HIFU
(High Intensity Micro-Focused Ultrasound)
The Ultraformer III is one of the world’s leading advanced technology
medical-grade devices for lifting, firming, tightening and contouring the face
and body harnessing the power of high intensity micro-focused ultrasound,
How does it work on the face?
Our skin is comprised of multiple layers from the superficial epidermal layer right down to the deeper SMAS layer which sits just above the facial muscle. Over time our skin produces less collagen and loses elasticity causing wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin.
Using transducer cartridges, the Ultraformer III delivers precise pin pricks of ultrasonic energy to the 3 critical layers of the skin without damaging the surface. This ultrasound energy heats the tissue causing an inflammatory response which in turn activates our immune healing process, stimulating collagen production and renewal. This has the effect of lifting, firming and tightening the skin.
The 1.5mm cartridge targets the superficial epidermis layer to smooth fine lines and wrinkles. The 3mm cartridge will boost collagen in the mid dermis layer, plumping and improving skin texture and reducing skin imperfections. The 4.5mm cartridge targets the deeper SMAS layer which connects the skin to the muscles, lifting and tightening the skin. The 2mm cartridge is a macro-focused cartridge which has a wider shallower beam targeting the superficial layer and allowing us to get in to hard-to-reach areas. This multi-pronged approach is very effective at lifting, plumping and tightening the skin giving a natural non-surgical face-lift.
What areas of the face can you treat?
Forehead including frown lines, peri-orbital (around the eyes), marionette lines, sagging jowls, peri-oral (around the mouth), submental (under the chin), neck and décolletage.
How does it work on the body?
The Ultraformer III 6mm, 9mm and 13mm cartridges allow us to precisely target and heat the deeper adipose tissue (subcutaneous and visceral fat) to between 65 and 75 degrees, breaking it down into liquid form which is then eliminated naturally from the body through the lymphatic system – literally melting the fat away. This allows us to contour the body and reduce or eliminate problem areas. We can also use the shallower cartridges to tighten and firm skin on the body as well as the face.
What areas of the body can you treat?
Double chins, upper arms, upper and lower abdomen, bra line, love handles, flanks, buttock rolls, inner and outer thighs, knees.
What makes the Ultraformer III different?
The medical-grade Ultraformer III is able to penetrate beyond the superficial layers of the skin to the deeper layers targeting tissue all the way down to the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer. The SMAS layer is composed of collagen and elastin fibres similar to the dermis of the skin however it has more durable holding properties, and less delayed relaxation after lifting procedures, than the dermis of the skin. Therefore the SMAS is a desirable target depth for non-invasive skin tightening procedures.
Because the Ultraformer III transducer cartridges are micro-focused, we can treat areas of the skin with far more precision than previous technology which means treatments are more focused and effective.
In addition, the ultrasonic energy heats the tissue to between 65 and 75 degrees which is more effective at accelerating the regeneration process compared to other technologies which can only reach the superficial layers of the skin and typically achieve temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees.
Is the Ultraformer III right for me?
The Ultraformer III is perfect for anyone who is not suitable or willing to undergo cosmetic surgery. An Ultraformer III treatment can help lift, firm and rejuvenate your skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, firming jawlines, smoothing out marionette lines, eliminating fat cells and tightening loose skin on the face and body.
FAQs
What happens during an Ultraformer III treatment?
Prior to treatment your skin will be cleaned, and a set of clinical photos will be taken. We will mark up the treatment area and apply ultrasound gel to the skin. Once the treatment starts you may feel little pinpricks of heat in the skin but it shouldn’t be unbearable. Different people have different tolerances - if you have particularly sensitive skin, you can take a paracetamol half an hour prior and we can apply topical anesthetic, however most people find the treatment completely comfortable.
How long does an Ultraformer III treatment take?
Ultraformer treatments take between 30 - 90 minutes depending on which or how many areas are being treated.
What does a treatment cost?
The cost varies depending on the areas you are having treated. We have discounted packages for more than one area. Your therapist will discuss your areas of concern during your consultation and provide you with a customised quote.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients will need only one treatment with a top-up treatment every 12-18 months to maintain their results.
For moderate to severe skin laxity we may recommend a treatment once a month for 3 months with a top up treatment annually after that.
Your therapist will advise the most appropriate treatment for your skin type.
Who is an Ultraformer III treatment appropriate for?
Anyone with concerns about skin laxity, fine lines and wrinkles or areas of subcutaneous fat. An Ultraformer III treatment is perfect for anyone who is not suitable or willing to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Who is an Ultraformer III treatment not appropriate for?
- Anyone with open wounds on the treatment area.
- Anyone with metal stents or facial implants. Dental implants are fine.
- Anyone with severe or cystic acne.
- Anyone using Roaccutane as this makes the skin very sensitive.
- Anyone with metal facial threads.
- It is recommended that clients leave a 6 week gap between having had Botox or dermal fillers and having an Ultraformer III treatment. If you wish to continue using injectables we recommend having your Ultraformer treatment first, as injectables can be used straight after an Ultraformer treatment.
What do I need to do to prepare for an Ultraformer III treatment?
- If you are taking prescribed Retinol products, please stop taking them at least 5 days prior to your Ultraformer III treatment as they can make the skin sensitive.
- Ensure your skin is well hydrated by drinking 1-2 litres of water a day for a week before and after your treatment.
- Don’t take anti-flammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or Voltaren for 24 hours before your treatment unless they are specifically prescribed.
- Keep your skin well protected from sunlight for at least 48 hours before your treatment - we can’t treat sunburnt skin.
- For best results, we recommend men are clean shaven on the day for treatment.
- It’s preferable to come with clean, makeup-free skin but we can remove any makeup prior to your treatment. You can reapply makeup straight after your treatment if necessary.
Are there any side effects associated with an Ultraformer III treatment?
Although side effects are uncommon they can occur. They are usually temporary and mild in nature.
Your skin may appear red for a few hours after Ultraformer treatment.
You may experience slight swelling, tingling or tenderness for a few days after treatment. Rarely, some patients may experience temporary bruising, welts or numbness.
Which treatments are right for me?
We offer a complementary, no-obligation consultation so you can get to know us and we can discus your concerns and what you’d like to achieve. Often there is more than one way to tackle a problems area and together we will customise a treatment plan that suits you and your goals.
