Abstract:
Background : Non-ablative radiofrequency devices have been proved to be able to stimulate collagen synthesis and improve wrinkles. But they are not as effective as ablative lasers due to the lack of epidermal change. A novel fractional bipolar radiofrequency device can cause both minimal epidermal change and stimulation of collagen synthesis. It would be an effective treatment for facial wrinkles with minimal injury and less pigmentation in dark-skinned persons. Objectives : To evaluate the long-term effectiveness and side effects of the fractional bipolar radiofrequency device in the treatment of facial wrinkles in Asians skin (Fitzpatrick skin type III-V). Materials and Methods : Twenty-eight patients with facial wrinkles were enrolled. Each patient was randomized to receive treatment on a half of the face, while the other half was served as a control. Treatments were performed every 4 weeks for 3 consecutive sessions. Clinical improvements were assessed at baseline, then at 2, 3, 5 and 8 months from the beginning of the study. Our primary outcome was the objective measurement of wrinkles by Visioscan. Skin elasticity was measured by DermaLab. Three blinded dermatologists evaluated photographs of the patients by using grading scale. Patients satisfaction score and adverse effects were also recorded. Result : Wrinkles on the treated side evaluated by Visioscan significantly decreased when compared with the control group in every follow up visits (p value < 0.01 all). Skin tightening measured by DermaLab and the results from the physicians global assessment of wrinkles and tightness showed no statistically significant differences from the control group. More than 85% of the patients assessed significant improvements of wrinkles and tightness in every visit (p value = 0.000). More than 80% of the patients satisfied with the treatment. Mean durations of erythema and edema of the treated areas were less than 2 days. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurred in only one patient . Conclusion: A fractional bipolar radiofrequency device may reduce fine facial wrinkles in Asians at 6 months after completed 3 treatments. The statistically significant improvements could be detected by Visioscan but not by clinical evaluation. Skin tightening showed no significant differences from the control group. However, more than 80% of the patients satisfied with the treatment. The most common adverse effect was transient redness in the treated areas, followed by pain during treatment. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was not seen in the majority of the patients