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What is HIFU Treatment?

HIFU stands for “High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound”, a relatively new cosmetic technology that has only been introduced for use in recent years. As a form of facial treatment, HIFU employs the use of concentrated ultrasound energy to the face and neck by a handheld device. The non-invasive treatment are done In the clinic, which stimulates the cells, rejuvenates tissue and encourages collagen production.

HIFU stimulates tissue rejuvenation and collagen production. In the process, it breaks down fat deposits under the skin. Overall, the treatment promotes tightening and lifting loose skin in these areas(neck, chin and brow). In the hands of a skilled practitioner, this produces results akin to facial sculpting (without the need for surgery).

Why HIFU Treatment for the Face?
There are a number of indications for applying HIFU treatment for the Face:

1. Fine lines and wrinkles
2. Sagging skin along the cheeks and eyelids
3. Skin that is thin and with a texture like crepe paper
4. Drooping skin around the mouth area
5. Undefined jawline

As a skin rejuvenating procedure, HIFU helps women lift, tightening the loose skin and improves lines and wrinkles on the chest).

The Procedure
Prior to the HIFU consultation and treatment, there is no need for any special preparation. The physician will take the patient’s complete medical history during the consultation, and perform a thorough physical examination, particularly the face and neck.
With the exception of a diagnosed skin infection or existing skin problem that would require treatment at a later date, the HIFU procedure can be performed immediately after the doctor’s interview.

Most HIFU treatments follow the similar procedures as outlined:

1. Specially-trained nurses will perform a full facial cleansing and preparation for the patient.
2. The doctor applies ultrasound gel on the patient’s face and neck.
3. The HIFU device will glide over the patient’s skin to deliver ultrasound energy on the skin. Besides stimulating the skin cells to produce collagen, the energy promotes tissue healing, repair and rejuvenation.
4. Depending on the patient’s skin condition, the physician adjusts the skin penetration depth from the setting of the device as accordingly. As the procedure proceeds, the patient may feel warm under the skin or some prickling. For a pain-free experience, a qualified anesthetist will sedate you in the clinic upon request.
5. Each HIFU treatment lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, depending upon the severity of the skin problem.

After Treatment
Some patients have reported mild soreness, which will resolve itself eventually.

If the symptoms persist, the physician may prescribe medication to relieve it. Some will also prescribe special facial creams to protect the skin from UV rays and other harmful factors from the environment.

Following HIFU treatment, the client can immediately resume their daily activities without downtime. However, one has to apply sun protection cream to protect the skin.
To get the best results, HIFU treatments should be done over four to six weeks as advised for individuals, with the maintenance sessions of three to four months interval.
The collagen production will reach its optimum level in two to three months. During this period, the patient will experience their facial skin becoming softer, supple, healthier and overall, younger.

Both medical professionals and health officials in Singapore cannot place enough emphasis on the importance of detecting breast cancer at its early stage in order that immediate treatment can be done to obtain the best outcomes and survival rates.

In the Singapore Cancer Registry, Annual Registry Report, Trends in Cancer Incidence in Singapore, 2010-2014 of the country’s Health Promotion Board, they have listed down the 5-year Age-Standardised Observed Survival of Female Breast Cancer by Age Group. The findings showed a significant increase in survival rates in women ages 15 to 54, which has been attributed to early diagnosis and treatment through awareness and availment of breast cancer screening.

The current methods of breast cancer screening in Singapore include the following:
Monthly breast self-examination is recommended for women from the age of 30.
Regular mammography is the most reliable way to detect breast cancer, even before lumps are felt.

The main benefit of breast screening is the early detection and disease prevention. Tests like mammograms are also not perfect. There is risk of overdiagnosis, wherein a tumour has been found on mammography but is of low-risk. And yet, because it was discovered on a mammogram, costly treatment is done when it is not necessary.

The current guidelines on breast screening depend upon the woman’s age and a breast cancer risk. Women who present with a strong familial history of breast cancer are required to begin routine screening at an earlier age.

Should you be screened for breast cancer? Early screening for breast cancer can detect cancer in its early stage for effective treatment.
Women at high risk should consult their doctors regarding the frequency of the screening. Below are the recommended screening guidelines for healthy women:

• Between 50 69 years: Go for a mammography once every two years
• Between 40 49 years: Discuss with your doctor about the benefits, limitations and harms of mammography. If you decide to do it, have it done every year.
• Under 40 years: No need for a mammography

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Photo: Miguel Á Padrinan