title: A novel non-invasive radiofrequency dermal heating device for skin tightening of the face and neck.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Loose, lax skin is a common cosmetic complaint. Previous non-invasive skin tightening devices had modest efficacy and were associated with pain or downtime. New technologies may allow for effective skin tightening with a series of radiofrequency (RF) treatments with no downtime.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel bipolar RF device for skin tightening.
  
  
  METHODS
  Fifteen consecutive female patients were enrolled in the case series; 14 completed the study and were included in the analysis. The device under investigation is a novel, bipolar RF device allowing for achievement and maintenance of optimal dermal temperatures to stimulate collagen remodeling and skin tightening. Patients underwent a series of 4-6 weekly treatments. Three blinded, experienced cosmetic physicians evaluated paired pre-treatment and post-treatment photographs and determined the associated improvement, if any.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All patients (14/14) were determined to have a clinical improvement, as the pre-treatment and post-treatment photographs were correctly identified by the evaluators. It was observed that 21% (3/14) of patients had significant improvement, 50% (7/14) had moderate improvement, and 29% (4/14) had mild improvement. No pain, side effects, or adverse events were observed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This novel bipolar RF device represents a safe, effective treatment option for non-invasive skin tightening.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Dermatology , Tufts University School of Medicine and Private Practice, Nelson Dermatology , Saint Petersburg , Florida , USA.
authors.forename: Andrew A
authors.initials: AA
authors.lastname: Nelson
authors.affiliation: b Division of Dermatology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California , USA.
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Beynet
authors.affiliation: b Division of Dermatology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California at Los Angeles , Los Angeles , California , USA.
authors.forename: Gary P
authors.initials: GP
authors.lastname: Lask
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003094:Collagen / Q000502:physiology*; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003972:Diathermy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D012060:Rejuvenation; D015595:Skin Aging / Q000502:physiology*
chemical_list: D003094:Collagen
keywords: non-invasive; radiofrequency; rejuvenation; skin tightening