A retrospective study on treatment of moderate cervicomental laxity with subdermal monopolar radiofrequency with real-time monitoring

Subdermal monopolar radiofrequency (RF) redefines jawline by delivering controlled thermal energy that induced soft tissue contraction. However, the type of candidates best suited for this treatment has not been determined. A retrospective analysis of the treatment results and satisfaction, at 6 weeks and 3 months, in 15 female patients, aged 34 to 77 years, with mild to moderate skin laxity (Submental Skin Laxity Grading [SMSLG], 1-3) and submental fat (SMF) (Clinician rating-SMF-Rating Scale [CR-SMF-RS], 1-3), and a Subject Self Rating Scale (SSRS) ≤2. They received ThermiRF to either jowl and neck or neck only, in a single clinic, between the period of October 2017 to July 2018. The probe treatment temperature was set and maintained between 52°C to 65°C whereas the epidermal temperature was targeted around 42°C to 43°C. All patients with SMSLG 2 to 3, reported at least 1 grade SMSLG response with a mean change of 1.23 of CR-SMF-RS and mean change of 3.08 of SSRS. None of the patients experienced a burn or erythema following treatment. Transient swelling, nodule and mild numbness following ThermiRF procedure has been reported but all resolved completely with time. All reported GAIS ≥3 and 46.7% reported a Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) score of 5, i.e. optimal results by 3 months. Therefore, according to treatment results those with good to at least moderate skin laxity (SMSLG, 2-3), mild to moderate SMF (CR-SMF, 1-3) and absent of platysmal pathology reported at least a one-grade improvement on SMSLG and CR-SMF-RS within 3 months of ThermiRF treatment. Level of Evidence: IV