What is HIFU
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that uses ultrasound energy to heat targeted skin cells deep within the layers of the skin. The heat generated from the ultrasound waves causes controlled damage to the cells, triggering the body’s natural healing process. This healing process stimulates the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for maintaining the skin’s structure and elasticity.
Benefits of HIFU
HIFU facials offer several cosmetic benefits, including:
Tightening the Skin on the Neck:
- The ultrasound energy targets the deeper layers of the skin, promoting collagen production and resulting in a firmer, more lifted appearance of the neck.
Reducing the Appearance of Jowls:
- By stimulating collagen production, HIFU can help to tighten the skin around the jawline, reducing sagging and the appearance of jowls.
Lifting Drooping Eyelids or Eyebrows:
- The treatment can lift and tighten the skin around the eyes, helping to elevate drooping eyelids and eyebrows for a more youthful appearance.
Smoothing Wrinkles on the Face:
- The increased collagen production helps to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, providing a more even and youthful complexion.
Smoothing and Tightening Chest Skin:
- HIFU can also be used on the décolletage to tighten and smooth the skin, addressing signs of aging and improving overall skin texture.
Body Areas Treated with HIFU
How HIFU Works
Ultrasound Energy Delivery:
- Focused ultrasound energy is delivered to specific depths within the skin without harming the surface.
- The targeted energy heats the tissue rapidly.
Cellular Damage and Collagen Production:
- The heat causes cellular damage in the target areas, triggering the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
- Collagen production is increased as the body works to repair the damaged cells.
Gradual Improvement:
- The effects of the treatment build gradually over time as collagen continues to be produced.
- Optimal results can typically be seen over a period of 2 to 3 months.
Suitability and Considerations
Ideal Candidates: HIFU is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity and localised fat deposits. It may not be as effective for those with significant skin sagging or very large fat deposits.
Multiple Sessions: Depending on the area being treated and the desired results, multiple sessions may be needed.
Consultation: It is important to have a thorough consultation with a qualified professional to determine if HIFU is the right treatment for your specific needs and goals.
HIFU is a versatile treatment that can be used on various areas of the body to achieve skin tightening, fat reduction, and improved contours, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures.
Contraindications:
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique. There are several contraindications for HIFU, meaning certain conditions or situations where its use is not recommended. These contraindications include:
1. Pregnancy: HIFU should not be used in pregnant women due to potential risks.
2. Pacemakers or Electronic Implants: Patients with pacemakers or other electronic implants should avoid HIFU to prevent interference with the device’s function.
3. Metal Implants: Metal implants in the treatment area can interfere with the ultrasound waves, potentially causing heating of the metal and damage to surrounding tissues.
4. Severe Cardiovascular Conditions: Patients with severe heart conditions may be at risk due to the stress of the procedure.
5. Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy may have an increased risk of bleeding during or after the procedure.
6. Active Infections or Skin Conditions: HIFU should be avoided in areas with active infections, open wounds, or severe skin conditions to prevent worsening of these issues.
7. Tumour Characteristics: For cancer treatment, certain characteristics of the tumour, such as its size, location, and type, may make HIFU inappropriate.
8. Severe Respiratory Conditions: Patients with severe respiratory diseases might be at risk due to the necessity of remaining still during the procedure.
9. Poor General Health: Patients in poor overall health may not be suitable candidates for HIFU due to the stress it places on the body.
Conclusion
HIFU facials are a popular option for individuals seeking non-invasive skin tightening and lifting treatments. By harnessing the power of ultrasound energy, HIFU stimulates the body’s natural production of collagen, leading to smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin. Whether addressing sagging skin, wrinkles, or drooping eyelids, HIFU offers a safe and effective solution with minimal downtime.
Prices from £150