- There is no special preparation needed before having a HIFU treatment. Makeup and skincare products should be removed from the target area before treatment. One may experience mild discomfort during a HIFU procedure. Most people describe it as tiny electric pulses or a slight prickly sensation.
- A dermatologist or technician first will clean the target area.
- A topical anesthetic cream may be applied before 30 minutes of starting the procedure.
- The dermatologist or technician then applies an ultrasound gel.
- The HIFU device is placed over the skin.
- A dermatologist will adjust the device to the right setting.
- Ultrasound energy is then delivered to the target area in short pulses for roughly 30 to 45 minutes.
- The device is removed after completion of treatment.
While the ultrasound energy is being applied, one may feel heat and tingling. Pain medication as prescribed by the doctor can be taken after the procedure if it is bothersome. Immediately after the procedure, one may experience mild redness or swelling, which will gradually subside over the next few hours. Rarely, some people may experience temporary numbness but this usually goes away after a few days. The patient is free to go home and resume normal daily activities immediately after the procedure.