Focal Depth

Focal depth is the exact distance beneath the skin’s surface where a HIFU device’s ultrasound waves converge and release their energy — different depths target different structures. Across the wider HIFU category, focal depths typically range from around 1mm up to 12–13mm, depending on the cartridge and intended use: shallow depths (around 1–2mm) work on fine lines and superficial skin quality, mid-range depths (around 3–4.5mm) reach the dermis and connective tissue for firming, and deeper settings (8mm and beyond) are used in clinical settings for the SMAS layer or subcutaneous fat. ULTRAISER’s home devices (P1 and P1 Pro) use a 2mm cartridge as standard, with a 4mm cartridge available for deeper areas like the cheeks, nasolabial folds, and under the chin. The clinic-only ULTRAISER eHM15 offers a broader range, from 1mm through to 12mm, for use by trained operators.

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Popular HIFU Terms

Non-InvasiveSkin Tightening
Non-Invasive Skin Tightenings are aesthetic procedures like HIFU or radiofrequency that improve firmness without surgical cuts or injections.
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SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System)
A fibromuscular layer beneath the skin that provides facial structure and support. HIFU uniquely targets the SMAS the same layer lifted during surgical facelifts achieving visible lifting effects non-surgically.
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Collagen Stimulation
A biological response induced by controlled energy-based treatments. When heat or micro-injury occurs in the dermis, fibroblasts are activated to produce new collagen and elastin fibers. The gradual increase in collagen restores skin structure and resilience over several weeks, reversing signs of aging naturally.
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Focal Depth
The depth below the skin’s surface where ultrasound waves converge, typically between 1.5 and 13 mm. Shallow focal points treat wrinkles and fine lines; deeper ones target connective tissue or fat layers for contouring and lifting effects.
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HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound)
HIFU is a non-invasive treatment that delivers highly focused ultrasound energy to precise tissue depths beneath the skin. The focused energy heats targeted zones to around 60–70°C, stimulating a controlled wound-healing response that triggers new collagen and elastin production. It’s used medically for tumor ablation and cosmetically for facial lifting, contouring, and skin tightening.
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HIFU Glossary