High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) Chicago
At MINTS Medical, Dr. Iftikhar Ahmad and his team offer High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatments. Give us a call or book a free consult online to schedule an appointment.
HIFU Q&A
WHAT IS HIFU?
HIFU stands for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound. Ultrasound waves are like sound waves except that they have a higher frequency.
HOW DOES HIFU WORK?
Like any other form of waves, ultrasound carry energy and deliver that to the tissues where they are absorbed. The energy in each ultrasound beam is low. When the beams are focused at a point, like when you use a magnifying glass to focus sunlight to burn paper, the ultrasound beams are focused at a point at a certain depth. This produces heat at that point and causes mild inflammation which heals by producing collagen and skin tightening. When focused deeper than the skin, the beam can cause heat formation at a deeper level which destroys the fat cells thereby causing superficial fat loss in subcutaneous area.
IS HIFU SAFE?
In energy range used in aesthetics, HIFU is very safe. Excessive use in a small area can however cause burns
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY HIFU TREATMENT?
- Avoid sun exposure and sunless tanning. Sun burned, or tanned skin will not be treated.
- It is best to avoid topical products like Retinols, Glycolic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid and anti-aging products prior to the treatment.
- If you have had Herpes in the treatment area, please let us know before your appointment so we can prescribe anti-viral treatment.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER MY HIFU TREATMENT?
- It is normal for the treated area to have redness and swelling. It is uncommon for a blister to bruise to develop. Should you develop a blister, an over the counter topical ointment such as polysporin can be used twice daily until healed.
- Avoid ice packs to maximize the treatment results.
- Makeup can be applied immediately after treatment.
- Avoid hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms for 24 hours after treatment.
