A Clinical Early Evaluation of the Combined Use of Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound and Radiofrequency for Female Abdominal Contouring.

BACKGROUND

The growing incidence of adiposity has driven the innovation of potent non-invasive body contouring methodologies. Of these, low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) therapy is recognized for its precision in targeting and destroying stubborn adipose tissue. This study aims to assess the treatment effectiveness and safety of utilizing LIFU in conjunction with radiofrequency for female abdominal contouring.

METHODS

A prospective clinical trial was performed with a cohort of 20 women, aged 28-42 years, who had a body mass index ranging from 20.40 to 26.82 kg/m2 and exhibited abdominal skin laxity. We used LIFU and radiofrequency treatments, administered in six sessions over 6 weeks. Efficacy was assessed by measurements of abdominal circumferences using tape, subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness by ultrasound and computed tomography, dermal thickness using ultrasound, and abdominal appearance by standardized photography. The safety was evaluated using pain intensity assessment, nine hematological markers, and adverse events in abdominal appearance.

RESULTS

The treatment led to statistically significant reductions in supraumbilical, periumbilical, and subumbilical abdominal circumferences by 2.08 ± 3.29 cm (2.51%), 2.30 ± 3.23 cm (2.59%), and 3.03 ± 3.39 cm (3.29%), respectively. Similarly, significant decreases were observed in subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness at these sites by 6.46 ± 6.33 mm (27.37%), 6.03 ± 5.95 mm (23.28%), and 8.54 ± 6.94 mm (35.43%). On the other hand, dermal thickness demonstrated a mild increase of 9.17%, and none of the subjects experienced severe pain during the treatment sessions. Hematologic markers remained stable, and no adverse events were reported throughout the treatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

This investigation established that implementing low-intensity focused ultrasound alongside radiofrequency resulted in a secure and effective approach for abdominal contouring, contributing a novel strategy to medical practice.