Radiofrequency: Review of literature

Abstract

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) devices have widespread use in skin rejuvenation. Although they are used noninvasively, recently minimally invasive RF devices are being added to the inventory to increase their efficiency. Because RF devices do not operate on a light basis, their effects are independent of skin color and type. Therefore, they have a broader spectrum of patients compared to other noninvasive and minimally invasive devices. Skin rejuvenation with RF devices will continue to be important for plastic surgeons to pursue the nonsurgical operations. With RF application, heat is generated at different levels and different degrees under the skin. Methods: Shrinkage and denaturation of the collagen with temperature increase the likelihood of desired rejuvenation effects. The degree of temperature increase in RF applications depends on the frequency of the devices, the power of the devices used, and the characteristics of the headers. Today, different types of RF devices are offered by manufacturers. Heating with an RF device in a therapeutic dose of the skin is possible if appropriate frequency and adequate power are provided. When the therapeutic temperature is close to the complication limit, the user needs to know the device well, be aware of the skin structure at the application site and skin thickness, as well as can adjust the application doses well to get better therapeutic results. Conclusion: The wide variety of RF devices has led to the development of different application methods for users. In this article, RF devices, mechanisms of action, methods of use, clinical practice techniques, and results are reviewed. Even though the results are good, RF applications are not an alternative to a surgery.