Skin tightening with High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a relatively new cosmetic treatment for skin tightening that is considered a noninvasive and painless replacement for face lifts. It uses ultrasound energy to stimulate the production of collagen, which results in firmer skin.
The first reported use of HIFU for aesthetic use was in 2008. HIFU was then approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009 for brow lifts. The device was also cleared by the FDA in 2014 to improve lines and wrinkles of the upper chest and neckline (décolletage).
HIFU facial
HIFU is considered a safe, effective, and noninvasive procedure for tightening the facial skin.
Its advantages over a surgical face lift are hard to deny. There are no incisions, no scarring, and no required rest or recovery time. HIFU is also far less expensive than a face lift. Most people see full results three months after their final treatment. If you’re looking for a treatment that is quick, painless, and noninvasive, HIFU is an excellent option compared to a surgical face lift.
HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to target the layers of skin just below the surface. The ultrasound energy causes the tissue to heat up rapidly.
Once the cells in the targeted area reach a certain temperature, they experience cellular damage that stimulates the cells to produce more collagen resulting in tighter, firmer skin with fewer wrinkles.
HIFU may not be appropriate for everyone. In general, the procedure works best on people older than 30 with mild-to-moderate skin laxity. People with photo-damaged skin or a high degree of loose skin may need several treatments before seeing results.
Benefits of high-intensity focused ultrasound
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), HIFU and other nonsurgical alternatives to facelifts have seen a major increase in popularity over the last few years. The total number of procedures performed has increased 64.8 % between 2012 and 2017.
HIFU has many aesthetic benefits, including:
- wrinkle reduction
- tightening sagging skin on the neck (sometimes called turkey neck)
- lifting the cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids
- enhancing jawline definition
- tightening of the décolletage
- smoothing the skin
While the ultrasound energy is being applied, you might feel heat and tingling. You can take a pain medication if it’s bothersome.
You’re free to go home and resume your normal daily activities right away after the procedure.
HIFU for face cost
According to ASAPS, the average cost for a nonsurgical skin tightening procedure in 2017 was $1,707. This is a drastic difference from a surgical facelift procedure, which carried an average cost of $7,562. Ultimately, the cost will depend on the area being treated and your geographic location, as well as the total number of sessions needed to achieve the desired results.
HIFU treatment for face side effects
HIFU is considered very safe if performed by a trained and qualified professional.
Some slight redness or swelling may occur, but it should subside quickly. A light tingling sensation of the treated area may persist for a few weeks.
Rarely, you may experience temporary numbness or bruising, but these side effects usually go away after a few days.
The best part about this treatment is that you’re able to resume your normal activities immediately after you leave the provider’s office.
HIFU is considered a safe, effective, and noninvasive procedure for tightening the facial skin.
Its advantages over a surgical face lift are hard to deny. There are no incisions, no scarring, and no required rest or recovery time. HIFU is also far less expensive than a face lift.
Most people see full results three months after their final treatment.
If you’re looking for a treatment that is quick, painless, and noninvasive, HIFU is an excellent option compared to a surgical face lift.