Ultherapy vs HIFU in Singapore: What’s the Difference?
Dr Patricia Yuen
BA (Brown), MD (Boston), Internal Medicine (USA), FAMS (Dermatology)
Accredited Dermatologist with the Ministry of Health, Singapore
As skin naturally loses elasticity with age, sagging becomes common. For those seeking non-surgical solutions, Ultherapy and High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) offer effective options. Both treatments utilise ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production, providing noticeable lifting and tightening effects. Understanding the differences between these two treatments allows you to make a more informed decision.
What Is HIFU?
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a non-invasive medical procedure that precisely targets tissue with highly focused ultrasound waves. This focused energy creates small thermal zones that stimulate collagen regeneration and skin tightening, all without damaging the surface of the skin.
The technology works by converging multiple ultrasound beams at a specific depth—much like a magnifying glass focusing sunlight—raising the temperature in the targeted tissues to over 60°C. This thermal coagulation activates a natural healing response, encouraging collagen and elastin production to firm and lift the skin over time.
In aesthetic applications, HIFU is commonly used for the face and body, making it a versatile option for non-surgical skin tightening and contouring.
What Is Ultherapy?
Ultherapy is a specific form of focused ultrasound treatment known as micro-focused ultrasound (MFU). What sets it apart is its real-time imaging technology, which allows the practitioner to see and precisely target the deep layers of skin. Ultherapy is FDA-cleared to lift and tighten skin on areas like the neck, brow, and under the chin (double chin).
Like HIFU, Ultherapy works by delivering ultrasound energy to the deeper layers of the skin, triggering collagen production through a process called thermocoagulation. Over time, this results in a natural lifting and firming effect.
Choosing Between Ultherapy and HIFU
Both Ultherapy and HIFU offer effective, non-surgical options for skin tightening and lifting. To help you determine the best treatment for your needs, consider these key factors:
Precision and Visualisation
If you are looking for a highly targeted treatment, Ultherapy's real-time imaging allows for precise energy delivery to the exact depth needed. This can improve both safety and effectiveness—especially in delicate areas.
Treatment Areas
If you are interested in treating both facial and body areas, such as the abdomen, arms, or thighs, HIFU may offer more versatility. While Ultherapy focuses on specific facial zones, many HIFU systems are designed to treat larger or more varied body areas.
Duration of Results
Ultherapy is known for its longer-lasting effects, often lasting over a year depending on your skin condition and lifestyle. HIFU results typically last 6–12 months, though this can vary based on the device used and the individual's response to treatment.
Pain Tolerance
HIFU treatments are generally considered less painful compared to Ultherapy, which targets deeper skin layers and may cause more discomfort during the procedure. However, numbing cream or oral pain relief is commonly provided to improve comfort during Ultherapy sessions.
Cost
When it comes to cost, HIFU is generally more affordable than Ultherapy. This is due to differences in technology, brand recognition, and the inclusion of real-time imaging in Ultherapy. If budget is a key consideration, HIFU may be the more accessible option, while Ultherapy may appeal to those seeking a more advanced, precision-guided treatment.
Consult a Dermatologist
It is essential to consult with a qualified dermatologist who can assess your skin condition and discuss which treatment aligns best with your aesthetic goals. A personalised consultation can help determine whether Ultherapy in Singapore or HIFU is the right fit for you.
At Patricia Yuen Dermatology, we are committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with the most advanced treatments available. Whether you choose Ultherapy or HIFU, you can trust that you are in expert hands. Contact us for a consultation to learn more about how these treatments can benefit you.
Dr Patricia Yuen
BA (Brown), MD (Boston), Internal Medicine (USA), FAMS (Dermatology)
Accredited Dermatologist with the Ministry of Health, Singapore
Dr Patricia Yuen is a US-trained dermatologist with over two decades of clinical experience in both medical and cosmetic dermatology. She is an active member of several professional bodies, including the Dermatological Society of Singapore, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery.
At her private practice—Patricia Yuen Dermatology, located at Paragon—she offers personalised skincare solutions. While she treats a wide range of skin conditions, Dr Yuen has a particular focus on cosmetic dermatology, helping patients enhance their skin health and appearance through tailored treatments.
