HIFU therapy: what it is, benefits and potential risks

Find out what cosmetic HIFU procedures are, what the benefits and risks are, and whether this facelift is right for you. We look at various aspects to help everyone make an informed decision when choosing the right aesthetic treatments.

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Conscious choice and responsible attitude

Beauty and health go hand in hand, so the emphasis should always be on the safety and effectiveness of the procedures. HIFU technology offers real potential for skin tightening, but not every face responds equally to the therapy.

Key questions before choosing a HIFU procedure

Advertisements often idealize images and suggest that HIFU results are guaranteed and almost instantaneous. This can lead a person to make rash decisions. Therefore, it is important to ask yourself key questions:

  • Are our expectations realistic?

  • whether the cosmetic procedure is suitable for our skin type and age;

  • what the long-term effects and side effects may be.

The specialist plays a key role in this process. He or she can objectively assess the condition of the skin, explain realistic results, and guide you to the most appropriate solution.

Cosmetic devices with HIFU technology

Clients can be confused about which machine is best suited for their needs. HIFU procedures are performed with devices offering varying levels of technological advancement – from compact devices for home use to high-tech machines designed for professional practice. Some of the main types of HIFU machines used in cosmetic therapies are:

Vmax

Vmax HIFU works with 2 tips - for face and body (3 mm and 4.5 mm) with continuous radiation (linear instead of spot). Although it does not have a special tip 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

4D HIFU usually works with 3 tips for more precise therapy in 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.

7D HIFU

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.

9D HIFU

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 insignificant.

Designations such as 3D, 4D, 7D, 8D, 9D, 12D HIFU, etc. are marketing distinctions and usually refer to the number and variety of cartridges (replaceable tips with different depths of action) that are used in HIFU procedures. This variety allows HIFU therapies to be adapted to specific treatment areas and individual needs. It is important to know that behind these designations lies the same technology, and the difference is mainly in the variety of so-called cartridges. You can read more about the specifics and varieties of HIFU devices in the article HERE

Tightened skin without surgery

Tips for safe and effective HIFU therapy

The video presents expert guidance on the process of HIFU cosmetic procedures, the correct technique, and the appropriate patients.

HiFu customers

Who are HIFU procedures suitable for?

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 typically achieve the best results.

Group 1

People over 30 years old

Most often, HIFU is recommended for people over 30-40 years of age, when the skin begins to lose its elasticity and the first signs of aging appear.

Group 2

People with moderately loose skin

In fact, mild sagging can be improved with HIFU. For more drastic results, additional help from other methods or cosmetic procedures is usually required.

Group 3

People with a denser facial structure

In these individuals, ultrasound energy more successfully affects the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving facial contours.

Side-by-side comparison of two HIFU cases: an older woman for whom the procedure is suitable, versus a younger woman for whom the treatment is inappropriate.

TOLERANCE

What does it feel like during HIFU procedures?

Despite its non-invasive nature, many people experience different sensations during the HIFU procedure. Pain perception is individual, can vary from person to person, and it is important to know what to expect.

List of sensations that some people may experience during a HIFU procedure:

Frequently asked questions

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 may experience varying degrees of tingling, warmth, or 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 by adjusting 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 HIFU treatment usually appear after about 6 months, when the collagen formation process is complete. 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 affect 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.

For more mature skin or specific needs, multiple HIFU treatments are recommended. A consultation with a dermatologist or esthetician will help determine the most appropriate plan based on your skin condition.

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