What is a HIFU facelift?
HIFU stands for high-intensity focused ultrasound. A handpiece converges ultrasound waves to small points beneath the skin, raising the temperature just enough to make collagen contract while leaving the surface intact. Because it can reach 4.5 mm, the depth of the SMAS, it acts on the layer that truly supports the face.
Many devices are sold as HIFU. At UE we use Ultherapy Prime, which shows an ultrasound image while treating so each line is placed at the right depth. For an overview of the brand itself see Ultherapy face lifting.
Who is HIFU right for?
- Early sagging in the mid-face, jaw or under the chin.
- A slightly heavy brow that makes the eyes look tired.
- Good skin elasticity so the tissue can respond.
- Patients who want to delay surgery or maintain a facelift.
- Very thin faces need careful settings to avoid looking gaunt.
If sagging is advanced, a deep plane facelift gives a result HIFU cannot.
HIFU vs Thermage vs thread lift
| HIFU (Ultherapy) | Thermage FLX | Thread lift | |
| How it works | Focused ultrasound | Radiofrequency heat | Dissolvable barbed threads |
| Depth | SMAS and deep dermis | Dermis | Under the skin |
| Best for | Lift of jaw, brow, neck | Skin firmness, texture | Visible immediate lift |
| Downtime | 0–2 days | Hours | 3–7 days |
| Typical longevity | About 1 year | About 1 year | 6–12 months |
See Ultherapy cost for current packages.
What happens during a HIFU session
Before & after
Before
After
More cases are in our before & after gallery.
Recovery after HIFU
| Same day | Light redness; mild swelling for some. |
|---|---|
| Day 1–7 | Tenderness when pressing along the jaw; occasional numb patch. |
| Week 4–8 | Lift begins to show as collagen forms. |
| Month 3 | Peak result; keep it with yearly sessions. |
“Ultrasound is only as good as where it lands. Seeing the layers while I treat is the point.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorRisks and side effects
Expected effects are discomfort during treatment, redness and tenderness. Less common are bruising, temporary numbness or nerve weakness, and in thin faces, a hollow look if too much fat is heated. Burns are rare with imaging-guided devices and correct settings. Some people respond only mildly.
Frequently asked questions
Is HIFU the same as Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is one brand of HIFU, and the one with live imaging. Other HIFU devices exist but deliver energy without seeing the layers.
Does HIFU hurt?
It can be uncomfortable over bony areas, felt as deep heat and prickling. Numbing and adjustable settings help.
How long do HIFU results last?
Usually about a year, depending on age, skin and lifestyle.
Can HIFU make my face look thinner?
It can slightly reduce fullness. In already thin faces Dr. Lee lowers the energy in fatty areas to avoid hollowing.
How soon can I return to work?
Immediately in most cases.
Can I combine HIFU with fillers or boosters?
Yes. Lifting first and injectables afterwards is a common same-day plan.