Comparison of effect between high intense focused ultrasound devices for facial tightening: Evaluator-blinded, split-face study

Background: Various high intense focused ultrasound (HIFU) devices have been introduced in recent years for improving skin laxity, with satisfactory results. However, there is no comparative study on the efficacy and safety of available HIFU devices. Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of two HIFU devices for facial skin tightening and subsequently, to validate the quantitative assessment. Methods and materials: We performed a split-face comparative study in 20 Korean patients. Two different HIFU devices were used on each side of the face. Patients received one treatment session on the same number of coagulative zones. Patient assessments were recorded. Three blinded clinicians evaluated paired pretreatment and post-treatment photographs. Quantitative assessment using a fixed point as well as a variable point was additionally performed for objective evaluation. Results: Qualitative assessments of both HIFU devices conducted by both clinicians and patients generally showed mild to moderate improvement, similar to previous studies. The two devices had similar efficacy in blinded clinician and quantitative assessment, although there were some differences in patient satisfaction and degree of pain. There was a correlation between clinician qualitative scores and quantitative values, which suggests successful skin tightening. Conclusion: To the author's knowledge, both HIFU devices tested can be used safely and effectively for facial tightening.