HIFU stands for ‘High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound’. During this treatment, ultrasound energy is used to stimulate the deep layers which support the skin. In doing so it creates a lifted, more taut appearance and stimulates the body to produce collagen over a three month time period.
A suitable candidate is someone who is aged 30+ who has noticed that the skin on their face or neck has become laxer and wishes to lift and tighten the relevant area.
For patients in their 30s, it is typically used to stimulate collagen production and hence help delay the aging process.
Patients in their 40s and 50s are the most common age group who have this treatment.
It is also suitable for those aged 60+ provided the degree of laxity is not too great. It is also for those who have had surgery in the past to prolong the effects of surgical facelifts.
Clients may witness some initial effect, but ultimately lifting and firming will take place over approximately 3 months, as collagen is renewed and replaced with new, stronger collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, continued improvements can appear for up to 6 months.*
Most people find results last over 1 year, although yearly touch-up treatments are recommended to stay ahead of the aging process. *
Most people do not report pain. There can be slight aching over bony areas or a warm sensation in the skin during treatment.
Is it safe?
Thousands of treatments have been performed worldwide using HIFU technology without significant adverse events. In addition, ultrasound energy has been used safely in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.
No, While the ultrasound treatment does target the deep layer of skin often addressed in surgery, it does not involve general anesthetic or cutting the skin in any way.
Can HIFU replace a facelift?
Although HIFU is not a replacement for surgery, it is ideal for people who wish to uplift the face and neck but who are not ready for surgery – either psychologically, financially or logistically. It is considered more of an ‘uplift’ than a ‘facelift’ and can be combined with other non-surgical lifting treatments to further enhance the results.*
The actual treatment takes Between 30-90 minutes, depending on the area to be treated.
Is there any downtime?
There is normally no downtime or recovery time needed. Most people return to normal activities right away.
HIFU addresses skin that is mild to moderately loose or lax, 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. Patients have reported firmer, more toned skin in other areas of the face and neck as well.
Will I need more than one HIFU treatment?
The majority of patients need only 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 rebuilding process).
There may be slight redness following the treatment. A small number of patients report swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch.
All potential side effects will be discussed by the practitioner prior to treatment.
Can HIFU be combined with other treatments?
Often HIFU is used alongside other treatments to enhance results. For a lifting effect, it is often used with IPL skin rejuvenation, RF Facials to maintain or Derma-rolling to give optimum lift.
FREE CONSULTATION
EACH SMALL AREA - FACE / NECK /ARMS - £350
EACH MEDIUM AREA - ABDOMEN / FLANKS - £500
EACH LARGE AREA - BUTTOCKS / THIGHS - £650