High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Field With Synchronized Radiofrequency Achieves Superior Gluteal Muscle Contouring Than High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Field Procedure Alone

Abstract

Abstract Background The high-intensity focused electromagnetic field (HIFEM) procedure is an effective method for noninvasive toning and shaping of buttocks. Objectives To investigate and compare the efficacy of simultaneous application of HIFEM procedure with radiofrequency (RF) heating vs HIFEM standalone procedure on the buttocks. Methods Sixty-seven subjects (21-67 years, BMI 16-34 kg/m2) were recruited and divided into two groups. Group A received simultaneous HIFEM + RF therapy, and group B received standalone HIFEM treatments. All participants underwent four 30-minute bilateral treatments on the buttocks. The MRI was used to evaluate the changes in muscle and fat thickness. Results Data of 32 subjects from group A and 31 subjects from group B were reviewed at 1-month follow-up. On average, subjects from group A showed a 31.3% higher increase in muscle thickness, as shown in the MRI evaluation. The gluteal muscle thickness continued to grow and peaked at a 3-month follow-up, wherein 27 patients were evaluated in each group (n = 54). Group A showed on average +24.7% increase (gluteus maximus +8.5 ± 1.9 mm, medius +6.0 ± 1.1 mm, minimus +2.9 ± 0.8 mm), while group B exhibited only +15.9% increase in muscle thickness (gluteus maximus +5.2 ± 1.1 mm, medius +3.6 ± 1.0 mm, minimus +1.6 ± 0.4 mm). On average, group A showed a 35.6% higher growth in muscle thickness. Treatments were safe and comfortable with high satisfaction rates. No adverse event was reported throughout the study. Conclusions Our results suggest that simultaneous use of HIFEM + RF is safe and significantly more effective for gluteal contouring than the HIFEM procedure alone. Level of Evidence: 2