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Subsurface monopolar radiofrequency effectively reduces skin laxity on face, neck
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Subsurface monopolar radiofrequency resulted in skin tightening of the face, neck and jawline, according to patient satisfaction surveys at 6 months following treatment, according to recently published study results.
Mitchel P. Goldman, MD, of Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, San Diego, and colleagues conducted a single-center retrospective chart review of 35 patients (29 women; average age, 63 years) who underwent a single subsurface monopolar radiofrequency treatment with the ThermiRF (Thermi Aesthetics) to multiple combinations of the face, cheeks, jawline and neck. Patient follow-ups occurred at 3 months and 6 months after treatment and the patients provided feedback. Adverse event data were collected at either time.
A Numeric Rating Scale was used to report pain, and the Subject Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale was used to report improvement in treated areas.
The internal probe was an average of 59.9 degrees Celsius, and treatment times averaged approximately 19 minutes. The epidermal temperature was monitored by an infrared camera to allow the operation to cool the skin if a temperature went above 42 degrees Celsius.
Feedback was obtained from 28 patients (83%). The majority of patients (77.2%) noted total improvement at 180 days and 63.6% of patients noted total satisfaction.
Patients who received higher total treatment energy reported higher satisfaction rates than those who were treated with lower energy levels.
Adverse events were mild and transient and included tenderness (63%), edema (88.9%), bruising (51.9%), numbness (81.5) and nodules or induration (18.5%). Two patients experiencing temporary mandibular nerve palsy, which resolved without intervention.
“This retrospective evaluation demonstrates the safety and efficacy of the [subsurface monopolar radiofrequency] technology in reducing skin laxity,” the researchers concluded. “Additionally, data from subjects who received treatment to the face, jawline and/or neck regions suggest a minimum energy threshold per treatment area to achieve optimal subject satisfaction.” – by Bruce Thiel
Disclosure: Thermi Aesthetics loaned the equipment used in the study. The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.