A Guide to HIFU Facelift in Singapore
A new facial treatment has been gaining popularity in Singapore. For those who do not know, it is the High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound treatment, HIFU for short.
The technology aims to reduce signs of ageing by using ultrasound energy that encourages the production of collagen which significantly tightens the skin and lifts several areas of the face. It has gained popularity not just for its effectiveness, but it also yields similar results as a surgical facelift for a non-invasive treatment. A huge plus point, especially if invasive surgeries sound daunting to you.
How does HIFU facelift work?
The treatment helps stimulate the production of collagen, as well as elastin which directly improves your skin tone and the texture of your skin. This happens due to the micro-focused waves of ultrasound energy. This reaches and stimulates the dermis layer of the skin.
Unlike traditional surgical treatments, this procedure is non-invasive and does not require cuts on the surface of the skin to reach the deep layers. The heating of the skin and muscle layers triggers a mild inflammation which supports new collagen growth that can strengthen the skin deep within.
Before diving into the benefits, the treatment is known to treat mild to moderate or early signs of ageing. It is ideal for those with skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles. Usually, the fine lines and wrinkles that can be successfully treated are smile lines, frown lines, forehead wrinkles, and crow’s feet. In addition to that, it also effectively treats cheek fat, double chin, and brow lines.
Benefits of HIFU Facelift
One of its top benefits is its non-invasive nature. Recovery time after the procedure is little to none as the treatment does not involve injections and any knife procedure. Other benefits include:
- Lifts and tights the chin, jaw, eyebrows, cheeks, and neck
- Lift drooping eyelids or eyebrows
- Reduces wrinkles
- Stimulates the natural healing process of the body
- Little to no damage to your skin with only risks of mild redness and swelling
We have also included a simple comparison table for you to compare the HIFU facelift to the traditional surgical facelift.
| Invasive? | Recovery Rate | Risks | Efficacy | Long-term | |
| HIFU Facelift | No No incisions or injections | Little to none | Mild redness & swelling | 1 – 2 years Able to produce new collagen over a year after the procedure, depending on patient’s lifestyle & condition | Continuous procedures needed after 1 – 2 years to maintain results |
| Surgical Face Lift | Yes With incisions & injections | 2 – 4 weeks | Bleeding, bruising, temporary hematoma, numbness | Almost permanent | Long-lasting. Last up to a decade after the procedure |
An interesting fact is that specialists also use HIFU to treat tumours as the technology uses high-energy waves to target specific areas of the body. Though these sessions are more intense and can last for up to 3 hours in an MRI scanner.
Treatment, Frequently Asked Questions.
What should you expect going into your first HIFU Treatment ?
Each session lasts about 30–90 minutes. Unlike other cosmetic procedures, including laser hair removal, the treatment does not require any preparation. The treatment first begins with cleaning the selected area followed by the application of a cold gel. The technology is transmitted from a handheld device that will emit the ultrasound waves in short bursts.
Does it hurt?
When it comes to pain, individuals usually mention minimal discomfort due to the heat caused by the treatment. This would only last a few seconds during the procedure. It is not common, but some doctors may apply a local anesthetic before the procedure if needed. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), may also help.
Once the session is over, no recovery time is needed and you can get on with your daily activities as normal.
What is the frequency of ?
People may require between one and six sessions, depending on the results they would like to achieve. However, 1 session every 6 to 8 months would easily do the trick. On average, most patients would require 1 treatment annually to sustain their results.
The treatment offers almost immediate results with continuous improvement for the next 6 to 12 months. This is because the production of collagen naturally takes time. The most apparent visible results are usually seen from the 3rd to the 6th month.
How long do the results last?
The patients are usually able to produce new collagen a year after the procedure, but it also depends on the patient’s lifestyle and condition. The results can remain effective for one to two years
The efficacy of the treatment depends on the condition of your skin and future touch-ups. It is strongly recommended to get touch-ups to keep pace and overcome the ageing process.
What is the cost of treatment in Singapore?
The cost of treatment varies depending on many factors including the treatment area, the brands used, the practitioner’s experience, the number of treatments, and the consultation fee. The price of HIFU in Singapore can start from $300 for small areas of your face.
There are three types of devices namely Sygmalift, Ulthera, and Ultraformer. The estimated cost for Sygmalift is between $500 to $700, which comprises up to five sessions. Ulthera, on a slightly costly side, would be around $2300 and $4000 for one treatment, but the results last between six and 12 months. Similarly, Ultraformer, where one treatment lasts up to 12 months costs $2000 to $3000.
You can enjoy your first 100 shots of HIFU in Singapore at just $600 with Gangnam Laser Clinic.
