High intensity focused ultrasound
An overview of High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten skin, promoting a more youthful appearance.
Treatment Time
Numbing
Discomfort
Recovery Time
What is High Intensity Focused Ultrasound?
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU), often performed using the Ultraformer III, is a non-invasive skin lifting and tightening treatment. It works by delivering micro-focused ultrasound energy to precise layers beneath the skin, stimulating natural collagen production without damaging the surface.
HIFU is particularly effective for the face, neck, décolletage, and other areas prone to sagging. By encouraging collagen growth over time, it gradually restores firmness, smooths fine lines, and lifts contours for a natural, youthful look, all without surgery, needles, or requiring downtime.
Our Sydney clinic offers the highest quality HIFU treatments available, using the latest Ultraformer III technology to achieve long-lasting results.
Your initial consultation with our highly qualified team ensures HIFU is suitable for your skin. We’ll assess areas of concern, discuss your goals, and create a personalised HIFU treatment plan.
What you need to know for treatment day:
- A single HIFU session may be enough for noticeable improvement, though a second session may be recommended after 3 months for the best possible results.
- Numbing cream is applied if needed for comfort.
- Treatment is non-invasive, safe, and suitable for most skin types.
To get the best results from your HIFU session:
- Stay well-hydrated in the week leading up to your appointment.
- Pause retinol or strong topical products 5 days prior.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) 24 hours before.
- Men should arrive freshly shaved.
- Keep the treatment area clean, without make-up.
Straight after your HIFU treatment, we'll apply an ice pack for 5–10 minutes to soothe your skin. It’s normal for the treated area, especially your face, neck or decolletage, to look a little pink or swollen for a few hours.
Before you leave, we’ll apply SPF50+ sunscreen and recommend keeping your skin shaded with a hat or clothing if you’re heading outdoors.
You can shower and wear make-up as normal after treatment. We just suggest avoiding alcohol and strenuous exercise for the rest of the day. And if your face was treated, sleeping with your head slightly elevated for the first night can help reduce swelling.
For this treatment, all patients are required to have an initial consultation with Dr Poon before proceeding. This ensures the treatment is appropriate for you and tailored to achieve the best possible results.
HIFU treatment can be used almost anywhere you want firmer, tighter skin. Popular treatment areas include:
- Face (especially around the jawline and cheeks)
- Neck
- Décolletage (upper chest)
- Brow area (non-surgical brow lift)
- Under the chin (double chin reduction)
- Abdomen
- Upper arms ("bat wings")
During your consultation, we’ll customise your HIFU treatment plan based on your goals and concerns.
What are the possible side effects of HIFU?
While HIFU ultrasound treatments are considered very safe, a few temporary side effects can occur:
- Mild redness or swelling (a bit like a mild sunburn)
- Slight tingling or tenderness for a few days
- Occasional bruising (purpura) that can last 7–10 days
- Very rarely, temporary nerve inflammation, blisters, or pigmentation changes
Serious complications like scarring or infection are extremely rare when the treatment is performed by trained professionals — like our team here in Sydney.
What is the cost of HIFU / Ultraformer III treatment?
Treatment costs depend on the area treated. Prices at our Sydney clinic start from $950. Consultation fees are $365, with Medicare rebates available for referred patients.
What does HIFU treatment feel like?
Patients usually feel mild tingling or prickling during treatment. Some areas may be more sensitive than others. Topical anesthetics or pain relief can be provided for your comfort.
How many HIFU treatments will I need?
Some patients notice improvement after a single HIFU Ultraformer III session. For most moderate to severe skin laxity, a second session may be recommended after three months. Annual maintenance treatments help sustain long-term results.
Is HIFU Skin Tightening Right for Me?
HIFU treatment is ideal for men and women who want to lift and tighten their skin naturally without surgery. It's suitable for most skin types and tones. However, it’s not recommended if you have open wounds, severe cystic acne, or metal implants in the treatment area.
Not sure if HIFU skin tightening is right for you? Book a consultation with our team.
What does HIFU treatment do?
HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) lifts and tightens sagging skin by stimulating natural collagen production beneath the surface. This helps smooth fine lines, define facial contours, and restore firmness.
How long does HIFU tightening last?
Results typically last 12-18 months, depending on age, skin type, and lifestyle factors. Regular collagen-stimulating treatments, healthy skincare, and sun protection can extend the longevity of your results.
Does HIFU treatment work?
Yes. Clinical studies and real patient results demonstrate that HIFU skin tightening effectively lifts and firms skin. Results are gradual and natural-looking, with minimal risk. Ultraformer III is one of the most advanced and reliable devices available.
Can HIFU replace a facelift?
HIFU provides a non-surgical alternative for subtle lifting and skin tightening. While it cannot replicate a surgical facelift for severe sagging, it offers natural, noticeable improvement for mild to moderate skin looseness.
Can I see before and after results?
Yes. During your consultation, we can show before and after photos, helping you visualise potential outcomes and set realistic expectations.
Our Practitioners
The doctors at Neutral Bay Laser & Dermatology Clinic are highly trained medical professionals, with a caring and compassionate outlook, and a commitment to delivering exceptional results for our patients.
Dr. Terence Poon is the medical director of Neutral Bay Laser & Dermatology Clinic. He is a dermatologist and laser specialist. He has trained extensively in Australia and internationally, in the laser-responsive cosmetic aspects of dermatology.
He undertook a fellowship with Dr Jim Walter, who pioneered the use of lasers in dermatology in Australia and who founded our clinic, which was the first full time laser dermatology clinic in Sydney.
Dr Marianne Nolan has been with the clinic for over two decades and is very experienced in all aspects of laser treatments and related cosmetic procedures. Her meticulous record of safety and competence has earned her a huge following of dedicated cosmetic skin care patients, who also enjoy warm, caring manner. She trained extensively with our founder, Dr James Walter, and has attended regular training programmes and conferences in Australia, Europe and the USA. Together with Dr Walter, she is co-developer of our bespoke rejuvenation treatments, the Walter Nolan Multi-Laser Procedures.
Dr Helena Torpinski has been with our clinic for nearly two decades. Her bright and lively manner continues to ensure she is popular with our patients. Helena works as a GP in Newtown when she is not at our clinic and this adds a great breadth of knowledge and understanding to her engagement with patients. She has expertise in all forms of laser and light-based treatments and has a commitment to ongoing education, training and regular conference attendance.
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