HIFU procedure - what is it?

14.11.2025
HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a modern, non-invasive method used in aesthetic medicine, which has gained popularity especially in the context of face and body lifting. By using high-intensity focused ultrasound, it allows for improving facial contours, increasing skin firmness, and reducing double chin - all without the need for surgical intervention. HIFU technology is valued for its short recovery time and long-lasting lifting effects.
What is an HIFU treatment?

HIFU, which stands for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound, is an innovative method used in aesthetic medicine. It utilizes high-frequency sound waves. This procedure has gained popularity especially in skin tightening for the face and body. Through the use of HIFU, it is possible to:

  • improve facial contours,
  • increase skin firmness,
  • reduce double chin,
  • tighten loose skin after weight loss or childbirth.

The HIFU technology has been known for over two decades, mainly in cancer therapy, which speaks to its safety and effectiveness. In recent years, it has also gained wide recognition in aesthetic medicine. Its key advantage is its low invasiveness - the ultrasound waves penetrate deeper skin layers without the need to incise its surface. This allows for achieving lifting and slimming effects on various body areas.

For individuals seeking effective methods to enhance their appearance without surgical intervention, a HIFU treatment is an excellent solution. Additionally, it is characterized by a short recovery period and minimal risk of complications.

What is HIFU technology based on?

HIFU technology uses focused ultrasound waves that penetrate deep into the skin. During the procedure, high-frequency waves reach deeper layers of the skin, adipose tissue, and muscle fascia, causing a thermal reaction at a temperature of 70°C. This leads to a localized inflammatory response, which in turn triggers the contraction of collagen and elastin fibers and stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid.

The treatment results in controlled microporation within the tissues (0.5-1 mm), stimulating regeneration and tightening of collagen fibers. The surface of the skin remains intact because the entire process occurs subcutaneously. Therefore, HIFU technology does not require incisions or surgical intervention. It is a safe and non-invasive solution for individuals seeking facial lifting or fat reduction without the need for extensive recovery.

What are the indications for HIFU treatment?

The HIFU procedure is recommended for individuals struggling with loose and sagging skin on the abdomen, arms, thighs, or chin. It is an excellent solution for those who want to improve skin firmness and facial contour without surgery. HIFU effectively shapes cheekbones, lifts brow arches, and helps reduce "crow's feet" and nasolabial folds.

This method is also suitable for individuals with excess fat tissue who want to slim down their silhouette. This technology is recommended for rejuvenating the décolletage and facial sculpting. It can achieve natural and long-lasting lifting effects without surgical intervention. HIFU smoothes the skin and reduces double chins.

Indications for using HIFU include various needs related to skin firming and body sculpting. This method is recommended for individuals who want significant facial lifting effects or fat reduction in different body areas without surgical interventions. The effectiveness of this technology is making it an increasingly popular choice among patients seeking modern ways to enhance their appearance.

HIFU is also used to firm the décolletage and increase skin tension on the neck and other areas requiring lifting. It provides not only visible visual benefits but also post-procedure comfort due to minimal risk of complications during recovery.

What are the contraindications for HIFU treatment?

Contraindications for HIFU treatment include:

  • autoimmune, neurological, or oncological diseases,
  • heart problems,
  • uncontrolled diabetes,
  • active infections,
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding,
  • presence of metal implants or a pacemaker,
  • past strokes,
  • use of anticoagulant medications.

Additionally, patients prone to keloid scarring or suffering from dermatoses should use caution when considering this therapy. Any inflammatory conditions in the body are significant contraindications for ultrasound treatment.

Which areas of the body can be treated with HIFU?

The HIFU procedure is exceptionally versatile and can be applied to various parts of the body. It is most commonly performed on the face and neck to improve facial contours and skin firmness. However, this is not its only application.

HIFU can also be done on other body parts, such as:

  • décolletage,
  • abdomen,
  • arms,
  • thighs,
  • skin around the knees,
  • love handles,
  • bust.

With such a wide range of applications, this procedure allows for significant lifting effects without surgical intervention.

How to prepare for an HIFU procedure?

Preparing for an HIFU procedure is not complicated and does not require much effort from the patient. However, consultation with a doctor is crucial, during which the details of the procedure, patient's expectations, and possible therapy outcomes are discussed. It is also a moment to learn about potential side effects.

It is not recommended to use numbing creams before starting HIFU. Individuals sensitive to pain may consider taking a painkiller an hour or two before the planned session to increase overall comfort during the procedure.

Proper preparation for HIFU is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of the procedure. Medical consultation helps to eliminate contraindications and tailor the therapy to the patient's individual requirements.

Check out the offer of HIFU procedures for the eye area.

How is the HIFU procedure performed?

The HIFU procedure begins with the application of numbing cream. Next, the therapist removes the cream and applies a special ultrasound gel. The next step is to apply the ultrasound-emitting device head to the selected area of the skin. During the treatment, the ultrasound penetrates deeply, causing a thermal reaction and a controlled inflammatory response. This stimulates the body to increase collagen and elastin production, improving skin firmness and appearance. While the effects are visible immediately after the procedure, full results can be observed after about three months. The entire HIFU procedure usually lasts from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the size of the treated area. Importantly, there is no need for recovery after HIFU, so patients can quickly return to their daily activities. Check out the offer of deep face lifting with HIFU [here](https://www.ambasadaurody.pl/twarz/ujedrnianie-twarzy/gleboki-lifting-hifu).

How long does an HIFU treatment last?

The time needed to perform an HIFU procedure depends on the size of the treated area. The procedure can last from 15 minutes to 1 hour, and in the case of extensive body areas - even several hours. Usually, one session is sufficient, but to combat skin aging, it can be repeated every 2-3 years. The first results of the procedure appear after 2-3 months, and the effects last for at least 2 years.