What is a HIFU and is it right for me?

HIFU, or a high intensity focused ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment which can significantly tighten and lift the skin, reduce the signs of ageing and improve overall skin tone in as little as one treatment.

HIFU is ideal for patients concerned with mild-to-moderate signs of ageing and laxity of the skin.

So how does it work?

HIFU uses ultrasound technology to create a heat source below the dermis and the SMAS layer. No other technology can target these layers deep within the skin in a non-invasive procedure.

Heating the tissue to a certain temperature causes it to contract and tighten, whilst also forming new collagen.

What areas can be treated?

Whilst a HIFU treatment is predominantly designed for general anti-ageing results on the face, there are several other benefits that can be achieved by using high energy waves to target specific areas of the face and body. These include:

Face

Forehead and frown lines

Crows feet

Wrinkles under the eyes

Lift drooping eyelids or eyebrows

Lifting the cheeks

Tightening sagging skin on the neck

Tightening the jawline or pre-jowl area

Body

Double chin

Arms

Stomach

Knees

Decolletage

What happens during the treatment?

The treatment starts off with a relaxing facial cleanse and application of a gel. Your practitioner then uses a handheld device to emit the ultrasound wave in short, manageable bursts.

A local anaesthetic may be applied before the treatment if appropriate to reduce any discomfort in more sensitive areas.

That said, most patients report just a mild sensation during the HIFU.

Each treatment session will typically last between 30-90 minutes, depending on what areas you are having treated.

Is it suitable for me?

In general, HIFU treatments are best suited to patients over the age of 30 with mild-to-moderate skin laxity. A skin consultation with us can help to decide if you fit within this range.

More mature skin types with a higher degree of loose or saggy skin may need more treatments or are often more suitable for surgery in order to achieve noticeable results.

HIFU is also not suitable for those who are:

Pregnant

Suffering with severe acne

Fitted with pacemakers

Fitted with metal implants

Blood disorders

Is there any downtime or side effects?

HIFU treatments do not require any preparation and there is no recovery time, meaning you can go about your daily activities straight away. Some patients do experience redness and swelling although this subsides quickly.

How many treatments will I need?

Every patient is different. Your skin type, age and goals will all influence how many treatment sessions of HIFU you may need. Results can often be seen from as little as one treatment, but for

longer-lasting, impactful results more treatments may be recommended.

Can I have HIFU as well as injectables?

Absolutely! A combination of treatments is often advised. You do need to leave 2 weeks before having HIFU after anti-wrinkle injections and it is advised to wait a couple of months after having dermal fillers.

When will I see the results?

Some patients see an instant result, although typically you should start to see results as early 3-4 weeks post procedure. Your skin elasticity and texture will continue to improve for up to the next 3-6 months as more collaged is produced.

If you follow the treatment plan recommended to you including any aftercare and take-home skincare routines, treatment results will often last up to a year.

For more information on HIFU and whether it may be suitable for your skin goals and type, call

Butterfly Aesthetics on 01924 682261.