This page is supervised by specialist physicians at IC Clinic Shibuya, located just a 3-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station.
💭 “I’m bothered by facial sagging, but surgery feels like too big a step.”
💼 “I’m looking for a lifting treatment I can fit in on my way home from work.”
Do you have concerns like these in the Shibuya area?
✨ HIFU is an ultrasound treatment that may help address facial sagging without surgery. It works without damaging the skin’s surface, delivering energy directly to the deep fascial layer beneath the skin. With a short treatment time and the ability to wear makeup from the day of treatment, it is a popular choice for those with busy schedules.
⚡ IC Clinic Shibuya uses the Ultraformer III, a device known for its precision and minimal discomfort. We are conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Shibuya Station, with appointments available on weekday evenings and weekends.
At our clinic, we propose a treatment approach suited to each individual patient and focus on delivering results.
We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please book a consultation using the button below.
🎯 What Is HIFU? An Ultrasound Treatment for Non-Surgical Lifting
📋 In this section, we explain the basic principles of HIFU and its three-stage lifting mechanism in easy-to-understand terms.
HIFU stands for “High Intensity Focused Ultrasound.” Just as a magnifying glass concentrates sunlight at a single point, HIFU technology precisely delivers ultrasound energy to deep layers beneath the skin.
Conventional lifting treatments primarily involved surgical procedures that cut the skin and lift the fascia. With HIFU, however, it is possible to work directly on the SMAS fascial layer—the root cause of sagging—without causing any damage to the skin’s surface.
🔸 Why Can HIFU Help Improve Sagging? A Three-Stage Lifting Mechanism
The lifting effect of HIFU occurs through the following three stages.
⚡ [Stage 1] Immediate Firming Effect
When ultrasound is delivered, the tissue in the targeted layer is momentarily heated to 60–70°C. This heat causes collagen fibers to contract, and many patients notice a firming effect immediately after treatment.
✨ [Stage 2] Sustained Effect Through Collagen Regeneration
Tissue that has received thermal stimulation undergoes a natural healing response in an effort to repair the affected area. Through this process, new collagen and elastin are produced, and skin firmness and elasticity gradually improve over 1–3 months following treatment.
🏥 [Stage 3] Structural Improvement from the Fascial Layer
What sets HIFU apart from other aesthetic treatments is its ability to work directly on the SMAS fascial layer, the foundation that supports the skin. Rather than addressing only the surface, it targets the underlying cause of sagging, making it possible to pursue a more fundamental rejuvenating approach.
⚠️ The Key Difference Between Medical HIFU and Esthetic HIFU
You may have heard that HIFU is also available at esthetic salons. However, there are significant differences between HIFU performed at a medical institution and HIFU offered at an esthetic salon.
| Comparison | Medical HIFU (Our Clinic) | Esthetic HIFU |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Method | Focused point delivery (high energy at a precise point) | Thermal accumulation delivery (low energy over a broad area) |
| Depth of Penetration | Reaches the SMAS fascial layer (approx. 4.5 mm below the skin surface) | Reaches only the dermal layer (approx. 2 mm below the surface) |
| Output Level | Higher output for reliable results | Lower output with limited effectiveness |
| Practitioner | Physician or nurse under physician supervision | Esthetician |
| Treatment Interval | Once every 3–6 months | Required once every 1–2 weeks |
| Legal Status | Approved as a medical procedure | Constitutes a medical act and is technically not permitted at esthetic establishments ※ |
⚠️ ※ The Consumer Affairs Agency and the National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan have issued warnings following reports of burns and nerve injuries resulting from HIFU procedures performed at esthetic salons.
💡 Medical HIFU operates at a higher output and penetrates deeper layers, allowing results to last approximately 3–6 months from a single session. In contrast, esthetic HIFU requires frequent visits due to its lower output, and the total cost can become considerable in many cases.
💊 Five Concerns That HIFU Treatment at Our Shibuya Clinic May Help Address
📋 Here we introduce some of the most common concerns shared by patients who come to our clinic for HIFU treatment.
Here we introduce some of the most common concerns shared by patients who receive HIFU treatment at our Shibuya clinic. If you are experiencing any of the following, HIFU treatment may offer improvement.
🔸 ① Deepening Nasolabial Folds and Marionette Lines
Nasolabial folds and marionette lines deepen as fat in the cheeks descends and the grooves become more pronounced. Lifting the cheeks overall with HIFU may help make these lines less noticeable. This is a particularly popular treatment area among patients in their late 30s to 40s.
✨ ② Sagging Around the Eyes and Eyelids
HIFU may also be beneficial for those who have noticed heaviness in the upper eyelids or sagging under the eyes. The Ultraformer III used at our clinic comes with a dedicated cartridge for the eye area, allowing safe treatment around this delicate zone.
📌 ③ Undefined Jawline and Double Chin
Many patients are concerned about a less defined jawline when viewed from the side, or excess fullness under the chin. HIFU may help firm the contours and contribute to a sharper, more defined facial silhouette. It is also recommended for those who are mindful of how they appear in photographs.
💧 ④ Forehead and Frown Line Wrinkles
HIFU can also address expression lines that have become fixed on the forehead and between the brows. By improving skin firmness, HIFU works to lift these wrinkles from within.
✨ ⑤ Neck Wrinkles and Sagging
HIFU may also be effective for caring for the neck area, which is often one of the first places to show signs of aging. Treating the face and neck together can help maintain a more youthful overall impression.
🏥 Why Choose IC Clinic Shibuya for HIFU Treatment
📋 IC Clinic Shibuya has put in place a comprehensive setup so that patients can receive HIFU treatment with confidence and peace of mind.
IC Clinic Shibuya has established the following to ensure that patients can receive HIFU treatment with confidence.
⚡ The Ultraformer III: A Precision HIFU Device
Our clinic uses the Ultraformer III, a HIFU device recognized for its minimal discomfort and high delivery precision. Compared to previous-generation devices, it offers faster treatment delivery, helping to reduce overall treatment time. By selecting from four cartridges that target different depths, we are able to tailor treatment to each patient’s individual skin condition and concerns.
🚉 3-Minute Walk from Shibuya Station · Weekday Evening Appointments Available
Our clinic is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station, making it easy to stop by on your way home from work or while out shopping. HIFU treatment takes approximately 30–40 minutes, and with minimal downtime, the impact on your daily routine is kept to a minimum.
👨⚕️ Thorough Counseling by Specialist Physicians
A physician-led counseling session is conducted before every procedure. Since the cause and degree of sagging vary from patient to patient, we carefully assess each patient’s facial condition before recommending the optimal treatment area, output level, and number of shots. Patients who have not been satisfied with results from other clinics are also welcome to consult with us.
⚠️ Important Precautions and Risks of HIFU Treatment
🔍 While HIFU is considered a relatively low-risk procedure, there are important points we would like patients to be aware of beforehand.
While HIFU is considered a relatively low-risk procedure, there are points we would like patients to understand before proceeding.
🚨 Who Is Not Eligible for Treatment
The following individuals are not eligible for HIFU treatment.
- 📌 Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- ⚡ Those with a pacemaker or metal plates implanted in the body
- 🔸 Those with severe skin conditions at the treatment site
- ⚠️ Those with a tendency to develop keloid scarring
- ☀️ Those who have had significant sun exposure within the past two weeks
For any other conditions, please be sure to inform us at the time of your counseling session if you have any existing medical conditions or are taking medication.
💡 Possible Side Effects and How to Manage Them
The following symptoms may occur after HIFU treatment, but all are temporary in nature.
🔸 Redness and flushing: This typically resolves naturally within a few hours of treatment. Gently cooling the area with a chilled towel may help ease discomfort.
💧 Swelling: This may persist for a day to several days following treatment. It tends to be most noticeable in the morning upon waking, but generally subsides throughout the day.
⚡ Muscle ache-like discomfort: Some patients experience a sensation of discomfort at the treated site, but this typically resolves within 1–2 weeks.
⚠️ Rare symptoms: Bruising, numbness, or temporary sensory changes may occasionally occur. If symptoms persist, please contact our clinic.
📝 Post-Treatment Self-Care
After HIFU treatment, the skin may temporarily become more sensitive, so please observe the following care guidelines.
- 💧 Moisturizing: Apply moisturizer more thoroughly than usual
- ☀️ Sun protection: Be sure to apply sunscreen
- ⚠️ Avoid irritation: Refrain from strong massage or chemical peeling for approximately one week
📝 The HIFU Treatment Process at Our Shibuya Clinic
💡 To help first-time HIFU patients feel at ease, we explain every step of the treatment process.
Here we explain the treatment process at our clinic so that first-time HIFU patients can feel comfortable and well-informed.
🔸 STEP 1: Booking and Arrival
Please book your appointment online or by phone before visiting us. As you will be asked to cleanse your face on the day of your visit, we recommend arriving with a little extra time to spare.
👨⚕️ STEP 2: Counseling and Consultation (approx. 15 minutes)
A physician will listen carefully to your concerns and wishes and assess your facial condition. We will determine whether HIFU is appropriate for you and explain the proposed treatment area and output settings. Please feel free to ask any questions you may have.
💧 STEP 3: Cleansing and Treatment Preparation (approx. 10 minutes)
After removing your makeup, gel is applied to the treatment area. For patients concerned about discomfort, a topical anesthetic cream is available upon request.
⚡ STEP 4: HIFU Treatment (approx. 30–40 minutes)
HIFU energy is delivered to the areas of concern. During treatment, you may feel a resonating sensation or mild discomfort near the bones, but please be reassured that we adjust the output as we proceed.
✨ STEP 5: Treatment Completion and Aftercare Guidance
The gel is removed and moisturizing care is applied. Makeup is permitted immediately after treatment, so you are welcome to freshen up before leaving. We will conclude by advising you on the recommended interval for your next session and any day-to-day precautions to observe.
🔍 When Will HIFU Results Appear? How Long Do They Last?
💡 Here we answer frequently asked questions about how HIFU results develop and how long they may last.
Here we answer frequently asked questions about how HIFU results develop and how long they may last.
📌 When You May Begin to Notice Results
⚡ Immediately after treatment: Some patients notice an immediate firming effect from collagen contraction. However, mild swelling may also occur at this stage, which can make dramatic changes harder to perceive right away.
✨ 1–2 weeks after treatment: As swelling subsides, many patients begin to notice that their facial contours appear more defined.
🎯 1–3 months after treatment: As new collagen continues to form, skin firmness and elasticity reach their peak. This is the period during which most patients report noticing the most noticeable improvement.
📝 How Long Results Last and Recommended Treatment Intervals
The fascia that has been firmed through HIFU generally maintains its improved condition. However, as new sagging caused by the natural aging process is unavoidable, we recommend regular maintenance sessions approximately once every 3–6 months.
By continuing treatment over time, it may be possible to slow the progression of sagging and help maintain a more youthful appearance.
📋 Comparing HIFU Devices: Types and Features
💡 There are several types of medical HIFU devices, each with its own characteristics. Here we compare some representative devices, with a focus on the Ultraformer III used at our clinic.
There are several types of medical HIFU devices, each with its own characteristics. Here we compare some representative devices, with a focus on the Ultraformer III used at our clinic.
| Device | Ultraformer III (Used at Our Clinic) | Ulthera | Sono Queen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | South Korea | United States | South Korea |
| Delivery Speed | High-speed (approx. 1.5× faster than previous generation) | Standard | Standard |
| Discomfort Level | Relatively minimal | Somewhat stronger | Minimal |
| Cartridges | 4 types (1.5 / 3.0 / 4.5 / 6.0 mm) | 3 types | 3 types |
| Eye Area Treatment | Dedicated cartridge available | Available | Dedicated cartridge available |
| Features | Well-balanced in terms of discomfort, precision, and treatment time | Established track record with FDA clearance | Particularly suited for the eye and mouth areas |
Our clinic uses the Ultraformer III for its well-balanced combination of minimal discomfort, delivery accuracy, and shorter treatment time. With four cartridges covering different depths, it is possible to address everything from superficial layers to the deeper SMAS layer in a single session.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About HIFU
📋 Here we have compiled questions frequently asked about HIFU treatment at our Shibuya clinic.
Here we have compiled questions frequently asked about HIFU treatment at our Shibuya clinic.
⚠️ Q. Is HIFU painful?
A. Near bony areas (such as the forehead, cheekbones, and chin), you may feel a resonating sensation, but most patients describe it as “manageable.” At our clinic, we adjust the output carefully throughout the treatment, so please do not hesitate to let us know if you are sensitive to discomfort. Topical anesthetic is also available upon request.
🔢 Q. How many sessions are needed to see results?
A. Many patients notice results after a single session. However, for those with more significant sagging or who are seeking more noticeable improvement, multiple sessions may be recommended. At your counseling appointment, the physician will assess your facial condition and propose an appropriate treatment plan.
⏰ Q. Is there any downtime?
A. Downtime is generally minimal. Cleansing and makeup are permitted immediately after treatment, and most patients find that their daily activities are unaffected. Some patients may experience mild redness or swelling, but this typically settles within a few hours to a few days.
💊 Q. Can HIFU be combined with other cosmetic treatments?
A. HIFU can generally be combined with many other cosmetic treatments, such as Botox injections and hyaluronic acid fillers. However, as the order and timing of treatments may need to be carefully considered, please consult with your physician at the time of counseling.
💄 Q. Can I wear makeup on the day of treatment?
A. Yes, makeup is permitted immediately after treatment. Our clinic has a powder room available, so you are welcome to freshen up before heading out.
👨⚕️ Clinical Trends at Our Clinic [Physician Comment]
From Dr. Kota Takakuwa, Lead Physician at Our Clinic
At our Shibuya clinic, HIFU treatment among working women in their late 20s to 40s has been increasing significantly, up approximately 30% compared to last season. Many patients express appreciation for the “minimal discomfort” and “short downtime,” and I am continually impressed by how satisfied patients are with their results. Since the progression of sagging varies considerably from person to person, I often recommend starting preventive care early.
💰 HIFU Treatment Fees at Our Shibuya Clinic
💡 The fees for HIFU treatment at our clinic vary depending on the treatment area and number of shots.
The fees for HIFU treatment at our clinic vary depending on the treatment area and number of shots. Please refer to the price list pages below for details.
Consultations are available free of charge. After hearing about your concerns, we will provide an estimate of the recommended number of shots and associated fees, so please feel free to get in touch.
🏥 Considering HIFU in Shibuya? Visit IC Clinic Shibuya
✨ IC Clinic Shibuya is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station, making it easy to receive HIFU treatment on your way home from work or during a day out.
IC Clinic Shibuya is conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station, making it easy to receive HIFU treatment on your way home from work or during a day out.
We use the Ultraformer III—a device that combines precision delivery with minimal discomfort—and our experienced physicians propose a treatment plan tailored to each patient’s individual concerns.
Whether you are curious about non-surgical lifting or have not been satisfied with results from esthetic HIFU, we warmly invite you to come in for a consultation.
At our clinic, we propose a treatment approach suited to each individual patient and focus on delivering results.
We take the time to carefully listen to your concerns and symptoms, so please book a consultation using the button below.
