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A New Target for Noninvasive Facial Rejuvenation

W. Matthew White, MD; Inder Raj S. Makin, MD, PhD; Peter G. Barthe, PhD; Michael H. Slayton, PhD; Richard E. Gliklich, MD

Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2007;9(1):22-29.

Objectives  To transcutaneously deliver intense ultrasound (IUS) energy to target the facial superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS), to produce discrete thermal injury zones (TIZs) in the SMAS, and to demonstrate the relative sparing of adjacent nontargeted layers superficial and deep to the SMAS layer.

Methods  In 6 unfixed human cadaveric specimens, the SMAS layer was visualized and targeted using the ultrasound imaging component of the IUS device. Using 2 IUS handpieces, 202 exposure lines were delivered bilaterally in multiple facial regions by varying combinations of power and exposure time (0.5-8.0 J). Tissue was then excised and examined grossly and histologically for evidence of thermal injury using nitroblue tetrazolium chloride viability stain.

Results  Reproducible TIZs were produced selectively in the SMAS at depths of up to 7.8 mm, and sparing of surrounding tissue including the epidermis. Higher energy settings and high-density exposure line pattern produced a greater degree of tissue shrinkage.

Conclusions  In human cadaveric facial tissue, IUS can noninvasively target and selectively produce TIZs of reproducible location, size, and geometry in the SMAS layer. The ability to produce focused thermal collagen denaturation in the SMAS to induce shrinkage and tissue tightening has not been previously reported and has significant implications for aesthetic facial rejuvenation.

Author Affiliations: Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, and Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston (Drs White and Gliklich); and Ulthera Inc, Mesa, Ariz (Drs Makin, Barthe, and Slayton).

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