What is HIFU?
In Singapore, HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-surgical, device-based treatment that uses FDA-cleared focused ultrasound technology to target deeper layers of the skin at controlled depths. HIFU bypasses the outer skin layer and delivers energy to the SMAS (Superficial Muscular Aponeurotic System), a deeper support layer beneath the skin.
HIFU applies controlled thermal stimulation, encouraging gradual collagen and elastin production. Over the following months, the skin may feel firmer and subtly lifted, with results developing progressively.
Who is HIFU Suitable For?
- Individuals, typically between the ages 30 and 60 years, experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity
- Those exploring non-surgical treatment options
- Patients who wish to explore treatments intended to support collagen activity
- HIFU may be less effective for patients with severe sagging or very thin skin. In such cases, your doctor may discuss other treatment options, depending on clinical assessment and individual suitability.
Key Benefits of HIFU Treatment
Lifts Sagging Skin Without Surgery
HIFU targets areas with mild to moderate skin laxity by delivering focused ultrasound energy to deeper tissue layers, which may support changes in skin firmness over time.
Supports Jawline Definition and the Appearance of Jowls
By supporting the underlying tissue structure, HIFU may help enhance natural contours along the jawline and improve the appearance of jowls over time.
Smooths the Appearance of Fine Lines and Wrinkles
The treatment may help soften the appearance of fine lines over time, particularly in areas such as the forehead, cheeks, and around the eyes, as collagen activity increases gradually.
Supports Skin Elasticity and Overall Skin Tone
HIFU stimulates collagen production in deeper skin layers, which may contribute to improved skin elasticity and overall skin tone with time.
Supports Natural Collagen Stimulation
Rather than altering facial features, HIFU works by activating the skin’s natural regenerative response through controlled thermal stimulation.
Gradual Outcomes Over Time
Improvements develop progressively over several weeks, with results that may last for months depending on individual skin condition, age, and lifestyle factors.
Other Treatment Options
- Surgical Facelift: Involves anaesthesia, incisions, and weeks of recovery.
- Thread Lift: Uses dissolvable threads to physically lift the skin, but carries risks of bruising and uneven results.
If you want noticeable lifting without surgery or injections, HIFU is often the preferred choice.
HIFU Treatment Areas & Customisation
Forehead and Brow Lift
HIFU targets skin laxity across the upper face, and may support changes in skin firmness over time.
Eye Area (Peri-Orbital Region) for Fine Lines and Under-Eye Bags
Focused ultrasound energy is delivered around the eye area while respecting established safety limits. This may help support skin firmness and soften the appearance of fine lines associated with the peri-orbital region.
Cheeks and Nasolabial Folds
HIFU helps support mid-face tissue structure, which may soften the appearance of nasolabial folds and contribute to improved facial balance.
Jawline Contouring and Jowls
By addressing deeper support layers, HIFU can help refine jawline definition and improve the appearance of early jowls.
Neck and Double Chin Area
Often included in comprehensive HIFU treatment plans, the neck and submental region may benefit from gradual firming and contouring support.
At AEON Medical, each HIFU treatment plan is customised to reflect your skin condition, age, and lifestyle. Treatment depth and coverage are carefully adjusted to support balanced, natural-looking results.
Step-By-Step HIFU Procedure
Consultation
Your doctor will assess your skin condition, discuss your concerns, and determine whether HIFU is suitable for your goals.
Preparation
The treatment area is cleansed, and a cooling ultrasound gel is applied to facilitate effective energy delivery.
Precise Mapping and Energy Delivery
Using a handheld device, focused ultrasound energy is delivered at controlled depths beneath the skin, based on a customised treatment plan.
Completion
The procedure typically takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and number of areas treated.
Return to Routine
Many individuals are able to resume normal daily activities immediately after treatment.
HIFU Expected Results & Treatment Timeline
Some individuals may experience the following changes after a HIFU session, depending on individual response:
-
Immediately after treatment:
You may notice a subtle tightening effect.
-
After 1–3 months:
Collagen production increases, and lifting effects become more visible.
-
After 3–6 months:
Changes may become more noticeable, with firmer skin and improved contours.
-
Longevity:
Duration of effect varies depending on individual factors such as age, skin condition and lifestyle, and should be discussed during consultation with your doctor.
HIFU Side Effects & Safety
Temporary Mild Redness or Swelling (Usually Settles Within Hours to Days)
Some individuals may experience mild redness or light swelling in the treated areas. These effects are typically temporary and resolve on their own.
Mild Tingling or Tenderness (Typically Fades Within a Few Days)
A sensation of tightness, tingling, or mild tenderness may be felt after treatment, particularly along the jawline or bony areas.
Scarring
As the procedure does not involve skin incisions, scarring is not expected, though individual responses may vary.
Minimal to No Recovery Downtime
Most individuals are able to return to work or resume normal daily activities shortly after their HIFU session.
No General Anaesthesia Required
HIFU treatment in Singapore is performed without general anaesthesia or sedation, making it a suitable option for individuals seeking a non-surgical approach.
Book Your HIFU Consultation at Aeon Medical
Considering non-surgical options to address skin laxity?
Schedule your personalised HIFU consultation at Aeon Medical today. Our experienced doctors will assess your needs and design a customised treatment plan based on clinical assessment and individual suitability.
FAQs About HIFU Treatment in Singapore
HIFU is NON-ABLATIVE, meaning it does not affect or burn the skin surface. However, HIFU does deliver intense ultrasound energy into the face/neck for effective skin tightening and rejuvenation via its uniquely designed transducer system. Discomfort levels vary between individuals.
Many individuals are able to resume routine activities shortly after treatment, depending on individual response. The need for topical anaesthesia will be assessed on an individual basis.
Treatment frequency varies depending on individual goals and clinical assessment. Some individuals may undergo a single session per year as part of their maintenance plan, although recommendations can vary based on skin condition and treatment response.
Gravity is a force that pulls down on our face/neck and cannot be stopped or altered. Collagen which imparts elasticity and the youthful “glow” to our skin, starts to decrease in our body after the mid-20s. Therefore, the elasticity of the face/neck can be improved by stimulating more collagen which can delay the signs and symptoms of ageing such as wrinkles and sagging skin, in addition to tightening the layer of muscle under the skin.
Patients in their mid to late 20s to 30s can consider HIFU treatments for preventive and anti-aging purposes. Patients who are in their 40s-50s can consider this treatment for wrinkles and sagging skin.
Patients past their 60s might not be suitable for treatment due to sensitivity or severe loss of elasticity in the skin. The most important thing is for your condition to be assessed by Dr Kim and to have a thorough discussion of the benefits, limitations, and risks of the procedure.
Your eyes will first be protected, and a cooling gel will be evenly applied to the treatment areas. The handpiece will be placed in contact with your skin starting at the neck and then moving to the face.
When the HIFU energy is released, you will feel a dull pain in about 10 separate shots in one single file line as the energy is delivered to a specific depth of your face/neck. The handpiece will be moved very gently and another line of HIFU shots will be placed.
During each session, the HIFU will be repeated with a different transducer to reach different depths of the face/skin, with more concentration on areas of concern.
After the treatment, you will be brought back to your private room for post-care treatment to cool and calm the skin before you leave our aesthetic clinic in Singapore.
As a non-ablative procedure, downtime varies depending on individual response.
You may experience some redness or swelling that should resolve within a few hours, but there is no requirement for you to stay indoors or avoid cosmetic application afterwards. (Again, this is a NON-invasive treatment so no needles, no blood, no crusting after the treatment.)
You may return to work, apply makeup, and resume most of your activities (Although please try to avoid exercise 1-2 days before and after the treatment). Do note, however, that it is advised to avoid excessive, prolonged sun exposure 2-3 weeks before and after the treatment. You may experience some mild dull discomfort around the jawline area for a few days after the treatment.
Patients may experience slight redness/swelling for a few hours after a HIFU treatment, or a tingling sensation at the scalp if the forehead is treated. Mild discomfort along the jawline bony areas may be present for a few hours to a few days after treatment.
Although rare, more sensitive skin patients may experience a blister on the skin due to the heat of the HIFU, which can be treated but may leave a discolouration of the skin. This discolouration can fade over time or be treated with different modalities.
HIFU may be considered by individuals exploring non-surgical options to address skin laxity. However, HIFU results cannot match the dramatic changes of a surgical facelift.
HIFU prices in Singapore vary depending on the number of treatment areas and sessions required. On average, HIFU treatment costs range from $600 to $2,500 per session.
HIFU results typically last 12 to 18 months, depending on age, lifestyle, and skin condition. Your aesthetic doctor may recommend maintenance sessions once a year.
HIFU is typically suitable for most skin types and tones. Suitability and potential risks will be assessed during consultation, and side effects vary between individuals.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is, in no way, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, availability, adequacy, or validity of the information or procedures outlined on the website. Always consult professional medical and aesthetic advice for your skincare and medical concerns.
Contact Us
Call us anytime
Talk to our friendly AEON team by filling out the form. We will get back to you within 2-3 working days. For a faster response, contact our hotline below.
9 Scotts Rd, #06-01/02/03 Scotts Medical Centre, Pacific Plaza Singapore 228210