Next-Gen Bipolar RF for Skin Tightening and Predictive Results: First Clinical Evaluation of the Quantum probe in Body Contouring.

BACKGROUND: Radiofrequency (RF) devices have gained prominence as a minimally invasive technique to improve skin tightening and aesthetic outcomes following liposculpture. However, existing technologies present limitations in treatment precision and safety. OBJECTIVE: To assess skin retraction outcomes and complication rates following Quantum RF treatment in patients undergoing High-Definition Liposculpture (HDL). METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study in a single plastic surgery center in Bogotá, Colombia, from February to September 2024. Thirty-one consecutive patients undergoing HDL were treated with Quantum RF across one or more body areas. Skin elasticity was objectively measured using a dynamometer on the different body areas pre- and post-procedure. Bivariate subgroup analysis was performed by anatomical region, age group, and Fitzpatrick phototype. RESULTS: A total of 31 consecutive patients were analyzed. Cohort was predominantly female (90.3%) and Hispanic (83.9%), mean age of 39.5 years (SD 8.22). Mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.3 kg/m2 (SD 2.76). Mean percentage improvement in abdominal skin elasticity was 20.1% (SD 5.77%), with treated areas showing significantly greater improvements compared to non-treated contralateral controls (6.8%, p < 0.001). Across anatomical regions, mean skin retraction was 21.5% for the abdomen, 18.7% for arms, 19.3% for back, and 16.9% for thighs. The most pronounced improvement was observed in patients aged 26-30 with phototype IV, reaching up to 40% elasticity gain. The overall complication rate was 13%, with only 6.5% representing minor thermal injuries near access sites. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary findings suggest that the Quantum RF probe is a safe and effective modality for subdermal tissue tightening in HDL, with consistent improvements in skin elasticity across multiple regions and skin phototypes. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings and establish long-term outcomes.