In recent years, High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, or HIFU, has gained prominence in aesthetic dermatology as a non-invasive technique to rejuvenate the skin and reshape the body contour, as its aesthetic application has proven to be effective and safe in professional hands.
What exactly is HIFU?
HIFU is a technology that employs concentrated ultrasound waves that penetrate the skin and generate heat in deep layers without damaging the surface. This heat causes a controlled thermal injury that stimulates collagen production and tissue remodeling.
What is HIFU used for in aesthetic dermatology?
Mainly to tighten the skin of the face and neck, reduce wrinkles and sagging, improve the jaw contour and reduce localized fat both facial and body.
How does HIFU work on the skin?
By generating heat at temperatures between 60ºC and 70ºC at specific points in the deep layers of the skin, which causes an inflammatory response that leads to collagen regeneration and a progressive tightening effect.
Is HIFU treatment painful?
In general terms, no. It can be somewhat annoying during application, especially in bone areas that are treated with special intensity. Topical anaesthetic cream and oral analgesics can be used for greater comfort if required, although it is exceptional.
How long does a HIFU session last?
It depends on the area treated. A facial session can last between 30 and 60 minutes. For the body, the duration can be longer.
Is recovery time necessary?
No. It is a treatment with a quick recovery, without wounds or scars, which allows daily activities to be resumed immediately.
When are the results noticeable?
Part of the result can be seen immediately, but the maximum effect is observed after 2-3 months, when collagen regeneration is complete.
How many HIFU sessions are needed?
In most cases, a single annual session is sufficient, although in some cases a repeat may be recommended after 6-12 months.
Are there people for whom HIFU is not indicated?
Yes. It is not recommended in people with active inflammatory diseases , infections in the treated area, metal implants or pacemakers. In addition, the results may be lower in people with severe flaccidity or very high body mass index.
Does HIFU replace a surgical facelift?
No. Although it visibly improves facial firmness and contour, its effect is not comparable to surgery. It is an excellent alternative for those looking to improve without going through surgery.
Does HIFU help reduce localized fat?
Yes. At lower frequencies and greater depth, HIFU can selectively destroy adipocytes (fat cells), making it an option for body contouring or for double chins. This requires the use of specific heads in the device, which are precisely for localised lipolysis.
Are there any side effects?
The most frequent are mild and temporary: redness, swelling or small bruises. On rare occasions there may be temporary sensory alterations. It is normal, in the days after the treatment, to have a sensation of muscle stiffness in some areas of the face.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes, as long as it is performed with approved equipment and by trained professionals. The accuracy of the new devices improves safety and effectiveness.
Can HIFU be combined with other aesthetic treatments?
Yes. It can be combined with botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid, or collagen-stimulating fillers such as cataclic hydroxyapatite or polylactic acid. The times between sessions should be respected as indicated by your dermatologist. A joint strategy that treats the epidermis and dermis (e.g., with a pulsed light and a fractional non-ablative laser), a collagen-stimulating filler (hyaluronic acid, polylactic acid, or calcium hydroxyapatite) for the deep dermis, and an annual HIFU session is one of the most comprehensive strategies to delay aging and maintain skin health.
What are the benefits most valued by patients?
The tightening effect without surgery, the progressive improvement of the facial and body contour, the absence of scars and without the need to have social or work leave.
REFERENCES
· Haykal D, Sattler S, Verner I, Madhumita M, Cartier H. A Systematic Review of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound in Skin Tightening and Body Contouring. Aesthet Surg J. 2025 Jun 16; 45(7):690-698.
· Welc N, Owczarek M, Jałowska M, Dańczak-Pazdrowska A. High-intensity focused ultrasound-application, effects and complications. Australas J Dermatol. 2025 May; 66(3):E120-E125.
· Contini M, Hollander MHJ, Vissink A, Schepers RH, Jansma J, Schortinghuis J. A Systematic Review of the Efficacy of Microfocused Ultrasound for Facial Skin Tightening. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Jan 13; 20(2):1522.
· Tam E, Choo JPS, Rao P, Webb WR, Carruthers JDA, Rahman E. A Systematic Review on the Effectiveness and Safety of Combining Biostimulators with Botulinum Toxin, Dermal Fillers, and Energy-Based Devices. Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2025 May; 49(10):2809-2833.
Do you want to make an appointment?
If you have questions about the treatment or want to book an appointment, you can:
Email info@coriumdermatology.com
Call 93 715 56 08.
Send a WhatsApp message to 620 92 86 11.
