Facial Plast Surg 2016; 32(03): 269-275
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1584129
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Microfocused Ultrasound for Facial Photorejuvenation: A Review

Adam J. Wulkan
1   Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
,
Sabrina G. Fabi
2   Cosmetic Laser Dermatology, Goldman, Butterwick, Fitzpatrick, Groff and Fabi, Dermatology, San Diego, California
3   Department of Dermatology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
,
Jeremy B. Green
1   Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
4   Department of Dermatology, Skin Associates of South Florida, Coral Gables, Florida
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
01 June 2016 (online)

Abstract

Microfocused ultrasound is a unique technology to treat skin laxity of the brow, lower face, and the rhytides of the décolletage. Over the past several years, the efficacy and safety of this device has been well documented and its adoption widespread. By delivering focused acoustic energy, which is converted to heat, this device creates predictable and reproducible microcoagulative zones that initiate a concentrated inflammatory wound response. By targeting the deep reticular dermis and superficial muscle and fascial planes, such as the superficial musculoaponeurotic system, platysma, and pectoralis muscle fascia, this nonablative technology increases neocollagenesis and neoelastogenesis in a novel fashion, while avoiding many of the complications related to epidermal heating observed in several other nonablative devices. Although the results are not equivalent to those of a rhytidectomy, microfocused ultrasound provides an excellent noninvasive means to achieve a regenerative effect on the face, neck, and décolletage when performed in the appropriate patient population.

 
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