SynthesisAesthetic plastic surgery2026
A Systematic Review of Radiofrequency and Helium Plasma Radiofrequency Alternatives to Mastopexy.
Synthesis in Aesthetic plastic surgery, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Who cites it
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Authors and funding
1 author.
Funding
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Abstract
backgroundEnergy-based devices have been promoted as an alternative to surgery. Recent publications have advocated their use as an off-label nonsurgical breast lift. However, objective measurements on standardized photographs are lacking. Complications are unreported. A systematic review has not been published.
methodsA literature search was conducted to identify publications using energy-based devices for cosmetic breast applications. Photographs in the studies were matched for size and orientation and evaluated. Sternal notch-nipple measurements and lower pole levels were compared.
resultsThree publications were found. Two studies used the InMode radiofrequency device. A third study used the Renuvion helium plasma radiofrequency device. All three studies reported high rates of patient satisfaction and no complications. Two studies reported a decrease in sternal notch-nipple distances. Photographs were compared by the author after computer-assisted matching to correct existing disparities in magnification and tilt. The mean sternal notch-nipple distances were shortened by 2 mm on each side. There was no change in the mean right lower pole level; the left lower pole was raised 1.9 mm after treatment. None of these incremental differences were significant. All three studies were heavily affected by commercial bias. An improvement in asymmetry in a patient who also received breast implants disappeared after correction for tilt.
conclusionsMeasurements on matched photographs reveal that energy-based alternatives to a mastopexy are ineffective. Patients incur additional cost, and are exposed to additional risks. Conflict of interest is a major factor. Surgical treatment of breast ptosis remains the gold standard. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Read under generation 80e0d062 · epoch 390. Bibliography from PubMed, PubMed Central and OpenAlex; grants from NIH RePORTER; trial links from ClinicalTrials.gov; estimates, votes and beliefs from the OpenQuestion graph.