Answer:

If you have recently had botox injections in your face, you should wait until the botox has fully taken effect before undergoing a HIFU treatment, typically several weeks to one month. Consult your dermatologist to determine the optimal timing for your specific treatment plan and to ensure the safety and effectiveness of combining these procedures.

HIFU (high-intensity focused ultrasound) is a technology that uses high-energy focused ultrasound waves to penetrate deep into the skin's dermis, lifting muscles and rejuvenating skin without affecting natural facial appearance. HIFU is often used to firm skin, reduce wrinkles, lift the neck and jawline, and improve skin elasticity.

Botox (botulinum toxin) is a refined product derived from the exotoxin secreted by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. It inhibits acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, reducing muscle contraction and slimming muscles. Injecting botox to slim the jaw angle is an aesthetic technique. When injected correctly, botox reduces nerve impulse transmission, thereby decreasing muscle activity in the treated area and reducing masseter muscle hypertrophy, resulting in a more sculpted facial contour. Botox can be injected simultaneously in multiple areas, such as around the eyes to erase wrinkles and to slim the jaw angle. This method is safe and saves multiple trips.

Doctor Thuy injecting botox into a woman. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Although HIFU is considered a non-invasive, safe, and effective skin rejuvenation technology, a specialist doctor must thoroughly examine you before the procedure. The doctor will assess your skin condition, degree of sagging, subcutaneous fat, and history of botox injections or cosmetic surgery to select the appropriate energy level, depth, and technique for each treatment area.

For optimal rejuvenation results and to minimize risks, HIFU should be performed at reputable medical facilities with a dermatologist-aesthetic specialist directly examining, monitoring, and personalizing the treatment plan.

Dr. Be Thu Thuy

Department of Aesthetics

Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi