Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 11, 2025
Author Spotlight: Advancing Facial Rejuvenation Therapy with Post-Laser Salicylic Acid Application
Published on: September 27, 2024
Pilot Study: Single-depth Superficial Ultrasound with Subdermal Injections of Diluted Calcium Hydroxylapatite for
Sylvia Ramirez1, Gunther Scherz1, Rémi Leprince2
1From Cutis Medical Laser Clinics, Singapore.
Background:
The lower face can be challenging to treat. We assessed the effectiveness of combining single-depth superficial microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V, Ultherapy; Merz North America, Inc. Raleigh, N.C.) and subdermal injections of diluted calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA, Radiesse; Merz North America, Inc. Raleigh, N.C.) in a single session for improving skin quality in the lower face.
Methods:
This study enrolled women with moderate-to-severe fine lines and skin unevenness on the lower face who desired nonsurgical intervention. Single-depth MFU-V treatment (10 MHz/1.5 mm) was followed by subdermal injections of diluted (1:1) CaHA. Subjects were followed up for 24 weeks posttreatment. Objective skin quality assessments (Rv: wrinkle depth; R3z: skin unevenness) were performed using LifeViz Micro (QuantifiCare, Sophia Antipolis, France). Subjective assessments included the modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale visual analog scale, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale, and global satisfaction scale.
Results:
Twelve subjects completed the study. The mean Rv value, mean R3z value, and mean modified Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Scale visual analog scale score improved significantly from baseline to week 24 (mean differences: -0.0321 mm, -0.0684 mm, -1.1667; all P < 0.001). All subjects were rated by the investigators as having demonstrated improvement in their overall aesthetic appearance as early as week 4. All subjects were "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with their treatment from week 12 onwards. No unexpected adverse events were reported.
Conclusions:
Combination treatment with single-depth superficial MFU-V and diluted CaHA in a single session significantly improved lower facial skin quality, as assessed by both objective and subjective outcome measures.
