What is HIFU? Is it dangerous? Does it really lift and tighten the face? How many types are there?
Is Hifu (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) effective? What can it help with? Will 100 shots of Hifu show results? Are you experiencing any of these problems? Sagging jawline, undefined facial contours, loss of cheek volume, deep and tired-looking under-eye circles, prominent nasolabial folds, downturned corners of the mouth? If you have even one of the above problems, it indicates sagging skin that is reducing your confidence. As you approach your 30s, your facial skin will begin to sag noticeably.
Nowadays, there are many technologies that help to tighten the skin. The choice of device or method depends on each individual's skin condition. Facial tightening technologies help rejuvenate the skin in different layers. One of the most popular skin tightening devices currently is Hifu.
What is Hifu?
HIFU is an innovative facial and body lifting treatment. Its key features include facial lifting and skin tightening, along with collagen production, helping to restore a youthful appearance and make you look younger.
HIFU stands for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound. It's a skin tightening device that works by using ultrasound waves, developed from medical pregnancy ultrasound scans, to penetrate different skin layers. This causes the skin layers to contract, similar to sutures in the tissue, resulting in a facelift. The result is a firmer, more youthful appearance. It can be used on the face, chin, neck, upper arms, and thighs to effectively tighten facial and body contours. It restores radiance, stimulates collagen and elastin production, increasing skin elasticity, reducing wrinkles, and tightening pores. The result is smoother, clearer, and softer skin naturally.
How does Hifu work?
For those who are experiencing sagging or loose facial skin and want to try HIFU but are unsure if it's really effective, or don't know what HIFU technology is, you can find the answers here to help you make an informed decision.
HIFU, an ultrasound technology for skin tightening, can be used on the entire face, as well as the upper arms, thighs, and abdomen. The number of shots required varies from person to person, depending on the doctor's discretion. This treatment stimulates collagen production in the skin using ultrasound energy. HIFU can be used on the face and various areas of the body, with the following popular areas:
- Hifu treatment for the forehead and face to tighten skin and define the jawline.
- Hifu treatment for the neck and chin helps reduce accumulated fat and sagging skin under the chin.
- HIFU treatment around the eyes helps reduce sagging, reduce under-eye bags, and tighten the eyelid skin.
- HIFU for arms helps reduce fat and tighten skin in the arm area.
HIFU is a device that produces high-intensity, focused ultrasound waves, known as MMFU. This involves selectively delivering micro- and macro-focused acoustic energy to specific depths within the skin, reaching the SMAS layer (the superficial musculoskeletal system).
The HIFU process works as follows:
- HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a skin tightening technology that works by delivering focused ultrasound waves deep into the skin to break down old, deteriorated collagen. This also stimulates the body to produce new, stronger collagen, resulting in tighter, lifted skin.
- MMFU is a technology that delivers two types of energy: Micro Focused Ultrasound (MFFU) to the subcutaneous layer. This creates tiny heat points of 65-70 degrees Celsius with a diameter of 0.5-1 millimeter in the skin layer being treated. The focused ultrasound waves can penetrate the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System), the layer above the muscle layer, which other current technologies cannot achieve except through surgery, Ulthera, and Thermage. Thermage This device can release high-frequency sound waves into the subcutaneous layer, converting them into heat that can break down excess fat. It also stimulates collagen production and helps to tighten and firm the body in the treated area.
Hifu results
HIFU treatment is not surgery, and the results are not permanent. Patients need to have repeat treatments to maintain the results. After the first treatment, repeat sessions are recommended to stimulate collagen production in the dermis. The HIFU machine delivers energy to three depths across the face: 13 mm, 4.5 mm, and 3 mm. In some cases, more or fewer shots may be needed depending on the individual patient's needs. However, in the opinion of our doctors, an appropriate number of shots across the entire face is best for achieving optimal and long-lasting results. If you are unsure which technique is best for facial contouring or addressing sagging skin, you can consult with our facial contouring specialists at any Romrawin Clinic branch. You can also inquire about HIFU pricing or promotions online 24/3.
Is Hifu dangerous?
The working principle of Hifu skin tightening uses ultrasound waves developed from medical ultrasound scans for pregnancy. These waves are highly safe and do not damage the outer layers of the skin (because Hifu uses high-frequency sound waves, not lasers or light waves). These waves are not harmful to the eyes, allowing for direct lifting and tightening of the under-eye area. With the special techniques developed by the doctors at Romrawin Clinic, the procedure is painless and delivers noticeable results.
How long does Hifu take to show results?
HIFU facial contouring takes approximately 30 minutes and involves the following steps:
- Facial cleansing
- Applying ultrasound gel.
- The doctor performed the treatment with Hifu.
- Cleanse your face.
- Apply moisturizer and sunscreen.
For HIFU facial lifting, generally, about 30% of results can be seen immediately after treatment, with full results visible within 1 month as the skin gradually produces collagen within 3 weeks. The results last 3-6 months, and doctors recommend 2-3 treatments per year.
Who is Hifu suitable for?
Hifu (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is suitable for those with moderate facial wrinkles who are afraid of needles or pain, have limited time, and are typically aged 25-35 years and older. It's also ideal for those who want to lift and tighten their face, lift their eyebrows, reduce a double chin, or tighten their jawline. The results are gradual and natural, and it's suitable for those with the following skin problems:
- People with sagging facial skin.
- Skin is not firm and has wrinkles, such as those under the eyes and in the cheeks.
- For those who want a more defined jawline and to reduce a double chin.
- For those who want to reshape their face for a slimmer look without surgery.
- Those who want to maintain a youthful appearance on their face.
The advantage of HIFU face lifting is that it's needle-free, meaning there are no needle marks or bruising after treatment, and you can resume your daily activities immediately afterward without any downtime.
For HIFU, side effects are very minimal compared to other skin tightening treatments, especially when using standardized equipment and performed by an experienced physician. Using substandard equipment with unstable energy levels may lead to undesirable side effects after treatment.
How many types of Hifu are there?
Nowadays, Hifu (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) machines can be found in many beauty clinics. But how do we know which machine is good and meets standards? Let's get to know Hifu machines and find out how many types of Hifu machines there are, and where is the best place to get Hifu treatment.
Currently, Hifu machines are divided into four types based on energy level, type of treatment head, country of manufacture, and brand. To make it easier to understand, I will explain briefly as follows:
1. Hifu systems are categorized according to energy level.
Energy is delivered in small dots measuring 0.5 mm to 1 mm, with a constant energy level. These dots resemble a series of tiny specks arranged in a straight line beneath the skin. When fired, they cause tissue contraction along the direction of the line. The doctor can design a vector pattern for firing, creating a straight line to lift and tighten the skin in the desired area. The heat energy reaches 60°C-70°C without overheating the upper skin layers or causing burns.
2. Hifu systems are categorized according to the type of Hifu treatment head.
It can be used to treat any area where you want to tighten the skin, with various treatment heads depending on the depth of skin in that area.
- The 1.5-2.0 mm applicator head is used on the upper layers of the skin, helping to reduce wrinkles and shallow lines.
- The 3.0 mm depth applicator is used on the middle layer of the skin to help reduce fat and cellulite, tighten the face, and reduce skin sagging.
- The 4.5 mm depth applicator is used on the SMAS layer of the skin, which is normally tightened during facelift surgery. It can lift the cheeks, double chin, and neck.
3. Hifu models categorized by country of manufacture.
Currently, Hifu machines are manufactured in many countries. The most popular is from the USA because it is the original, first model in the world, certified safe and meeting European standards. Following closely behind are machines from Korea and China, in that order.
However, most general beauty clinics tend to use machines manufactured in China because they are cheaper. Chinese Hifu machines look similar to Ulthera machines, but after use, there's a risk of facial burns, scalds, and mouth sores because the energy from these machines is unstable and inconsistent.
4. Hifu treatment types categorized by brand.
There are many brands and grades of HIFU machines. In terms of quality, the best brand is Ultraformer III, followed by brands like Exilis, Smazlift, Sygmalift… and many lower-grade HIFU machines. Compared to ordinary HIFU machines, Ultraformer III focuses on small points (0.3-0.5 mm). This is one reason why ordinary HIFU machines cannot deliver large energy pulses; their lower efficiency means that focusing on larger pulses results in inconsistent energy delivery and a risk of skin burns.
Hifu machine with Ultraformer III technology.
Ultraformer III is...
Ultraformer III is a HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) device that uses technology to tighten facial skin and break down subcutaneous fat. It's considered the best model after Ulthera , capable of delivering energy deep into the SMAS layer, the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts. It can deliver energy to all subcutaneous layers, producing high-intensity, high-frequency sound waves. It's safe, leaves no wounds after treatment, and requires no downtime. It comes with multiple treatment heads, allowing doctors to choose the most suitable head for addressing specific skin concerns at different layers.
- The Ultraformer III, with a 1.5-2.0 mm applicator head, is used on the upper layers of the skin to help with wrinkles and shallow lines, such as those around the eyes, between the eyebrows, and on the forehead.
- The Ultraformer III 3.0 mm depth applicator is used on the middle layer of the skin to help reduce fat and cellulite, tighten the face, stimulate collagen in the cheeks, and reduce skin sagging.
- The Ultraformer III 4.5 mm applicator is used on the SMAS layer of the skin, which is normally tightened during facelift surgery. It helps lift the cheeks, chin, neck, and define the jawline.
Recently, Romrawin Clinic introduced the special Cherry Pink applicator head, a 2.0 mm deep applicator with a narrow, slender shape for more precise targeting. It stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles across the face, lifts eyebrows and eyelids, and addresses nasolabial folds (smile lines). Utilizing MF2 Macro Focus Ultrasound Technology, which delivers up to 8 times the energy, the results are better, faster, and less painful. The special Cherry Pink applicator head is only compatible with the Hifu Ultraformer III machine.
Who is Ultraformer III suitable for?
The Ultraformer III device excels in skin tightening and reducing fine wrinkles. It's ideal for individuals aged 20-30 years old who experience sagging skin on the face, neck, chest, eyebrows, eyelids, lower eyelid sagging, cheeks, nasolabial folds, crow's feet, or under-eye bags. Ultraformer III can be started at a younger age or when wrinkles are not yet pronounced. Noticeable results can be seen after the first treatment, within 3 months, and the effects last approximately 6 months. Furthermore, it's more affordable than Ulthera and Thermage.
Areas where Hifu can be performed.
For women and men aged 25-35 with moderate facial wrinkles who want to maintain a youthful appearance and are considering Hifu treatment but are unsure which treatments are suitable for them, Romrawin has the answer.
In fact, Hifu (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment can be used on the entire body, including reducing double chin, defining the jawline, lifting and tightening skin, reducing wrinkles, reducing under-eye lines, and reducing nasolabial folds. The treatment head can be changed according to the doctor's discretion.
1. Hifu treatment for the area under the eyes and at the corners of the eyes.
As mentioned above, HIFU uses ultrasound waves to penetrate the skin's layers, making it safe and allowing for targeted treatment of the under-eye area and around the eyes. Therefore, addressing drooping eyebrows and eyelids with HIFU results in a natural look, avoiding a harsh or unnatural appearance, and also naturally reducing wrinkles in the surrounding area.
2. Hifu treatment for double chin.
Hifu treatment for double chin uses focused ultrasound waves to penetrate the SMAS layer, the same layer above the muscle targeted in facelift surgery. This causes the SMAS layer to contract, reducing its size, similar to suturing but more precise than thread lifting.
3. Hifu treatment for nasolabial folds (smile lines).
Hifu treatment in the nasolabial folds, or Hifu cheek reduction, is considered the most popular area because it can lift the cheeks, reduce cheek fat, lift sagging cheeks, and define the jawline for a V-shaped face. It also stimulates the body to produce new, strong collagen, resulting in firmer skin than thread lifting.
4. Hifu treatment on the face and neck.
Hifu treatment for both face and neck can be performed simultaneously across the entire face, including the neck, chin, nasolabial folds, marionette lines, wrinkles around the eyes, forehead, and jawline. Specific areas can be treated, with each area taking approximately 20 minutes.
- Neck + double chin
- Cheeks + double chin
- Under-eye area + nasolabial folds
- All over face + upper arms
- Face + Neck + Thighs
- Groin lines + facial contour
- Forehead wrinkles + upper eyelid wrinkles + upper eyelid
5. Full body Hifu treatment.
Hifu treatment can be used on any area you want to tighten. There are various treatment heads available depending on the depth of skin in that area. Areas where results are most noticeable can be divided into two categories:
- Hifu facial treatment areas commonly treated include: double chin, neck, marionette lines, nasolabial folds, cheeks, under-eye area, forehead, upper eyelids, and jawline.
- Hifu treatment for the body, popular areas include: upper arms, thighs, waist, abdomen, and hips.
Advantages of Hifu skin tightening treatment.
The advantages of HIFU treatment include a noticeable reduction in fine wrinkles, the ability to perform frequent treatments, and the possibility of other treatments following HIFU. Patients experience improved skin condition, reduced wrinkles and sagging due to increased collagen production, increased elasticity, and overall better skin. The benefits of HIFU treatment are as follows:
- No needles, no surgery.
- No redness or bruising.
- No need for a long recovery period.
- It is highly safe for the skin and does not harm the outer layer of the skin.
- Helps to lift and firm the face, reduce wrinkles, and partially dissolve fat.
- It is harmless to the eyes, so it can be used to directly highlight the areas under and around the eyes.
- It can be done frequently, and other treatments can be performed after Hifu treatment.
Is Hifu dangerous?
Is HIFU dangerous? Why are so many people getting HIFU? Many people have heard of or seen "HIFU" (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), a facial lifting treatment available at many clinics. Some may have researched it but never actually tried it. HIFU offers several benefits, including non-surgical facelift and no injections of chemicals. It's also affordable and considered highly safe.
Where is a good place to get Hifu treatment?
If someone asks where to get good HIFU treatment, the answer is Romrawin Clinic! Because we have the SUPER HIFU program, perfect for those who want a slimmer face. Our innovative skin tightening technology at Romrawin Clinic is painless, requires no downtime, and shows results from the very first treatment.
- Skin firming
- Clearly defined V-shaped face frame.
- Reduce double chin
- Smooth skin
- Reduces the appearance of deep wrinkles.
What should you know before getting Hifu treatment?
Things you should know before getting HIFU treatment to prepare your skin: Avoid heat before HIFU treatment. Protect your skin from direct sunlight. Prepare your body by getting enough sleep.
- Avoid laser treatments on the skin area that will be treated with HIFU for at least 3-5 days.
- Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol.
- Avoid taking aspirin and other vitamins for at least one week.
How should I care for myself after Hifu treatment?
Post-HIFU skin care to avoid damaging the collagen that is occurring and the skin is regenerating includes the following:
- Avoid direct sunlight for 1-2 weeks.
- Use sunscreen with a high SPF (Protein-19) rating.
- Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol for the first two weeks.
- Avoid scrubbing, massaging, or rubbing your face vigorously.
Does Hifu have any side effects?
HIFU treatment has no serious side effects because it is non-invasive and highly safe. You can apply makeup and wash your face as usual after the treatment.
Who is Hifu not suitable for?
In fact, HIFU is suitable for everyone, regardless of gender or age, who has problems with sagging face, wants a brighter, more youthful complexion, lacks firmness, is afraid of needles or surgery but wants to reshape their face. However, it is not recommended for pregnant women; it's better to wait until after childbirth.
What are the differences between Hifu, Ulthera, and Thermage?
Currently, there are many different skin tightening techniques available to patients, including Hifu, Ulthera, and Thermage. These are all innovative facial lifting treatments that use energy waves to target the skin layers, but they produce different results. So which machine is right for you?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a popular skin tightening technology. Its advantages include minimal pain, and it helps lift and tighten the skin, including cheeks, eyebrows, and eyes, as well as reduce double chin, depending on individual skin concerns. Another advantage of HIFU is that it can be performed frequently using a superficial energy delivery head, resulting in smoother and plumper skin. Additionally, there are lasers that stimulate collagen production in the superficial skin layers. These lasers deliver energy to the upper skin layers, focusing on skin rejuvenation, reducing fine wrinkles, and achieving smoother skin.
- Hifu is suitable for individuals with moderate facial wrinkles, aged 25-35 years, who want to reduce double chin, define the jawline, and tighten the skin.
- The results can last approximately 6-8 months, depending on the individual's skin condition.
Ulthera: The most precise and safest skin tightening device currently available, popular for its ultrasound-based treatment. This program, Ultherapy, uses ultrasound waves to deliver energy to the SMAS layer, the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts. It stimulates SMAS cells to contract, promoting new tissue and collagen production. Ideal for individuals with sagging skin seeking a lifting effect. A key advantage of Ultherapy is its integrated display screen, allowing the physician to visualize the affected skin layer during treatment. This enables precise adjustment of the ultrasound waves to suit each individual's skin condition without causing any wounds.
- Ulthera is suitable for individuals aged 35-60 with drooping eyebrows or eyelids, those who want to lift and tighten their facial contours for a more defined and youthful appearance, and those who want to lift sagging neck skin for a firmer, more youthful look.
- The results will last for about 1 year.
Thermage: A skin tightening treatment using radio frequency waves. The Thermage program uses radio frequency waves to deliver energy to the subcutaneous fat layer. The energy is distributed in concentrated pulses, converting into heat. This focuses on stimulating the contraction of elastin fibers and increasing natural collagen production. The heat from the radio waves also helps break down some subcutaneous fat. The result is firmer, tighter, smoother, and more elastic skin. It can also reduce the appearance of double chin and cheeks, giving the face a more sculpted and defined look.
- Thermage is suitable for those who want to focus on reducing wrinkles and increasing collagen in the skin. Thermage provides better results than HIFU and Ulthera.
- The results will last for about 1 year.