Combination non-invasive radiofrequency and electrical muscle stimulation: A synergistic combination for body contouring.

INTRODUCTION:Patients desiring noninvasive body contouring increasing require a more comprehensive approach to soft tissue laxity, muscle, and adipose hypertrophy. Previous devices have typically focused on only adipose reduction, without impact on muscle or skin laxity. This study describes the first use of noninvasive bipolar radiofrequency in combination with electromagnetic muscle stimulation. METHODS:This study was an IRB-approved study conducted at four sites (TN, TX, PA, NC). In all, 38 patients completed the three-treatment regimen of combined non-invasive bipolar RF and EMS. Efficacy of the Transform (InMode, Lake Forest, CA) treatment was assessed by numerous outcomes including sequential caliper measurements, circumference measurements, comfort during treatment, subject satisfaction, ultrasound measurements, blinded pictures evaluation, and histology. RESULTS:The combination of non-invasive bipolar RF with EMS was found to be safe and efficacious. The three-treatment regimen was statistically efficacious as it related to (1) subject satisfaction, (2) 1 mm ultrasound, (3) 2 mm ultrasound, (4) average of 1 and 2 mm ultrasound, (5) caliper 1 measurements, (6) caliper 2 measurements, (7) average of caliper 1 and 2 measurements, (8) subject comfort, (9) widest circumference measure, (10) 2-inches above circumference measure, (11) 2-inches below circumference measure, (12) average circumference measure, and finally, (13) blinded evaluator photograph agreement. CONCLUSION:The combination of noninvasive bipolar radiofrequency and electrical muscle stimulation is a safe and effective method for treatment of skin laxity, adipose hypertrophy, and muscle.