Neubelle™ RF Provides Botox-Like Control of Forehead Lines

Through the use of radiofrequency (RF), doctors can temporarily relax the muscles that cause frown lines or forehead wrinkles without the use of injectable botulinum toxin A (Botox). Neubelle, the only bi-polar device approved by the FDA for temporary immobilization of facial nerves, causes a thermal injury to block the specific nerve controlling the muscle that produces wrinkles on the forehead. Results are immediate and downtime is minimal.

Commonly used in medical applications, bi-polar RF energy is a well-studied, safe, predictable and consistent source of producing heat in nerve tissue. Under local anesthesia, RF energy is used to isolate and contract the exact muscle that causes frown or forehead lines on the patient. A fine probe delivers a thermal (heat) injury about the size of a grain of rice to the nerve that controls this muscle. This injury acts as a roadblock which will not allow the nerve to contract the muscle, resulting in shallowing, or complete smoothing of frown lines. Muscle function will gradually return after eight months to two years.

Although Neubelle is currently more costly and was not developed to be a complete substitute for Botox injections, it is a viable solution for the patient for whom the botulinum toxin is no longer effective. Unlike injectable Botox that covers an area, Neubelle’s probe isolates a single nerve for a truly customizable treatment.

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