High intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a fairly new modality that has achieved clinically impressive results. The science behind ultrasound is deemed safe and is a diagnostic tool we use to produce real time non-invasive images.1 However, HIFU works by increasing the intensity and frequency of ultrasound waves, thereby emitting higher energy, resulting in a variety of effects in the tissue through which this energy travels.1
The target for HIFU in aesthetics is the collagen in musculoaponeurotic sheaths such as the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) in the face. HIFU causes thermal injury by breaking the intermolecular bonds between collagen fibres, resulting in shrinkage and creating a tightening or a lifting effect.2 The safety profile of HIFU states minimal side effects, however, there have been several case reports of ocular complications which state otherwise.2
HIFU has been deemed an evolutionary progression of standard ultrasound use.2 Ultrasound has been used as a diagnostic tool in medicine, with its safety profile allowing for its use in pregnancy, due…
