Face expressive lifting (FEL): an original surgical concept combined with bipolar radiofrequency

BACKGROUND: Aging can lead to changes in facial expressions, transforming the positive youth expression of happiness to negative expressions as sadness, tiredness, and disgust. Local skin distension is another consequence of aging, which can be difficult to treat with rejuvenation procedures. The “face expressive lifting” (FEL) is an original concept in facial rejuvenation surgery. On the one hand, FEL integrates established convergent surgical techniques aiming to correct the age-related negative facial expressions. On the other hand, FEL incorporates novel bipolar RF technology aiming to correct local skin distension. METHODS: One hundred twenty-six patients underwent FEL procedure. Facial expression and local skin distension were assessed with 2 years follow-up. RESULTS: There was a correction of negative facial expression for 96 patients (76 %) and a tightening of local skin distension in 100 % of cases. CONCLUSIONS: FEL is an effective procedure taking into account and able to correct both age-related negative changes in facial expression and local skin distension using radiofrequency. Level of Evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.