Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization in Skin Quality: A Narrative Review
Issued Date
2025-09-01
Resource Type
ISSN
14732130
eISSN
14732165
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105013971938
Journal Title
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology
Volume
24
Issue
S4
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology Vol.24 No.S4 (2025)
Suggested Citation
Pavicic T., Green J.B., Park J.Y., Casabona G., Vachiramon V., Spada J., Levine J., Muniz M., Akers J., McCarthy A., Jackson M.J. Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization in Skin Quality: A Narrative Review. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology Vol.24 No.S4 (2025). doi:10.1111/jocd.70364 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/111877
Title
Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization in Skin Quality: A Narrative Review
Author's Affiliation
Lenox Hill Hospital
Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University
Skin Associates of South Florida and Skin Research Institute
Apkoo-Jung Oracle Dermatology Clinic
Merz Aesthetics
Private Office
Private Practice for Dermatology & Aesthetics Dr. Tatjana Pavicic
Ocean Clinic Marbella
Julieta Spada Dermatology & Aesthetics
Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University
Skin Associates of South Florida and Skin Research Institute
Apkoo-Jung Oracle Dermatology Clinic
Merz Aesthetics
Private Office
Private Practice for Dermatology & Aesthetics Dr. Tatjana Pavicic
Ocean Clinic Marbella
Julieta Spada Dermatology & Aesthetics
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
Background: Skin quality is a multidimensional concept encompassing four emergent perceptual categories (EPCs): firmness, surface evenness, tone evenness, and glow. Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V; Ulthera System) is a non-invasive device FDA-cleared for lifting and tightening of the skin in specific areas. Through the generation of thermal coagulation points at defined depths, MFU-V initiates neocollagenesis and elastin remodeling, which may support improvements in features related to overall skin quality. Aims: To evaluate clinical and preclinical evidence for the impact of MFU-V across the four EPCs of skin quality, including firmness, surface evenness, tone evenness, and glow. Patients/Methods: A structured narrative review was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases. Of 703 unique records screened, 67 studies met inclusion criteria. Eligible studies evaluated MFU-V, alone or in combination, reporting outcomes mapped to one or more EPCs of skin quality. Results: MFU-V demonstrated consistent improvements in firmness (n = 52 studies), including elasticity and tautness, with sustained effects beyond 6 months. Improvements in surface evenness (n = 35) included wrinkle reduction, pore refinement, and scar remodeling. Effects on tone evenness (n = 4) were observed in melasma and erythema models, with good tolerance in Fitzpatrick skin types III–VI. Glow (n = 4) was indirectly supported by improved texture and structure. Combination protocols involving MFU-V and fillers or neuromodulators reported positive outcomes. Adverse events were rare and transient. Conclusions: MFU-V provides a safe and versatile platform for enhancing multiple aspects of skin quality. Its effects are well supported in firmness and texture, with emerging evidence for tone and glow. The integration of EPC-based outcomes may inform individualized treatment planning and future research.