Combining microfocused ultrasound with botulinum toxin and temporary and semi-permanent dermal fillers: Safety and current use

Abstract

Background A microfocused ultrasound system with visualization (MFU-V) is currently indicated for use as a noninvasive dermatological aesthetic treatment to lift the eyebrows, lax submental and neck tissue, and improve lines and wrinkles of the dé ecollet é. OBJECTIVE To determine the existence of any safety signals when combining MFU-V with botulinum toxin-A and/or semipermanent and temporary dermal fillers. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed using subjects who received aesthetic treatments including incobotulinumtoxinA injection, cohesive polydensified matrix hyaluronic acid (CPM HA) dermal fillers, and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) dermal fillers within 6 months of treatment with MFU-V in the same or different anatomic areas. RESULTS All subjects (N = 101; 96 female; 25-70 year old) received MFU-V, 18% received incobotulinumtoxinA injections, and 81% were treated with CPM HA and/or CaHA fillers. Seven adverse events (7%) were reported: bruising/purpura (n = 4), swelling (n = 1), paresthesia (n = 1), and herpes simplex virus (HSV) outbreak (n = 1). Only the HSV outbreak was considered to be related to combined treatments. CONCLUSION Although limited by relatively few subjects, the results of the present study suggest that the safety profile of MFU-V combined with other aesthetic products is consistent with the safety profiles of the individual treatments.