Unipolar radiofrequency device safe, effective for face tightening

(HealthDay)—For subjects with facial laxity, a novel fractional unipolar radiofrequency (RF) device is safe and efficacious for facial tightening, according to a study published online Feb. 13 in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.

Dong Hye Suh, M.D., from Arumdaun Nara Dermatologic Clinic in Seoul, South Korea, and colleagues examined the safety and efficacy of a novel fractional unipolar RF device on facial tightening in a retrospective study involving 14 individuals with age-related facial laxity (mean age, 49.7 years). Participants underwent five sessions of fractional unipolar RF at an interval of two weeks and were followed for three months. Two independent dermatologists assessed standardized photographs taken at baseline and at three-month follow-up.

The researchers found that in follow-up photographs, 35.7, 50, and 14.3 percent of subjects had significant, moderate, and slight improvement of facial laxity. At three-month follow-up, about 85.7 percent of the subjects reported being greatly satisfied or satisfied with the results. An increase in collagen in the dermis was seen in punch skin biopsies. There were no serious adverse events during or after the procedure.

"Our findings suggest that fractional unipolar RF can be safely performed on the face and is effective in skin tightening," the authors write. "It has a great advantage over other forms of RF by being entirely painless."