Consensus Recommendations for 4th Generation Non-Microneedling Monopolar Radiofrequency for Skin Tightening: A Delphi Consensus Panel

Abstract

IMPORTANCE: The demand for non-invasive methods for facial and body rejuvenation has experienced exponential growth over the last two decades. While multiple treatment systems exist, device specific guidelines to help guide clinicians to achieve the best outcomes are lacking. OBJECTIVE: To develop expert consensus on the use of 4th generation non-microneedling monopolar radiofrequency. Design: In a modified Delphi process, a panel of 8 international experts in aesthetic dermatology participated in 3 rounds of consensus building commencing in April 2019. Initially, 32 consensus statements were developed addressing patient selection, patient outcomes, treatment settings, and practical use of non-microneedling monopolar radiofrequency. By the 3rd round, these had been reduced and refined to a total of 19 statements. The consensus process was completed in June 2019 and the data were analyzed in July 2019. RESULTS: In 3 Delphi rounds, the 8 panelists achieved consensus on 19 recommendations on the use of 4th generation non-microneedling monopolar radiofrequency and developed additional explanatory guidance to support 12 of the consensus statements including those related to patient selection, procedural technique, and anticipated treatment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Although guidelines will never replace individual clinical judgment, as the demand for noninvasive tissue tightening increases, so too does the need for positive, reproducible outcomes. Careful patient selection, pre-treatment counseling, treatment planning, and good technique, are all critical for success. These consensus statements should assist clinicians in each of these areas.