Does HIFU hurt? What it feels like, during and after
HIFU is uncomfortable, but most people tolerate it well without anaesthetic. You feel deep warmth and small pricks at the moment the device fires, more so where bone sits close to the skin, such as the jawline and forehead. The sensation lasts seconds and fades as the device moves on.
Hippie Chic, Cascais ·
What you feel during the session
A HIFU device focuses ultrasound into very small points beneath the skin. Each shot heats those points for a fraction of a second, and that heat is what you feel: a brief, warm prick that repeats as the device moves across the area.
The intensity is not the same from start to finish. Some passes are barely noticeable and others are stronger. The intensity is adjusted throughout, and we keep checking how you feel.
Why some areas are more sensitive
Discomfort is greater where there is less tissue between skin and bone: the jawline, chin and forehead. On the cheeks and under the chin, where there is more tissue, people usually feel less.
Sensitivity varies a lot from person to person. Some describe the session as a warm tingling and others need short pauses. Both are normal.
After the session
There is no downtime: you can go back to work or to your plans the same day. The skin may be slightly red for a few hours, and the treated area may feel tender to the touch for a few days, as it does after exercise.
In the following days the care is the usual: moisturise and wear sunscreen.
How to make the session more comfortable
Say what you are feeling. The intensity can be adjusted area by area, and a pause of a few seconds makes a difference. If you know you are very sensitive to pain, say so at the consultation, so the session is planned with that in mind.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need anaesthetic for HIFU?
In aesthetics, HIFU is usually done without anaesthetic. If you are very sensitive to pain, mention it at the free consultation.
Can I go to work after HIFU?
Yes. HIFU has no downtime; there may be slight redness for a few hours.
Does body HIFU hurt more than facial HIFU?
It feels different: on the body you mostly feel deep warmth. The area may be tender to the touch for a few days.
The treatment
The first conversation is free.
We look at your case and tell you what to expect and what it costs. You only book the treatment if it makes sense for you.