THE BENEFITS OF HIFU TREATMENT
The skin ages because of natural biological process and factors such as pollution, stress, sunlight and lifestyle changes. Every year, we lose approximately 1% of our natural collagen. This results in sagging skin with reduced elasticity and shows in visible lines, texture and wrinkles on our skin. In young skin, collagen is being renewed every 21-28 days, but as we age, the renewal process widens to 4-45 days resulting in the slackening of the skin and wrinkles.
HIFU treatment, which stands for “High Intensity Focused Ultrasound” and focuses on eliminating allowing us to tighten areas affected by ageing such as our cheeks, double chin or even abdomen with minimal side effects and discomfort. Using ultrasound technology, this treatmentbrings about an elimination of adipocytes and localized fat deposits, and skin lifting. Results from HIFUwill gradually emerge, peaking in about 2-3months.
What is a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Exactly?
High intensity ultrasound uses non-ionzing waves in lower frequencies to generates a strong heating effect without affecting the most superficial layers of the epidermis. As a non-invasive procedure, HIFU works to treat ageing problems, including fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. It does not require any recovery time. Compared to other non-invasive treatments such as laser, the HIFU treatment acts mainly only on the deeper layers of our skin. Experts say that these treatments don’t have to be completely exclusive and they are even encouraged to be performed as complementary treatments.
How does It Work?
Ultrasonic waves cause an increase in the body temperature that results in a retraction and restructuring of collagen and elastin molecules. Collagen is one of the natural proteins that helps keep skin toned and elastic. HIFU stimulates the body to produce new collagen, so there is atightening effect on the skin by producing natural fibroblast stimulation, the firming results obtained are maintained for a long time. This is why treatments with ultrasound waves of this type is also being applied to fight the signs of aging. It is a great option for people who want a younger appearance without having to go under the knife.
What are Some Possible Side Effects?
The duration of the HIFU treatment depends on the area to be treated, but it is normal that each session lasts between 20 and 30 minutes. For some, slight discomfort in the form of tiny electric pulses or prickly sensation may be felt during a HIFU procedure, but overall this is bearable. Afterwards, the patient can resume daily activities. In some cases, there may be some redness in the treated area, but this usually disappears after a few hours. Other side effects are slight swelling of the treated area, tingling or sensitivity to touch, but these also disappear quickly. In the following day, it is normal to feel muscle pain similar to muscle soreness, although it usually disappears quickly.
When can You Start Seeing Noticeable Results?
The number of sessions required depends on the patients’ needs and intensity of the HIFU treatment. For facial rejuvenation, most of our patients proceed with one session and repeat after 10-12 months later.Results develop gradually as collagen has a restructuring time of 21 days, and definitive results will not be seen until after 2 or 3 months.
How to Know If the HIFU Treatment is the Best Option for Me?
The ideal candidates for HIFU is men and women of all skin types who wish to act on the flaccidity of the facial skin or body. It is possible to do HIFU treatment at body level on one’s belly, thigh or arm. For the facial area it’s mainly for people with saggy skin on treatable areas include droopy eyelids, neck, neckline, chin and bags under the eyes. This is also a great option for people who don’t want to deal with needles from Botox and filler injections, or an invasive, surgical face lift which involves a lot of postoperative care and pain.
For all the reasons mentioned, HIFU treatment is very favorable options for facial rejuvenation and lifting. If you decide to go through with this procedure, it is advisable to visit an experienced and certified doctor to perform the treatment.
