Frequently asked Questions

What is HIFU?

HIFU is an ultrasound technology which has been FDA cleared for use on the body and face and other medical procedures.

HIFU treatment is a quick, non-surgical procedure targeting wrinkles, lines and skin sagging. It can be used for the face, neck, decolletage, tummy, arms, thighs and buttocks to create a firming effect, tightening and improving skin quality and texture.

The HIFU facelift is part of a growing trend in cosmetic treatments for minimally invasive alternatives to surgery.

How Does HIFU Work?

High -Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) directly delivers heat energy to skin and subcutaneous tissue that can stimulate and renew the skin's collagen and thus consequently improving the texture and reducing sagging of the skin. Collagen is a natural protein that gives skin its youthfulness and elasticity. As we age, gravity pulls the skin down, HIFU jump starts the repair process that produces fresh, new collagen.

Is HIFU Safe?

HIFU has been successfully used in other fields of medicine for the past 50 years of treating cancer. The procedure has been cleared by the FDA after many clinical studies demonstrating safety and a proven track record in tens of thousands of treatments performed safely worldwide.

Are There Any Side Effects?

After having HIFU you may experience slight redness from an hour to a couple of days following the treatment.

A small percentage of clients may have slight swelling tingling or tenderness to the touch, bruising and numbness.

Treating the forehead area, often results in a slight headache, which is resolved with the appropriate medication.

These side effects should be mild and temporary in nature.

The feeling of a muscle workout soreness is common but relieves itself quickly.

What Are The Contra-Indications

• Open wounds or lesions on the face and/or neck
• Severe or cystic acne on the face and/or neck
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Pacemakers and electronic device implants in the treated area. Heart Conditions
• An active systemic or local skin disease that may alter wound healing. Herpes. Autoimmune disease
• Diabetes. Epilepsy. Bell’s palsy
• Blood thinning medications (must stop 1 week prior)
• Pregnant/breastfeeding
• If you have had a surgical facelift, you will need to consult your surgeon before having it done.
• Please avoid Botox/Fillers 4 weeks ahead of your HIFU treatment, Have them done afterwards.
• Facial Threads done within the last 1-2 years can be melted by HIFU
• IPL Laser 2 weeks before treatment
• If you have any of these Contra-indication you must consult your Doctor First for advice.
• Please avoid vitamin A & C 5 days before your treatment.
• Do not exfoliate 5 days before your treatment.
• Do not wear make-up to your appointment.
• Please remove all jewelry in treatment area prior to appointment.

What Is Different About HIFU?

HIFU works equally well for people of all skin colors, in contrast to that of lasers and the intense pulse lights. This treatment targets the upper layers of the skin and dermis for collagen regeneration, via advanced ultrasound energy at the depth of 1.5mm. This is perfect for use around eye and lip areas - avoiding any downtime. HIFU penetrates deeply into the skin and superficially at the same time, it will heat the SMAS up to 60℃~70℃, this heat energy raises thermal coagulation point which accelerates skin rejuvenation process and maximizes tightening effects of the skin layer and the foundational layer, addressed in cosmetic surgery, that lift and lend support to the skin. Lasers work in the superficial layers of the skin

(eg fine lines, wrinkles, pigment changes).

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for HIFU Skin Tightening?

HIFU skin tightening works best for people with mild to moderate skin sagging. However, people with more advanced photodamage and skin sagging can still achieve good results, but will require more treatments. 

Surgery may be a better option.

Is There Any Downtime?

NO. Unlike a face lift you can literally walk in and walk out. 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.

Can I exercise after HIFU?

Strenuous exercise may increase discomfort in the area treated, however it is permitted.

How long does the treatment take?

A full face treatment takes approx. 60 minutes, this does not include the 15-20 minute consultation. A partial face or brow lift treatment can take around 30-40 minutes - neither with any downtime.

How many treatments will I need?

Depending on skin's laxity, some clients will require only one treatment, whereas others will require 2+

Can HIFU Replace A Face Lift?

NO. HIFU is an "uplift" not a "face lift". While it is not a replacement for surgery, it is a viable option for those who do not want a surgical face lift or those looking to prolong the effects of cosmetic surgery.

HIFU treatment achieves mild to moderate lifting with increased firmness and skin texture improvements which can take up to 3 months to reach maximal effect.

Surgical Facelift can achieve dramatic lifting, and results are evident after initial healing and swelling and bruising subside.

HIFU facial cost – Can range up to $1999. With good aftercare, these results can last up to 12 months.

Surgical Facelift cost – Can range up to $30,000 for a face and neck lift. Lasting for up to 10-12 years.

How long will it last?

Many factors come into play. Lifestyle, sun exposure, skin care regime, genetics. This treatment is long lasting, however skin continues to age, so future treatments may be sought for maintenance.

Is HIFU Painful?

Pain thresholds vary from client to client. Therefore discomfort, while the ultrasound energy is being delivered, is normal and must be adapted for each individual client. Discomfort is temporary and is necessary for the collagen-building process to be initiated. You should only have discomfort, not pain. Your clinician will consult with you during your HIFU treatment to ensure your experience is a pleasant one. The key is to stay completely relaxed during the treatment.

Clients typically leave comfortable and excited about the benefits to come!

(Many medical professionals advise Panadol before and after treatment.)

Preparing for Your HIFU Facial

There is no preparation required for the HIFU treatment, although there are skincare and supplements that help maximise your skin’s ability to produce new collagen. These include using skincare containing Vitamins A, B & C, taking collagen powder and zinc, and ensuring optimal gut health. In contrast, smoking, stress and poor sleep or certain medical conditions can interfere with your bodies innate healing and repair responses and decrease the effectiveness of the treatment.

What is involved in a HIFU Treatment?

1. The HIFU skin tightening treatment begins with cleansing the skin. Best to come with no makeup.
2. Before Photos will be taken so you can see your progress at 3-6 months.
3. The HIFU facelift treatment takes 30 – 60 mins. We use 2-4 different depths of focused ultrasound.
4. The ultrasound is delivered in short pulses and adjusted to achieve the desired treatment depth.
5. You may feel areas of prickling sensations, but generally, there is minimal discomfort during the procedure.
6. Immediately after treatment, there is mild redness and commonly accompanied by swelling. This gradually recedes over coming hours. If you have a history of swelling in response to cosmetic treatments you may opt to take an antihistamine before treatment. (on medical advise)
7. If more than 1 treatment is recommended, we will book you for your next session before leaving, as well as a final after picture at 3 months.
8. You can leave and return to normal activity.

Results and Recovery after HIFU Skin Tightening

There is normally no recovery, and HIFU skin tightening is considered safe when performed by a trained therapist.

However, there are some side effects; some are common, while others are rare.

• Redness and swelling are common can last for days, but you can resume normal activities immediately.
• A tingling sensation can occur and may persist for a few weeks
• Rare side effects are temporary numbness, which can last for up to 6 weeks or bruise, which settles over 7-10 days
• We would not recommend strenuous exercise for 24 hours after your treatment.

Results take several weeks to develop, as HIFU skin tightening relies on your skin to produce new collagen to obtain the desired firming and skin textural improvement. Therefore, maximal results are seen at three to six months.

Can a HIFU Facial be Combined with other Therapies?

Yes, and even encouraged, as ultrasound does not treat skin concerns like pigmentation, redness or rosacea and advanced wrinkles or facial sagging. Pigmentation, facial redness and rosacea are treated with skin needling/microchanneling and peels.

Where can't HIFU be used?

• Thyroid gland, thyroid cartilage, and trachea
• Major vessels
• Breast tissue or breast implant or mechanical implants
• Dermal fillers when first done
• Metal stents in the area of treatment (e.g. face, neck, décolleté (centre of chest)
• Pregnant or breast-feeding women (case by case)
• In areas previously treated with injection lipolysis, liposuction, abdominoplasty or other surgery including laparoscopic,
• Where hernia, implanted material, sensory loss or dysesthesia are present.

HIFU treatment is a quick, non-surgical procedure targeting wrinkles, lines and skin sagging. It can be used for the face, neck, decolletage and tummy to create a firming effect, tightening and improving skin quality and texture. The HIFU facelift is part of a growing trend in cosmetic treatments for minimally invasive alternatives to surgery.