatments: To maintain your youthful appearance, occasional follow-up treatments may be recommended as part of your long-term skincare strategy. Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen and a high-quality skincare regimen are also vital for preserving your results.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ellacor Procedure

We understand you likely have many questions about Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details. Here are some of the most common inquiries we receive:

How much does Ellacor cost?

The cost of Ellacor treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the number of sessions required, the size of the treatment area, and the provider’s experience and geographic location. Based on market data, the average cost for Ellacor can range from approximately $1,750 to $4,500 per session. Since most patients need 2-3 sessions, the total cost would reflect this series. During your initial consultation, we will provide you with a transparent and detailed estimate custom to your individual treatment plan.

Does Ellacor help with jowling?

Yes, Ellacor can certainly help with mild to moderate jowling. It is FDA-approved for addressing moderate to severe wrinkles and skin laxity in the lower face, which includes the jowl area. By removing micro-cores of excess skin and stimulating collagen, Ellacor helps to tighten the skin and improve the definition of the jawline, creating a more sculpted appearance. While it won’t provide the dramatic lift of a surgical facelift for severe jowling, it offers a significant improvement for those seeking a non-surgical solution. Many patients appreciate the “snatched but believable” results that Ellacor can achieve in this area.

Is the Ellacor procedure painful?

Patient comfort is one of our top priorities. Before the Ellacor procedure, we apply a strong topical numbing cream and administer local anesthetic injections to the treatment area. This significantly minimizes discomfort during the procedure. In clinical trials, most patients reported the pain level during the procedure as less than 2 on a 0-10 scale. This means it’s generally considered very tolerable. While you might feel some pressure or a mild sensation, the procedure is not typically described as painful. We are dedicated to ensuring your experience is as comfortable as possible.

Begin Your Skin Change Journey in Chicago

The Ellacor System with Micro-Coring Technology offers a truly innovative approach to facial rejuvenation, providing significant improvements in moderate to severe wrinkles and skin laxity without the need for surgery, incisions, or thermal energy. At BodyLuxe in Chicago, we are proud to offer advanced, evidence-based treatments that align with our philosophy of achieving natural, proportionate, and long-lasting results.

We believe that understanding the Ellacor Treatment Procedure Details empowers you to make the best decisions for your aesthetic goals. As a surgeon-led clinic, we bring a meticulous, safety-first approach to every procedure, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care and expertise. If you’re looking for a non-surgical solution to refresh your appearance and address signs of aging in your mid and lower face, Ellacor might be the answer you’ve been seeking.

We invite you to explore the possibilities and find if Ellacor is right for you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward revealing your inner youth.

Contact Us

To learn more about our comprehensive approach to skin tightening and other aesthetic solutions available in Chicago, please visit our page on Skin Tightening Chicago Renuvion Ellacor.