High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a relatively new cosmetic treatment for skin tightening that some consider a non-invasive and painless replacement for facelifts. It uses ultrasound energy to encourage the production of collagen which results in firmer skin.

Why HIFU is so popular…

HIFU is considered a safe, effective, and non-invasive procedure for tightening facial skin. It is painless and no downtime. It’s advantages over a surgical facelift are hard to deny. There are no incisions, no scarring, and no required rest or recovery time. HIFU is also far less expensive than a face lift.

Most people start seeing results immediately and it takes about three months to see full results after their final treatment. If you’re looking for a treatment that is quick, painless, and non-invasive, HIFU is an excellent option compared to a surgical facelift.

Several small clinical trials have found HIFU to be safe and effective for facial lifting and refining wrinkles. People were able to see results in a few months after treatment, without the risks associated with surgery. While the procedure is also used for overall facial rejuvenation, lifting, tightening, wrinkle reduction and body contouring.

So far, HIFU has been found to be a promising treatment that could replace face lifts, especially in younger people who don’t want the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.

How does HIFU work?

HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to target the layers of skin just below the surface. The ultrasound energy causes the tissue to heat up rapidly. Once the cells in the targeted area reach a certain temperature, they experience cellular damage. While this may seem counterintuitive, the damage actually stimulates the cells to produce more collagen— a protein that provides structure to the skin. 

The increase in collagen results in tighter, firmer skin with fewer wrinkles. Since the high-frequency ultrasound beams are focused on a specific tissue site below the skin’s surface, there’s no damage to the upper layers of the skin and adjacent issue.

People with photodamaged skin or a high degree of loose skin may need several treatments before seeing results. Older people with more extensive photo-aging, severe skin laxity, or very saggy skin on the neck aren’t good candidates and may need surgery.

HIFU has many aesthetic benefits, including:

• wrinkle reduction 
• tightening sagging skin on the neck (sometimes called turkey neck)
• lifting the cheeks, eyebrows, and eyelids
• enhancing jawline definition
• tightening of the décolletage
• smoothing the skin



While HIFU carries far fewer risks and costs than a surgical facelift, results may not last as long and repeated procedures may be needed. Ultimately, the cost will depend the area being treated as well as the total number of sessions needed to achieve the desired results.