An Anatomical Approach to Radiofrequency-Assisted Facial Rejuvenation: Beyond the Treatment Gap

Abstract Background Radiofrequency-assisted (RF) facial rejuvenation has become a safe and reliable option for “treatment gap” patients, including (1) patients whose skin laxity is not severe enough to warrant a facelift, yet not mild enough to reliably treat with noninvasive procedures; (2) patients who have already undergone a face or neck lift and have recurrent laxity; and (3) patients who would benefit from a traditional face or neck lift but want to avoid surgery and are willing to accept a more modest improvement without extensive surgical scar burden and recovery. Objectives In this study we aimed to educate the reader about providing bipolar RF to various anatomic regions of the face. Methods A retrospective review of cases was conducted to assess the safety of zone-specific RF-assisted facial rejuvenation in S.A.'s practice. Results RF-microneedling with Morpheus8 was performed on 364 foreheads, 364 periorbita, 353 perioral areas, and 233 jawlines. RF-bipolar with AccuTite was performed on 43 nasolabial folds. There were no cases of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, scarring, or prolonged erythema. Conclusions The result of patients treated with the combination of bipolar radiofrequency and fractional bipolar radiofrequency microneedling has expanded RF-assisted facial rejuvenation in our practice. We report on an anatomical approach to RF-assisted facial rejuvenation, as well as expanding indications beyond treatment gap patients. Level of Evidence: 4 (Therapeutic)