Abstract
Background and Objective
As the demand for nonβinvasive procedures for skin tightening is increasing, combined optical and radiofrequency (RF) devices have recently emerged. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a device that combined broadband infrared (IR) light (700β2000 nm) and bipolar RF (electroβoptical synergy [ELOS]) for nonβablative treatment of facial laxity.
Design/Materials and Methods
Nineteen Chinese volunteers of skin types IIIβV, with facial laxity and periorbital rhytides, received three treatments at 3βweek intervals with combined IR (700β2000 nm, 10 W/cm^2^) and RF energies (70β120 J/cm^3^). Standardized photographs were taken by the Canfield Visia CR system at baseline and serially for 3 months after the last treatment. Two masked assessors evaluated the photographs to assess the improvement in skin laxity. Patient satisfaction scores were also obtained.
Results
At 3 months after the last treatment, 89.5% of the subjects reported moderate to significant subjective improvement in skin laxity of cheek, jowl, periorbital area and upper neck, with a high overall satisfaction rating. Masked observers' assessments were less remarkable. Mild improvement in skin laxity was observed over mid and lower face. There was no serious complication.
Conclusion
The combination of broadband infrared light and bipolar radiofrequency produces mild improvement of facial laxity in Asians with no serious adverse sequelae. A high patients' satisfaction is achieved. However, further studies are necessary to demonstrate the longβterm effects of the procedure and to optimize treatment parameters. Lasers Surg. Med. 39:471β475, 2007. Β© 2007 WileyβLiss, Inc.