Fact or Myth: Does HIFU Actually Melt My Fats Away?
Does HIFU actually melt my fats away? Fact or myth?
I was scrolling through social media, and I realized that many people were posting about how going for HIFU treatments melts away facial fats. Well, here's my 2 cents on it. High intensity focus ultrasound or HIFU is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure commonly used for skin tightening and lifting.
Number 1: Because HIFU can produce collagen and also stimulate collagen production, there is contouring and tightening of the face. If HIFU is done correctly, then there can be a shrinking of the facial size, and due to that, some people might think that that is actually loss of fat. But if you think about it, it's actually just a contraction of the collagen and tightening of the face and the neck, giving that appearance. So it can be mistakenly thought of as having lost fat.
Number 2: So there are some studies that show the possibility of HIFU being able to melt some fat tissue.
Also, in my clinical practice, if patient desires to lose some fat in certain areas, especially the lower cheeks or maybe in the neck, it is possible to achieve some fat reduction after multiple sessions.
Number 3: Have proper communication with your doctor. If your doctor is very well trained, they are able to proceed with the HIFU procedure to match and to give you the results that you would like to receive. If there are some areas that need fat reduction, to reduce the fat there, if there's some areas that don't, and actually have volume depletion already, then it has to be carefully administered in those areas.
So it has to be customized for all patients, and this is dependent on the doctor.
Myth or Fact: I Could See Immediate Results After my HIFU Treatment!
"I could see immediate results after my HIFU treatment." Myth or fact?
The belief in immediate results from high intensity focused ultrasound is more of a myth than a fact. Addressing some posts that promise immediate results on social media, do be careful of where you get your HIFU done. While some patients may observe subtle improvements immediately after the treatment, most of those changes are due to the immediate swelling that is caused by the HIFU treatment, and this swelling result will resolve after a few days. However, the full effects of HIFU, which involves stimulating collagen production and skin tightening, typically takes several weeks to months to become apparent.
Traditionally, HIFU treatments are spaced out to allow for the gradual development of results. While some individuals may opt for a single session, others may choose to undergo a series of smaller treatments spaced several months apart to achieve more significant and long lasting improvements. Factors such as age, skin condition, and desired outcomes also influence the treatment plan.
For more information, visit Skin Laxity Treatment.
Fact or Myth: HIFU Treatments Put Me At Risk of Burning / Scarring
"HIFU treatments can put me at risk of burning or scarring." Myth or fact?
So what we can see here in the picture is a worst case scenario from HIFU. You can see some linear burns, also some scabbing that develops after the burn, and then some healing with scarring. Most of the wounds can heal and go away, but there can be some depressed scars that can remain permanently. The notion that HIFU treatments put patients at risk of scarring and burning is a fact.
HIFU is generally considered a non-invasive cosmetic procedure with a low risk of adverse effects. However, the focused ultrasound energy penetrates the skin without causing damage to the surface, reducing the likelihood of scarring. Moreover, modern HIFU devices incorporate advanced technology to control and monitor the energy levels, minimizing the risk of burn. While mild redness or swelling may occur temporarily post-treatment, serious complications such as scarring or burning are rare when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced healthcare professional. It is crucial for patients to undergo HIFU treatments under the guidance of a trained practitioner to ensure a safe and effective experience.
Can I Combine HIFU & Other Treatments?
Can I combine HIFU with other treatments?
Yes. It is possible to combine HIFU with other treatments such as energy based devices or injections. By mixing these treatments together, we might be able to get a more synergistic effect, but one thing to keep in mind is that we want to avoid side effects. Overtreating the skin can cause some unwanted results, so that is something that you need to discuss with your medical provider.
Here at Aeon, unless it's a very particular circumstance or where the patient is very limited with time coming from overseas, we do space out the treatments a little bit to avoid these unwanted side effects.
Read more: Best Acne Treatment in Singapore + 2024 Price Guide
3 Differences Between HIFU & Monopolar RF Treatments
3 differences between HIFU and monopolar rf treatments in skin care.
- Depth of energy: HIFU uses ultrasound energy that penetrates deep into the subcutaneous tissues and the muscle. Monopolar RF, like Thermage, uses radio frequency to primarily target the deeper dermal layers and the upper subcutaneous fat layer.
- Energy Emission: HIFU is released in lines or dots, whereas Thermage covers a square-shaped area. Therefore, the sensation you experience from the energy released during the procedure would be different.
- Effects: HIFU goes down to the deeper layers. Therefore, it helps to prevent the general sagging of the face, whereas monopolar RF, because it addresses the more superficial layers, helps with superficial skin tightening and improvement of skin texture. It's crucial to note that individual responses to these treatments may vary and the choice between HIFU and Thermage depends on factors such as the patient specific concerns, skin conditions and desired outcomes.
Read more: Aesthetic Trends and Innovations 2024
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