High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound: A Satisfactory Noninvasive Procedure for Neck Rejuvenation

Abstract

Background: High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an advanced technology that has been developed in response to the growing demand for noninvasive face rejuvenation.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the rejuvenation effects, patient satisfaction, and safety of HIFU treatment of the neck in a European population.

Methods: This was a prospective study of 20 patients. The patients were treated with HIFU, and the outcomes were investigated. The modified FACE-Objective Assessment Scale, developed by our team, and the subjective Investigator Global Improvement Assessment Scale (IGIAS; -1 to 3) were used to judge the results of HIFU. Five blinded evaluators scored the procedure outcomes based on photographs taken before and 6 months after the procedure. Side effects were reported and pain was evaluated on a visual analog scale of 0 to 10.

Results: Clinical results, such as better definition of the cervicomental angle, were observed in the treated areas. The pretreatment and posttreatment evaluation scores for double chin and skin laxity were evaluated by 4 of 5 evaluators as significantly improved. The IGIAS score was between 1 and 5 in 2 patients, between 6 and 10 in 7 patients, and between 11 and 15 in 11 patients. No patients had a score between -5 and 0. No major complications were reported. The mean pain scores for the D4, M7, and S7 transducer treatments were 5.6 (range, 4.5-6.7), 4.2 (range, 2.5-5.9), and 2.05 (range, 1.05-3.05), respectively.

Conclusions: HIFU may be considered a satisfactory, simple, reproducible, rapid, and safe procedure for neck rejuvenation.

Level of Evidence: 4.