Tightening and Reduction of Unwanted Submental Fat Using Triple-Layer High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound: Clinical and 3-Dimensional Imaging Analysis

Abstract

Background: Unwanted submental fat (SMF) is aesthetically unappealing, but methods of reduction are either invasive or lack evidence of their use.

Objective: The authors sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel triple-layer high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) regimen for SMF reduction.

Methods: Forty Korean subjects with moderate/severe SMF were evaluated after receiving a session of triple-layer HIFU treatments (using 3.0-, 4.5-, and 6.0-mm focusing transducers). The objective evaluation based on the 5-point Clinician-Reported Submental Fat Rating Scale (CR-SMFRS) and patients' satisfaction based on the 7-point Subject Self-Rating Scale (SSRS) were determined 8 weeks after treatment. Three-dimensional image analysis was also performed.

Results: At the follow-up visit, the proportion of treatment responders defined as subjects with ≥1-point improvement in CR-SMFRS was 62.5%, and the proportion of patients satisfied with appearance of their face and chin (score ≥4 on the SSRS) was 67.5% of the total patients. The results of 3-dimensional analysis were consistent with clinical observations. Only mild and transient side effects were observed for some patients with no serious adverse effects.

Conclusion: The triple-layer HIFU regimen including the novel 6.0-mm transducer has benefits for tightening and rejuvenation of the area with unwanted SMF, showing reasonable safety profiles.