Non-invasive neck rejuvenation - a comparative analysis of two technologies

Non-surgical neck rejuvenation methods are less diverse than non-invasive facial rejuvenation methods. However, surgery to tighten the skin of the neck is far from ideal. Among the risks inherent in a surgical neck lift are possible infections, uneven skin contour (in the case of neck liposuction), nerve damage, and even deformity of the earlobe or distortion of the hairline. In some cases, side effects can be eliminated through corrective surgery, but in this case, there is a problem of a longer recovery period and the associated inconvenience. Dr. Dvora Ancona and Valerio Pedrelli present the results of a comparative study of two technologies for neck rejuvenation.

Neck rejuvenation with radiofrequency fractional microneedles

Innovative Hybrid Energy&trade technology was recently introduced; (Surgen HE, Pollogen, Israel), which is based on the use of hybrid energy, i.e. combined radio frequencies and auxiliary electrical power.

Study of ex-vivo skin samples using HE (hybrid energy) technology has demonstrated the ability of this technology to rejuvenate the neck by creating controlled microdamages that stimulate the process of renewal of the epidermis and dermis, as well as an increase in the density of collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans.

Fractional facial rejuvenation technologies have provided ample opportunities for the use of non-invasive anti-age procedures associated with minimal risk, pain and recovery period compared to more aggressive methods.

Fractional rejuvenation technologies deliver energy to specific small areas of tissue. At the same time, the skin located in the gaps between such "islands" remains unaffected. The healing process is initiated by unaffected areas of the skin, which allows for a short recovery period and pain relief, as well as reducing the risk of complications and providing excellent results. Fractional RF technologies are gaining popularity and have already become an accepted method of getting rid of wrinkles, sagging skin, as well as to improve skin texture. Such technologies provide a high security profile and minimal recovery time.

Neck rejuvenation: a comparative study of two technologies

In a comparative study, the authors studied the effect of two technologies:

1. Fractional neck rejuvenation technology using hybrid energy (based on the Surgen™ platform manufactured by Pollogen Ltd.) – using a disposable microneedle tip (gen36) attached to the handpiece. Needle length – 0.5 mm, thickness – 150 µm. Auxiliary electrical energy (apparatus A) is used to enhance the thermal effect.
2. Different machine. The device B also uses disposable tips with adjustable microneedle lengths that range from 0.5 mm to 3.5 mm. Thickness of microneedles – 200 µm. In this study, only 0.5 mm microneedles were used (on both devices).

This comparative study, presented by Dr. Dvora Ancona and Valerio Pedrelli, demonstrated that both RF microneedle devices resulted in increased skin firmness and an overall improvement in the appearance of the neck.

• A retrospective study was also aimed at evaluating the effect of RF fractionated microneedles and hybrid energy for neck rejuvenation, as well as comparing with the effect of other RF technology using thicker, adjustable length microneedles.
• Only healthy patients with normal skin parameters and no dermatological problems or diseases were selected for the study of both technologies. Skin phototypes: I – III. The study was conducted in the winter, as patients were advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun for 6 months after therapy.
• For both devices, the modes of operation have been selected in accordance with the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturers.
• The results were evaluated according to the following criteria:

- assessment of photos (before the first session and 6 months after the last session) taken with the same camera at the same distance from the patient, in the same lighting.

- visual examination (skin elasticity, side effects, wrinkles);

- the level of patient satisfaction.

Figure 1. Case 1: Patient after HE procedure (Group A). (A) before and (B) after 6 months.

Figure 2. Case 2: Patient after HE procedure (Group A). (A) before and (B) after 6 months.

Group A (Hybrid Energy HE technology for neck rejuvenation) did not require local anesthesia. Therefore, the total session time has been reduced. Patients in group B (a different type of radiofrequency microneedles were used for neck rejuvenation) required surface anesthesia, as a result of which the duration of the session increased, but the intensity of pain in this group was still higher.  

Hybrid energy device microneedles (microneedle length – 0.5 mm, thickness – 150 µm) provide painless penetration. The microneedles of apparatus B penetrated the skin by means of mechanical pressure, resulting in bleeding and pain. The thickness of the needle also plays a role in the intensity of pain and the duration of the recovery period.

Patient satisfaction in group A was slightly higher than in group B. This is due to increased soreness and longer recovery time in group B patients, as well as the presence of hematomas, temporary swelling and redness, which disappears after several days.

Figure 3. Case 1: Patient after procedures using Device B (Group B). (A) before and (B) after 6 months.

Figure 4. Case 2: Patient after procedures using Device B (Group B). (A) before and (B) after 6 months.

Output

Based on the results of the study, it can be argued that the thickness of the microneedles plays a role in pain tolerance and the duration of the recovery period in patients. Fractional RF microneedle technology using hybrid energy is an effective method of rejuvenating the neck and face with minimal pain and minimal recovery period.

According to Prime magazine.