If you’re on a quest for firmer, tighter skin (who isn’t?), you’ve probably come across Ultherapy and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound). They promise a lifted, youthful look without a single needle or scalpel in sight. Sounds like magic, right? Well, before you jump in, let’s talk about why we don’t offer these treatments at Sebastian Rose Medical Aesthetics—and trust us, we have good reasons!
Heat, Collagen, HiFu, and . . . Fat Loss?
Both Ultherapy and HIFU use focused ultrasound energy to heat up the deeper layers of your skin, boosting collagen production and tightening everything up. Sounds great in theory! But here’s the catch:
That heat can also melt away fat—and not in a “shed those stubborn love handles” kind of way, but in a “where did my cheek volume go?!” way. And once that fat is gone, it’s not coming back on its own.
If you love your naturally plump cheeks, youthful fullness, or even just your facial balance, this isn’t exactly the result you’re looking for.
The Science Backs It Up
This isn’t just salon gossip—we’ve got the receipts:
A study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine (2019) found that HIFU, when used at deeper levels, reduces fat tissue. Now, that’s great for body contouring but not so great when applied to your face. (Kim et al., 2019)
A review in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2020) highlighted cases of unexpected fat loss following Ultherapy. The result? A more hollowed, gaunt appearance. (Fabi & Goldman, 2020)
And let’s not forget the countless real-world testimonials from people who experienced facial volume loss after these treatments. (Check out RealSelf.com for some eye-opening accounts!)
Who’s Most at Risk?
Some people are more prone to facial fat loss than others. If you:
Have naturally thin skin or low facial fat
Already have hollow cheeks or temples
Have lost weight recently
Love the youthful plumpness of your face
Then Ultherapy or HIFU might not be your best friend. In fact, they might be the frenemy that subtly makes you look older instead of younger.
So What Do We Recommend Instead?
Don’t worry, we’re not about to leave you hanging! There are plenty of effective, skin-tightening treatments that won’t steal your precious facial fat:
Microneedling – Boosts collagen, no fat loss included.
Polynucleotides & Exosomes - Excellent at collagen production and over all regeneration
Skin boosters – Hydration and elasticity in a bottle.
Injectable collagen stimulators – Smooth, firm, and still full-faced.
Medical-grade skincare – Science-backed skin support for long-term results.
Final Thoughts: Lifted, Not Hollowed
At Sebastian Rose Medical Aesthetics, we’re all about results that make you look and feel amazing. While Ultherapy and HIFU can be effective for some, the risk of facial fat loss is one we’re just not comfortable with. We believe in treatments that enhance your beauty without compromising your natural facial structure.
If you’re looking for a treatment that will tighten, firm, and rejuvenate without stealing your cheeks, let’s chat! We’d love to help you find the perfect skin-tightening solution for you—minus the unwanted surprises.
Book a consultation with us today and let’s keep that glow (and your facial volume) intact!
