Radiofrequency for Facial & Neck Rejuvenation: A Bibliometric Analysis.

Abstract

Radiofrequency (RF) devices are increasingly utilized in facial and neck rejuvenation for their ability to remodel the dermis and stimulate neocollagenesis. Although efficacy and safety have been widely reported, patient-centered outcomes remain less well synthesized. The study aims to map global research trends on RF for facial and neck rejuvenation (2015-2025), focusing on efficacy, safety, and patient-reported outcomes. A bibliometric-systematic literature review was conducted following PRISMA 2020. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and LILACS were searched for English-language studies from 2015 to 2025. Bibliometric data from Scopus were analyzed in R (Bibliometrix, Biblioshiny). Performance indicators, co-authorship, co-citation, keyword analyses, and thematic evolution were assessed. Of 1446 records, 44 studies met the inclusion criteria. Publication growth averaged 7.2% annually, peaking in 2021. The United States led output (36.4%) and citations, followed by South Korea (22.7%) and China (18.2%). International collaboration networks were limited and centered on a few prolific authors. Early studies emphasized device parameters and safety, whereas post-2020 research shifted toward clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Keywords highlighted wrinkles, skin laxity, and patient satisfaction as central axes. Research on RF rejuvenation has matured over the past decade, shifting from technical evaluation to patient-centered outcomes. Nevertheless, productivity is concentrated in a few regions and among a few authors, with an underrepresentation of Latin America and Africa. Broader international collaboration and consistent use of patient-reported outcome measures are needed. <b>Level of Evidence</b>: 3 (Therapeutic).