Efficacy and safety of monopolar radiofrequency for the improvement of facial skin laxity and rhytides: A systematic review of clinical trials / The Health Sciences Journal

INTRODUCTION: There is a consistent increase in the interest and demand for non-invasive modalities toimprove facial skin laxity and rhytides. Monopolar radiofrequency is one of such non-invasive modalities.This systematic review aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of monopolar radiofrequency inimproving facial rhytides and skin laxity.METHODS: Clinical studies that assessed the efficacy of monopolar radiofrequency to address clinicallyobservable facial rhytides and skin laxity were included. Outcome measures included improvementin rhytides and skin laxity as documented by patient satisfaction scores, and investigator and third-personobserver ratings based on clinical photographs and clinical scales.RESULTS: Three studies involving 29 participants were included in this review. All studies reported 25-50% improvement in facial rhytides and skin laxity. Participants from the three studies were satisfiedwith the results. Transient erythema was reported in several patients.CONCLUSION: Monopolar radiofrequency appears to be beneficial and safe for patients with facialrhytides and skin laxity. However, the evidence is inconclusive due to problems in the methodologicalquality of each trial and the heterogeneity of the studies included in this review.

Effect of Radiofrequency Device for the Treatment of Facial Rhytides

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of radiofrequency device for treatment of facial rhytides. METHODS: Twenty-three patients of more than 50 years of age with Glogau photoaging scale type III, IV were included in this study. A Surgitron Dual Frequency device was used for facial rhytides, and a total of four treatment sessions spaced one week apart were performed. Clinical assessment was performed at one week, and at one, three, and six months after the last treatment session. The degree of objective & subjective improvement was determined using a five-step graded scale. Objective improvement was determined by two blinded assessors using before and after photographs. Subjective improvement was determined by questionnaire about rhytides improvement, patient satisfaction and prospect for another treatment session. RESULTS: Significant improvement in facial rhitides was observed in the majority of patients until three months after treatment according to photography assessment. Self-estimation scores paralleled the photography scores and thus were also high until 3 months after treatment. Treatment of the periocular area was most effective.The procedure was associated with minimal downtime, and therewas no serious complication. CONCLUSIONS: treatment for facial rhitides using the Surgitron Dual Frequency device is effective in a relatively short time. This technology is a relatively easy treatment method because of the minimal downtime and minimal risk associated its use, making periodic repetition efficient for treating facial rhytides.

Treatment of Facial Rhytides with Long-pulsed Er:YAG Laser(CO3)

Facial rhytides are a common problem that often presents for treatment. Laser facial skin resurfacing has become a method of treatment for photoaging and pigmentary conditions. Although excellent results can be obtained by high-energy, pulsed carbon dioxide(CO2) laser, significantly morbidity exists due to the considerable thermal damage to the skin. Long-pulsed Er:YAG laser (CO3 laser, Cynosure) combines the performance of a CO2 system with the safety and convenience of an Er:YAG. Yet the CO3 laser is more than the combination of two complementary resurfacing lasers. It brings thermal management to skin resurfacing. The CO3 effect is due to a wide range of pulse durations, up to 20 times longer than those delivered by conventional Er:YAG lasers. With the CO3 laser, the user chooses the correct depth of thermal effect for maximum safety and efficacy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of the CO3 laser in the treatment of facial wrinkles. Forty-three patients, aged between 35 and 70 years, with facial wrinkles, were evaluated. Wrinkle improvement was evaluated by the patient's satisfaction, clinical improvement, and photographic analysis before and after the resurfacing procedure. The long-pulsed Er: YAG laser for facial wrinkles is a safe and effective mode for laser skin resurfacing.