A study of combined microfocused ultrasound and hyaluronic acid dermal filler in the treatment of enlarged facial pores in Asians

Abstract

Background: Enlarged facial pores are a common cosmetic complaint in practice.Microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) and low-degree crosslinked hyaluronic acid filler (L-HA) injection has recently become a popular procedure for skin rejuvenation. The effectiveness of the combined MFU-V and L-HA injection in the treatment of enlarged pores has not been evaluated. Objectives:To compare the efficacy of MFU-V monotherapy (single technique) and MFU-V combined with L-HA injection (combined technique) for the treatment of enlarged facial pores in Asians. Methods:We conducted a randomized, single-blinded, split-face study on participants with enlarged facial pores. Each side of the face was randomly assigned to treatment with one session of single technique or combined technique. Pore volume was objectively measured by an Antera 3D ® system. Subjective assessment was evaluated by one-blinded physician using a pore grading score (0-4). Patients rated the improvement in terms of satisfaction using the visual analog scale (VAS, 0-10).Results: Forty-six participants completed the study. The mean pore volume of both sides declined with statistical significance at every visit compared to baseline, with the lowest mean at 4 months post-treatment. The combined technique showed a lower mean pore volume than single technique throughout the follow-ups. Physician's subjective evaluation showed no statistically significant difference between the two techniques. The patient satisfaction score showed a similar trend to the mean pore volume, with a statistically significant difference at 4 and 6 months post-treatment.Conclusions: Both techniques are effectively minimize enlarged facial pores. The combined technique resulted in more patient satisfaction.

“The efficacy and adverse effects of treatment options for facial pores: A review article”

“…Moreover, patients' satisfaction four and 6 months after the treatment was significantly higher in the combined method compared to using ultrasound alone. However, there was no statistically significant difference between the two protocols 23 …”

“…25 Trials also showed that ultrasound devices affect deep tissues and could induce collagen synthesis and elastogenesis, reducing the size of skin pores. 3,23 Besides, some previously published review articles theorized that using hair removal lasers in individuals with thick hairs, which works through destroying hair follicles, could decrease pores' area. 3,8 Acetylcholine signaling displays a key role in sebaceous glands and upregulates lipid production.…”

Microbotox injection versus its topical application following microneedling in the treatment of wide facial pores: A split face comparative study

“…Due to great psychological impact, people have been trying to find treatment for this problem. Many treatment options are available including isotretinoin, chemical peeling, and laser therapy 2 …”

Treatment Protocol on Using Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization for Skin Quality Improvement: The Korean Experience

“…1,2 One of the leading causes of enlarged pores is facial skin laxity. 3 Available treatments for enlarged pores include oral antiandrogens, topical creams, lasers, radiofrequency, ultrasound devices, etc. 4 Depending on the causative factors, a single or combined treatment approach may be necessary to address the concern.…”

“…7 In addition, it is useful for improving several aspects of skin quality, including facial pores, skin laxity, skin evenness, etc., but there is limited literature on these applications. 2,3,8,9 Thus, we present our proposed MFU-V treatment protocol for achieving a harmonious outcome for attractive skin, along with practical strategies for its application, illustrated in patients presenting with enlarged pores as their major concern.…”