High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

What is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, or HIFU, is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to gently heat the deeper layers of the skin. The heat triggers the body’s natural healing response, which in turn encourages the production of new collagen. Collagen is the protein that keeps skin firm and youthful.


Because the energy is directed only to precise layers beneath the skin surface, the outer skin remains intact. This makes HIFU a popular choice for individuals seeking noticeable lifting and tightening effects without the downtime associated with surgery.


Who is Suitable for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?

HIFU can be a good option for adults who wish to firm or lift areas of mild to moderate sagging skin, including:

  • Face and neck: Jowls, jawline, double chin, and brow area
  • Décolletage: The upper chest where fine lines often appear
  • Body areas: Upper arms, abdomen, or knees (in some cases)


It is most effective for people in their 30s to 60s who still have good skin elasticity. It can also help delay the need for more invasive procedures.


HIFU is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with open wounds, severe or cystic acne, active skin infections, or certain medical implants (such as pacemakers) may need to avoid this treatment. A professional assessment is essential to determine if HIFU is right for you.


Benefits of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

HIFU offers a range of cosmetic and practical benefits:

  • Non-surgical lift: Firms and tightens the skin naturally
  • Collagen stimulation: Promotes gradual, long-lasting improvement
  • Minimal downtime: Most people return to daily activities immediately
  • Precise targeting: Delivers energy only where needed
  • Natural look: Enhances contours without making the skin look stretched


Some people notice a subtle immediate lift, but the main results develop over two to three months as new collagen forms. Effects can last from 12 to 18 months, depending on factors such as age, skin type, and lifestyle.


Types of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

Clinics may use different HIFU systems and settings to suit various needs:

  • Facial HIFU: Targets multiple layers of facial tissue to lift sagging skin, soften wrinkles, and refine jawlines.
  • Neck and Décolletage HIFU: Focuses on the chin, neck, and chest areas, which are prone to creases and skin laxity.
  • Body Contouring HIFU: Used on specific areas such as upper arms, abdomen, or thighs to support skin tightening after weight loss or pregnancy.


Within these categories, different depths and intensities can be selected to treat superficial, mid-level, or deep skin layers. Your clinician will recommend the most suitable combination for your goals.


Alternative Options to High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

While HIFU is a well-established non-surgical treatment, other choices may suit different needs:

  • Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling: Combines tiny needles and radiofrequency energy to tighten skin and improve texture.
  • Laser Resurfacing: Uses focused light to treat fine lines, sun damage, and uneven skin tone.
  • Dermal Fillers: Add volume to areas of facial hollowing or deep folds.
  • Anti-wrinkle Injections: Relax overactive muscles to smooth expression lines.
  • Surgical Facelift or Neck Lift: Offers more dramatic results for advanced skin sagging.


A qualified clinician can help you compare these options based on your skin condition, recovery time preferences, and desired outcomes.


What to Do Before a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Treatment?

Proper preparation can enhance results and reduce risks:

  • Consultation: Discuss your goals, medical history, and medications with your practitioner.
  • Skin care: Avoid strong exfoliants or retinol for a few days before treatment.
  • Sun exposure: Protect your skin from sunburn, which can increase sensitivity.
  • Hydration: Drink water and keep skin moisturised.


What Happens During a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Session?

A HIFU session is straightforward and does not require hospital admission or anaesthesia. The entire visit usually lasts 30–90 minutes, depending on the size of the area treated.


1. Preparation and cleansing

The treatment area—such as the face, neck, or body—is cleaned to remove oil, dirt, and makeup. A special ultrasound gel is applied to help the device glide smoothly and to enhance the delivery of energy.


2. Mapping and marking

The practitioner may mark key zones on the skin to guide where the ultrasound will be focused. This ensures that energy is delivered evenly and precisely.


3. Energy delivery

Using a handheld HIFU device, the clinician sends focused ultrasound waves deep beneath the skin. These waves gently heat targeted layers at different depths—typically 1.5 mm, 3.0 mm, and 4.5 mm—without affecting the skin’s surface. The controlled heat triggers collagen production and natural tightening.


4. Sensations during treatment

You may feel mild warmth, tingling, or brief pulses of energy. Some areas, such as the jawline or bony parts of the face, can feel slightly more intense. Most people describe the discomfort as mild to moderate and do not need pain medication.


5. Duration and finishing

The process takes about 30 minutes for a small area, or up to 90 minutes for full-face and neck treatments. After the session, the gel is removed and a soothing cream or sunscreen is applied. No dressings or bandages are required.

Because HIFU works from the inside out, the skin surface remains intact, allowing you to leave the clinic and resume normal activities immediately.



What to Expect After a High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)?

Recovery is generally quick and simple, but understanding what happens in the hours and weeks following treatment will help you care for your skin and enjoy the best results.


Immediately after treatment

  • Mild redness or swelling: The treated area may look slightly flushed or feel warm. This usually settles within a few hours to a day.
  • Tenderness or tingling: Some people notice gentle tingling or slight sensitivity to touch for a few days. This is a normal response as collagen-building begins.
  • No downtime: You can go back to work, exercise, or social activities right away.


Skin care and aftercare tips

  • Gentle cleansing: Wash with mild products and lukewarm water.
  • Moisturise and protect: Apply a gentle moisturiser and broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily.
  • Avoid harsh treatments: Skip chemical peels, strong exfoliants, or laser treatments for at least a week.
  • Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to support healing and collagen production.


Timeline of results

  • First days: Any redness or swelling resolves, and the skin feels tighter.
  • 2–3 months: Collagen regeneration becomes more noticeable, giving gradual lifting and firming.
  • 12–18 months: Results can last a year or longer, depending on individual factors such as age, skin type, and lifestyle. Some people choose yearly maintenance sessions to prolong the effect.


When to contact your clinician?

While rare, contact your healthcare practitioner if you experience persistent pain, unusual swelling, or changes in skin sensation that last for more than a week.


High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Prognosis

HIFU is not a permanent facelift, but it provides long-lasting skin tightening for many people. Results typically last 12–18 months. To maintain the effect, some people schedule follow-up treatments every year or so. The overall outcome depends on individual skin health, age, and lifestyle factors such as sun exposure and smoking.


High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Risks

HIFU is considered safe when performed by trained professionals, but like any procedure, it has some potential risks:

  • Temporary redness, swelling, or mild bruising
  • Tingling or slight numbness that usually resolves quickly
  • Rarely, minor burns or nerve irritation


Careful assessment and proper technique greatly reduce these risks.


FAQs about High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)

Is HIFU painful?

Most people experience only mild discomfort, such as tingling or heat, during energy delivery.


How many sessions will I need?

Many people achieve their goals with a single session, but some may benefit from a second session 6–12 months later.


When can I wear makeup?

Makeup can usually be applied the next day if there is no redness or irritation.


Is HIFU suitable for all skin types?

Yes, it is safe for most skin tones and types.