The Safety and Efficacy of the Mono-Bi CrossLIFT Technique Utilizing Capacitive-Coupled Sequential Monopolar and Bipolar Pulsed Radiofrequency for Simultaneous Facial Skin Tightening and Contouring: A Clinical Case Series.

BACKGROUND: Noninvasive facial rejuvenation techniques that emphasize skin tightening and contouring continue to gain popularity due to their minimally invasive nature and favorable clinical outcomes. Recent technological advancements, such as capacitive-coupled sequential monopolar and bipolar pulsed radiofrequency (SMBPRF), enable simultaneous targeted collagen remodeling within the dermis and contraction of subdermal fibrous tissues. OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of the Mono-Bi CrossLIFT Technique utilizing SMBPRF for simultaneous facial skin tightening and contour improvement. METHODS: Sixteen healthy adults (aged 36-59 years, Fitzpatrick skin types II-IV) with mild to moderate facial skin laxity and sagging were enrolled in this study. Each participant underwent a single treatment session of SMBPRF using the Mono-Bi CrossLIFT Technique. Quantitative assessments, including skin tightening distances (mm) and changes in lower facial tissue thickness (mm), were performed at baseline and 24 weeks post-treatment using high-resolution three-dimensional imaging. Clinical efficacy was evaluated using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) by both an independent dermatologist and the subjects themselves. Pain levels and adverse events were also recorded throughout the study period. RESULTS: All 16 subjects completed the study. Statistically significant improvements in both skin tightening and facial contouring were observed in 15 subjects. The mean skin tightening distance was 0.82 ± 0.36 mm (p = 3.528 × 10-7), and the mean reduction in tissue thickness was 0.89 ± 0.40 mm (p = 6.704 × 10-7). According to the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), 15 subjects were rated as "Improved" or better in both objective and subjective assessments. The mean procedural pain score was 1.4 ± 0.6 on a 5-point scale. No severe adverse events were reported during the treatment or the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Mono-Bi CrossLIFT Technique utilizing SMBPRF demonstrated significant safety and bidirectional improvement, supporting its clinical utility as a noninvasive method for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.