The efficacy and safety of microneedle monopolar radiofrequency for the treatment of periorbital wrinkles.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Treatment of periorbital wrinkles is a challenging task because of its anatomical significance and delicate nature. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a microneedle monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device for treating periorbital wrinkles. METHODS AND MATERIALS This retrospective study involved 21 patients who were treated for periorbital wrinkles using a RF device. The type of microneedle used, clinical photography, VISIA wrinkle score, and adverse events were collected from the medical chart. Two independent dermatologists assessed the photographs. RESULTS: There were 18 female and 3 male patients with a mean age of 50.24 years. The severity of wrinkle was improved according to photographic assessment and VISIA wrinkle score at 6-month post-treatment. When 21 sites treated with a long microneedle (LMN, 1.5 mm) and the other 21 sites treated with a short microneedle (SMN, 0.8 mm) were compared, significant improvement in the VISIA wrinkle score was observed only in those treated with the LMN. No serious adverse events, including scarring and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, occurred. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated the efficacy and safety of the microneedle monopolar RF device in treating periorbital wrinkles. The LMN was superior to the SMN in reducing VISIA wrinkle score.