Intense focused ultrasound for neck and lower face skin tightening a prospective study.

Abstract

Intense focused ultrasound (IFUS) is a Nonablative skin tightening technology with good safety profile, but limited efficacy. Most clinical studies have been performed to evaluate the efficacy of the Ulthera IFUS (Ulthera, Mesa, AZ) in treating redundant skin. To report our experience with Doublo IFUS (Doublo™, HIRONIC Co.) for treating neck and lower face laxity. This is a prospective study of 43 patients with neck and lower facial laxity treated using IFUS. Response was assessed by two independent dermatologists and graded on a scale of 0 (exacerbation) to 5 (75%-100% improvement). Patient's level of "sagging" and "volume loss", satisfaction and tolerance were documented. Nine subjects (52.9%) mentioned some improvement. Erythema and edema were acute and transient responses. Ultrasound appears to be a safe modality for facial skin tightening in selected patients with minor skin sagging and no volume discrepancy.