Can radio frequency (RF) devices break up scar tissue in the submental area?

Radiofrequency Devices for Breaking Up Scar Tissue in the Submental Area

Radiofrequency (RF) devices can effectively break up scar tissue in the submental area by promoting collagen remodeling and tissue reorganization through controlled thermal effects. This approach offers a minimally invasive option for addressing submental scarring with documented effectiveness.

Mechanism of Action

Radiofrequency devices work through several mechanisms to address scar tissue:

• Thermal effects: RF devices generate temperatures between 50-80°C which causes:

  • Protein denaturation
  • Collagen fiber reorganization
  • Stimulation of new collagen production 1
  • Microinflammatory process that promotes collagen remodeling 2

• Tissue response: The controlled heating creates:

  • Favorable reorganization of collagen and elastic fibers 3
  • Increased production of type III collagen over type I collagen 4
  • Peak collagen production between 6-10 weeks post-treatment 4

Evidence for Effectiveness

Research supports the use of RF for submental scar tissue:

• A 2017 study demonstrated that RF combined with negative pressure therapy led to favorable reorganization and regeneration of collagen and elastic fibers in mature scars 3

• A 2021 study on submental skin laxity showed that temperature-controlled monopolar RF achieving subdermal temperatures of approximately 63°C resulted in:

  • 72.1% of subjects achieving significant lift in the submental area
  • Improved skin elasticity measurements
  • Effects lasting at least 6 months 5

• Another 2021 study examining plasma radiofrequency ablation found it effective for scar treatment through controlled tissue sublimation 6

Treatment Parameters

For optimal results when treating submental scar tissue:

• Temperature thresholds:

  • Minimum effective temperature: 60°C for irreversible cell damage
  • Optimal range: 50-80°C for coagulation and cellular remodeling
  • Avoid temperatures above 100°C which cause vaporization damage
  • Never exceed 150°C as this causes carbonization that limits RF current passage 1

• Treatment duration:

  • Higher temperatures require less exposure time
  • At 70°C, approximately 1 minute of exposure is needed
  • At 55°C, approximately 5 minutes is required 1

Treatment Considerations

When using RF for submental scar treatment:

1. Device selection:

   • Temperature-controlled monopolar RF devices show good efficacy 5
   • Combined RF with negative pressure may provide synergistic effects 3

2. Treatment protocol:

   • Multiple sessions are typically required (e.g., twice weekly for 3 months) 3
   • Monitor tissue temperature carefully to avoid overheating

3. Expected outcomes:

   • Reduction of scar surface wrinkling
   • Overall scar flattening
   • Improved elasticity approaching that of healthy skin 3
   • Collagen remodeling effects peak between 6-10 weeks post-treatment 4

Limitations and Cautions

• RF treatment alone may not achieve significant improvement in hypertrophic scars or keloids despite causing collagen changes 4
• Careful temperature monitoring is essential to prevent tissue damage
• Results may vary based on scar type, age, and location
• Adjacent anatomical structures must be protected from excessive heat

Conclusion

Radiofrequency devices represent an effective option for addressing scar tissue in the submental area through controlled thermal effects that promote collagen remodeling. The evidence shows that temperature-controlled RF treatments between 50-80°C can effectively reorganize scar tissue, improve elasticity, and create favorable aesthetic outcomes when properly administered.