Aesthetic Efficacy and Safety of Combined Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization and Calcium Hydroxylapatite Treatment: A Systematic Review of Human Evidence.
Summary
Synthesizing 11 mainly pre–post human studies, combined MFU-V plus CaHA-CMC consistently improved global aesthetic scales, skin quality metrics, and patient satisfaction with mostly mild-to-moderate adverse effects. Histology indicated increased neocollagenesis and elastin synthesis following combination treatment. Evidence remains limited and heterogeneous, warranting controlled trials.
Key Findings
- Across 11 studies, combined MFU-V + CaHA-CMC improved global aesthetic scales and skin quality metrics.
- Patient satisfaction improved following combination treatment, with adverse effects generally mild-to-moderate.
- Histologic data demonstrated increased neocollagenesis and elastin synthesis posttreatment.
Clinical Implications
Combined MFU-V and CaHA-CMC can be considered for patients seeking skin laxity and quality improvements, with expectations set for mild-to-moderate, transient adverse effects. Histologic remodeling supports spacing treatments to leverage biostimulation.
Why It Matters
Provides the first consolidated clinical and mechanistic overview of a widely used combination strategy in aesthetic medicine, informing protocol design and patient counseling.
Limitations
- Predominance of uncontrolled pre–post designs; small sample sizes
- Heterogeneity in treatment parameters, areas treated, and outcome measures; potential publication bias
Future Directions
Randomized or controlled comparative trials of combination vs. monotherapies, standardized outcome measures, and dose-timing optimization.
Study Information
- Study Type
- Systematic Review
- Research Domain
- Treatment
- Evidence Level
- II - Systematic review of mostly pre–post human studies; moderate-quality evidence
- Study Design
- OTHER