FAQ
Will it hurt?
The procedure can have moments of discomfort but the power is adjusted so it remains within comfortable levels for most people. Some clients may wish to take paracetamol beforehand.
What will I look like afterwards?
The skin may look slightly red and / or swollen but this wears off quickly. It may feel tingly or tender to the touch. You may feel like you have a bruised jaw. However, these effects usually resolve quickly, within a few hours or days.
How long does it take to see the results?
Sometimes the skin looks a little tighter straight away, but generally final results are seen between 6 weeks and 3 months.
What areas are suitable to be treated with HIFU?
The most commonly treated areas are the face and neck, but most body areas can be treated including the abdomen, back, arms and legs.
How long does the treatment last?
The treatment should generally be repeated each year or two to keep the results obtained.
I have Botox and Fillers, can I still have the treatment?
HIFU dissolves fillers, so should not be carried out close to areas where fillers have been placed.
HIFU can be carried out after Botox, provided it is at least four weeks since the Botox treatment. Botox can be carried out one week after a HIFU treatment.
Are there any people for whom this treatment is not suitable?
It is not suited to people who have:
- pacemakers or other implanted electronical devices;
- muscle wasting diseases including MS;
- blood clotting disorders or those taking blood thinners, including aspirin and warfarin
- had surgery in the area to be treated within the last 12 months
- metal plates or implants in the area to be treated (dental implants are ok)
Are there any clinical trials to demonstrate the efficacy of this treatment
Yes. Check out this study: Park H, Kim F, Kim L, Bo Y, J Ko, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound for the treatment of wrinkles and skin laxity in seven different facial areas. Ann Dermatol . 2015: 27, 6. 688-693
The treatment has also been approved as safe and effective by the FDA, for brow lifts and to improve lines and wrinkles of the upper chest and neckline (décolletage). It is used “off label” in other areas.
Is Ultherapy the same as HIFU?
Ultherapy is the brand name of one of the original companies that made HIFU machines. The treatments are the same.
How does HIFU compare with Pelleve and Endymed?
Pelleve and Endymed use Radio Frequency. HIFU is High Intensity Focused Ultrasound. Whilst both technologies can improve loose skin, Radio Frequency typically needs a course of treatments whereas HIFU only needs one. In addition, HIFU goes deeper into the skin layers than Radio Frequency, so if your main aim is to improve sagging and jowls around the neck and jawline, HIFU would be the better choice. The SMAS layer, which Pelleve and Endymed donot reach, is what is lifted during a surgical face lift.