HIFU uses a high intensity focused ultrasound technology with ultrasound waves passing through connective tissues to create heat and damage at a deep level in the skin. When there is damage, our bodies fight automatically to try to rejuvenate themselves. This stimulates new collagen production which helps in creating tighter and more youthful-looking skin.
HIFU can be used to help tighten the skin on the neck and cheeks, lift drooping eyelids or eyebrows, smooth wrinkles on the face and tighten chest skin. At Nuffield Aesthetics, we use the Ultraformer III which provides multiple cartridges that are each used at various depths of skin. These help to target specific areas of the skin for the contouring and lifting effect.
Ultherapy, on the other hand, is a brand of HIFU device that uses micro-focused ultrasound (MFU) energy via real time ultrasound imaging. This procedure is dependent on ultrasound energy in heating up muscles and tissues in the underlying skin layers, creating tiny holes, stimulating collagen production in areas experiencing skin laxity. This would include areas around the neck, eye bags, cheeks, as well as jowls.
The treatment involves placing a smooth applicator over the skin, whereby underlying skin layers will be flashed out on a screen via ultrasound imaging. The aestheticians will then be able to treat areas with greater precision as the ultrasound energy will be targeted at specific areas that require increased collagen and elastin renewal.
Nuffield Aesthetics uses Ulthera which allows the doctor to have greater direction in treating skin laxity. This is an alternative to invasive surgeries such as surgical facelifts which provides individuals with a fast yet lasting tightening treatment.
It is the only FDA-approved, medical-grade HIFU machine which means safety is assured during treatment.
Ulthera penetrates deep into the muscle tissues, which is why some pain, likened to a headache or toothache, might be felt during treatment.
HIFU and Ultherapy are commonly mistaken for the same treatment. Ultherapy is HIFU with real-time imaging. They are both used to reverse aging appearance using the same ultrasound energy. These medical devices aid in skin tightening and lifting. Both treatments are non-invasive and completely safe. They do not have downtime and regular activities can be carried out as per usual after these treatments.
Each treatment lasts about 15-20 minutes and is safe to be used on any skin type.
During the treatment, you can expect to feel slight heat and tingling sensations. Numbing cream will be administered to treated areas to reduce discomfort. Although rare, some patients may experience mild side effects from the treatments like blotchy skin, hyperpigmentation, swelling and numbness for a few days.
Although both treatments target aging skin, no one is better than the other. Primarily, they come from different manufacturers.
HIFU may not be appropriate for everyone. In general, the Ultraformer III works better on people older than 30 with mild-to-moderate skin laxity while Ulthera works better for mature patients who have severe skin concerns. Choosing between the 2 treatments can be consulted with our doctor.
Although comparable, the Ultraformer III is highly recommended for its updated technology with faster procedure and lesser pain during treatment and is more affordable than Ultherapy. Doctors from all over the world have seen this device in action and highly recommend it to patients who are looking for an effective alternative to surgical procedures.
Results vary between individuals. Usually, you can see a difference in your skin in a matter of 3-6 months and last up to 1 year. The number of treatments you need depends on individuals and can be consulted with Dr. Sau.
At Nuffield, we care about serving with medical-grade machines. You can trust that our aestheticians and doctors will do their best to target your problem areas. With our wide variety of treatments from the face, skin, body and medical facials, you can be sure to find something that will suit your needs.
Each patient is unique and needs to target different areas. Prices vary depending on the area of treatment and number of sessions. Come down to our aesthetics clinic to get more information.
