HIFU – high intensity focused ultrasound – is a newer, non-surgical method of lifting facial tissue and removing unwanted fat. HIFU is the technology that underpins the Ultraformer: HIFU and the Ultraformer are the same, with the Ultraformer being a high-performing brand of HIFU machine.
The Ultraformer is one of the more advanced treatment devices in its class, which is why we use it at ENRICH over other, lower-energy machines. The Ultraformer targets three different layers under the skin, while other machines may only target one. This means with the Ultraformer you need fewer treatments for better results.
HIFU is used for skin tightening and fat-removal, with visible improvements at their best about three months post-treatment. The treatments take this long to show results, since collagen production takes about this long, as does the natural removal of damaged fat cells.
According to research, the areas that best respond to HIFU treatments are the jawline, around the mouth, and cheeks. Positive effects include improvements in skin tone, facial contour and skin tightness. HIFU can be used in conjunction with other cosmetic treatments like anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.
Read more about our HIFU and Ultraformer treatments and make an appointment
What is a HIFU treatment best for?
- Lifts and firms the jawline/jowls and cheeks
- Reduces/softens nasolabial folds
- Tightens neck area
- Stimulates skin’s natural healing process
- Improves skin tone
- Improves skin elasticity
- Improves the appearance of crepey skin
- Reduce the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, and loose skin
- Improves the appearance of cellulite
What is a HIFU treatment?
HIFU uses high-intensity ultrasonic waves to exert an effect on underlying cells, without damaging the outer layer of skin or other nearby tissue. Ultrasound is an anti-ageing and fat-removal treatment, with the first demonstration of ultrasound’s powers on facial tissue seen in 2008. Is commonly used as a facial rejuvenation tool to lift, tighten and smooth skin and for body contouring.
HIFU causes microdamage to cells deeper in tissue, which triggers the production and contraction of collagen. This is known as collagen remodelling. Muscles can start to loosen and sag over time – HIFU works to tighten loose muscle too, for the overall tightening effect.
HIFU can be applied anywhere on the body, and works well for cellulite, loose skin after weight loss, and facial rejuvenation.
Like science? Read more about how HIFU works from the researchers themselves.
What a HIFU facial treatment looks like
Your face will be cleansed, and if required for your treatment, an anaesthetic applied if required. An ultrasound gel will be applied to the face, enhancing the device’s action, while allowing smooth gliding over skin. The treatment is then applied with care and precision to the desired areas.
The HIFU treatments start off with a pinprick heating sensation, like a sweat prickle. Some discomfort may be experienced as the ultrasound energy is delivered to your deeper tissue layers, but this is temporary. We will advise you of any pain relief you may require to alleviate discomfort.
After your treatments, there may be some slight swelling, redness or tenderness, which is due to the effect of the treatment and means it’s working. The treatment triggers a healing response in your body, producing a temporary inflammatory response in tissue. This effect should last no longer than 24-48 hours.
You can expect to put aside an hour for a full facial treatment plus another half an hour for consents and pre-discussion & post-treatment instructions.
Results of Ultraformer and HIFU treatments – what to expect
You will immediately notice tighter skin, since collagen fibres are contracted via heat during the treatment. The results take about three months to fully appear, since collagen must be produced and this takes time. Because we continue to age normally, HIFU and Ultraformer results don’t last past a year, so repeat treatments are applied as needed.
You don’t need to do anything differently after treatment – you can wear make-up, exercise, and go about your normal day. We always recommend using a high-protection sunscreen to protect your face from sun damage, particularly after any skin treatment.
Ultraformer and HIFU treatments are best suited to:
- Those seeking anti-ageing solutions for the face or body
- Anyone wanting a non-surgical facelift or skin tightening
- HIFU and Ultraformer treatments will not be performed on anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding
Benefits of HIFU treatments
- HIFU is non-invasive and non-surgical
- No downtime (some mild swelling or tenderness may occur in some cases)
- Gentle but powerful
- Safe
- Customised treatments
- Skin tightening via deep layers of tissue
- Three different settings for different skin depths
- Anyone can benefit from HIFU or Ultraformer treatments
- Usually only one treatment required at a time, however this depends on individual needs
HIFU therapy for the face at ENRICH
There are many benefits of HIFU therapy for the face, with the main outcome being skin tightening and an improvement in skin quality. This tightening starts in the deep layers of collagen, with this reflected in the outer facial skin.
HIFU therapy for the face is useful for sagging jowls around the eyes, neck, chest, and arms. HIFU treatments can help delay further signs of ageing while also maintaining results with repeat treatments six-monthly to annually.
We have the Ultraformer and offer non-surgical skin tightening.
Contact our friendly clinic staff for an appointment
