Efficacy and safety of a novel monopolar radiofrequency device with a continuous water-cooling system in patients with age-related facial volume loss.

Background: Esthetic radiofrequency (RF) technology has much attracted public attention with the increasing demand for skin rejuvenation. A continuous water cooling-based monopolar RF (MRF) device was designed for the first time to protect the epidermis and maximize clinical outcomes.

Objective: Assess the efficacy and safety of the proposed MRF device in patients with mild-to-moderate sunken cheeks and jawline laxity.

Methods: Twenty-one patients underwent a single session of MRF treatment. Quantitative analysis was performed using a 3D imaging technique. Postprocedural clinical improvements were assessed with the Merz Scale. Regarding safety, adverse events (AEs), thermal sensation (TS) and pain intensity were explored. Patient satisfaction was surveyed with the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ).

Results: The follow-up investigation demonstrated that facial volume increased across the cheek and jawline, with lifting effects throughout the treatment area. The Merz Scale assessment revealed that sunken cheeks, sagging jawlines and wrinkles were markedly improved. In addition, there were transient AEs, mild TS and moderate pain. In SAQ, 81% patients were satisfied with the procedure.

Conclusions: This study provided quantitative evidence for postprocedural volumetric increases along with enhanced lifting effects, strongly implying that the proposed MRF device can be an attractive option for improving facial skin volume loss and laxity.