DEBUNKING THE MYTHS SERIES…IDENTIFYING BEST PRACTICES FOR VIVACE®
LEADING WITH SCIENCE
In 2019, “A Histologic and Thermal Evaluation of a Novel Radiofrequency Microneedling Electrosurgical Unit” was published in the Journal of Clinical Dermatology. Shaun Wootten, lead investigator and Director of Research & Development at Aesthetics Biomedical® Inc. pointed out an important key clinical endpoint, “Best clinical results can be achieved using 1MHz radiofrequency and insulated needles.”
The best approach to building a solid foundation for achieving desired clinical outcomes when performing a Vivace® Microneedle RF treatment, is based upon the science.
Two other clinical factors that MUST be considered for optimum outcomes:
- Patient tolerability
- Skin tolerability
PATIENT TOLERABILTY
To mitigate any discomfort, Aesthetics Biomedical® (ABM) created the Vivace Experience® combining microneedling and radiofrequency energy with the provider’s choice of topical anesthetic, a post recovery serum and a cooling peptide mask. This combination is proven to give patients a comfortable experience.
Equally important, is the Vivace Experience® Approach, where clinicians have the ability to make the appropriate setting adjustments during the treatment. These adjustments will not decrease efficacy and will increase the patient’s comfort.
SKIN TOLERABILITY
Clinicians are very receptive to making setting adjustments based on the patient’s comfort level. However, another important consideration includes the assessment of skin tolerability. It is the combination of patient tolerability and skin tolerability that dictates the appropriate settings for each patient.
MYTH #2…HOTTER IS ALWAYS BETTER DURING A VIVACE® TREATMENT
When performing a Vivace® treatment, there is a fallacy in the idea that hotter is better. The optimum results are achieved when there is a symbiosis between patient tolerability and skin tolerability. This can easily be accomplished by adjustments to the Power Level and/or RF Time.
Total Energy output (measured in Joules/Shot) is now included in the Vivace Experience® Approach Suggested Training Guide and can be used as an additional resource and reference.
For example, you may choose a Power Level 6 and RF of 600ms which equates to 5.27 Joules/shot, or you may lower the Power Lever to 4 and RF of 800ms which equates to 5.01 Joules/shot, a comparable output of energy. Providers can feel confident that all the setting combinations listed in the chart below will produce desired outcomes, which allows for greater flexibility of meeting patient comfort and skin needs.
It is evidenced in the chart below, that lowering the heat for example, and increasing RF time does not equate to loss of energy output,
Don’t forget, your Vivace® is customizable to meet each of your patient’s unique needs!
THE VIVACE EXPERIENCE® APPROACH – A SUGGESTED TRAINING GUIDE
- Identify Fitzpatrick Skin Type (FDA Approved for skin types I-V).
- Consider new patient start settings of Power Level 5 and RF Time 500ms.
- First pass should be the “Hottest and Deepest”
- Perform 3-4 test shots.
- Assess depth, patient, and skin tolerability.
- Make any setting adjustments, reassess, and proceed with treatment.
- Perform a 50% overlap technique on your first pass at minimum.
- Complete (1) one full pass of the face before beginning second pass.
- After first full pass of the face, each subsequent pass is shallower.
- For second pass, asses the need to reduce settings or stay at current setting.
- Aim to deliver 800-1200 shots per total face treatment.
We’ll see you next week as we discuss more clinical education updates and useful treatment techniques. Feel free to send any question or comments to clinical@aestheticsbiomedical.com
Disclaimer: The Vivace® Guidelines are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, medical director, or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. All suggested treatment settings are for suggested use only.