Evolved SygmaLift 3D Reshapes the Facial Contouring Landscape

Sponsored by MedixSysteme

Combining its signature Focused 3D Intensive Ultrasound with 635 nm low-level laser, SygmaLift 3D from MedixSysteme (Ruggell, Liechtenstein) reinvents non-invasive facial reshaping, providing physicians with the capability to rapidly remodel the face painlessly for patients of any age and skin type. Features include three distinct handpieces that each provide a unique aspect to treatment.

The overall purpose of the SygmaLift 3D protocol is to treat multiple tissue layers during each 30-minute session: the dermis at approximately 1.5 mm, subcutaneous tissues at 3 mm deep, the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) at about 4.5 mm, and facial fat at approximately 5 mm deep. “The novel combination of high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and low-level laser, seen only in SygmaLift 3D, provides powerful therapy at different depths while reducing inflammation,” explained Nuttapol Larpcharoenkij, MD (Dr. Aou) of INFINIZ CLINIC in Bangkok, Thailand. “This, and the lack of pain or downtime, are the main selling points of the treatment.”

According to aesthetic physician Kenneth Thean, MD, founder of ENSOUL Medical Clinic (Singapore), each HIFU handpiece (3D Spatula and 3D Trifocal) directs the focused ultrasound in a different way, while the 3D Laser handpiece emits low-level laser energy. “This allows us to treat in the X, Y and Z planes,” he said. “The HIFU delivers both thermal and mechanical effects for lifting, oxygenation of tissue and increased production of collagen and elastin.”

The 3D Spatula handpiece is best for lifting and tightening flaccid neck or cheek tissue, and recontouring the jawline. “This ultrasound handpiece is used to treat larger areas. Treatment depth is controlled by the device between 2 mm and 5 mm. The 3 mm and 4.5 mm depths are best used to target the dermis, SMAS, submentum and neck, Dr. Thean noted. “I use this to treat heavy jowls, as well as reshape the cheeks and jawline. The 5 mm depth excels for submental fat and double chin treatments. Reducing unwanted fat with concomitant skin tightening is a good nonsurgical option.”

The other HIFU handpiece, 3D Trifocal, also lifts and tightens and is ideal for periocular and brow treatment as well as reducing wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. “3D Trifocal can treat smaller areas,” Dr. Thean explained. “This allows more precise tightening and smoothing around the eyes, forehead and mouth. I use the 3D Trifocal transducer to lift the eyebrows, reduce eyebags, dark eye circles, crow’s feet and forehead lines.”

“Physicians estimate the depth of the SMAS and other tissue layers to choose the correct handpiece and select the proper energy level and treatment time for maximum results,” Dr. Aou said. He added that the 635 nm low-level laser energy of the 3D Laser reduces unwanted inflammation and stimulates cellular repair after treatment, encouraging healing for a radiant look, as well as a better overall result and experience. “The treatment experience is gentle and easy, contributing to patient satisfaction.”

Only a few sessions are required to produce results for most patients, according to Dr. Thean. “Remember, every patient responds differently. And, even if after careful pre- treatment assessment and patient selection, the results are not as good as expected, I find that I can get the desired outcome with additional 3D SygmaLift treatments. It is safe and easy enough to do that.”