Facial rejuvenation and skin-tightening using monopolar radiofrequency

Gemma Halliday

The continued growth of non-surgical treatments is leading to the constant advancement of interest in non-invasive treatments (American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018). The concern with jowls, thinning skin and nasolabial folds is no secret and has always been an area of focus for patients seen in clinics across the UK. Laxity, especially in the skin, is one that has a great impact on function and quality of life (Mendonça and Rodrigues, 2011). Minimal downtime and natural results are becoming a top priority for patients, and this is why the use of radiofrequency for non-surgical skin tightening is becoming one of the most highly used techniques (Alster and Lupton, 2007).

The manifestations of ageing occur as a result of gravity impact, muscle action, loss of volume, reduction of superficial and deep fat and loss of skeletal support, which collectively lead to the face sagging, as well as a change in shape and contour. There are two categories of factors affecting skin ageing: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic factors are, unfortunately, out of a person's control and cannot be prevented; these are predominately determined by genetics, such as telomere shortening, mitochondrial damage and hormonal changes (Mahto, 2018). On the other hand, extrinsic factors are usually referred to as photo ageing. These are exacerbated by environmental factors, such as smoking, sleep deprivation, stress, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition and air pollution. Usually, these factors are within a person's control, and causes such as UV exposure (which creates free radicals) can account for up to 80% of visible signs of ageing in the skin, including dry appearance, scalping, wrinkling (Grant, 2008) and elastosis (skin laxity).