WHAT IS HIFU AND HOW CAN IT REJUVENATE THE FACE?

Have you come across the term HIFU and been curious about its meaning? HIFU stands for 'High Intensity Focused Ultrasound,' and it refers to a procedure that employs ultrasound to elevate and firm the skin on the face. 

HOW DOES HIFU WORK?

HIFU operates by heating the underlying tissue beneath the skin, stimulating the body's natural collagen production process. Collagen, a protein crucial for maintaining skin firmness and youthfulness, diminishes with age.

 

Microfocused ultrasound energy is utilized in HIFU to reach specific tissue depths at the right temperatures. Various handpieces can target tissues at 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm depths. The 4.5mm depth distinguishes ultrasound technology from alternatives like radiofrequency, as radiofrequency cannot reach this depth.

 

The depth of 4.5mm specifically targets the 'SMAS' layer, the deep muscle layer tightened during facelift surgery. At 3.0mm, it focuses on the connective tissue, strengthening the skin's foundation, while 1.5mm targets the epidermis, refining pores, enhancing skin tone, and reducing fine lines.

WHAT IS ULTHERAPY? 

HIFU is the overarching technology, while Ultherapy is a brand name. Ocean Clinic employs Ultherapy due to its unique ultrasound imaging feature, allowing doctors to scan and analyze the skin during treatment, ensuring a safer experience by avoiding vital structures.

 

Ultherapy, the only FDA-approved HIFU machine for lifting skin and reducing wrinkles on the face, neck, and décolletage, is non-invasive and minimally painful. A single session, beginning with a consultation, involves the application of a numbing cream for around 30 minutes. The treatment, conducted by a qualified medical professional using real-time ultrasound imaging, may cause a warm or tingling sensation but should not be painful.

 

Treatment duration varies based on the area treated and the individual plan. Afterward, patients can resume normal activities immediately. Any initial redness typically fades within hours, and mild side effects like slight swelling, tingling, or tenderness are temporary.

 

WHEN CAN I SEE RESULTS FROM ULTHERAPY?

Ultherapy results become evident over two to three months as new collagen lifts and tightens the skin. While not a facelift duplicate, it provides a gradual, natural-looking alternative, supported by over 50 clinical studies and 90 peer-reviewed papers. Results include an 11% reduction in wrinkles, 19% increase in skin elasticity, 9% improvement in facial lifting, 4.5% increase in moisture content, 27% decrease in pore size, and a 30% increase in dermal density.

 

While Ultherapy's benefits are long-lasting, they won't halt the aging process. Collagen breakdown continues over time, and maintenance may involve touch-up procedures every few years. Ideal candidates for Ultherapy include those interested in age reversal, especially if surgery is not an option or desired.

 

If you're considering HIFU / Ultherapy, contact Ocean Clinic to determine if it's the right treatment for you.