Clinical evaluation of non-ablative radiofrequency facial rejuvenation.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the clinical efficacy of non-ablative cutaneous radiofrequency (RF) facial rejuvenation.


METHODS
Prospective study with longitudinal follow-up of a validation cohort set in an urban, private practice of an ambulatory facial plastic surgery center in southern California.


METHODS
A consecutive sample was enrolled of 35 healthy adults with moderate facial aging, manifested by skin laxity, rhytids, and ptosis (brow, midface, jowls). Following intravenous sedation anesthesia, the study area was treated with 115-144 J/cm2 using the non-ablative RF device (ThermaCool TC). The main outcome measures were the objective measurement of brow height, investigator evaluation of skin parameters, a patient satisfaction questionnaire, and standardized photography, at fixed time intervals.


RESULTS
At 12 weeks, a statistically significant increase in mean vertical brow height of 1.6-2.4 mm was observed in patients treated exclusively with the RF device (p<0.0001). All skin parameters (laxity, wrinkles, clarity, pore size) were improved. Complications and side effects were minimal. Patients were uniformly satisfied.


CONCLUSIONS
The ThermaCool TC RF system represents a promising non-invasive method of obtaining moderate facial rejuvenation in the appropriately selected patient. Long-term results are pending.
Abraham
Manoj T
MT
Keller Facial Plastic Surgery Clinic and Laser Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA. manoj_abraham@hotmail.com
Chiang
Scott K
SK
Keller
Gregory S
GS
Rawnsley
Jeffrey D
JD
Blackwell
Keith E
KE
Elashoff
David A
DA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D000078702:Radiofrequency Therapy; D015361:Rhytidoplasty; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000473:pathology