HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to target the layers of skin just below the surface. The ultrasound energy causes the tissue to heat up rapidly.
Once the cells in the targeted area reach a certain temperature, they experience cellular damage. While this may seem counterintuitive, the damage actually stimulates the cells to produce more collagen-a protein that provides structure to the skin.
The increase in collagen results in tighter, firmer skinTrusted Source with fewer wrinkles. Since the high-frequency ultrasound beams are focused on a specific tissue site below the skin surface, there no damage to the upper layers of the skin and adjacent issue.
HIFU may not be appropriate for everyone. In general, the procedure works best on people older than 30 with mild-to-moderate skin laxity.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), HIFU and other nonsurgical alternatives to facelifts have seen a major increase in popularity over the last few years. The total number of procedures performed has increased 64.8 percent between 2012 and 2017.
HIFU has many aesthetic benefits, including:
wrinkle reduction
tightening sagging skin on the neck (sometimes called turkey neck)
lifting the cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids
enhancing jawline definition
Theres no special preparation needed before having an HIFU procedure. You should remove all makeup and skin care products from the target area before treatment.
Here is what to expect at your appointment:
A physician or technician first cleans the target area
They may apply a topical anesthetic cream before starting.
The physician or technician then applies an ultrasound gel.
The HIFU device is placed against the skin.
Using an ultrasound viewer, the physician or technician adjusts the device to the right setting.
Ultrasound energy is then delivered to the target area in short pulses for roughly 30 to 90 minutes.