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) is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure designed to lift and tighten the skin on the face and body. Utilising micro-focused ultrasound energy, HIFU targets precise depths beneath the skin's surface, stimulating collagen production without harming the outer layer. This process results in firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time.
HIFU treatment is particularly effective for areas such as the face, neck, and décolletage, offering a non-surgical alternative to traditional facelifts. Whether you're after a subtle refresh or a more noticeable lift, HIFU therapy is a proven way to achieve natural-looking results, without needles or surgery.
We offer some of the best HIFU treatments in Sydney, using the latest technology to deliver beautiful, long-lasting results.
HIFU isn’t an overnight fix, but that's what makes it so natural. Results appear gradually over 3–6 months as your body produces fresh collagen. Many patients are happy after just one session, but if your skin needs a little extra support, we might recommend a second treatment three months later.
At your initial consultation, our experienced cosmetic physicians and nurses will assess your skin and goals. If HIFU is right for you, you’ll often be able to have your HIFU treatment on the same day.
To get the best results from your ultrasound skin tightening treatment:
- Drink plenty of water for a week leading up to your session to keep your skin well-hydrated.
- Pause any prescription retinol products five days before.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) for 24 hours before.
- Men should arrive freshly shaved.
- Skip make-up on the treatment area on the day.
These are simple steps, but they make a big difference to your HIFU treatment.
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.
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.
How much does HIFU cost?
Pricing depends on the area you're treating. At our clinic, HIFU treatments start from $950. We’ll give you a full quote during your consultation.
What does HIFU treatment feel like?
Every person feels HIFU a little differently. Some areas can be more sensitive than others, but most people describe it as a mild to moderate tingling or prickling feeling. We can provide pain relief if you prefer, your comfort is our priority.
How many HIFU treatments will I need?
Most people only need one treatment to see good results. However, if you have moderate to severe skin laxity, we might recommend a second session three months later. To maintain your results, an annual maintenance treatment is usually enough.
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.
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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