HIFU Face Lifting: Who It Suits, Realistic Expectations and Risks

HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is a treatment that focuses ultrasound energy on specific points in the deeper layers without damaging the skin surface. The controlled heat it produces aims to tighten the skin and the supporting tissue beneath it and to support collagen production. It is not a surgical procedure. This article explains who HIFU face lifting suits, realistic expectations and risks.

Who May It Suit?

• People with mild to moderate laxity on the face, jawline and neck
• People looking for a non-surgical method who have realistic expectations

In marked sagging, significant excess skin or very thin skin that has largely lost its elasticity, the expected result may not be achieved; in these cases options such as a thread lift or face lift surgery may be considered.

How Is It Done?

The doctor first assesses the skin and the degree of laxity. The treatment area is cleaned, gel is applied to the device's head and the head is applied to the skin along the planned lines. Heat, a pricking or aching sensation may be felt during the treatment; the doctor takes the necessary measures for comfort. Daily life can usually be resumed immediately after the treatment. The doctor decides whether a repeat treatment is needed and when.

When Do Results Appear?

A mild feeling of tightness may be felt right after the treatment; however, because the main effect depends on collagen production, it appears slowly over weeks and months. Results vary from person to person, and some people may not see a noticeable difference. The effect is not permanent; the ageing process continues.

Who Should Not Have It?

The treatment is not performed during pregnancy or if there is an active infection, an open wound or active acne in the treatment area. People with a pacemaker or another implanted electronic device and those with a metal implant or filler in the treatment area need a doctor's assessment first. Regularly used medicines should be reported in advance to the doctor who will perform the treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Redness, mild swelling, tenderness and tingling are common and usually resolve shortly. Less commonly, bruising, linear redness or burns on the skin, temporary numbness and a hollowed appearance due to loss of facial fat tissue may occur. It is important that the treatment is performed by a doctor or under a doctor's supervision with settings suited to the skin type. If increasing pain, blistering, crusting, loss of sensation or a change in facial movements is noticed, a doctor should be consulted immediately. For more information, see our HIFU and thread lift pages.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın