Novel Nonablative Radio-frequency Rejuvenation Device Applied to the Neck and Jowls: Clinical Evaluation and 3-dimensional Image Analysis

Objective: To use 3D photography to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a novel radiofrequency delivery device used to improve the appearance of rhytids and laxity of the face and neck.

Study Design: Forty-nine subjects received a total of two radio-frequency treatments to the face and neck one-month apart. The novel radio-frequency delivery device was used to heat the dermis between 41-43°C for five heat cycles. Primary outcome measures were clinical efficacy quantified by the Global Assessment Improvement Scale (GAIS) and a patient survey that assessed treatment satisfaction.

Results: Assessments of 3D photographs revealed an overall improvement in 74% of study subjects. 85% of patients noted an overall improvement in the appearance of their skin. 81% of patients rated their post-treatment skin laxity as improved, 85% rated their skin smoothness as improved and 62% rated their skin brightness as improved.

Conclusion: Subjects in this study demonstrated an overall improvement in face and neck appearance with regard to skin tightening, wrinkles, and skin texture suggested by overall patient satisfaction (85%) and physician-rated GAIS improvement (74%). This study suggests that radiofrequency applied with a continuous thermal treatment device is a safe and efficacious way to improve the overall appearance of aging facial skin.