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Ultherapy vs. HIFU: Comparing Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Treatments

A patient receives a noninvasive Ultherapy treatment on the face using a DS 4-4.5 transducer. The clinician gently holds the device on the patient's cheek while facial lines are marked for precision during the procedure.

In the world of non-surgical face-lifting treatments, Ultherapy and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) are two of the most popular options available. Both treatments use advanced methods for lifting and tightening the skin, providing a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical facelifts. However, there are key differences between the two that can influence which treatment is best suited to your needs. In this article, we will explore Ultherapy and HIFU, comparing their mechanisms, benefits, and differences to help you make an informed decision.

What is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy is a non-surgical procedure that uses intense ultrasound energy to lift and tighten the skin. It is the only FDA-approved treatment for lifting the skin on the neck, under the chin, and on the brow, as well as improving lines and wrinkles on the décolletage. Ultherapy targets the deep foundational layers under the skin, stimulating collagen production and resulting in a natural lifting effect over time.

Ultherapy transducer demonstrating surgical precision in a non-invasive device, showcasing imaging and treatment capabilities using micro-focused ultrasound. The image includes visual comparisons of ultrasound for imaging versus treatment at varying depths: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm, with a labeled depiction of skin layers including the dermis, fat/fibrous septae, and muscle.

How Ultherapy Works

  • Precision With Direct Visualisation: Ultherapy has an ultrasound scan built in which allows us to customise every Ultherapy treatment with precision. The target of the treatment is to tighten the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System) layer, which can vary in depth between different people. There is no one-size-fits-all and Ultherapy’s See-Plan-Treat approach ensures that we target the correct layer every time. Your provider may change out transducer depths throughout your treatment. The See-Plan-Treat approach also reduces the risk of fat loss as we are able to visualise the tissues and avoid targeting the deep fat pads that provide structural support. 
  • Focused Ultrasound Energy: Ultherapy delivers ultrasound energy deep into the skin, specifically targeting the SMAS layer, which is the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts.
  • Collagen Stimulation: The ultrasound energy triggers the body’s natural collagen production, gradually lifting and tightening the skin over the following months.
  • Versatility: Ultherapy can be used to treat various areas of the face and body, including the forehead, eyes, cheeks, jawline, neck, and décolletage.

Benefits of Ultherapy

  • Built in ultrasound for direct visualisation
  • Customised treatment with the See-Plan-Treat approach
  • Non-invasive with minimal to no downtime
  • Natural-looking results that improve over several months
  • Long-lasting effects (up to a year or more)
  • FDA-approved and clinically proven

 

What is HIFU?

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is another non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to lift and firm the skin. Like Ultherapy, HIFU targets the deep layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and promoting a natural lifting effect. HIFU is often used for facial rejuvenation and body contouring.

How HIFU Works

  • Fixed Treatment Protocols: Unlike ultherapy, HIFU devices typically do not have a direct visualisation tool to see the different tissue layers of the face, most people would undergo a fixed treatment protocol.
  • Ultrasound Energy: HIFU delivers high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to the deeper layers of the skin, causing thermal coagulation points that stimulate collagen production.
  • Collagen Stimulation: The heat generated by the ultrasound energy promotes the body’s natural healing process, leading to increased collagen production and skin tightening.
  • Versatility: HIFU can be used to treat various areas of the face and body, including the forehead, eyes, cheeks, jawline, neck, and décolletage.

Benefits of HIFU

  • Quick treatment
  • Non-invasive with minimal downtime
  • Natural results that develop over time

Comparing Ultherapy and HIFU

Technology:

  • Ultherapy: Uses micro-focused ultrasound energy with real-time imaging to ensure precise treatment of the SMAS layer.
  • HIFU: Uses high-intensity focused ultrasound energy to create thermal coagulation points in the deep layers of the skin.

FDA Approval:

  • Ultherapy: FDA-approved for lifting the skin on the neck, under the chin, and on the brow, as well as improving lines and wrinkles on the décolletage.
  • HIFU: While some HIFU devices are FDA-cleared for specific uses, it is essential to choose a device and practitioner that are certified and experienced.

Treatment Duration and Sessions:

  • Ultherapy: Typically requires one treatment session, with results developing over 2-3 months. It is recommended to repeat Ultherapy every year.
  • HIFU: May require multiple sessions depending on the treatment area and individual needs, with results developing gradually over a few months. It is recommended to repeat HIFU every 6 months.

Downtime and Recovery:

  • Ultherapy: Minimal downtime, some patients may experience mild redness or swelling.
  • HIFU: Minimal downtime, with potential for slight redness or swelling.

Choosing the Right Treatment

Ultherapy and HIFU are both non-surgical skin tightening treatments that can help you achieve a youthful, rejuvenated look. Selecting the appropriate skin tightening treatment depends on your specific concerns, treatment goals, and skin type. At VIDASKIN Aesthetic Clinic, we use Ultherapy for a customised approach to face-lifting as we believe that your treatment should be as unique as you are! Consulting with a medical professional can help determine the best approach for your individual needs.

Founded in 2015, Dr Vicki has grown with the clinic, to become one of the leading aesthetic clinicians in Singapore. She is an appointed key opinion leader and trains other aesthetic doctors on how to best use prestigious brands and treatments.

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