Remodeling of facial soft tissue induced by simultaneous application of HIFES and synchronized radiofrequency provides nonsurgical lift of facial soft tissues

• Published in: Journal of cosmetic dermatology 2024-03, Vol.23 (3), p.824-829
• Main Authors: Kinney, Brian M., Boyd, Charles M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aging; Connective tissue; facelift; facial muscles; HIFES; Likert scale; noninvasive; Questionnaires; Skin
• ISSN: 1473-2130; 1473-2165
• DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16165

Background The application of radiofrequency (RF) and HIFES on the body provides improvement in skeletal muscle tissue, reduction in fatty tissue, reorganization of connective tissue, and skin texture improvement. However, overall facial appearance relies on both skin and underlying structures, specifically muscles and connective tissue which have to be treated as one unit to achieve proper care while preserving fatty layers that define youth facial appearance. Aims The aim of this study is to find whether the effect of novel RF + HIFES is safe and can induce the lifting of soft tissue and overall improvement in facial appearance. Methods In this study, 21 subjects were enrolled. The therapy was administered in four 20‐min treatments on the forehead and cheeks. Photographs were evaluated by a Global Aesthetic Improvement Score (GAIS) and linear measurements of facial tissue lifting at 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐ups. Volumetric changes in the cheek area were investigated as well. The patients' satisfaction, safety, and comfort were documented throughout the study. Results The data indicated improvement in overall facial appearance, and 23% of average lifting was found in brows (p = 3.14 × 10−12) and cheeks (p = 6.00 × 10−15). The assessment of digital photographs showed an improvement in 100% of patients at 3‐month follow‐up. The treatments were safe, accompanied by high therapy comfort and subject satisfaction of 98%. Conclusions The treatment by simultaneous RF and HIFES technology produces significant changes to the overall facial appearance, characterized by the lifting of facial tissues.