Radiofrequency: Review of literature

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

“…The continued progressive inflammatory wound-healing response establishes a long-term cumulative remodeling, resulting in subsequent lifting and tightening of the treated areas over the next several months. 12,[25][26][27] In the present study, after undergoing three sessions of MRF for the face, most patients showed one or two-grade improvement in drooping and wrinkles of six facial areas (forehead, temporal fat, tear trough, malar fat, nasolabial fold, and jowl). Of these, the improvement in cases that had baseline severe (grade-4) temporal fat loss, malar fat loss, periorbital hollowing, and puffiness achieved statistical significance.…”

“…The general consensus is that patients with tremendous skin redundancy may theoretically benefit by building collagen but the extent of visible contouring is not predictable. 25,29 Though this study included and found improvement in aging parameters that were graded "severe" as well, understanding this trend helps shape realistic patient expectations. It is advised to always use generous amounts of coupling fluid during the procedure as well as rely on the patient's feedback (it should feel hot but easily tolerable) so as to avoid overheating and its consequences.…”

“…This further translates into increased dermal thickness, density, firmness and elasticity, and even epidermal thickness. Other effects like improved microcirculation and the impact on adipose stem cells are being explored 13,24,25 …”

“…It must be communicated that while MRF may improve overall appearance, it typically does not bring the dramatic results of surgery. The general consensus is that patients with tremendous skin redundancy may theoretically benefit by building collagen but the extent of visible contouring is not predictable 25,29 …”

“…19 The current conducts proved microcirculation and the impact on adipose stem cells are being explored. 13,24,25 These changes occur in a three-dimensional, volumetric, and uniform manner throughout the dermis. However, the dermal collagen and collagenous subdermal fibro-septal network forms a continuous conduit for electric current, while adipose is a poor-conductor.…”