Ulthera HIFU Lift: Focused Ultrasound to Reshape Contour

Ulthera HIFU is a focused-ultrasound skin-tightening device from the United States. It delivers focused ultrasound energy directly to the dermis and the fascial layer (SMAS), heating to about 60°C to 70°C, tightening the fascia and stimulating collagen regeneration. It is a trusted non-invasive lifting option.

Three depth tips, precise layering

• 1.5 mm: acts on the epidermis, targeting fine lines and pores
• 3.0 mm: acts on the dermis, improving elasticity and firmness
• 4.5 mm: acts on the SMAS fascial layer, achieving deep lifting

The treatment’s greatest distinctive feature is patented DeepSEE™ real-time ultrasound imaging, which allows skin tissue to be observed during treatment, ensuring energy is delivered to the accurate location and depth. It is one of the few systems that lets the practitioner accurately see the tissue being treated.

Treatment effects

• Tightens forehead skin, lifts the brows and makes double eyelids more apparent
• Improves laxity and wrinkles, such as nasolabial folds and mouth-corner lines
• Lifts facial contour, making the apple cheeks fuller and more youthful
• Improves jawline laxity and reduces double chin
• Firms the neck, smooths neck lines and restores skin elasticity
• Stimulates the skin’s renewal mechanism to combat wrinkles

Three stages of skin change

Stage one (weakening of elastic fibres): with age, collagen and elastic fibres are lost and break, and the skin sags and becomes lax.

Stage two (ultrasound energy delivery): non-invasive HIFU focuses with precision on the SMAS fascial layer and dermis, initiating regeneration and reorganisation of collagen and elastic fibres.

Stage three (collagen regeneration): results begin to appear about 1 month after treatment, with clear lifting at 2–3 months, and contour lines gradually tightening and rebounding.

Time to results and duration

There is an initial effect immediately after treatment; results begin to appear at about 1 month; they are most noticeable at 2–3 months; collagen production continues over the following 6 months. Contour improvement may last 18–24 months, or even two years or longer.

How it differs from other treatments

Pico picosecond laser mainly targets pigment and skin-quality improvement and pore refinement, and is not primarily for deep collagen tightening; Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency to heat the dermis about 3–4.3 mm, focusing on overall skin firmness; Ulthera HIFU uses high-energy focused ultrasound on the 3.0 mm dermis and 4.5 mm fascial layer, with more noticeable effect on contour lifting and obvious sagging.

Notes before treatment

• Have a qualified doctor assess the skin, and confirm that a genuine US FDA-certified device is used
• Stop using skincare containing AHAs, retinoids, salicylic acid and similar ingredients for one week beforehand
• Those who have recently had Botox are advised to wait at least two weeks
• Avoid prolonged sun exposure for one week beforehand

Aftercare

• Mild redness, a warm sensation or a dull ache may occur; these are normal reactions and usually settle quickly
• The skin may be drier; continue using highly hydrating products
• Apply SPF 30–50 or higher sunscreen daily, and avoid sun exposure for one week
• Do not use products containing AHAs, alcohol, exfoliants or brightening acids for one week
• Avoid saunas, hot springs and vigorous exercise for one week
• Face masks and ice packs are not recommended on the day of treatment, so as not to cool the tissue and affect results

Certification and clinical data

Certified by the US FDA and EU CE, with more than 260,000 real cases worldwide, supported by more than 60 medical studies, 40 professional reports and 100 patents — safety and results are well supported by data.