Austin GK, Struble SL, Quatela VC. Evaluating the effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency for face and neck rejuvenation: A systematic review.
Lasers Surg Med 2021;
54:27-45. [PMID:
34923652 DOI:
10.1002/lsm.23506]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Radiofrequency technology has emerged as a treatment for aesthetic rejuvenation.
OBJECTIVE
To examine radiofrequency for facial and neck rejuvenation, clinical studies were assessed on effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency for acne, acne scars, and facial aging by subjective and objective measures.
METHODS
A systematic literature review was performed. Eligibility criteria included articles in English, primary literature, clinical or ex vivo studies, use of radiofrequency, and face or neck treatment. Ablative techniques, home-use devices, combined modalities, and studies unrelated to rejuvenation were excluded. All studies were appraised for quality and biases.
RESULTS
We identified 121 articles. Radiofrequency effectively treated acne by reducing sebum levels and lesion count and improving acne scars. Radiofrequency demonstrated a volumetric reduction in facial fat, and improved skin laxity, elasticity, and global skin aesthetic. Patient satisfaction was higher for those desiring modest rejuvenation. There were histological changes consistent with repair response, neocollagenesis, and neoelastinogenesis. Radiofrequency was safe apart from one patient who developed a neck fistula.
CONCLUSION
Most studies demonstrated radiofrequency treatment of acne, scars, or facial rhytids had positive subjective improvement ratings. Objective studies demonstrated reduction of acne, decreased scarring, lifting effect, improvement in elasticity and collagen, volumetric fat changes, and wrinkle reduction.
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