The Efficacy of Radiofrequency in Facial Rejuvenation

Abstract

AbstractBackground: The process of skin aging may be classified into intrinsic and extrinsic aging or photoaging. The first is a natural and gradual process. The second is triggered by environmental factors such as excess sun exposure. There are many therapeutic modalities that can improve skin aging. These modalities may be divided into topical agents and procedural agents. Radiofrequency (RF) is one of good pro-cedural modalities to improve skin aging.Aim of Study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency in facial rejuvenation.Settings and Design: Prospective study.Patients and Methods: This study included ten patients presented with facial wrinkles. All patients received four RF sessions with three to four weeks interval and followed-up after three month after end of treatment. Patients were assessed by digital photographing and skin biopsies before and after treatment.Results: Radiofrequency showed favorable results with 40-50% improvement. There was a significant difference in degree of improvement according to doctors' opinion ad patients' satisfaction after than before treatment.Conclusion: RF is a safe, acceptable, effective and non-invasive tool for skin rejuvenation that produces favorable results. RF could act as an alternative but not equivalent to other invasive modalities. These results were confirmed by immunohistochemical expression of Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 (MMP1).