High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure widely used for facial rejuvenation and skin tightening. This innovative treatment employs focused ultrasound energy to target specific depths beneath the skin’s surface. It stimulates collagen production—a protein crucial for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. By focusing on the skin’s deep layers and the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), HIFU encourages the natural tightening and lifting of sagging skin, delivering rejuvenating effects.
HIFU treatments are renowned for providing natural-looking results. The procedure subtly lifts and tightens the skin, reducing wrinkles and sagging without drastically altering one’s appearance. This natural outcome is often a key attraction for individuals seeking a more youthful and refreshed look without the dramatic changes associated with surgical interventions.
From $650
It utilises ultrasonic energy to penetrate deep below the skin and fat layer of the face to gently but effectively target connective tissue. Connective tissue is a firm, tough layer that supports the neck and facial contours. Ageing and the passage of time cause connective tissues to droop. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound tightens loose connective tissue, creating firmness and lifting areas of sagging skin. The layer of tissue targeted is the same tissue that plastic surgeons tighten and shift during a surgical facelift or brow lift.
Depending on the area (or areas) of treatment, HIFU Treatment takes approximately 30 minutes to just over an hour to perform. It helps address brow droopiness and upper eyelid hooding, lifts the jawline, and improves jowls and neck sagging. A single treatment stimulates your collagen to grow anew, and you can sometimes see results immediately. Younger patients may have a more dramatic response.
The ideal candidate is a patient with good skin elasticity in their 40s to 50s who has mild to moderate skin sagging of the neck or eye area. Patients outside this age group or with more compromised skin quality may still benefit, but they often require 2 or 3 treatments and should expect less dramatic outcomes.
For the treatment to fully take effect, it will occur gradually over a period of two to three months. Clinical trials reported results of tighter, firmer, more youthful-looking skin in a 10-month study. These studies documented changes in appearance that were significant in most patients.
One of the primary advantages of HIFU is its non-invasive nature. Unlike surgical facelifts, HIFU treatments do not involve incisions, anesthesia, or injections. Patients can undergo the procedure in an outpatient setting, typically without the need for downtime. Although some individuals may notice an immediate tightening effect post-treatment, the full results unfold gradually over several months as the body responds to the ultrasound stimulation, producing new collagen.
The longevity of HIFU results varies depending on factors such as skin type, age, and lifestyle choices. While not permanent, the effects of HIFU treatments can last for a significant duration, often ranging from 1 to 2 years or more.
Because HIFU is a non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require injections or surgery, the procedure is uncomplicated and relatively quick depending on how many areas of your face you want to target.
Ensure your face is clean and make-up-free. You don’t need any special preparation, but please inform us if you have any pre-existing lesions, skin infections, or bruising in the treated areas.
HIFU is a relatively painless procedure with some patients claiming it feels similar to laser hair removal. You may feel a slight, stinging sensation but overall the treatment is not painful. You might also experience some slight swelling and redness after the HIFU treatment but typically patients have little or no negative after-effects.
Our team will advise you on the best aftercare during your appointment. However, we recommend the following:
Experts agree that HIFU is a safe and effective way to improve skin laxity and quality. Studies show that High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound is safe, and patients are usually happy with the results. With minimal side effects and a noninvasive approach, HIFU is a desirable alternative to traditional surgical facelifts.
The frequency of HIFU treatment can vary depending on the areas you are targeting and the extent of your skin laxity.
People with mild to moderate skin laxity will generally see results in a shorter period. They will only require 1 to 2 sessions throughout 12 to 18 months. Those with advanced skin sagging may need more than two sessions to get the desired results.
Collagen production can take up to 12 weeks. Results can vary depending on how fast your body produces the protein and how much fat reduction is needed.