Safety and Effectiveness of Synchronized Monopolar Radiofrequency and HIFES in Patients Injected With Botulinum Toxin.

[BACKGROUND] Botulinum toxin (BT) has become one of the most frequently sought aesthetic procedures for wrinkle reduction.

[OBJECTIVE] This study investigated the effectiveness and safety of a novel device using radiofrequency (RF) and high-intensity facial muscle stimulation (HIFES) in patients injected with BT.

[METHODS] Twelve patients were divided into an Active (N=10) and a Control group (N=2), where the Active received four treatments and the Control none. The facial expressions documented by digital photographs (neutral) and videos (frown, smile, surprise expressions) were taken at all visits (baseline, after last Tx, 1 and 3-month follow-ups) and were evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) and 3D automated analysis. The subject's therapy comfort and satisfaction were assessed.

[RESULTS] The Active group reported high satisfaction with treatment comfort (6.3±0.2 points on the 7-point Likert scale). 3D analysis showed reduced wrinkle severity (37.4%) and volume increase (+1.5 mL) on the cheeks at 3 months. GAIS evaluation demonstrated the most prominent improvement in smiling facial expression by 2.2±0.1 points. No adverse events were observed.

[CONCLUSION] The study results suggest that the combination of HIFES and synchronized RF is a safe and effective treatment for improving facial appearance and muscle tone in patients injected with BT. J Drugs Dermatol. 2024;23(11):937-942.  doi:10.36849/JDD.7938.