Should I consider a HIFU facelift? Are there other treatments I can combine with it to combat aging? (Hong Lan, Lam Dong)

Answer:

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-invasive facelift and skin-tightening procedure approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It helps prevent sagging skin, lifts eyebrows, improves neck laxity, and reduces wrinkles caused by aging. Since your skin shows signs of sagging in the cheek and jawline area, HIFU could be a suitable option for you.

HIFU uses high-intensity focused ultrasound waves with various applicators to precisely target skin layers from 1.5 mm to 4.5 mm deep. This process diminishes wrinkles, rejuvenates the skin, and lifts facial areas. The 1.5 mm applicator targets the superficial dermis, improving fine lines on the forehead and around the eyes. At 3 mm, the technology focuses on the deeper dermis, causing immediate contraction of collagen fibers and stimulating fibroblasts to restructure elastin. This results in firmer skin and reduces moderate sagging. At 4.5 mm, the device targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) layer, providing a noticeable lift, defining the jawline, reducing jowls, and slimming the face.

After 50, skin often ages rapidly across multiple structural layers, including the epidermis, dermis, and fatty tissue. The underlying muscle layer that provides support also loosens. People in this age group can still achieve significant results using wave-based technologies like HIFU, SUPERB, and RF microneedling. These treatments effectively slow down the signs of aging without surgery.

Doctor Dung uses HIFU technology to treat a patient's sagging skin. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7. *italic*

For an accurate assessment of your skin's condition, consult a dermatologist or cosmetic dermatologist at a reputable medical facility. Individuals with underlying health issues, very thin skin, or severe sagging should seek professional advice for a personalized treatment plan. If aging affects multiple skin layers, your doctor may recommend combining HIFU with other treatments such as RF microneedling, long-pulsed laser rejuvenation, IPL, or mesotherapy injections to improve skin quality. Some cases may also benefit from fillers to restore lost volume in specific areas for optimal aesthetic results.

Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Dung

Head of Dermatology - Cosmetic Dermatology Unit

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7