What is HIFU? Is it Dangerous? How Much Does It Cost? Does It Really Lift Skin?

HIFU is a technology that lifts facial skin and reduces wrinkles without surgery. In this article, our doctor will provide information on who HIFU is suitable for, its benefits, how long results last, its safety, cost, and whether it’s truly effective. Find out why many celebrities favor it here!

What is HIFU?

HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It’s a technology that delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound waves to deep skin layers, specifically the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer. This is the same layer that surgeons target during a surgical facelift. HIFU aims to lift and tighten skin, reduce wrinkles, and stimulate new collagen production, all without surgery.

How HIFU Works

HIFU uses highly focused, high-intensity ultrasound waves that precisely target deep skin layers without damaging the superficial skin. The energy from the ultrasound waves is converted into heat at temperatures of approximately 60-70°C, leading to two main results:

• Collagen Contraction: The ultrasound waves cause degraded collagen fibers to contract, resulting in immediate skin tightening after the treatment.
• Neocollagenesis (New Collagen Production): When the body detects the heat from HIFU, it initiates cellular repair by producing new collagen and elastin, strengthening the skin in the long term.

Benefits of HIFU

• Non-surgical: No incisions, no scars, no bruising.
• No downtime: You can resume your daily activities immediately after the procedure.
• Natural-looking results: Skin tightening occurs gradually, leading to a natural appearance.
• Suitable for all skin types: It doesn’t affect skin pigmentation, making it suitable for all skin tones.

Limitations

• Results are not permanent: They generally last for about 6-12 months (or 12-18 months with some specific devices).
• Not equivalent to a surgical facelift: For severe skin laxity, surgical options may be more appropriate.
• Requires repeat treatments: To maintain results and address ongoing aging and skin conditions.

How Many Types of HIFU Are There? What’s the Difference?

Currently, there are several types of HIFU, each with different features and technologies. Generally, they can be categorized into three main types:

General HIFU

Features:

• Uses high-intensity focused ultrasound waves for skin lifting.
• Suitable for those looking to reduce facial and neck laxity.
• Provides moderate long-term results (approximately 6-12 months).
• More affordable than newer models.

Disadvantages:

• Efficiency may not be as high as newer HIFU machines.
• May require more frequent repeat treatments to maintain results.

Ultraformer III (Most Popular New-Generation HIFU)

Features:

• Uses Micro & Macro Focused Ultrasound technology.
• Can deliver energy at multiple depths (1.5, 3.0, 4.5 mm).
• Less painful than older HIFU models, but provides clearer results.
• Helps reduce localized fat on the face, such as a double chin.

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost than older models.

Ulthera (Ultherapy) – Premium-Grade HIFU

Features:

• A HIFU that uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V) technology, allowing real-time visualization of skin layers during treatment.
• Provides precise and deeper energy delivery.
• Results can last up to 12-18 months.
• FDA (USA) approved for its high effectiveness.

Disadvantages:

• May cause more discomfort than other models.
• Higher cost than general HIFU.

Comparing HIFU Results with Other Technologies

*Results vary by individual.

Is HIFU Dangerous? Are There Side Effects?

HIFU is not dangerous if performed by an experienced doctor or specialist using a certified machine. It does not cause wounds or bruising because it uses ultrasound energy without damaging the outer skin layer. There is no downtime, allowing you to resume normal activities immediately after treatment.

Potential Side Effects of HIFU:

These symptoms occur as the body recovers and produces new collagen, and they usually resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks.

Who is HIFU Suitable For? What Are the Limitations or Contraindications?

HIFU is a skin-lifting technology suitable for individuals looking to rejuvenate their skin, reduce wrinkles, and lift their face without surgery. It’s appropriate for both men and women who desire natural-looking results and no downtime.

HIFU is Suitable for People with These Concerns:

• Individuals with skin laxity: Such as drooping eyelids, sagging cheeks, or an ill-defined jawline.
• Those wishing to reduce wrinkles: Around the forehead, eyes, nasolabial folds, and neck.
• Those desiring non-surgical skin lifting: No injections, no surgery.
• Individuals with minor facial fat accumulation: Such as a double chin or puffy cheeks.
• Individuals aged 25 and above: Suitable for those starting to experience skin laxity or collagen loss.
• Those wanting to refine their facial contour: HIFU can help define the jawline.

What Age Range is HIFU Best For?

• Ages 25-35: For wrinkle prevention and collagen stimulation to firm the skin.
• Ages 35-50: To reduce deeper wrinkles and lift the face for a more youthful appearance.
• Ages 50+: To restore lax skin to a firmer state, potentially requiring repeat treatments every 6-12 months.

Who is HIFU Not Suitable For?

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: While HIFU has no severe side effects, there are no clear studies on its safety for pregnant women. It’s recommended to wait until after childbirth and cessation of breastfeeding.
• Individuals with open wounds or inflammation in the treatment area: Such as inflammatory acne, fresh wounds, or skin infections. It’s advisable to wait for the wounds to heal before HIFU.
• Individuals with severe skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, or SLE: These conditions can make the skin fragile and sensitive to heat, potentially leading to more side effects than usual.
• Individuals with implanted medical devices like pacemakers or metal in the face: Ultrasound waves may interfere with pacemakers. If you have metal implants in your face, such as metal dental implants, you should inform your doctor before treatment.
• Individuals with diabetes or abnormal blood circulation problems: Skin may take longer to recover. You should consult a doctor before deciding on treatment.
• Individuals taking blood thinners or with hemophilia.
• Those who have undergone facial surgery recently (within 6 months): If you’ve had a facelift or surgery with sutures, allow the wounds to fully heal before HIFU.

Limitations of HIFU You Should Be Aware Of:

• HIFU cannot replace a surgical facelift: While HIFU effectively tightens skin, it does not provide results equivalent to a surgical facelift. It’s best suited for individuals with moderate skin laxity.
• Results take time to appear: You may not see 100% immediate results after HIFU. Skin tightening will begin within 4-8 weeks, with full results visible within 2-3 months.
• Results are not permanent and require repeat treatments: HIFU results last approximately 6-12 months, depending on skin condition. To maintain results for longer, repeat treatments should be done as advised by your doctor.

Which Areas Can HIFU Treat?

Face Lifting & Skin Tightening:

• Forehead: Reduces wrinkles, smooths skin.
• Around the eyes: Reduces under-eye bags, lifts eyebrows for a brighter look.
• Cheeks and jawline: Lifts and tightens skin, refines facial contour.
• Nasolabial folds: Reduces the depth of laugh lines, making the face look younger.
• Double chin: Helps break down fat under the chin, making the chin more defined.
• Neck: Reduces wrinkles and skin laxity in the neck area.

Body and Other Areas:

• Upper arms: Reduces skin laxity in the upper arm area.
• Abdomen: Helps tighten skin after weight loss or fat reduction.
• Thighs and hips: Reduces laxity, tightens contours.

Comparing HIFU Results in Different Areas:

*Results vary by individual.

How Many HIFU Sessions Are Needed?

• For younger individuals (25-35 years old): 1 session per year to stimulate collagen and prevent laxity.
• For individuals aged 35-50: 1-2 sessions per year to rejuvenate collagen and lift the face.
• For individuals aged 50 and above: May need to be done every 6-9 months to maintain results.

HIFU can be repeated if you feel results are diminishing (skin becomes lax again), want to maintain results longer, or if you are over 40 and wish for continuously firm skin.

Is HIFU Painful? Is Downtime Required?

One of the most common questions about HIFU is, “Does it hurt?” and “How long is the downtime?” The answer is that HIFU may cause mild to moderate discomfort, depending on the energy level used and the treated area. However, overall, it’s a procedure that does not require downtime, allowing you to return to your daily life immediately.

How Much Does HIFU Cost?

The price of HIFU can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of HIFU machine, the treated area, the number of shots, and the clinic’s reputation. Generally, HIFU prices range from 5,000 – 100,000 THB per session.

Where to Get HIFU? How to Choose a Safe and Effective Clinic.

• Use authentic, certified HIFU machines: You should verify that the clinic uses HIFU machines approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Authentic HIFU machines, such as Ultraformer III, Ulthera (Ultherapy), often have logos or certification documents.
• Performed by a specialized dermatologist: The clinic should have a specialized doctor with experience in HIFU. Avoid treatments by non-medical personnel, as they may lack knowledge of skin structure and appropriate energy delivery depths.
• Reliable reviews from real users and credible results: You should check reviews from actual clients on the clinic’s website, Facebook, or Google Review. Look at before & after comparison photos to see if the results are genuine.
• Skin assessment before HIFU treatment: A good clinic should offer a skin assessment and consultation with a doctor before treatment. Avoid clinics that rush you into treatment without prior skin analysis.
• Reasonable pricing, not too cheap: If a clinic offers unusually low prices, such as full-face HIFU for 1,999 THB, it might be a sign of using fake or substandard machines.

What Should You Know to Prepare for HIFU?

• Research and choose a certified clinic:
  • Verify that they use authentic machines and that the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor.
  • Check reviews from real users before deciding.
• Stop using exfoliating products at least 3-7 days before HIFU:
  • Avoid creams containing AHA, BHA, Retinol, or high-concentration Vitamin C.
  • This helps reduce skin irritation after HIFU.
• Drink enough water:
  • Well-hydrated skin helps cells recover faster.
• Avoid intense sun exposure for 1 week before the procedure:
  • If sun exposure is unavoidable, apply SPF50+ sunscreen.
• Avoid other facial procedures before HIFU:
  • Avoid laser, IPL, Meso Brightening, or Chemical Peeling for at least 1 week.
  • If you’ve had Botox or Filler injections, wait at least 2 weeks.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking:
  • Refrain from alcoholic beverages and smoking for 48 hours before treatment to prevent skin inflammation.
• Inform your doctor about any underlying medical conditions or allergies:
  • Especially if you are taking blood thinners or have metal implants in your body.

Post-HIFU Care

• Drink plenty of water:
  • Drinking at least 2-3 liters of water daily helps stimulate new collagen production.
• Apply nourishing creams and moisturizers to keep skin hydrated:
  • Use soothing creams like Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramide.
  • Avoid creams with AHA, BHA, Retinol, or high-concentration Vitamin C during the first 3-7 days.
• Use SPF50+ sunscreen daily:
  • Skin may be sensitive to sunlight for 1-2 weeks after HIFU.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
• If swelling and redness occur, apply a cold compress:
  • Mild swelling and redness are normal and usually subside within 1-2 hours.
  • Use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel gently to reduce inflammation.
• Get enough rest and eat nutritious food:
  • Consume foods rich in protein, Vitamin C, and collagen to promote skin recovery.

Can HIFU Be Combined with Other Procedures?

• Botox: Reduces wrinkles and refines facial contour.
  • Can be done immediately after HIFU or 2 weeks before HIFU.
  • HIFU tightens skin, while Botox reduces localized wrinkles.
• Filler: Fills in wrinkles and adds facial volume.
  • HIFU should be done 2 weeks before filler injections.
  • If you’ve already had filler, wait at least 1 month before HIFU.
• Thermage: Skin tightening with radiofrequency (RF) waves.
  • Can be combined, but allow a 1-2 month interval.
  • Thermage focuses on skin tightening and reducing subcutaneous fat, while HIFU focuses on deeper lifting.
• Lasers and skin brightening treatments (e.g., IPL, Pico Laser, Fractional Laser):
  • Can be done, but allow a 1-2 week interval after HIFU.
  • HIFU lifts and tightens, while lasers brighten skin and reduce dark spots.
• Mesotherapy or PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma injections):
  • HIFU should be done 1-2 weeks before Meso injections to prevent ultrasound energy from interfering with the injected substances.

Procedures That Should NOT Be Done Simultaneously with HIFU:

• HIFU and Ulthera should not be done together: They are similar technologies; choose one or the other.
• HIFU and surgical facelift: If you’ve had a facelift, consult your doctor before HIFU.
• HIFU and immediate thread lifting: Allow a 1-2 month interval for the results of each procedure to be clear.

Are There Long-Term Side Effects of HIFU?

Short-Term Side Effects of HIFU (Usually Resolve Within a Few Days):

• Redness or mild swelling: Common, usually resolves within 1-2 hours.
• Slight tightness or facial muscle soreness: Normal symptom caused by energy stimulating collagen.
• May have rare red marks or broken capillaries: Usually caused by excessively high energy.

Rare Long-Term Side Effects That May Occur:

• Temporary facial asymmetry or weakness: May occur if ultrasound energy hits a facial nerve (resolves on its own within 2-4 weeks).
• Uneven or bumpy skin: Usually results from using a non-standardized machine or being performed by an inexperienced individual.
• No visible results or short-lived results: If a fake machine is used or the number of shots is insufficient, results may be unsatisfactory.

How to Reduce the Risk of Long-Term Side Effects:

• Choose a certified clinic that uses authentic machines: Certified machines like Ultraformer III or Ulthera have high safety profiles.
• Have the procedure performed by an experienced doctor: A skilled doctor can apply energy at appropriate levels and avoid critical nerves.
• Follow post-HIFU care instructions: Drink enough water, apply moisturizing cream, and avoid intense sun exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Post-HIFU Care

Can I wear makeup after HIFU?
Yes, immediately after treatment, but use gentle cosmetics and wash your face gently.

Is it normal to feel skin tightness after HIFU?
Yes, it’s normal, as it’s a result of the ultrasound waves stimulating new collagen.

Why does skin appear lifted immediately after HIFU?
This is due to immediate collagen contraction after energy delivery, but full results will be seen in 2-3 months.

Is 100 lines of HIFU effective?
100 lines (100 shots) may yield very minimal or unclear results.