Facial Plast Surg
DOI: 10.1055/a-2666-5719
Original Research

First Clinical Experiences with Microfocused Ultrasound in Infraorbital Rejuvenation: A Clinically and Scientifically Grounded Perspective

Wolfram Heitzmann
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Burn Center, Cologne-Merheim Medical Center (CMMC), University of Witten, Herdecke, Germany
,
Jennifer Lynn Schiefer
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Burn Center, Cologne-Merheim Medical Center (CMMC), University of Witten, Herdecke, Germany
,
Laura Lanckohr
1   Department of Plastic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Burn Center, Cologne-Merheim Medical Center (CMMC), University of Witten, Herdecke, Germany
,
Diana Visnovska
2   Department of Dermatology – Section of Aesthetic Dermatology – Division of Outpatient Services, Concept Clinic, Bratislava, Slovakia
,
Alexandra Schulz
3   University of Witten, Herdecke, Germany
4   We Are Beautiful, Alexandra Schulz - Privatpraxis für Plastische Chirurgie, Kempten, Germany
› Author Affiliations
Preview

Abstract

Objectives & Hypotheses

The infraorbital region is challenging to treat due to complex anatomy and issues like skin laxity, malar edema, and malar mounds. This study evaluates micro focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) as a non-invasive treatment for infraorbital rejuvenation, hypothesizing improved skin tightening and contouring.

Study Design

A case series with anatomical analysis and literature review.

Methods

Five female patients (aged 42–54) with mild-to-moderate skin laxity underwent MFU-V treatment using 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mm transducers. Standardized photos and assessment scales (Merz Infraorbital Hollow Scale, GAIS) were used at baseline and 6 months.

Results

MFU-V led to visible improvements in periorbital skin tightening and reduction of malar mounds, especially in more pronounced cases. No adverse effects occurred.

Conclusion

MFU-V is a safe, effective, and non-invasive option for periorbital rejuvenation. It may serve as an alternative to surgical treatment for infraorbital skin laxity and malar deformities. Larger studies are needed to confirm efficacy.

Ethical Approval

The study protocol conformed to the ethical guidelines of the 1975 Declaration of Helsinki.


Informed Consent

All patients provided written informed consent.


These authors contributed equally to this article.




Publication History

Article published online:
05 August 2025

© 2025. Thieme. All rights reserved.

Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.
333 Seventh Avenue, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10001, USA