High Intensity Focused Ultrasound

A High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) facial is a non-invasive solution for facial aging. It represents a part of the growing trend in anti-aging treatments that offer some of the advantages associated with a facelift but without the requirement for surgical interventions. It's important to note that the ultrasound used in this procedure differs from the ultrasound typically employed for medical imaging purposes. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound facial harnesses high-energy waves to precisely target specific areas of the body. In the case of a HIFU facial, ultrasound is used to generate heat deep within the layers of the skin. This controlled heat application serves to inflict damage to the selected skin cells, prompting the body's natural restorative processes. In response, the body initiates the production of collagen to facilitate cell regeneration. Collagen is a fundamental component of the skin responsible for imparting structure and elasticity. The boost in collagen production leads to skin that is firmer and tauter, resulting in fewer wrinkles.

As the high-frequency ultrasound beams are precisely directed to a specific tissue layer beneath the skin's surface, there is no harm inflicted upon the upper skin layers or surrounding tissue. It's worth noting that HIFU may not be suitable for everyone. Generally, this procedure delivers optimal results for individuals aged 30 and above who exhibit mild-to-moderate skin laxity. Individuals with photodamaged skin or those with a significant degree of skin looseness may require multiple sessions before noticing substantial improvements. For older individuals with advanced photodamage, severe skin laxity, or pronounced sagging in the neck area, surgical interventions may be more appropriate.

Its important to mention that High Intensity Focused Ultrasound facial is not recommended for individuals with infections or open skin lesions in the target area, those suffering from severe or cystic acne, or those with metallic implants in the treatment region.

Why is High Intensity Focused Ultrasound needed?

As per the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, non-surgical ultrasound procedures like HIFU have the capability to achieve the following:

• Enhance the firmness of neck skin
• Minimize the visibility of sagging facial jowls
• Elevate drooping eyelids or eyebrows
• Diminish facial wrinkles for smoother skin
• Improve the texture and tautness of chest skin

Before undergoing a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment for the face, it's essential to go through a pre-evaluation process to ensure that the procedure is safe and suitable for your specific needs. Here is what you can expect during a pre-evaluation for HIFU treatment:

1. Schedule a consultation with a qualified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or licensed practitioner who specializes in HIFU treatments. During this consultation, you will discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations.
2. Provide a detailed medical history, including information about any underlying medical conditions, allergies, previous surgeries, medications, and current skincare routines.
3. Your doctor will evaluate the condition of your skin, including its elasticity, texture, and the presence of wrinkles or fine lines. This assessment helps determine whether HIFU is an appropriate treatment for you.
4. Your doctor will discuss what you can realistically achieve with HIFU treatment.
5. Your doctor may take photographs of the areas you want to treat. These photos serve as a baseline for tracking your progress and assessing the effectiveness of the treatment.
6. Your doctor will outline a customized treatment plan. This plan may include the number of sessions required, the areas to be treated, and the estimated cost.
7. You will receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include guidelines for skincare, avoiding certain medications, and fasting before the treatment.
8. Before the procedure, you will be asked to sign an informed consent form, acknowledging your understanding of the treatment, its potential risks, and expected outcomes.

No specific preparations are required before undergoing High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment. However, its important to cleanse the target area thoroughly by removing all makeup and skincare products. Each session typically has a duration ranging from 30 to 90 minutes.

Heres what to anticipate during your appointment:

• The target area is cleaned by a physician or technician.
• There may be the application of a topical anesthetic cream before commencing the procedure.
• An ultrasound gel is then applied to the area.
• The HIFU device is gently placed against the skin.
• With the aid of an ultrasound viewer, the physician or technician adjusts the device to the appropriate settings.
• Ultrasound energy is administered to the target area in brief pulses, lasting approximately 30 to 90 minutes.
• Following the treatment, the device is removed.
• If further treatments are required, the next appointment is scheduled accordingly.
• While the ultrasound energy is being delivered, you may experience sensations of warmth and tingling. If discomfort arises, you have the option to take pain medication.

In general, available evidence suggests that undergoing an HIFU facial typically results in minimal side effects. However, it's worth noting that a few individuals may experience some level of pain and discomfort immediately following the procedure.

According to a study conducted in South Korea, the treatment had no severe adverse effects, although some participants did report the following:

• Swelling
• Numbness
• Redness
• Bruising
• A purplish rash

Another study found that while some individuals who received HIFU treatment on their face or body reported experiencing pain immediately after the procedure, these reports of discomfort subsided after a period of 4 weeks. Another research discovered that 25.3% of participants reported experiencing pain following the procedure, but notably, this pain improved over time without requiring any specific intervention.

After the treatment, a few individuals may experience slight discomfort or pain, which can be alleviated by doctors using a local anesthetic before the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may also provide relief.

Additionally, there is no need for recovery time after a High Intensity Focused Ultrasound session, allowing individuals to resume their regular daily activities promptly following HIFU treatment. After the procedure, you are free to return home and resume your regular daily activities immediately. The number of required sessions typically ranges from one to six, depending on the desired results.

While some improvements may be noticeable shortly after the treatment, the full effects of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound often become more apparent in the three months following the procedure. The gradual development of results can contribute to a natural-looking outcome. The long-term effectiveness of HIFU can be enhanced by periodic maintenance treatments. Many individuals opt for follow-up sessions to sustain their improved skin quality over time.

The procedure’s outcomes may be influenced by age and individual skin characteristics. Younger individuals with milder signs of aging may experience more enduring results compared to older individuals with more advanced skin laxity. To prolong the benefits, individuals often complement HIFU with a good skincare routine that includes sun protection, moisturizing, and other anti-aging products recommended by their dermatologist. It's important to recognize that individual responses to this skin treatment can vary. Some people may enjoy longer-lasting effects than others, depending on their genetics, lifestyle, and adherence to post-treatment care recommendations.

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound is regarded as a safe, effective, and non-surgical method for enhancing facial skin tightness. In a particular study, 94% of participants reported experiencing enhanced skin lifting during their follow-up visit three months after the HIFU treatment. Additionally, the same study revealed that these improvements in appearance were still noticeable and consistent for at least six months. However, as the natural aging process continues, its often recommended to consider additional HIFU treatments to maintain and prolong the desired results.

The advantages of HIFU over a traditional surgical facelift are undeniable. There are no incisions, resulting scars, or the need for post-operative rest and recovery. Moreover, it is significantly more cost-effective than a facelift. The majority of individuals experience full results approximately three months after their last treatment. For those seeking a quick, painless, and non-invasive treatment option, this procedure stands as an excellent alternative to a surgical facelift.

However, its important to acknowledge that HIFU is not a miraculous solution for aging. The procedure is most suitable for individuals with mild-to-moderate skin laxity, and periodic repeat treatments may be necessary, typically every one to two years, as the natural aging process progresses. For older individuals with more pronounced skin sagging and wrinkles, High Intensity Focused Ultrasound may have limitations in completely addressing these skin concerns.

The cost of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound in India are quite affordable than in the Western nations, while still maintaining world-class quality. The approximate price of this procedure in India ranges from INR 18,000 (USD 226) to INR 150,000 (USD 1887).

Following are the factors affecting cost of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) in India:

• Out of pocket expense
• Health insurance coverage
• Consultation fees
• Pre-Surgical expenses
• Fat weight to be reduced
• Surgery cost
• Hospital fees
• Doctor fees
• Patients age
• Type of procedure
• Overall health status of the patients
• Complications involved after the surgery
• City where hospital is located

The cost for diagnostic tests and evaluations linked to High Intensity Focused Ultrasound can fluctuate due to several factors. These factors include the particular tests needed, your choice of healthcare facility or clinic, and your geographical location. These diagnostic evaluations may include pre-operative assessments, photographs, allergy tests, blood tests, urine tests, and other evaluations aimed at confirming your suitability for the procedure. The approximate cost of diagnostics for such treatments is INR 500-1000.

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is dedicated to ensuring that your medical journey goes as smoothly and successfully as possible.

• Individualized Guidance: Personalized guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Access to a broad network of prominent hospitals, top doctors, and skilled surgeons.
• Transparent and Competitive Pricing: A full breakdown of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and offers you cost-effective solutions.
• MedFlick provides everything from travel arrangements to hotel and visa help to lodging.
• Multilingual Support: Breaking down language barriers to allow patients and medical professionals to communicate more effectively.
• The road to a successful High Intensity Focused Ultrasound is challenging, full of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. With MedFlick as your guide, navigating this life-changing adventure becomes simple and liberating.