HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) is a non-surgical skin-tightening treatment that directs focused ultrasound energy into the deeper layers of the skin to help lift and firm the face and neck. It is designed for people who want to address early loss of firmness without incisions. At Charisma Medical Group, every HIFU journey starts with a doctor consultation, so you know whether it suits you before any treatment begins.
HIFU is one of the laser and device treatments offered across our clinics.
What Is HIFU?
HIFU is an energy-based device treatment. Instead of working only on the skin’s surface, it delivers ultrasound energy to precise depths beneath it, while the surface of the skin is left intact. It is used to address sagging, laxity and loss of definition, particularly along the jawline, cheeks and neck.
How Does HIFU Work?
The ultrasound energy is focused to reach the SMAS layer — the supportive layer of tissue beneath the skin that is also addressed in a surgical facelift. The energy creates small, controlled thermal points in the tissue, which trigger the body’s natural healing response and the production of new collagen and elastin. Over the following weeks and months, this process gradually makes the skin firmer and more lifted.
Treatment depth and device settings are adjusted by your specialist according to your skin type and the areas being treated.
What Can HIFU Treat?
At Charisma, HIFU is commonly used for:
- Sagging skin along the jawline and cheeks
- Jowls
- Double chin
- Eye bags and hooded eyelids
- Nasolabial folds
Your doctor will only recommend HIFU for concerns it is suitable for, and may suggest a different approach if another treatment is more appropriate.
The Charisma Approach
Every HIFU consultation at Charisma includes a personalised doctor consultation, advanced skin analysis and an OligoScan test, used to look at internal factors that may affect your skin before treatment begins. Treatments are carried out by licensed doctors with between 5 and 25+ years of clinical experience.
What Happens During a HIFU Session?
- Preparation — a topical numbing cream is applied for comfort, followed by a layer of cooling gel that helps the ultrasound energy pass into the skin.
- Treatment — your specialist adjusts the settings for your skin and target areas, then moves a handheld device over the skin. You may feel a temporary warm or tingling sensation.
- Duration — most sessions take around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the areas treated.
Downtime and aftercare
HIFU involves no significant downtime, with mild redness or warmth usually settling within a few hours. Your doctor will advise on any home-care steps suited to your skin type.
When will I see results?
Some firmness may be noticeable soon after treatment, while the full lifting effect develops gradually as new collagen forms, with peak results typically seen at around 2 to 3 months. Results are not permanent, and how long they last depends on your skin quality, natural ageing and lifestyle. Many patients have a single session, though your doctor may recommend a personalised plan.
Safety, Side Effects and Suitability
Temporary responses after HIFU can include mild redness, swelling or tenderness in the treated area, and occasionally bruising. HIFU is not recommended if you have an infection or open wound in the treatment area, active severe or cystic acne there, or an active or metal implant (such as a pacemaker) in the treatment area. It is generally aimed at adults aged 30 and above who are noticing early signs of ageing or loss of firmness. Your doctor will confirm your eligibility during the consultation.
To prepare, avoid excessive sun exposure beforehand and stop using any irritating topical products in the days before your session.
HIFU Cost in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
The price of HIFU depends on the areas treated and your personalised plan; pricing is confirmed at your consultation.
Branches and Booking
Charisma has branches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Please contact us to confirm availability at your preferred branch.
- Dubai — Charisma Plus, 31 Al Dunqa Street, Jumeirah 3, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai; Charisma Clinic. Find out more about our clinics in Dubai.
- Abu Dhabi — Challenge By Charisma, Diab Bin Issa Street, Khalifa City (Zone 33), Abu Dhabi. See the Abu Dhabi location.
- Al Ain — Charisma Al Ain, 131 Shakhbout Bin Sultan Street, Al Khabisi, Al Sidrah, Al Ain. Visit our Al Ain branch page.
To book, call +97180076852 or send a WhatsApp inquiry and select your preferred branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does HIFU stand for?
HIFU stands for High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, a non-surgical treatment that uses focused ultrasound energy to help lift and tighten the skin.
Does HIFU require downtime?
No significant downtime; mild redness or warmth usually settles within a few hours.
How many HIFU sessions will I need?
Many patients have a single session, but your doctor may recommend a personalised plan.
Who should not have HIFU?
It is not recommended if there is an infection or open wound in the treatment area, active severe or cystic acne there, or an active or metal implant in the treatment area. Your doctor will confirm suitability.
What is included in the consultation?
A doctor consultation, advanced skin analysis and an OligoScan test.