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Ultrasound Treatments

Ultrasound Technology

Ultrasound Technology in Skin Rejuvenation: HIFU, Ultherapy, and Sofwave

In recent years, non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatments have gained immense popularity as alternatives to surgical facelifts. Among these, different equipment relying on the same technology has been marketed under different names: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), Ultherapy, and Sofwave have emerged as some of the better known technologies relying on ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production and palpably tighten tissue and its underlying structures. These treatments offer effective anti-aging benefits with minimal downtime, making them appealing options for individuals seeking a youthful appearance without undergoing surgery.

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)

HIFU is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that employs focused ultrasound energy to penetrate deep into the skin at up to myriad different levels of penetration, reaching the Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System (SMAS) layer that is the same layer targeted in traditional facelift surgery. The ultrasound waves create micro injuries beneath the superficial skin layer to generate heat and micro-coagulation, which stimulates collagen and elastin production, leading to firmer and tighter skin over time for gradual and long lasting results. HIFU is commonly used to treat sagging skin on the face, neck, and décolleté. It is particularly effective for reducing wrinkles, improving jawline definition, and lifting drooping eyelids and a double chin. HIFU has also been applied to the entire body at different layers to produce different effects; superficial layers result in an improvement to superficial fine lines, loose skin and improved hydration, the most superficial of which are sometimes referred to as "glow" treatments. Deeper depths can result in a resolution or improvement of laxity, stubborn fat and cellulite body wide.

  • Non-invasive alternative to surgical facelifts

  • Long-lasting skin tightening and lifting effects

  • Stimulates collagen production for natural rejuvenation

  • Minimal downtime with gradual improvements over several months

  • Handles with tips generally come in 1.5, 3, 4.5, 6, 9, 13mm

Ultherapy

Ultherapy is an FDA-approved trademarked ultrasound therapy designed to lift and tighten the skin naturally. Exactly like HIFU, it targets both deep layers of the skin and underlying connective tissues as well as those more superficial, with the added benefit of ultrasound imaging. Ultherapy is frequently used to treat the brow, chin, neck, and chest areas, with noticeable improvements seen within two to three months post-treatment.

  • FDA-approved for non-invasive brow and skin lifting and tightening

  • Handles with tips come in 1.5, 3 and 4.5mm

Sofwave

Sofwave is another innovative ultrasound-based technology used for skin rejuvenation. Unlike HIFU and Ultherapy, which have the potential to penetrate deeper layers of the skin as well as those more superficial, Sofwave focuses on the mid-dermal layer at only one depth. This makes it a more superficial alternative while still delivering effective results in wrinkle reduction and skin tightening.

  • Softwave uses a handle with only one depth: 1.5mm

Skinenvy's Advantage

Ultrasound technology has revolutionized the field of non-invasive skin rejuvenation, offering effective solutions for individuals seeking firmer, more youthful skin without surgery. Choosing the right depth depends on individual skin concerns, desired results, and tolerance for intensity. At Skinenvy we use a non trademarked version of HIFU ultrasound therapy with different options for depths of treatment (1.5, 3, 4.5 ,6 ,9 and 13mm) as well as a special eye and brow lift tip of 2mm. This allows for both incredible diversity of application while keeping the cost of treatments extremely competitive

What to Expect from an Ultrasound Treatment

Before the Procedure

  • Consultation: The practitioner will assess your skin, discuss your goals, and determine if HIFU is right for you. Optimal skin rejuvenation results will be different for each of us.

  • Skin Preparation: Your face will be cleansed, and an ultrasound gel will be applied to help conduct the ultrasound energy.

  • No Anaesthesia Needed: Unlike other skin-tightening treatments, HIFU does not require numbing cream or anaesthesia. That said, this is not a relaxing experience and many find the experience rather uncomfortable. We recommend taking an extra strength Tylenol (not an anti-inflammatory) an hour before the procedure.

During the Procedure

  • Sensation: You may feel a tingling or slight prickling sensation as the ultrasound energy penetrates the deeper layers of your skin.

  • Mild Discomfort: Some areas (like near the jawline or around the eyes) might feel more sensitive, but most people tolerate it well and the intensity can be modified to that end.

  • Session Length: Depending on the area being treated, the procedure can take between 30 to 120 minutes.

After the Procedure

  • Immediate Effects: Some people notice a slight lifting or firming effect right away, but full results develop over 2 to 3 months as collagen production increases.

  • Mild Redness & Swelling: Your skin may appear slightly red or swollen for a few hours post-treatment.

  • No Downtime: You can resume normal activities immediately, although it's best to avoid excessive sun exposure and harsh skincare products for a few days.

  • Gradual Improvement: The lifting and tightening effects continue to improve over the next few months and can last up to 12-18 months.

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