HIFU

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is an advanced and well-regarded technique used for skin tightening and rejuvenation. The HIFU Ultraformer machine, originating from South Korea, emits ultrasound waves with high intensity and concentration. These powerful waves penetrate through the epidermis layer to target the dermis and subcutaneous fat, stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin firmness. HIFU has gained recognition for its efficacy in tumor treatment as well.

HIFU is a relatively new non-invasive and painless method for skin tightening. By utilizing ultrasound energy, it triggers collagen synthesis in the skin, resulting in firmer and smoother skin texture. This treatment has been employed in the beauty industry for nearly 11 years.

The benefits of HIFU have been approved by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It effectively improves wrinkles on the face, neck, and décolleté area, and it is generally considered safe with minimal risks. Achieving the desired results without the need for surgery is possible within a few months through HIFU, making it an excellent choice for skin lifting and rejuvenation.

The applications of HIFU encompass the reduction of wrinkles, skin tightening, lifting eyebrows and eyelids, improving skin elasticity, as well as smoothing and softening the skin. Beyond addressing sagging skin, HIFU can also be used as a preventive measure against the aging process.

HIFU's mechanism involves focused energy ultrasound waves targeting the deeper layers of the skin, causing rapid tissue heating. This leads to cellular damage, which stimulates collagen production without affecting adjacent cells.

In some cases, it may be beneficial for individuals with excessive skin laxity to undergo laser treatment before HIFU to optimize the final outcome.

During a HIFU procedure, patients may experience a sensation similar to small sparks and heat, but it is generally not considered painful. To alleviate any discomfort, a local anesthetic can be administered before the treatment. After applying ultrasound gel to the treatment area, the HIFU device is placed precisely on the skin.

The duration of each HIFU treatment session depends on the area being treated, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately afterward. Any side effects usually subside within a week, but patients should inform their doctor if any persist.

The full effects of HIFU are typically noticeable within three months, and it is recommended to undergo this treatment once or twice a year for optimal results.

Compared to skin lifting surgery, HIFU is considered a safer and cost-effective alternative as it does not require anesthesia, incisions, or extended recovery periods. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and individuals over 30 years of age are generally good candidates for HIFU.

There are some contraindications to HIFU, including its unsuitability for body shaping, limited efficacy for severely sagging and puffy skin, and prohibition in the presence of metal in the treatment area. Pregnant or lactating women, individuals with certain facial fillers or prosthetics, and those with infections, active pimples, or wounds on the face cannot use this method. Additionally, areas with main nerves and arteries may not be suitable for HIFU treatment. Proper precautions must be taken for individuals with dental fillings or implants in their mouths. Suspected and colored moles, surgical sites, and neuromuscular defects are also contraindications for HIFU.