Minimally Invasive Radiofrequency

Abstract

Minimally invasive radiofrequency is most commonly applied in a fractional manner (fractional radiofrequency, or FRF). The approach relies on introduction of a set of fine needle electrodes into the skin, which are then activated to deliver energy. Its role is similar to that of fractional lasers, namely to induce neocollagenesis by thermal effects within the dermis. The fractional thermal injury of deep dermal collagen induces a vigorous wound healing process with dermal remodeling and the generation of new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. The major benefit of minimally invasive FRF is that, depending on the needle configuration and insulation, energy can be deposited directly within the dermis with no thermal effects to the epidermis. Side effects are minimal and typically include transient erythema lasting approximately 2 days. It is a viable nonsurgical therapeutic option for the improvement of numerous cosmetic indications including skin rejuvenation, facial skin laxity, rhytides, acne scars, large pores, and photoaged skin. © 2015 S. Karger AG, BaselLaser light and radiofrequency (RF) energy sources have succeeded in effectively treating the typical signs of skin aging. Nonsurgical devices have become very popular in the treatment of rhytides and skin laxity as patients prefer to achieve aesthetic improvement of these cosmetic indications with minimal side effects and downtime.A novel 'minimally invasive RF' approach employing a bipolar microneedle electrode system was recently introduced and its thermal effects on human skin in vivo were characterized in some studies.To improve the efficacy and predictability of nonsurgical treatments, a minimally invasive bipolar RF system was developed with real-time tissue temperature feedback that delivers fractional RF (FRF) thermal pulses to the reticular dermis. This system safely creates thermal injury zones in a fractional manner within the reticular dermis without damage to the dermal-epidermal junction, epidermis or subcutaneous tissue.

Internal and External Radiofrequency Assisted Lipo-Coagulation (RFAL) in the Control of Soft Tissue Contraction during Liposuction: Part 1 “Inside Out” Thermal Tissue Tightening

“…The Sandwich thermal contraction of the "INSIDE-OUT" RFAL BodyTite, FaceTite and AccuTite FSN adipose contraction handpieces, combined with the "OUTSIDE-IN" adipo-dermal contraction of the Morpheus affords the BodyTite physician unprecedented control of the ENTIRE SOFT TISSUE ENVELOP and is the reason why clinicians can achieve the kind of "scar less" skin tightening results that are best in class and without compare, as they optimize the outcomes for all those FACE AND BODY GAP patients, who need control of the adipose FSA (30-40% contraction) subdermal space and transdermal remodeling (20-30%) and contraction, for a potential overall 60% Total Tissue Thermal contraction during enhanced liposuction [7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14].…”

“…During the nonsurgical face and neck lift, the Morpheus can be applied to the neck, face, upper and lower lids and brow, as well as lax body areas, to achieve a state-of-the-art, industry-leading nonsurgical facelift and skin contraction. At my clinic, SpaMedica, the Morpheus has replaced other, formally new and innovative technologies such as the 5-year-old Profound and 8-year-old Ulthera and other external radiofrequency devices, all of which offer a good non-surgical lift, Morpheus provides a GREAT improvement [2][3][4][5][6][7][8].…”

“…The RF micro needlers, as I call them offer extreme safety, but negligible thermal coagulation and contraction. They require multiple treatments [6][7][8], to deliver minimal tissue remodeling, but are quite safe and inexpensive (Micropens often deliver as much).…”