Treatments
Skin Tightening
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Skin Tightening is a non-surgical procedure that uses focused ultrasound energy to gently heat targeted layers beneath the skin.
This process may help support the skin’s natural firmness and appearance over time. HIFU is often selected by clients seeking a non-invasive option for areas such as the face, neck, under the chin, or décolletage.
All treatments are performed by trained practitioners following consultation to determine suitability and expected outcomes.
HIFU stands for “High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound” and is a relatively new non-invasive cosmetic technology. HIFU uses concentrated ultrasound energy to the face, neck and body by a handheld device. It is a non-invasive treatment that helps stimulate the cells, resulting in tissue rejuvenation and collagen production. The overall effect of the treatment is to promote tightening and lifting of the skin in these areas.
A HIFU treatment can help stimulate tissue rejuvenation and collagen production – resulting in the tightening and lifting of saggy skin. In the hands of a skilled practitioner, this can produce results akin to facial sculpting (but without the need for surgery). As a skin rejuvenating procedure, HIFU can help lift and tighten the neck, chin and brow, and improve lines and wrinkles on the chest. Collagen production is expected to reach its optimum level at two to three months. It is during this period that a patient can already see their facial skin becoming younger-looking, healthier, softer, and supple.
HIFU applications
- Skin firming and rejuvenation (anti-aging)
- Non-invasive lifting for the face
- Body contouring and tightening
How Does HIFU Therapy Stimulate Collagen Production?
During the treatment the transducer delivers and deposits focused ultrasound energy deep beneath the skin at the optimal temperature for collagen regeneration. The treatment jumpstarts a natural process, known as neocollagenesis, to produce fresh, new collagen. The treatment itself doesn’t involve any creams, fillers or toxins, it just relies on your body’s own collagen-building process for natural, noticeable results.
Can HIFU Replace a Face Lift Procedure?
HIFU Therapy treats the deep foundational layer addressed in cosmetic surgery, but won’t duplicate the results of a facelift. However it is a great alternative, especially for those not ready for surgery or for patients looking to extend the effects of cosmetic surgery.
How is HIFU Therapy Different to Laser Procedures?
HIFU Therapy uses sound energy, tried and true ultrasound, which has unique properties that allow it to bypass the surface of the skin to treat depths not matched by any other non-invasive cosmetic device. HIFU Therapy stimulates collagen production in the skin’s foundation, resulting in a clinically significant lift of tissue over the following 2-3 months. Lasers rely on light energy, which cannot reach deeper skin layers at an optimal temperature, so laser treatments typically only treat superficial skin. Since the two technologies often treat different types of skin issues, they’re actually very compatible.
How Long Will a HIFU Therapy Treatment Take?
The length of the treatment will depend on the area being treated and your individual treatment plan. A face and neck procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes, while a chest treatment on its own takes approximately 30 minutes.
Will I Need to Take Time off Work?
With a single HIFU Therapy treatment there is no downtime. After your procedure, you can resume your normal activities immediately, without having to follow any special post-treatment measures. We have even had clients come up to the clinic on their lunchbreak to have the treatment, no creams required and your general skin care plan and make-up can be applied as normal.
What Does HIFU Therapy Feel Like?
As the ultrasound energy is delivered, you will feel tiny amounts of energy being deposited to precise depths, indicating that the collagen-building process has been initiated. Comfort levels vary from person to person, but the sensation only lasts while the ultrasound energy is being delivered.
How Many HIFU Treatments Will I Need?
Most clients need between one and three treatments. However this may be based on the degree of skin laxity, the biological response to ultrasound energy and the individual’s collagen-building process, some clients may benefit from additional treatments. Because skin continues to age, future touch-up treatments can help clients keep pace with the body’s natural aging process.
Who is a Good Candidate for HIFU?
A good HIFU candidate has mild to moderate skin laxity where the skin begins to feel and look less firm. Examples include a lowered eyebrow line, loose skin on the neck, sagging under the chin, and lines or wrinkles on the chest. Of course, the best way to find out if you’re a suitable candidate is to consult with a practitioner.
Is HIFU Safe?
The HIFU procedure has been used safely in over 250,000 treatments worldwide. Ultrasound energy itself has been used safely in the medical field for more than 50 years.
Are There Any Side Effects?
The skin might appear flushed at first, this can be during treatment but sometimes lasting longer, the redness should however disappear within a few hours. Some clients experience slight swelling, tingling or tenderness to the touch, but these are temporary in nature. Other, less common post-procedural effects may include temporary bruising or numbness on small areas of skin. As with any cosmetic procedure, there is the possibility of other rare effects, which your practitioner will review with you.
How Long Does it Take to See Results and How long do They Last?
After your HIFU Treatment, you may see some initial effect, but the ultimate results will take place over 2-3 months, as your body naturally regenerates collagen. Since the procedure stimulates your own collagen production, how long the results last really depends on you. The treatment produces new collagen on the inside, but your natural aging process will dictate how long that translates into visible results on the outside
You can expect none or some of the following symptoms immediately after the procedure. These symptoms may persist for up to four weeks. Most patients have very mild symptoms but, as with any medical procedure, each patient experiences it uniquely. Symptoms always subside over time. There have been no reports of long lasting complications. The treated area may be slightly pink for up to a few hours.
Bruising, swelling and tenderness can occur in the treated area. Bruising may not be evident for several days following the treatment and often is greenish in colour by the time it becomes visible. Most common areas for bruising are along the jawline and cheekbone. Even without bruising, tenderness to the touch is expected. This is usually most evident along the jawline and cheekbone and most often noted when touching your face, washing or applying makeup. This will not interfere with eating, talking or moving your facial muscles.
With the exception of possible bruising there is no downtime after your HIFU You will be able to return to your normal daily routine and exercise program immediately after the procedure.
We offer HIFU treatments for different areas of the face and neck. Please see pricing and booking options here or contact us for further information.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses focused ultrasound energy delivered via a handheld device to target specific layers beneath the skin.
This process gently warms the deeper tissues, which may help support skin firmness and improve overall tone and appearance over time.
HIFU is often chosen by individuals seeking a non-surgical option for maintaining skin elasticity or definition in areas such as the face, neck, chin, and décolletage.
Treatments are performed by trained practitioners following a detailed consultation to determine individual suitability and expected outcomes
Common HIFU Applications
Supporting the appearance of firmer, smoother skin
Assisting in non-surgical lifting or contouring of the face and neck
Promoting a more refined skin texture and tone
How Does HIFU Therapy Work?
During a HIFU procedure, focused ultrasound energy is delivered beneath the skin’s surface at controlled depths and temperatures.
This gentle heating supports the skin’s natural firmness and elasticity over time.
HIFU does not involve creams, fillers or injections; it relies on the body’s normal regenerative processes to help maintain a refreshed appearance.
Can HIFU Replace a Face-Lift Procedure?
HIFU is a non-surgical option that may be suitable for clients who wish to maintain or support skin firmness without undergoing surgery.
It does not replicate the results of a surgical facelift, but may be considered by individuals seeking a non-invasive approach following professional consultation.
How Is HIFU Different From Laser Procedures?
HIFU uses focused ultrasound energy to reach deeper layers beneath the skin’s surface, while laser devices act more superficially.
Because the two technologies work at different levels, they may be used separately or as part of a broader treatment plan determined by your practitioner.
How Long Does a HIFU Treatment Take?
Treatment time varies depending on the area being addressed and the individual treatment plan.
A full-face and neck session generally takes around 60–90 minutes, and smaller areas such as the chest may take less time.
Will I Need Time Off Work?
Most people return to normal activities soon after the procedure.
Your practitioner will provide specific after-care advice based on your skin type and treatment area.
What Does HIFU Feel Like?
During the procedure, some clients describe brief sensations of warmth or tingling as the ultrasound energy is delivered.
Comfort levels vary from person to person and will be discussed prior to treatment.
How Many HIFU Treatments Will I Need?
The number of sessions recommended depends on factors such as skin type, degree of laxity, and individual response.
Your practitioner will develop a personalised plan and may suggest future maintenance sessions as appropriate.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for HIFU?
HIFU may be suitable for clients with mild to moderate skin laxity who wish to support firmness and definition in areas such as the face, chin, neck or chest.
A consultation is required to assess suitability and discuss expectations.
Is HIFU Safe?
HIFU is a non-invasive procedure performed with medical-grade devices by trained practitioners.
Ultrasound energy has been used in medical and aesthetic settings for many years, and your clinician will review any contraindications prior to treatment.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Temporary redness, slight swelling or tenderness may occur and usually resolves shortly after treatment.
Less common effects will be discussed before your procedure.
If any unexpected symptoms arise, clients should contact their practitioner for review.
When Will I Notice Changes?
Some people observe early improvements in tone or firmness within weeks, while others may notice gradual changes over several months.
Results vary between individuals depending on skin type, lifestyle and natural ageing processes.
After Your HIFU Procedure
You may experience some temporary effects following treatment. These can include mild redness, tenderness, or slight swelling in the treated area. Such responses generally resolve within several days, although the duration can vary for each person.
Occasionally, bruising may appear in the days following treatment, often noticed along the jawline or cheekbone. The colour may change as it fades, and the area can remain sensitive to touch for a short period.
If any discomfort occurs, your practitioner can recommend appropriate after-care steps.
While many clients return to normal daily activities soon after the procedure, recovery experiences differ from person to person.
The London Skin Clinic operates under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and complies with the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (South Australia).
The information provided on this website is general in nature and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual suitability for treatment and outcomes vary between clients.
In accordance with AHPRA’s advertising requirements, we do not publish:
- Testimonials that reference clinical outcomes, results, or the effectiveness of a treatment.
- Before-and-after images that could create an unrealistic expectation of results or imply a guaranteed outcome.
To understand how a treatment may apply to your individual concerns, please contact our clinical team at hrhnorwood@londonskin.com.auor book a private consultation for professional advice.
