High Intensity Focused Ultrasound
What Is Intensity Focused Ultrasound?
HIFU is a non-surgical face treatment that uses ultrasound to actually lift muscle and tone loose or sagging skin without any downtime.
What is Unique about this procedure?
HIFU is the only non-invasive treatment that can specifically target the deep foundation below the skin that is addressed in cosmetic surgery without cutting or disrupting that surface of the skin. It is also the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging. Which allows us to actually see the layers of tissue we target during treatment and ensure the energy is deposited precisely to where it will be most effective.
What does the HIFU therapy do?
HIFU deposits focused ultrasound energy below the surface of the skin to contract the facial layer as well as stimulate the body’s creation of new collagen. As result, skin will actually begin to lift and tone over time.
What does collagen do? How does HIFU stimulate the creation of collagen?
Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping it firmed, toned and elastic. As we age, collagen loses its elasticity and its ability to stand up to the effects of gravity that pull the skin downward. HIFU jump starts a repair process that produces fresh, new collagen
Is HIFU surgery?
No. Unlike a face lift, HIFU is a non-invasive procedure that addresses the skin and support layers below it, but doesn’t entail cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin.
Can HIFU replace a face lift?
HIFU is an “uplift” not a “face lift.” While it is not a replacement for surgery, it is a viable option for those not ready for a face lift or those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.
How is HIFU different from lasers?
Lasers typically address issues in the superficial layers on the skin (e.g fine line, wrinkles, pigment changes). HIFU addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin.
Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!
Is HIFU safe?
The procedure has been cleared after demonstrating safety in clinical studies, and tens of thousands of treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the fields of medicine for more than 50 years.
How long does the ultrasound treatment take?
A full face treatment takes 45-60 minutes, and a partial face or brow lift treatment can take around 30 minutes- neither with any downtime.
Is there any downtime?
HIFU is an entirely non-invasive procedure and as such, there is no downtime. You are able to return to your normal activities right away, and there are no special measures you need to take.
Who is a good candidate for HIFU?
A good candidate for HIFU is someone with skin that has “relaxed” to the point of looking, and often feeling, less firm. A lowered eyebrow line or sagging skin on the eyelids, for instance, is often the first sign of “maturing” skin. Typically, those in their thirties and older who have mild to moderate skin laxity are candidates
What problem areas does HIFU target? What kind of result do you get?
HIFU addresses mild to moderate loose or sagging skin. Specifically, by reconditioning and renewing the skin from within, HIFU will lift the brow, which in turn reduces excess skin on the eyelids, opens up the eyes, and gives a more refreshed look overall, as well as full face, chest, arms, elbows, tummy, inner thighs and knees.
How long until I see results?
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.
How long do results last?
Patients treated with HIFU still have fresh young collagen after a year’s time following the procedure and can continue for up to another year depending on the condition of the skin. Future touch-up treatments can help keep pace with the aging process, which varies by individual.
Will I need more than one treatment?
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however ; some may benefit from more than one treatment ( depending on how much laxity they have and their body’s own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process).
Will I feel the ultrasound during the treatment?
Yes. What you are feeling during the treatment is actually tiny amounts of focused ultrasound energy being deposited below the surface of the skin.
What does it feel like?
Patients have noted there can be some discomfort while the ultrasound energy is being delivered, but it is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated.
Is HIFU painful?
Comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, but there can be some discomfort while the ultrasound energy is being delivered. This is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Are there any side effects?
There may be slight redness for up to an hour or so following the treatment, and a small percentage of clients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch, but these are mild temporary in nature. The feeling of a muscle workout soreness is common but relieves itself quickly.
