Abdominal and Gluteal Contouring

Chapter 3

Abstract

stroma occurs.

helium plasma

1. Introduction

47

Contouring

Diane Irvine Duncan

Helium Plasma-Driven

Radiofrequency in Body

Consumer demand for a minimally invasive alternative to dermolipectomybased excisional procedures has been driven by interest in risk reduction, reduced scarring in the treatment region, and significant lessening of recovery time. While minimally invasive liposuction is a common approach, limitations can include residual skin laxity and irregular skin contour. The current literature suggests that radio frequency energy is superior in achieving non-excisional soft tissue and skin shrinkage without surgical skin resection. Monopolar and bipolar radiofrequencybased devices have been available for 10 years. Recently, a plasma-driven radiofrequency device, Renuvion, was introduced and FDA cleared for soft tissue coagulation. The device uses a pressurized helium tank to drive radiofrequency energy into a hollow cannula. As measured skin temperature rarely exceeds 38°C, the safety profile of the device is optimized. The use of helium-driven plasma energy is a new and promising resource for achieving non-excisional soft tissue and skin tightening. Because the device rapidly heats subcutaneous collagen, strong immediate contraction is generated within fractions of a second. This treatment is followed by very visible improvement at the 24 hour post-op mark. Results can continue to improve over a year, as infiltration of new collagen within the adipose

Keywords: skin tightening, radiofrequency, impedance based, minimally invasive,

For decades, the ability to reshape the human body was limited to

dermolipectomy-based excisional procedures with long scars. Consumer demand for a minimally invasive alternative has been driven by interest in risk reduction, reduced scarring in the treatment region, and significant lessening of recovery time so that patients can return to work or regular activity within a short time span. Liposuction appeared to be the golden solution for many. While this minimally invasive procedure is a common approach, limitations can include residual skin laxity, an irregular skin contour, and little improvement in regions that were pendulous prior to the procedure. Subcutaneous tone is generally not improved with traditional suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL). Goals other than fat reduction include significant skin and soft tissue contraction in a smooth and even manner. While
