Enhanced high-energy protocol using a fractional bipolar radiofrequency device combined with bipolar radiofrequency and infrared light for improving facial skin appearance and wrinkles.
BACKGROUND
Fractional bipolar radiofrequency treatment and treatment with bipolar radiofrequency combined with infrared light have been shown in previous trials to safely and effectively improve the appearance of facial wrinkles.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a high-energy protocol with combined bipolar radiofrequency and infrared light energies for improvement in photoaged facial skin.


METHODS
Seventy-two patients presenting with mild to moderate facial wrinkles underwent a single full-face treatment (n=54) or two treatments (n=18) at 6-week intervals. Independent blinded assessment and investigator assessment were performed, using the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale (0-9) and the Global Aesthetic Improvement scale. Patients also completed a self-assessment questionnaire concerning satisfaction with the treatment.


RESULTS
All patients achieved some degree of improvement in their wrinkles and skin appearance, following a single treatment or two treatments with the enhanced-energy protocol. Blinded evaluation demonstrated 71% and 70% of the patients showing improvement of one unit or greater on the Fitzpatrick Scale, at the 12-week and 24-week follow-ups post-treatment, respectively. Similar results were reported by investigators. Under the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, investigators observed 87%, 91% and 81% of patients showing improvement at the 6-, 12-, and 24-week post-treatment end, respectively. Patients tolerated the treatments well and were satisfied with the clinical results.


CONCLUSIONS
The enhanced-energy treatment protocol, with fractional bipolar radiofrequency treatment and treatment with bipolar radiofrequency combined with infrared light applications, yields significant improvement of skin texture, wrinkling, and overall appearance following a single treatment. The results appear gradually over time and are maintained for at least 6 months' post-treatment.
Tennessee Clinical Research Center, Gold Skin Care Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
Michael H
http://orcid.org/0000-0002-1103-7760
MH
Gold
Nashville Laser and Facial Surgery, Nashville, TN, USA.
Brian S
BS
Biesman
Gateway Aesthetic Institute and Laser Center, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
Mark
M
Taylor
D000328:Adult; D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003357:Cosmetic Techniques; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005145:Face; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007259:Infrared Rays; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015595:Skin Aging
Bipolar radiofrequency; laser treatment; photoaging; photorejuvenation; wrinkle treatment