Theory
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a relatively new cosmetic method for skin firming, which some people consider being a non-invasive, painless alternative to facial lifting. It uses ultrasonic energy to promote collagen production, which makes the skin more compact.
HIFU is widely known for its application in the treatment of tumors. The application of HIFU in aesthetics was first reported in 2008.
HIFU face
High-intensity focused ultrasound uses focused ultrasound energy to target the skin layer below the surface. Ultrasonic energy heats up the tissue quickly.
Once the cells in the target area reach a certain temperature, they will be damaged by the cells. Although this may seem counterintuitive, the damage actually stimulates cells to produce more collagen—a protein that provides structure to the skin.
The increase in collagen leads to a firm, firm skin source and reduces wrinkles. Because the high-frequency ultrasound beam is focused on a specific tissue site under the skin surface, it will not cause damage to the upper layer of skin and adjacent parts.
HIFU may not be suitable for everyone. Generally speaking, this method works best for people over 30 years old with mild to moderate skin relaxation.
HIFU is not recommended for patients with infected and open skin lesions in the target area, severe or cystic acne, and metal implants in the treatment area.
Advantages of high-intensity focused ultrasound
According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), the popularity of HIFU and other non-surgical cosmetic procedures has greatly increased over the past few years.
HIFU has many aesthetic advantages, including:
Reduce wrinkles
Tighten the sagging skin of the neck
Raise cheeks, eyebrows and eyelids
Improve the clarity of the jawline
décolletage tightening
Smooth skin
What does HIFU feel like?
You may experience slight discomfort during HIFU. Some people describe it as a tiny electrical pulse or a slight tingling sensation.
If you are worried about pain, your doctor may recommend that you take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (Advil), before treatment.
After treatment, you may experience slight redness immediately, which will gradually subside within the next few hours.
HIFU for facial surgery
No special preparation is required before HIFU surgery. You should remove all cosmetics and skincare products from the target area before treatment.
The following are your expectations when booking:
The doctor or technician first cleans the target area.
They can apply local anesthetic cream before starting.
The doctor or technician then uses ultrasound gel.
The HIFU device rests on the skin.
The doctor or technician uses an ultrasound observer to adjust the device to the correct setting.
Then, the ultrasonic energy is delivered to the target area in the form of short pulses for approximately 30 to 90 minutes.
The device has been removed.
If additional treatment is required, you will arrange the next treatment.
When using ultrasonic energy, you may feel hot and tingling. You can take painkillers if it is bothersome.
After the operation, you can go home immediately and resume normal daily activities.
The above information is provided by the HIFU 3D machine manufacturer.
