MICRO-FOCUSED ULTRASOUND · RADIOFREQUENCY · BANGKOK
A non-surgical lift that works in two precise layers.
Micro-focused ultrasound lifts from the structural layer. Radiofrequency tightens from the surface. Together — in one session, with no downtime — they address what either machine alone cannot.
THE PROTOCOL
Two technologies. One considered sequence.
Most clinics offer HIFU or radiofrequency. We combine both — in the right order — because each technology addresses a layer the other cannot reach alone. Ultrasound first, radiofrequency second. Structure before surface.
STEP 01
Micro-focused ultrasound
Deep structural lift at the SMAS layer — 4.5 mm beneath the surface.
STEP 02
Radiofrequency
Dermal tightening and surface refinement — the layer ultrasound cannot reach alone.
Micro-focused ultrasound
The deep-layer lift
Focused ultrasound energy is delivered to the SMAS layer — the fibromuscular plane that sits 4.5 mm beneath the skin's surface. This is the same tissue a surgeon addresses during a traditional facelift.
Targeted thermal coagulation points at this depth trigger an immediate contraction and a sustained collagen-remodeling response. The result is a genuine structural lift — not a surface illusion.
Because structure must be set before the surface refinement begins, ultrasound is always performed first.
Radiofrequency
The surface refinement
Once the deep structural lift is set, radiofrequency energy heats the dermis — the layer between the epidermis and the deeper SMAS tissue addressed in step one.
This controlled thermal effect causes immediate collagen fiber contraction, thickens the dermis over time, and refines surface texture in a way that micro-focused ultrasound alone cannot achieve.
Together, the two steps cover every clinically relevant depth. Separately, each would leave part of the work incomplete.
PRACTICAL DETAILS
What to expect from the session.
Session time
60–90 min
Both steps completed in a single appointment. Face and neck are typically included.
Downtime
None
Return to work, social events, and daily life immediately after your appointment.
Sensation
Warm · mild
Focused warmth during ultrasound; a diffuse, steady heat during RF. Numbing cream is applied beforehand for the most comfortable experience.
Results timeline
4–12 wks
Collagen continues to remodel for up to 6 months. Results typically last 12–18 months.
SUITABLE CANDIDATES
Who is this treatment right for?
This protocol is designed for adults experiencing mild to moderate facial laxity — those who want meaningful improvement without surgery, or without any downtime at all.
Sagging along the jaw, jowls, or neck
Loss of definition at the brow and mid-face
Skin laxity without readiness for surgery
Results that develop naturally over weeks and months
Anyone who cannot take time off from daily life
QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Frequently asked questions
What is micro-focused ultrasound (HIFU) and how does it lift the face?
Micro-focused ultrasound delivers precise thermal energy to the SMAS layer — the fibromuscular plane 4.5 mm beneath the skin's surface. This is the same tissue a surgeon addresses during a traditional facelift. Targeted thermal coagulation points trigger an immediate contraction and a sustained collagen-remodeling response, producing a genuine structural lift that develops over several weeks.
How does radiofrequency tighten skin — and why does it follow ultrasound?
Radiofrequency energy heats the dermis — the layer just beneath the surface. This controlled thermal effect causes immediate collagen fiber contraction and stimulates new collagen and elastin production over time, thickening the skin and refining surface texture. It follows ultrasound because the deep structural lift must be established before the surface refinement begins. Reversing the order would be less effective.
Why combine HIFU and radiofrequency — can't one machine achieve the same?
HIFU and radiofrequency target genuinely different depths. HIFU reaches the structural SMAS layer at 4.5 mm; radiofrequency works within the dermis at 1.5–3 mm. Using both in sequence means the full depth range is addressed in a single session. Used alone, each leaves part of the answer incomplete — HIFU lifts the foundation but cannot tighten the surface; RF tightens the surface but cannot reach the deep structural layer.
Is there any downtime, and does it hurt?
There is no downtime. You can return to work, wear makeup, and resume all normal activities immediately after the session. During treatment, the ultrasound phase produces a warm, focused sensation — some patients feel brief, intense points of heat as the energy reaches depth. The radiofrequency phase feels like a steady diffuse warmth. Numbing cream is applied beforehand to ensure the most comfortable experience throughout. Our doctor will also calibrate the energy settings to your comfort level.
When will I see results, and how long do they last?
Some patients notice a subtle tightening within the first week as the initial thermal contraction settles. The primary lift develops gradually as collagen remodels — most patients see their best result between 4 and 12 weeks, with continued improvement for up to 6 months. Results typically last 12–18 months, after which a maintenance session can sustain the outcome.
Am I a suitable candidate for this protocol?
This treatment works best for adults with mild to moderate facial and neck laxity who are not yet ready for surgical intervention — typically those noticing sagging along the jaw or jowls, looseness at the neck, or a softening of the brow and mid-face. Very advanced laxity may be better addressed surgically; we will tell you honestly if that is the case for you.
MEDICAL EXPERTISE
Under the care of a specialist.
Every protocol at Dr. Orawan Medical Center is designed by a doctor — not delegated to a technician. Dr. Orawan brings decades of experience in aesthetic medicine to a treatment plan that is mapped to your face, not a template.
The consultation is the foundation. We assess your anatomy, discuss your goals honestly, and will tell you if we believe a different approach would serve you better.
Aesthetic Medicine
Doctor-led protocols
Bangkok, Thailand