Reduction of abdominal skin laxity in women postvaginal delivery using the synergistic emission of radiofrequency and targeted pressure energies

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates clinical efficacy of a novel device which uses combined emission of radiofrequency and targeted pressure energy, for reduction of abdominal skin laxity. METHODS: This was a multicentric, randomized, parallel group-controlled prospective study. Forty-six women 6-36 months after delivery with abdominal skin laxity were randomly assigned to Group A or Group B. Group A received four treatments with BTL UNISON device (BTL Industries Inc, Boston, MA, USA); and, Group B didn't receive any treatments. Skin viscoelasticity was measured using a skin analyzer at baseline and 3 months posttreatments. Standardized digital photographs were evaluated for the severity of skin laxity. Patient comfort and satisfaction were evaluated by standardized questionnaires. RESULTS: Subjects' weight remained stable. In 95% of treated patients the umbilical circumference decreased (average - 1.43 cm, P < 0.0001). The average of skin viscoelasticity changes in individual patients totaled + 37.6%/3.29 Mpa (retraction time - 62.6 ms/-22.5%; suction pressure + 1.21 Mpa/+13.9%) (all P < 0.0001). The overall elasticity improved in 90.9% of patients. The control group changes were insignificant. Based on independent photo assessment there was an improvement in the degree of skin laxity in 86% of treated patients. The average laxity score across all treated patients decreased from 1.79 (moderate laxity) at baseline to 1.1 (mild laxity) 3 months posttreatments. Ninety percent of treated patients expressed satisfaction with achieved results. Therapy didn't cause any pain. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude the investigated device can significantly reduce signs of early postpartum laxity in abdominal area. As such, it is a promising alternative to surgical procedures.