Efficacy and Safety of Monopolar Radiofrequency for Treatment of Lower Facial Laxity in Asians

INTRODUCTION: Monopolar radiofrequency (MRF) is a valuable modality for tightening and contouring mild-to-moderate facial skin laxity. Few studies have evaluated new-generation MRF devices for lower facial laxity in Asians. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of MRF for treating lower facial laxity in Asians. METHODS: This prospective cohort study enrolled 30 volunteers with Fitzpatrick Skin Types III–V and mild-to-moderate skin laxity. Subjects received a single MRF treatment. Self-assessments and adverse events were recorded. Two blinded dermatologists graded improvements (6-point scale) after treatment and 1, 3, and 6 months later. RESULTS: All subjects completed the study. Treatment energy levels ranged from 2 to 4. The average number of shots was 412 ± 49, delivered in 3–4 passes with 15–30% overlap. All patients reported improvement in lower facial laxity immediately after treatment. Most patients had mild-to-moderate improvement over the 6-month follow-up. Continuous improvement was observed at the 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-ups (P < 0.01). Significant improvement was seen at the 6-month follow-up compared with the 1-month follow-up (P < 0.01). Subjects tolerated the procedure well: the average pain score was 3.13 out of 10, and no serious adverse events were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The new-generation MRF device we tested was effective and safe for mild-to-moderate lower facial laxity in Asian skin. The latest MRF technology offers improved safety to prevent complications. Appropriate patient selection, setting, and protocols are mandatory to achieve optimal clinical outcomes. THE TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: TCTR20210326002.