High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), uses precise medical-grade ultrasound energy for non-surgical face lifting and skin tightening. The Ultraformer III HIFU is a 3rd generation HIFU machine offering higher power, lesser discomfort, increased safety, and clinically proven results.
HIFU Treatment is Dr Edwin's first choice for non-invasive face lifting.
Focused ultrasound energy waves are produced by the transducer handpiece targeting 4 different levels of the skin.
Heat is generated at that specific level, starting a thermal coagulation process which to stimulate collagen fibres to thicken and shorten producing a tightening and lifting effect of the skin.
For lifting, the SMAS (superficial muscular aponeurotic system) layer is specifically targeted with the 4.5mm transducer. The SMAS layer is a crucial support structure of the face. In fact, surgical facelifts by plastic surgeons target this exact layer to achieve a face lifting effect.
With age, the SMAS layer loses its elasticity and results in skin laxity, jowl formation and deepening of the nasolabial folds. Stimulating collagen production and tightening this layer with a HIFU treatment allows us to achieve a “Medical Facelift”.
At a depth of 1.5mm and 3.0mm, thermal energy triggers collagen remodelling leading to tighter skin, improved fine lines and wrinkles and smoother skin texture.
The most popular treatment indication for HIFU is the face and neck lift. By stimulating one's own collagen production through the layers of the skin, HIFU delivers natural-looking skin lifting and tightening results.
Depending on the setting used, HIFU face lift treatments are able to "melt" facial fats while tightening the area simultaneously. This is very useful for V-shaped face contouring, jowl reduction and treating double chins.
Eyebags can be targeted and treated with HIFU by tightening the orbital retaining ligament as well as reduction of infraorbital fat (fats found under the eye).
HIFU treatments are also able to effectively treat cellulite, skin laxity and stretch marks, perfect for post-pregnancy mums!
To reduce discomfort, oral painkillers are prescribed and a strong numbing cream is applied for 30 minutes.
Dr Edwin will develop a customised HIFU treatment plan after discussing with you about the areas to focus on. Depending on the size/number of areas treated, treatment duration may vary between 30 to 90 minutes.
An aching feeling / mild discomfort may be experienced during the procedure and may last up to 1 week. No side effects are associated with getting a HIFU treatment.
Downtime is minimal. Some patients may have redness lasting a few days. We recommend applying our Intensive Recovery Cream to accelerate the healing process.
Results are natural and will gradually be seen over 3 to 6 months. HIFU treatments should be done once a year for maintenance.
Surgical facelift or going under the knife used to be the only option for facelifting and tightening of sagging skin. However surgery has a higher risk of complications such as infection, scarring and is associated with a longer recovery period.
With the introduction of HIFU facelifts, facelifting and skin tightening benefits can now be achieved with much lesser risks and downtime. HIFU is also less costly than surgery.
Comparing results of HIFU facelifts with Surgical facelifts, HIFU tends to deliver more natural looking results. However, for those who desire instant lifting and dramatic results, facelift surgery will still be the recommended treatment.
For younger patients who desire facial slimming instead of facelifting, Ultraformer 3 HIFU is able to melt facial fats, helping to reduce the appearance of chubby cheeks for a more contoured, V shaped face.
HIFU face slimming is recommended to be combined with Jaw Slimming Btx as well as Chin and Jawline Fillers for best results.