Evaluation of safety and efficacy of noninvasive radiofrequency technology for submental rejuvenation

Abstract

Recently, a number of modalities have been used for noninvasive fat reduction. Radiofrequency (RF) technology is a promising tool for noninvasive body and face contouring. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of novel noninvasive RF technology for the reduction of submental fat with 6 months of follow-up. Twenty-one subjects with submental fat accumulation were treated twice at 1-month intervals with monopolar RF, which could also be used to monitor real-time temperature. The submental fat thickness and the circumference were evaluated with ultrasonography and a tape measure, respectively, at baseline followed by 1 and 6 months after the last treatment (0, 2, and 7 months). Pain and adverse effects were documented through a questionnaire. The submental circumference and thickness showed a statistically significant reduction after treatments. There was no subject who was not satisfied with the treatment and a physician's assessment showed that 82.3 and 52.9 % of patients showed above mild improvement at 2 and 7 months. The mean pain score corresponded with discomfort or moderate pain. There were no significant adverse effects such as scars or hyper/hypopigmentation. A novel noninvasive RF technology is shown to be effective and safe for submental fat reduction. The effectiveness of fat reduction was maintained for 6 months after the last treatment.

Keywords: Adipocytes; Chin; Lipectomy; Lipolysis; Noninvasive; Radiofrequency; Subcutaneous fat.