What is HIFU?
HIFU, also known as High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, is a technology that can intervene in body tissues in a non-surgical way. It is used in both aesthetic and medical fields. HIFU focuses ultrasound waves on a specific area to create a high energy density. This energy causes the targeted tissue to heat up and undergo a process called coagulation necrosis, which damages the tissue. It only affects the targeted area without harming the surrounding tissues.
In the field of aesthetics, HIFU is used for facial rejuvenation and skin tightening. It promotes collagen production to tighten the skin in the face and neck areas, giving the skin a younger and firmer appearance. It is one of the most popular methods for body contouring by targeting fat tissue in specific areas of the body.
In the medical field, HIFU offers a promising approach in the treatment of certain types of cancer. HIFU provides a minimally invasive approach, particularly for tumor treatment, speeding up the patient’s recovery process and reducing the risk of complications. With its versatile uses, it has become an indispensable component of modern medicine and aesthetic applications.
Why is HIFU (Focused Ultrasound) Used?
Aging is a situation that no one wants and, in fact, most people have difficulty accepting. It’s even worse when you look older than your actual age. Considering how important appearance has become today, it is easier to understand people’s desire to always look well-groomed, youthful, and dynamic.
Aesthetic surgery offers a variety of alternatives to meet these desires. These alternatives can be divided into surgical and non-surgical applications. Surgical facial rejuvenation procedures include fat injection, mid-face lift, face and neck lift, and eyelid surgeries.
There are also procedures recommended for those who do not want surgery. These include fillers, thread lifts, and medical device applications. Among medical device applications, HIFU has become quite widespread in recent times.
So, What is This HI-FU Application?
Ultrasound has been used safely in medicine for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes for years. The HI-FU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) method is an effective and safe procedure used for non-surgical face lifting, chin tightening, brow lifting, and body contouring. Outside of the face, it is also successfully applied to arm sagging, abdominal skin sagging, sagging on the inner thighs, and sagging above the knees.
It creates heat through ultrasound energy in the dermis (the thick layer of skin) and in the deeper layers of the face, which are the main structures that surgeons tighten during face-lift surgeries. This heat causes the skin to tighten and lift.
Focused ultrasound technology, which has been researched and clinically proven, allows sound waves to precisely reach the targeted areas, focusing on both the deepest and uppermost layers of the skin. This enables desired results on various parts of the body, including the face.
How is the HIFU Procedure Performed?
The procedure is easily performed without the need for anesthesia. After the skin is cleaned, a gel is applied. Once the necessary settings of the HIFU device are adjusted, the procedure begins. For the face, deep shots are first made using a 4.5 mm head with Focused Ultrasound. Then, more superficial shots are made with 3 mm heads, and finally, shots are made with 1.5 mm heads to target the most superficial layers. This ensures recovery in all three layers of the skin, improving overall tightening.
For other parts of the body, the same effect can be achieved using different heads. In this procedure, the skin surface is not affected. However, the energy reaching the skin from underneath stimulates the skin, promoting new collagen formation. Over time, this results in a strong tightening effect, offering non-surgical facial rejuvenation and lifting.
Is One Session Enough for HIFU?
The Focused Ultrasound procedure is typically applied in one session. In cases where sagging is more advanced, a second or third session may be necessary if required.
Is HIFU Painful?
The pain experienced during the procedure varies from person to person, but it is generally painless. In areas close to the bone, there may be a brief pain, while during the procedure, patients often describe it as a pinching sensation. This feeling indicates that the HIFU energy has reached the targeted levels in the tissue, leading to tightening and lifting.
How Long Does HIFU Take?
The duration of the procedure varies depending on the size of the area being treated. For example, for the face, the procedure typically takes between 1 to 1.5 hours.
When Will I See the Effects of HIFU?
The effects of the procedure are visible immediately after the treatment. However, more noticeable and clearer results appear after 45-60 days. This process reaches its maximum within 3 months, providing a clear result. The longevity of the results can vary from person to person but typically lasts between 1 to 2 years.
Who Can Undergo the Procedure?
Focused Ultrasound can be applied to anyone experiencing skin sagging and laxity in areas such as the face, arms, legs, and lower abdomen. The ideal age range for the procedure is between 30 and 65.
Who Cannot Undergo the Procedure?
– Individuals with active skin infections on the face or treatment areas
– Individuals with fillers in the treatment area (it may cause the filler to dissolve)
– Individuals with conditions that affect wound healing or blood clotting
– Individuals with autoimmune diseases
– Individuals with diabetes or epilepsy
– Children and pregnant women
– Individuals with pacemakers, electronic devices, or metal stents in their bodies
Are There Any Side Effects of HIFU?
After the procedure, there may occasionally be temporary redness on the face, which usually disappears within 1-2 hours. In addition, there may be a mild numbness sensation, which is temporary. HIFU is a safe and successful procedure with good results. It is one of the best non-surgical facial rejuvenation options, particularly for patients who do not want surgery or for whom surgery is premature.
Can You Wash Your Face After HIFU?
There are a few precautions to consider when washing your face after HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment. Since the skin may be sensitive after the procedure, follow these tips to support the healing process:
Do not wash immediately:
Avoid washing your face right after HIFU treatment. It is best to rest the skin for the first 24 hours. During this time, the skin may be sensitive, and cleansers or water could irritate it.
Use lukewarm water:
When washing your face for the first time, use lukewarm water instead of hot water. Hot water can irritate your skin and slow down the healing process.
Gentle cleansing:
Avoid scrubbing your skin while washing and use a gentle cleanser. Apply the cleanser with gentle movements and lightly massage while rinsing.
Use moisturizer:
After washing your face, it is crucial to moisturize your skin. Use a hypoallergenic and lightweight moisturizer to help maintain the skin’s moisture balance.
Sun protection:
Since the skin may be sensitive after HIFU treatment, use a high SPF sunscreen before going out in the sun. The harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can damage the skin and slow the healing process.
Follow your doctor’s instructions:
The post-treatment care instructions may vary depending on individual skin types and needs. Therefore, it is essential to follow the specific aftercare guidelines provided by your specialist. By adhering to your specialist’s recommendations, you can achieve optimal results.
Proper skin care after HIFU speeds up the healing process and ensures that the results last longer.
HIFU Prices in 2025
The cost of HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) treatment can be influenced by several factors. These include the size of the area to be treated, the technology and devices used during the treatment, the geographic location of the clinic, and the experience of the specialist providing the service. Since HIFU is commonly used for both medical and aesthetic purposes, the prices may vary.