Novel Technology for Facial Muscle Stimulation Combined With Synchronized Radiofrequency Induces Structural Changes in Muscle Tissue: Porcine Histology Study

Abstract

Background With age, facial muscles lose the ability to complete contractions properly resulting in limitation of facial expressions, fat shifting, and leading to skin creases and wrinkling. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the effects of the novel high intensity facial electromagnetic stimulation (HIFES) technology combined with synchronized radiofrequency on delicate facial muscles, using an animal porcine model. Methods Eight (n = 8, 60-80 kg) sows were divided into the active group (n = 6) and the control group (n = 2). The active group underwent four 20-minute treatments with radiofrequency (RF) and HIFES energies. The control group was not treated. Histology samples of muscle tissue were collected by a punch biopsy (6 mm in diameter) from the treatment area of each animal at baseline, 1-month, and 2-month follow-up. The evaluation included staining of the obtained tissue slices with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson’s Trichrome to determine the changes in muscle mass density, number of myonuclei, and muscle fibers. Results The active group showed muscle mass density increase (by 19.2%, p < 0.001), together with elevated numbers of myonuclei (by 21.2%, p < 0.05) and individual muscle fibers, which increased from 56.8 ± 7.1 to 68.0 ± 8.6 (p < 0.001). In the control group, no significant changes were seen in any of the studied parameters throughout the study (p > 0.05). Finally, no adverse events or side effects were observed in the treated animals. Conclusions The results document favorable changes after the HIFES + RF procedure at the level of the muscle tissue, which may be of great importance in terms of maintenance of facial appearance in human subjects.

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

“…10 The latest advancement in noninvasive facial aesthetic treatments is HIFES technology which can target the delicate muscle tissue and connective tissue framework of the tissues of facial expression (SMAS and perhaps to some extent the muscles of mastication and their fascia). 11,12 The HIFES technology generates strong electrical fields, that affect the underlying neuronal and muscle tissue. These electrical fields depolarize the membrane of the motor neurons that innervate the muscle.…”

Treatment with synchronized radiofrequency and facial muscle stimulation: Histologic analysis of human skin for changes in collagen and elastin fibers

“…This study includes histological examination of facial skin tissue collected from the foreheads and cheeks of patients who underwent treatment using the non‐invasive HIFES and RF applicator. The study objective was to assess changes related to the connective tissue structural proteins—collagen and elastin—and to evaluate the effectiveness of this combined treatment modality in enhancing the structural integrity of the skin (as shown in previous animal model studies) 12,13 and aesthetic facial appearance.…”

“…The study objective was to assess changes related to the connective tissue structural proteins-collagen and elastin-and to evaluate the effectiveness of this combined treatment modality in enhancing the structural integrity of the skin (as shown in previous animal model studies) 12,13 and aesthetic facial appearance.…”

First Evidence of Cutaneous Remodelling Induced by Synchronized Radiofrequency Aided by High-Intensity Facial Muscle Stimulation: Porcine Animal Model

“…16 This collagen structure disruption results in the stimulation of fibroblasts needed for increased neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis. 17 The HIFES modality aims to remodel and tone delicate facial muscles, counter the sagging appearance of skin, and improve the facial contour with increased volume. 18 To maximize the benefits of facial treatments, a novel device using synchronized RF with HIFES was developed.…”

“… 16 This collagen structure disruption results in the stimulation of fibroblasts needed for increased neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis. 17 …”