HIFU
A High Intensity Focused Ultrasound facial, or HIFU facial, is a noninvasive treatment for facial aging. This procedure is part of a growing trend for anti-aging treatments that provide some of the benefits of a facelift without the need for surgery.
These less invasive treatments have a shorter recovery period than surgical options, but the results they provide are not as dramatic and do not last as long. Due to this, dermatologists recommend HIFU only for mild to moderate or early signs of aging.
HIFU is a completely non invasive, clinically proven face lifting & skin tightening procedure for the entire face, neck and body.
HIFU treats the deep foundation layer addressed in cosmetic surgery, HIFU doesn’t duplicate the results of a face lift however it is a fantastic alternative and certainly the most effective face lifting procedure currently on the market without going under the knife. Especially good for those not ready for surgery or for patients looking to extend the effects of cosmetic surgery.
A HIFU facial uses ultrasound to create heat at a deep level in the skin. This heat damages targeted skin cells, causing the body to try to repair them. To do this, the body produces collagen to aid in cell regrowth. Collagen is a substance in the skin that gives it structure and elasticity.
According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, nonsurgical ultrasound treatments such as HIFU can:
●     tighten the skin on the neck
●     reduce the appearance of jowls
●     lift drooping eyelids or eyebrows
●     smooth wrinkles on the face
●     smooth and tighten chest skin
The type of ultrasound that this procedure uses is different than the ultrasound that doctors use for medical imaging. HIFU uses high energy waves to target specific areas of the body.
HIFU Procedure
Dermatologists usually begin HIFU facial rejuvenation by cleaning the chosen area of the face and applying a gel. Then, they use a handheld device that emits the ultrasound waves in short bursts. Each session typically lasts 30–90 minutes.
Some people report mild discomfort during the treatment, and some have pain afterward. Dermatologists may apply a local anesthetic before the procedure to help prevent this pain. Over the counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (Advil), may also help.
Unlike other cosmetic procedures, including laser hair removal, HIFU facials do not require any preparation. When a session is over, there is also no recovery time, which means that people can get on with their daily activities after receiving HIFU treatment.
People may require between 1-6 sessions, depending on the results they want to achieve.
BENEFITS OF HIFU
●     Wrinkle reduction
●     tightening sagging skin on the neck (sometimes called turkey neck)
●     lifting the cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids
●     enhancing jawline definition
●     tightening of the décolleté
●     smoothing the skin
Side effects of HIFU

In general, the evidence suggests that a HIFU facial has few side effects, although some people may experience pain and discomfort right after the procedure.
The South Korean study concluded that there were no serious side effects of the treatment, although some participants reported:
●     swelling
●     numbness
●     redness
●     bruising
●     a purple rash
 
In another study, researchers found that while some people who had HIFU treatment on their face or body reported pain right after the treatment, after 4 weeks, they reported no pain.
A different study found that 25.3% of participants had pain following the procedure but that it improved without any intervention.
A high intensity focused ultrasound facial, or HIFU facial, can be an effective way to minimize the signs of aging.
As a nonsurgical technique, HIFU calls for less recovery time than a surgical facelift, but the results will not be as pronounced. Still, researchers have found that the procedure can firm sagging skin, smooth wrinkles, and improve skin texture.
With good aftercare, the benefits of a HIFU facial can last for about 1 year.

Does the research say that HIFU works?

Many reports say that HIFU facials work. A 2018 review looked at 231 studies on the use of ultrasound technology. After analyzing the studies that involved ultrasound for treating skin tightening, body tightening, and cellulite reduction, the researchers concluded that this technique (HIFU) is safe and effective.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery say that ultrasound skin tightening usually produces positive results in 2–3 months and that good skin care can help maintain these results for up to 1 year.
A study on the effectiveness of HIFU facials in people from Korea found that the procedure worked best to improve the appearance of wrinkles around the jaws, cheeks, and mouth. The researchers compared standardized photographs of the participants from before the treatment with those from 3 and 6 months after the treatment.
Another study evaluated the effectiveness of a HIFU facial after 7 days, 4 weeks, and 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the participants’ skin elasticity had significantly improved in all the treated areas.
Other researchers studied the experience of 73 women and 2 men who underwent HIFU facials. Physicians evaluating the results reported an 80% improvement in facial and neck skin, while the rate of satisfaction among the participants was 78%.

Can HIFU damage your skin?

HIFU is a safe treatment because the ultrasound energy targets only the upper dermal, lower dermal and SMAS layers of the skin. It does not cause any damage to the Epidermal area (top layer of the skin).

What are the disadvantages of HIFU?

Some people may experience slight swelling and redness right after their treatment. Which will usually disappear quickly. The treatment area may also feel slightly sensitive for a week. HIFU is most suitable for mild to moderate skin laxity.

Who should not use HIFU?

The procedure is best suited for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, and you may need to have the procedure repeated in 1-2 years as the natural aging process takes over. If you're older with more severe skin sagging and wrinkles, HIFU may not be able to eliminate these skin issues.

Do and don'ts after HIFU?

HIFU Aftercare Checklist:
● Avoid The Sun. After the HIFU skin treatment, it is important for you to try to prevent yourself from exposure to sunlight and cold for a few weeks.
● Take A Break From Alcohol. Stop giving your liver excess work.
● Don't Scratch Your Skin.
● Drink More Water.
● Don't Have Hot Showers or Baths.

What age should you get HIFU?

The 30’s, 40's and 50's age group is the most common age for this treatment. The treatment is suitable if you are 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.

How many HIFU treatments will I need?

We recommend 2 sessions spaced 6 months apart. Then repeat 1 session every 1-2 years to maintain results.

Can HIFU be used under eyes?

When used for the undereye area, HIFU can achieve the following benefits. This multi-pronged approach targets and treats the 3 main factors that worsen eyebag appearance : 1.muscle and ligamentous laxity, 2.thin skin and 3.accumulation of under eye fats.

Do celebrities do HIFU?

Often referred to as 'Hollywood HIFU', this non-invasive treatment is fast-becoming the 'go-to' for celebrities looking for a facelift without the surgery.

Can HIFU slim my face?

HIFU can be used for good results. Thread Lifts can be added on for a stronger physical lifting effect to pull up the tissues, and this can lead to an immediate “slimming” effect on the face.

How do you sleep after HIFU?

Do not lie down on your stomach or sleep on your side for the first 7-10 days after the treatment.

How long does it take to recover from HIFU?

HIFU Treatment is considered to be very safe. Although rare, you may experience few side effects immediately after treatment, but they will resolve within 24 hours. These may include redness, slight swelling and tingling.

Is HIFU better than Botox or filler ?

It is a non-invasive technique that uses the body's own generated collagen fibres as a stimulation, whereas botox and fillers involve injecting foreign substances to achieve the same results. Hence HIFU is more natural and long-lasting when compared to botox and fillers.

Is HIFU for face permanent?

HIFU is a permanent fat loss treatment. Using heat, it destroys the fat cells in a specific target area like the stomach or the thighs. Not only does it destroy fat, but it also boosts collagen growth which makes the skin tighter and firmer. HIFU skin tightening treatments are completely non-invasive.

Is it OK to have HIFU after Botox?

According to dermatologist experts, you can still undergo HIFU if you have previously done Botox. However, do ensure that the Botox was done at least 1-2 weeks before your HIFU treatment. It is safe and you will not experience side effects.

Can HIFU affect thyroid?

Hypothyroidism as a direct result of HIFU ablation is very uncommon because the beam is normally focused at the center of the target, without damaging the surrounding functional parenchyma; therefore, the underlying thyroid function remains unaltered after HIFU treatment.

Does HIFU damage muscle?

Intervening tissue, such as the skin, fatty tissues and muscles between the transducer and the HIFU lesions showed no histological evidence of damage.

Why did my HIFU hurt?

Some patients also feel sore around the jawline and cheeks the next day after HIFU treatment. This is a sign that the HIFU treatment is working as the collagen synthesis process has begun. Another possible side effect is temporary numbness on areas treated with HIFU.