
Find out what HiFu procedures are, what the benefits and risks are, and whether this non-surgical facelift is right for you. We look at different aspects to help everyone make an informed decision.
Beauty and health go hand in hand, so we emphasize safety and effectiveness. HiFu procedures promise impressive skin rejuvenation capabilities, but they are not a universal solution for everyone. Advertisements often create idealized images and suggest that results are guaranteed and immediate, which can lead us to make an ill-considered decision. It is important to ask ourselves key questions: are our expectations realistic and is the procedure suitable for our skin type and age? It is also a good idea to consider the potential long-term effects and possible side effects. Awareness and conscious choice are fundamental to avoid disappointment and unnecessary risks.
Often, customers can be confused about which machine is best for their needs. Devices using HiFu technology come in a variety of sizes and configurations – from small devices for home use to professional machines with advanced technology. The designations 4D, 7D, 9D, 12D are used as marketing distinctions and usually refer to the number of available tips that penetrate the skin to different depths. Some of the main types of HiFu machines are:
Vmax HiFu works with 2 nozzles - for face and body (3 mm and 4.5 mm) with continuous radiation (linear instead of spot). Although it does not have a special nozzle for the eye area, the machine is suitable for people looking for mild skin tightening and a lower risk of burns, pain and nerve injuries.
4D HiFu usually works with 3 tips for more precise therapy of different layers of the skin. Unlike 7D HiFu, the ultrasound waves in 4D HiFu cover a wider area and are suitable for treating larger areas and a more general effect.
This technology uses up to 7 different tips that penetrate the skin at different depths (e.g. 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm and 4.5 mm) and are suitable for treating specific areas of the face and body. The procedure provides the opportunity for more precise and targeted treatment.
It usually includes 9-10 tips, which allows for faster treatment of larger areas. The main advantage is the greater number of impact points per pulse. For salons it is more convenient and cost-effective, but for clients the difference in the final result compared to 7D HiFu is minimal.
HiFu procedures are widely available, but they are not suitable for everyone and the effects may vary according to individual characteristics. See which groups of people usually achieve the best results.
It is most often recommended for people over 30-40 years of age, when the skin begins to lose its elasticity and the first signs of aging appear.
In reality, mild relaxation can be improved, but more drastic results may require additional help from other methods or cosmetic procedures.
In these individuals, ultrasound energy more successfully affects deeper tissues, stimulating collagen production and improving facial contours.
Despite its non-invasive nature, many people experience different sensations during the procedure. Pain perception is individual, can vary from person to person, and it is important to know what to expect. Here is a list of sensations that some people may experience during a HiFu procedure:
It is not recommended for people with certain medical conditions to undergo a HiFu procedure. Contraindications include:
Blood diseases
Active herpes
Autoimmune diseases
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Pacemakers and electronic implants
Metal implants in the facial area, excluding dental implants
Taking anticoagulants
Pregnancy, nutrition
Open wounds, skin damage
Severe forms of acne on the face and neck
Oncological or severe endocrine diseases
Active systemic or local skin diseases in which the skin regeneration process is impaired
Redness after the procedure, which lasts for several hours.
Swelling or peeling, which may last for several days.
Reduced skin sensitivity may be felt.
Pigmentation may occur.
Minor hematomas.
Nerve endings may be sensitive.
Reduction of the fat layer.
No effect.
You may experience burning and tingling of the skin. Pain in the treated area, which may last up to two weeks.
Headache.
Yes, people experience varying degrees of tingling, warmth, or a feeling of tightness during the procedure, especially in sensitive areas. This is normal as HiFu targets the deeper layers of the skin. The discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with adjustments to the intensity of the device.
Avoid heavy chemical peels 4 weeks before the procedure and microdermabrasion 2 weeks before the procedure.
Avoid active skin care products such as peeling products with vitamin A, vitamin C and AHA for 5 days before and after treatment.
If multiple injections have been made (hyaluronic acid, botulinum toxin, collagen or biostimulation injections, mesotherapy), there should be an interval of at least 4 months before starting the HIFU procedure. HiFu generates heat energy, which can accelerate the breakdown of fillers or affect the effect of Botox and other substances.
Avoid extreme cold and heat
On the day of the procedure, you should not wash your face with hot water.
For two days after the procedure, you should avoid visiting a sauna and excessive sweating, as well as not performing skin peeling procedures for one week.
Avoid direct sunlight.
Avoid taking anticoagulants, as they can slow down the recovery of your skin.
Use sunscreen.
Drink plenty of water.
Use a fragrance-free facial cleanser to cleanse your skin.
Apply a gentle moisturizer or mask to your skin.
Try to get enough sleep for about 6-8 weeks.
It is recommended not to drink alcohol for the first 2 days.
One of the great advantages of HiFu procedures is that there is no visible recovery period. However, slight redness or a feeling of sensitivity in the treated area is possible, which subsides over time. It is recommended to avoid direct sun exposure and heavy cosmetic products for at least 48 hours after the procedure.
Immediate effect (within 24 hours after the procedure)
After the procedure, some people may notice a slight lifting and tightening of the skin. However, this is more of a temporary effect due to the initial inflammation and shrinkage of the tissues.
Medium-term effect (4-8 weeks after the procedure)
The most noticeable changes begin to occur during this period. The body actively synthesizes new collagen and elastin, resulting in smoother and firmer skin.
Long-term effect (up to 6 months after the procedure)
The full effect The results of the HiFu procedure usually appear after about 4-6 months, when the collagen formation process is complete. The results can last from 1 to 2 years, depending on individual skin care and age.
⚠️ Important factors:
Age and skin condition
Genetic features
Following post-procedure care recommendations
The number of procedures (for some clients, follow-up sessions are recommended for optimal effect).
The duration of the effect of the HiFu procedure depends on individual skin characteristics and lifestyle. Typically, the results last between 12 and 24 months, but for some clients the effect may be shorter or longer.
⚠️ Factors that influence duration:
Age and skin condition: More mature skin may need maintenance treatments more frequently.
Lifestyle: Smoking, stress, and excessive sun exposure can reduce the duration of results.
Skin care: Daily hydration, the use of products with sun protection, and quality cosmetics help maintain the effect.
Maintenance treatments: To prolong the effect, maintenance treatments are often recommended every 6 to 12 months.
Usually one procedure is enough for a visible effect, but for more mature skin or specific needs, 2-3 sessions are recommended with an interval of 6 to 8 weeks. A consultation with a beautician will help determine the most appropriate plan according to the condition of your skin.