HIFU: Non-Surgical, Non-Invasive Facelift & Adipose Coagulation
Graphics: Classys, Inc.
In the recent years, you may have seen or heard of the acronym HIFU. A quick Google search finds you a plethora of aesthetic clinics offering HIFU, and a stroll down past a row of beauty salons in the Heartlands, you will also see them offering HIFU treatments, too.
This article has been written, in the form of the most frequently asked questions (FAQ), to help you make an informed decision on taking up this treatment by understanding the nature of this treatment.
A more in-depth article on HIFU (click on link), discussing on aspects such as the differences between Ulthera versus Korean HIFU, and also why you should be wary about HIFU treatments offered by certain beauty salons or medi-spas.
What is High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?
The High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment delivers a focused and low amount of ultrasound energy to the skin - the heat from this energy stimulates new collagen formation. The HIFU is used for the purpose of non-surgical, non-invasive firming & tightening of skin, and lifting of areas deficient of collagen.
How does HIFU work?
The High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment delivers a focused and low amount of ultrasound energy to specific depths of the skin. By focusing at different depths, HIFU targets the SMAS network of tissues (most commonly known as the “tissue glue”; Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) that provides support for skin and both the superficial and deep dermis where the bulk of collagen is.
Graphics: Classys, Inc.
Each focal point of HIFU safely creates a hyperthermic, micro-coagulation of tissues at different depths. The body perceives this as micro-injuries and will respond by initiating a repair process.
Graphics: Classys, Inc.
Over the next 6-8 weeks, these micro-coagulated points heal with increased collagen density and this will increase tissue strength and thus, creating a lifting effect beneath the treated areas.
How does HIFU differ from other similar treatments?
HIFU differs from other treatment modalities such as RF (e.g. Thermage) or Lasers (Fractional laser) - HIFU treats specific depths without heating the entire bulk of the tissue (thus, much less discomfort and less risk of burning).
Graphics: Classys, Inc.
How is it performed?
The doctor will perform pre-treatment assessment of the treatment area(s) before when recommends the treatment to you. Prior to starting, topical anaesthetic cream and oral painkillers are given to you to ensure optimal comfort during treatment. During treatment, the ultrasound energy transmitted into the skin may be felt is stinging sensation.
Is the treatment painful?
The comfort level varies from one individual to another, the areas being treated and also depends on the experience of the operating doctor. In any case, the discomfort during the treatment is mitigated by a combination of topical numbing cream and oral painkillers.
In the post-treatment period, patient may feel a dull discomfort and/or mild swelling over the treatment areas. This is due to repair mechanisms at work underneath these areas and will resolve in 10-14 days. Uncommonly, temporary bruising of the treated areas, which will resolve in days.
What are the benefits of HIFU?
It is safe, effective and is able to give near-surgical lifting and firming effects without any cutting of the skin. By bypassing the surface of the skin, treatment does not cause or worsen pigmentations. In fact, it improves the appearance of the surface of the skin when its treatment benefits come in.
What are the side effects of the treatment?
The possible risks associated with the treatment are:
Temporary numbness due to sensory nerve inflammation (resolves in days to weeks);
Temporary and localised muscle weakness due to inflammation of a motor nerve (resolves in days to weeks);
Remote risk of superficial skin burn - this is very rare.
Who are suitable for this treatment?
Most patients, from their mid to late 30’s to 65 years of age, who are concerned about sagging or chubby cheeks, double chin, mild under eye or eyelid laxities are suitable for this treatment.
Patients who have had surgical facelift will also benefit from this treatment as HIFU us proven to prolong or maintain the surgical results.
Who are NOT suitable for this treatment?
There are only a few situations when this treatment is unsuitable (contraindicated):
Severe laxity of skin, in which case surgical intervention would be a better option;
Unrealistic expectations from treatment.
What are the areas that can be treated?
Graphics: Classys, Inc.
Originally intended for the face and neck, HIFU also allows contouring, firming and tightening of décolleté (upper chest), armpits, underarm, abdomen, flanks, inner thighs and buttocks.
What is the treatment regimen? How often can I do this? How long does it last?
Typically one treatment may suffice, especially for the face. For the body, depending on the severity, repeat sessions may be required - the doctor will discuss this with you.
The doctor will bring to your attention that the results are NOT immediate and will require at least 6-8 weeks for the effects to develop (see section on how the treatment works). Once the treatment effects are evident, they tend to last from 12-18 months.
Most patients return for treatment at this period because they want to maintain or even augment the previous HIFU results.
What are the pre-treatment and post-treatment care?
There are no specific pre-treatment care required, but the doctor recommends good hydration status before treatment. Patients can immediately return to their daily, normal activities after treatment. Massage with a skin firming cream may be prescribed by the doctor after treatment of body area(s).
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are solely my own. It does not replace a consultation with your doctor.