HIFU, or high-intensity focused ultrasound, is a non-invasive skin lifting and tightening treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin’s deeper support layers. It is commonly used to address skin laxity on areas such as the forehead, under-eye area, cheeks, jawline and neck without surgery or downtime.
The HIFU device has three different transducer depths to target different skin layers. Your doctor will assess your skin during consultation and advise on the appropriate protocol for your concerns.
HIFU uses high intensity focused ultrasound energy to create controlled thermal coagulation points beneath the skin. This controlled heating response stimulates collagen remodelling within targeted tissue layers, helping to support gradual lifting and firming over time.
The HIFU device uses transducers to deliver ultrasound energy at varying depths, including 6.78 MHz, to tissue affected by skin laxity.
The 1.5mm transducer targets the superficial dermis, which is the upper layer of the skin where early skin laxity and fine lines may begin to develop. Ultrasound energy delivered at this depth helps stimulate collagen remodeling closer to the skin surface, which can support smoother-looking skin texture and mild tightening.
The 3.0mm transducer reaches the hypodermis layer (deep dermis), where collagen fibres and connective tissue provide structural support to the skin. Controlled thermal energy at this level can help improve skin firmness and support gradual tightening of areas such as the cheeks, jawline, and lower face.
The 4.5mm transducer targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer, which lies deeper beneath the skin and contributes to facial support and contour. In the past, this layer could only be accessed by plastic surgeons during surgical facelifts. However, doctors can now deliver focused ultrasound energy at this depth.
HIFU can be used to treat areas where skin laxity, fine lines, or changes in skin firmness commonly appear. Your doctor will assess your skin condition, facial anatomy, and treatment goals before recommending the suitable treatment areas and protocol.
HIFU may be used on areas such as the:
Selected HIFU protocols may also be used for skin brightening and redness-related concerns, depending on your skin condition and suitability.
HIFU can support gradual lifting and tightening in areas affected by mild to moderate skin laxity. This may help improve the appearance of sagging skin on the face, lower face, jawline, and neck.
By targeting selected tissue depths, HIFU can support collagen renewal in areas where fine lines and early signs of ageing appear. This may help improve the appearance of wrinkles and skin texture gradually.
HIFU can be used around the lower face and jawline to support firmer-looking skin and improved definition. Results develop gradually as collagen remodelling takes place over the following weeks and months.
We will assess your skin condition, areas of concern, and suitability for treatment during consultation. The therapist will then cleanse the treatment area and prepare your skin for the treatment.
Ultrasound gel is applied before the HIFU handpiece is placed against the skin. During treatment, patients will experience a prickling, tingling, or warm sensation beneath the skin as focused ultrasound energy is delivered at selected depths. Some patients may also feel mild aching around bony areas such as the jawline.
Most patients are able to return to normal daily activities after the session. You may have temporary redness, mild swelling, or skin tenderness, but these effects are generally short-lived. Collagen remodelling continues gradually over the following weeks and months.
The sensation is commonly described as mild prickling, warmth, or tingling beneath the skin during treatment. Most patients tolerate the procedure well, although sensitivity may vary depending on the treatment area and your individual pain threshold.
At Halley Medical Aesthetics, HIFU face tightening starts from $590, and HIFU neck tightening starts from $390 per session. As optimal results typically require a minimum of three sessions spaced one month apart, we recommend booking a consultation so we can assess your skin and goals, then provide a personalised treatment programme price.
Pricing will be discussed during consultation after your skin condition and treatment goals have been assessed. You can also refer to our price list here for more details.
A minimum of three HIFU treatment sessions is typically recommended. The exact number of treatments depends on factors such as the degree of skin laxity, treatment area, age-related skin changes, and your desired outcome. Our doctor will assess your skin condition and recommend a treatment plan during consultation.
Temporary redness, swelling, tenderness, or mild sensitivity may occur after treatment. Some patients may also experience temporary tingling or soreness in treated areas, particularly around the jawline or cheek region.
Yes, HIFU is generally safe for all skin types and skin tones because ultrasound energy is delivered beneath the skin surface and does not rely on skin pigment to achieve its effect. Unlike some laser and light-based treatments that interact with chromophores in the skin, HIFU works independently of skin colour and may therefore be considered across different skin tones.
Your doctor will assess your skin condition, concerns, and treatment goals during consultation and advise whether HIFU is appropriate for you.
Yes, HIFU can be combined with other aesthetic treatments when clinically appropriate. During consultation, our doctor may recommend combining HIFU with suitable treatments that address your skin concerns. The recommended combination, treatment sequence, and frequency will depend on your individual skin condition and desired outcome.
The use of these treatments/products is dependent on the clinical assessment and judgement of a medical professional. Please consult a medical doctor for an informed discussion on the use of this treatment/product.
