Firming — HIFU & radiofrequency

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) and radiofrequency are two distinct techniques which rest on the same principle, that of a controlled heating of the tissues. Focused ultrasound delivers its energy at depth, at determined levels, without the surface of the skin being the target of the treatment; radiofrequency, for its part, spreads the heat more widely within the dermis. In both cases, this input of heat aims to engage the supporting fibres of the skin and to stimulate the production of collagen. The choice of technique, or their combination when this is indicated, proceeds for me from careful judgement, bearing on the quality of the skin, the degree of laxity and the area concerned.

The session begins with a cleansing of the area and the identification of the treatment points; a coupling gel is then applied, and the hand-piece is moved along a defined path. Each patient may experience heat, tingling or painful sensations at the moment of the passes, and I take care to adjust the intensity during the session, what is felt varying from one person to another and from one area to another. The length of the procedure, the number of sessions and their spacing are not standardised; they are specified in consultation, according to the indication selected.

These techniques apply above all to early to moderate skin laxity of the face, of the facial contour and of the neck, certain areas of the body also being able to be concerned. They do not replace a surgical procedure and are not suitable for every situation: advanced laxity, marked excess skin or certain past history may lead to the indication being set aside. Contraindications exist, related in particular to pregnancy, to the presence of certain implants or devices, or to a skin lesion on the area; they are looked for during the examination, since situations of similar appearance may arise from different mechanisms.

After the session, redness, oedema or tenderness of the area may occur, these after-effects most often subsiding in the days that follow, with an intensity and a duration that vary from one person to another; sensations of tightness or points that are tender on palpation may also be reported. Other adverse effects, less frequent, remain possible, and I make a point of setting them out to each person before the procedure. The changes sought, when they occur, become established gradually and vary from one person to another; they cannot be predicted in advance. My aim is to accompany each patient with measure, without ever promising what cannot be promised: this is why a prior consultation is mandatory, allowing the skin to be examined, contraindications to be looked for, the technique and the protocol to be specified, and written information and information on fees to be provided. At its conclusion, the procedure may not be indicated.