Proposed global drooping and wrinkles classification and scoring system for aging face with validation and experience on 54 Indian subjects

Monopolar radiofrequency for reposing drooping fat planes and facial rejuvenation: A prospective study on 30 subjects towards true antiaging

BACKGROUND

Monopolar radiofrequency (MRF) for facial rejuvenation works by diffusely heating the dermis and subdermal fibro-septal network. Immediate collagen contraction and long-term neo-collagenesis produce antiaging effects.

AIM

To lift and repose drooping fat planes along their vectors of descent to restore natural, youthful contours using MRF and to objectively measure, quantify, and analyze the antiaging effects of MRF on the backdrop of functional facial anatomy.

METHODS

This was a prospective study on 30 subjects aged 25-65 years who underwent three sessions of MRF (Exilis, BTL Aesthetics) with a modified protocol at weekly intervals. Clinical evaluation at baseline and 4 weeks after the final session was done according to the global drooping and wrinkles classification and scoring system (GDWCSS) and statistically evaluated. Two patients were analyzed with Ultrasound and Vectra-H1 imaging for change in subcutaneous fat depth and volume over different facial areas, respectively.

RESULTS

There was improvement in all parameters (volume alteration and wrinkles) of the GDWCSS, of which improvement in cases that had baseline severe (grade-4) temporal fat loss, malar fat loss, periorbital hollowing, and puffiness was statistically significant. The results of imaging supported the clinical findings.

CONCLUSION

Monopolar radiofrequency targets facial collagen as deep as the facial fat, thereby achieving "reversal" of the grooves and bulges of aging with volume re-distribution and favorable "remolding" of fat pads. The result is simultaneous skin tightening, lifting and contouring in manner that is natural, regenerative, and corrective. Given its versatility, efficacy, safety, and tolerability, it is emerging as a power-player in the dermatologist's antiaging armamentarium.

Patient Satisfaction with Absorbable Anchoring Facial Threads

This study aimed to evaluate satisfaction in terms of facial appearance, quality of life, and adverse effects in patients undergoing the facial thread lifting procedure using the absorbable facial threads anchored on the superficial and deep temporal fascias. The charts of patients for whom facial anchored thread lifting was performed using absorbable threads between February 2017 and September 2019 were reviewed. Demographic data including age and gender as well as data from the Face-Q scales were collected. Descriptive analysis was made for the adverse effects 1 week after the procedure. The mean value of adverse effects scales was compared 1 and 2 weeks after the procedure and also the mean values of facial appearance and quality-of-life scales were compared at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months after the procedure. All recruited subjects were females with a mean age of 43.42 years. There was a statistically significant decrease in the rate of adverse effects following the procedure between the first and second week. The mean difference in patients' perceived age 6 and 12 months after the procedure was statistically significant when compared with baseline. The psychological distress significantly decreased and the psychological function improved 6 and 12 months after the procedure. The overall satisfaction with facial appearance increased significantly after 6 months with a mean of 20.08. This was maintained at 12 months. The satisfaction in skin appearance, cheeks, nasolabial folds, marionettes, lower face, and jawline appearances improved significantly 6 months after the procedure. This was also maintained at 12 months. Face lifting using the polycaprolactone threads anchored on the temporalis fascia showed a significant improvement in the quality of life and facial appearance. The adverse effects are tolerable starting 2 weeks after the procedure.