Objectives: This review focuses on rejuvenating facial tissues using synchronized radiofrequency (RF) with electric facial muscle stimulation. The aim is to histologically assess the safety and efficacy via the changes in the porcine model in dermal collagen and elastin content, alongside alterations in muscle mass density, myonuclei count, and individual muscle fibers.
Introduction: The skin is the largest organ in the body and contains connective tissue composed of elastin and collagen, which contribute to and determine the structural and mechanical functions of the skin, including elasticity. Over time, skin quality deteriorates due to aging and exposure to environmental elements, with noticeable changes to organization and levels of connective tissue structural proteins. The quality of one’s facial appearance diminishes, and skin and underlying soft tissues deteriorate, leading to wrinkles, skin laxity, and degeneration of muscular function.
Materials / method: The study was conducted on 8 large female white pigs weighing 60 and 80 kg. Sows were divided into Active (N=6) and Control (N=2) groups when the Active group received four 20-minute treatments once a week, and the Control group remained untreated. Skin biopsy samples were collected via punch biopsy and histologically analyzed for connective and muscle tissue changes pre-and post-treatment. The histological evaluation included staining with H&E, Masson's trichrome, and Orcein to determine collagen and elastin content changes, muscle mass density, myonuclei count, and muscle fibers.
Results: The Active group exhibited a significant increase in collagen-occupied area (+19.6% at 1-month, +26.3% at 2-month) and elastin-occupied area (+75.9% at 1-month, +110.8% at 2-month) compared to baseline. Further, increased muscle mass density (+19.2%), elevated myonuclei count (+21.2%), and augmentation of individual muscle fibers were documented. Reversible, no significant changes were observed in the Control group throughout the study, and in addition, no adverse events or side effects were reported in treated animals in either study.
Conclusion: The utilization of synchronized RF with facial muscle stimulation technology has yielded promising biological responses in counteracting the aging process of facial tissues. A substantial increase in collagen and elastin indicates improved skin resilience and potential influences on cellular turnover and extracellular matrix synthesis. Simultaneously, physiological changes within facial muscles, demonstrated heightened muscle mass density, increased myonuclei count, and augmented individual muscle fibers. These findings suggest adaptations at the cellular and tissue levels.
Disclosures
Did you receive any funding to support your research for this TOPIC?
No
Were you provided with any honoraria, payment or other compensation for your work on this study?
No
Do you have any financial relationship with any entity which may closely compete with the medications, materials or instruments covered by your study?
Yes
Please specify entities (individual, company, society): BTL Industries provided the study device.
Do you own or have you applied for any patents in conjunction with the instruments, medications or materials discussed in your study?
No
This work was not supported by any direct or non direct funding. It is under the author's own responsability
