hifu machine

FAQ: 

What is HIFU?
HIFU is a non-surgical treatment that uses ultrasound to actually lift loose or sagging skin on the face, brow,neck and chest without any downtime.

What is unique about this procedure?
HIFU is the only non-invasive treatment that can specifically target the deep foundation below the skin that is addressed in cosmetic surgery without cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. It is also the only procedure to use ultrasound imaging, which allows us to actually see the layers of tissue we target during treatment and ensure the energy is deposited precisely to where it will be most effective.

What kind of technology does HIFU use?
HIFU uses tried-and-true ultrasound technology to lift skin on the face,brow,neck and chest.

What does the ultrasound therapy do?
HIFU deposits focused ultrasound energy below the surface of the skin to stimulate the body's creation of new collagen. As a result, skin will actually begin to lift and tone over time.

What does collagen do? How does HIFU stimulate the creation of collagen?
Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness by keeping it firmed, toned and elastic. As we age, collagen loses its elasticity and its ability to stand up to the effects of gravity that pull the skin downward. HIFU jump starts a natural repair process that produces fresh, new collagen.

Is HIFU surgery?
No.HIFU is a non-invasive procedure that addresses the skin and support layers below it, but doesn't entail cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. 

How is HIFU different from lasers?
Lasers typically address issues in the superficial layers of the skin (e.g. fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes). HIFU addresses the deep skin layer and the foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery that lift and lend support to the skin. Therefore, the two technologies are quite complementary!

Is HIFU safe?
Over 200,000 treatments have been performed safely worldwide. In addition, ultrasound energy has a proven track record, with use in the field of medicine for more than 50 years.

Who is a good candidate for HIFU?
A good candidate for HIFU is someone with skin that has "relaxed" to the point of looking, and often feeling, less firm. Sagging skin on the eyebrows, on the neck or under the chin, for instance, are often the first signs of "maturing" skin. Typically, those in their thirties and older who have mild to moderate skin laxity are candidates.
While HIFU is not a replacement for a surgical face lift, there are many people who want some lifting but are not ready for surgery, either mentally, financially or logistically. There are also younger people who want to "stay ahead of the game" as well as those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.

How long does the HIFU treatment take?
A treatment typically takes 60-90 minutes and does not involve any downtime.

What problem areas does HIFU target? What kind of results do you get?
HIFU addresses mild to moderate loose or sagging skin on the face and neck. Specifically, by reconditioning and renewing the skin from within, HIFU will lift the brow and give a more refreshed look overall. HIFU is also used to lift and tighten sagging skin on the neck and under the chin, addressing the "turkey gobbler" and "double chin," which many patients are trying to eliminate.

How long until I see results?
Patients may enjoy some initial effect but the ultimate lifting and toning will take place over 2-3 months, as tired collagen is replaced with new, more elastic collagen. As this collagen-building process continues, further improvements can appear up to 6 months following a procedure.

Will I need more than one treatment?
The majority of patients only need one treatment; however, some may benefit from more than one treatment (depending on how much laxity they have and their body's own biological response to the ultrasound and collagen-building process). Your physician will be able to recommend the right treatment plan for your needs.

Is there any downtime?
HIFU is an entirely non-invasive procedure and as such, there is no downtime. You are able to return to your normal activities right away, and there are no special measures you need to take.

Will I feel the ultrasound during the treatment?
Yes. What you are feeling during the treatment is actually tiny amounts of focused ultrasound energy being deposited below the surface of the skin.

What does it feel like?
Patients have noted there can be some discomfort while the ultrasound energy is being delivered, but it is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated.

Is HIFU painful?
Comfort thresholds vary from patient to patient, but there can be some discomfort while the ultrasound energy is being delivered. This is temporary and a positive signal that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Patients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!
Exciting advancements have recently been implemented, including a new-and-improved treatment approach and update to the procedure's System, HIFU Amplify, which is proven to increase patient comfort of the procedure without impacting efficacy. Of course, your practitioner will consult with you prior to your skin treatment to make your experience as pleasant as possible.

Are there any side effects?
There may be slight redness for up to an hour or so following the treatment, and a small percentage of patients may have slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to touch, but these are mild and temporary in nature. There is always the possibility for other less common post-procedural effects, which your practitioner will review with you.