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An expert panel of physicians have concluded that microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) is a key foundation for aesthetic treatment and the gold standard for nonsurgical lifting and skin tightening. These conclusions were presented as consensus guidelines in Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.
A panel of 5 expert aesthetic physicians discussed recommendations on the use of MFU-V at the 2018 American Academy of Dermatology’s Annual Meeting in San Diego, California. The physicians discussed patient factors that contribute to favorable or poor outcomes, customization of the treatment, distinguishing approaches for restorative vs preventative vs maintenance treatments, and important safety considerations.
The panel reached a consensus that MFU-V is currently the gold standard treatment for nonsurgical lifting, based on the largest body of scientific and clinical data available for the current noninvasive skin-lifting technologies. MFU-V is used in only 5% to 10% of patients as a monotherapy, and that proportion is declining as most patients are receiving MFU-V as an adjunct to fillers or laser treatments. This treatment is effective for lifting tissue, treating skin laxity, and promoting collagen production for skin rejuvenation. It was agreed that MFU-V energy setting should be set at the highest tolerable level. Delivery of MFU-V to targeted areas results in immediate contraction of denatured collagen for collagen remodeling. MFU-V is contraindicated for patients with open wounds and lesions, severe or cystic acne, active implants, or metallic implants in the treatment area.
Numerous clinical trials have confirmed the safety and efficacy of MFU-V. It is currently approved for lifting and tightening the skin of the brow, lower face, and submentum. It has also been demonstrated to have beneficial effects when used in tandem with other aesthetic treatments when improving the appearance of atrophic acne scars, stretch marks, and cellulite. The investigators suggested that providers should educate their patients to the best of their ability and should provide other options in patients seeking something dramatic.
Disclosure
All investigators are consultants for Merz North America.
Reference
Fabi SG, Joseph J, Sevi J, Green JB, Deaver Peterson J. Optimizing patient outcomes by customizing treatment with microfocused ultrasound with visualization: gold standard consensus guidelines from an expert panel. J Drugs Dermatol. 2019;18(5):426-432.
