Is there a way to avoid facial fat loss when getting HIFU treatments?

Question

If you are using a device that only penetrates to a depth of 3.0mm can you avoid affecting the subcutaneous layer, thus preventing facial fat from dissolving? Would using a head that penetrates to a depth of 3.0mm max on the thicker skin areas like the cheeks be effective in skin tightening without penetrating deep enough to effect the subcutaneous fat layer of the skin?

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

This is an excellent question! Any device that can tighten the skin also has the ability to cause changes in the fat. An experienced practitioner understands the thickness of the skin as well as the fat in all anatomical areas. Chopra's article in 2015 is considered the standard for determining depth. Using HIFU  or any other device, one must stay in the dermis and not venture into the subdermal space if one wants to avoid atrophy. This is a variable that can be changed on most devices. Not only is depth important, but the temperature must not be elevated in the fat. Good luck. Jeff Rapaport MD FAADRealself All-star

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This would a question best determined by the rendering physician. I would discuss these questions with the physician prior to treatment. Best, Dr. Emer.

Is there a way to avoid facial fat loss when getting HIFU treatments?

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