Facial Rejuvenation with High-intensity Focused Ultrasonography

Oh, Su Jin; Koh, Won Seon; Shin, Jae Min; Kim, Jeong Eun; Ko, Joo Yeon

Abstract

With increasing public concern about facial wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity due to aging, diverse devices have been proposed as treatment modalities for facial wrinkles and laxity. Recently, ultrasonography was introduced as a new treatment modality for therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. High-intensity focused ultrasonography (HIFU) may be the best example of this technique. It is based on the principle of induction of tissue damage and regeneration of the target area selectively via coagulation by generating microthermal injury lesions through the accumulation of high-frequency ultrasonography beams at the specific tissue site without any damage to the epidermis and adjacent tissue. Current studies reveal that HIFU significantly improves facial wrinkles and skin contours, with generally mild and transient side effects. However, serious adverse events could occur when skillful techniques are not used. These events should be prevented and treated immediately upon presentation to avoid permanent complications. In this article, the authors reviewed the background, principle, treatment outcomes, and side effects of HIFU to improve its efficacy and safety as a new modality for facial rejuvenation.