What is HIFU technology and how does it work?

HIFU is a non-invasive treatment approved by the FDA used to tighten the skin. Focused ultrasound energy targets the layers of skin just below the surface into 3 different levels:

• First level targets deeply on the muscle fascia (SMAS superficial muscular aponeurotic system), causes a slight inflammation and eventually leads to muscle contraction. It is the area where the plastic surgeon "stretches" in a surgical face lift.
• Second level is the skin dermis which is stimulated to produce collagen and elastin.
• Finally, it acts completely on the surface of the skin and helps to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

A three-dimensional tightening takes place. With the production of collagen and elastin and the "stretching" of the muscle, lift of the face, neck and décolletage is achieved. Most people see full results three-six months after their treatment.

Which are the indications for Hifu treatment?

Hifu is used for:

• wrinkle reduction
• lifting the cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids
• enhancing jawline definition
• tightening sagging skin on the neck (sometimes called turkey neck)
• tightening of the décolletage
• smoothing the skin

And less often, for tightening of arms, abdomen, thighs.

What is the treatment process?

In some cases the treatment may be annoying or even painful and painkillers are required prior to the treatment. Ultrasound gel is applied and ultrasound energy is then delivered to the target area in short pulses for roughly 30 to 90 minutes It usually takes 60 minutes for the face and about 15 minutes for the eyebrows.

How does the skin look like after the treatment?

There is a mild redness that lasts 30-60 minutes. There is no pain immediately after the treatment and no recovery time and the patient can return to his daily routine. Many patients experience slight "discomfort", "numbness" at jaw line (for facial treatments), which can last up to three weeks.

How many sessions do I need?

Usually only one session is required. Most people see results 2 months after their treatment and the final results in 6 months. The results can last up to two years. That depends on the severity of sagginess. People with mild to moderate skin loosening are good candidates for this procedure.

In which cases is it contraindicated?

• In pregnant or lactating women
• In people suffering from: hemorrhagic disorder or hemostatic dysfunction, active systemic or localized skin disease that affects the healing process, herpes simplex, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, epilepsy, Bell's palsy.

Can it be combined with other aesthetic procedures?

Hifu can be combined with hyaluronic acid fillers, RF, BBL skin-tyte (sciton), mesotherapy, autologous mesotherapy (ACR).

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