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Both Volnuma and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) are cosmetic procedures designed to improve facial sagging without surgery.

 

For those concerned about skin firmness or sagging, Volnuma is a good option, while HIFU is a good choice for those who prioritize deep tissue tightening.

 

However, which option is more suitable depends on the cause of the sagging, the amount of fat, and whether or not there is hollowing of the cheeks.

 

Here, we’ll explain the characteristics of both treatments, who they’re best suited for, and how to choose between them.

The Difference Between Volnuma and HIFU

The main differences between Volnuma and HIFU are the type of energy used and the layer to which the heat is delivered.

 

 

Borneuma is a treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) to tighten the skin and subcutaneous tissue.

 

On the other hand, HIFU focuses ultrasound waves at a targeted depth and emphasizes the tightening of deep tissues.

 

First, let's compare them based on four criteria.

 

*This table summarizes general characteristics. The depth of penetration and effects may vary depending on the irradiation mode, the device, and the condition of the skin.

 

The depth of penetration and the effects vary depending on the treatment mode, the device, and the condition of the skin.

 

Borneuma is a monopolar RF device that delivers heat from the dermis to the fat layer. Through its widespread thermal effect, it aims to improve skin firmness and contour definition.

 

HIFU is a form of focused ultrasound characterized by its ability to concentrate heat at a targeted depth. The UltraCell Zi used at Bianca Clinic can also treat superficial layers depending on the cartridge and treatment mode selected.

 

HIFU lifting utilizes the tightening effect of heat on tissue. Unlike procedures such as thread lifts or surgery, which physically lift the tissue, HIFU has its limitations when it comes to severe sagging or excess skin.

 

There are also differences in how it feels during the treatment.

 

While you may feel some heat with Volnuma, its cooling and vibration features help minimize discomfort. With HIFU, on the other hand, you may feel a sensation that feels like it’s reverberating through your bones.

 

Both procedures may cause redness or swelling after treatment, and the level of pain and downtime varies from person to person.

 

"Non-surgical treatment" does not necessarily mean "pain-free."

 

When choosing a treatment, it’s important to compare not only the layers it targets and the expected results, but also factors such as pain and downtime.

Who Should Use Volnuma?

Volnuma is a treatment ideal for those concerned about a lack of skin firmness or sagging skin. It is particularly suitable for people who feel that their facial contours have become less defined than before, or that the skin on their cheeks or around their mouth has become saggy.

 

volnemais a cosmetic procedure that aims to tighten the skin and subcutaneous tissue through the thermal effects of radiofrequency (RF).

 

This is also a good option for those who want to improve their skin's firmness and elasticity, or who are looking for natural skin tightening without surgery.

 

On the other hand, if the cheek tissue has sagged significantly or there is a large amount of excess skin, sufficient results may not be achieved. Additionally, for individuals with sunken cheeks, the treatment area must be carefully determined, taking into account the potential impact on fat tissue.

 

For detailed information on the effects, duration, and frequency of Volnuma treatments,An article explaining the effects of Volnuma...is introduced here.

Who Is a Good Candidate for HIFU?

HIFUThis treatment is ideal for those who want to focus on tightening deep tissues, such as sagging cheeks or a loose jawline. It is a good option for those concerned about a less defined facial contour or cheeks that appear to have dropped.

 

However, this does not mean that “any sagging area is a candidate for HIFU.” Even when it comes to sagging along the jawline, there are various causes, such as skin laxity, tissue sagging, and the amount of fat.

 

In cases where there is excess skin or a lack of volume, a different procedure may be more appropriate.

 

Especially for those with sunken cheeks, it is important to carefully determine the treatment area and depth, taking into account the potential effects on fat.

If you're in your 40s, which one is better?

Just because you're in your 40s doesn't mean you have to choose between Voluma and HIFU.

 

This is because, in one’s 40s, a loss of skin elasticity is often compounded by changes in fat distribution and a loss of volume.

 

 

For example, if your skin has lost its firmness and the skin on your cheeks and around your mouth appears saggy, Volnuma is a good option.

 

On the other hand, if the jawline appears blurred due to sagging cheek tissue, we consider deep tightening using HIFU.

 

However, in your 40s, multiple concerns—such as jowls, nasolabial folds, and sunken cheeks—may appear at the same time. For more information on the characteristics of sagging skin common in your 40s and recommended cosmetic treatments for each symptom,Treatments for Facial Sagging in Your 40s and How to Choose OneThis is explained in detail there.

What about people who tend to have sunken cheeks?

People who are prone to sunken cheeks should pay particular attention to the treatment area, depth, and mode of HIFU.

 

HIFU focuses ultrasound waves at a targeted depth, and when configured to act on the fat layer, it may result in fat reduction.

 

On the other hand, Volnuma is primarily intended for skin tightening using radiofrequency (RF) and is not a treatment specifically designed to reduce fat. However, since the heat reaches the subcutaneous fat layer, there is still a risk of sunken cheeks.

 

In addition, facial fat is divided into several sections called “fat compartments.”

 

Even if the upper part of the cheek is sunken, there may still be sagging around the mouth—the condition can vary from one area to another.

 

For this reason, at our clinic, we assess the amount of fat in the cheeks and the degree of hollowing, and carefully determine the treatment area and depth while taking into account the potential effects on the fat.

 

If you're concerned about the risk of sunken cheeks, please feel free to consult with us before your treatment.

Can Volnuma and HIFU be used together?

Borneuma and HIFU can be used in combination, depending on the condition.

 

Since these two treatments differ in how they deliver heat and their primary areas of effect, combining them is a viable option when both skin laxity and deep tissue sagging are present.

 

Bianca Clinic also offers combination treatments using Volnuma and HIFU.

 

However, combining treatments does not necessarily guarantee better results than a single treatment.

 

Excessive irradiation may lead to heat-related stress or unwanted changes in volume. We will assess the fat volume and skin condition to determine whether targeting multiple layers is warranted.

 

In addition, whether you can receive both treatments on the same day—or which one should be performed first—depends on factors such as the treatment area and your treatment history. It is important to first consult with your doctor about your desire to combine treatments and any concerns you may have.

How does BIANCA differentiate between them?

At Bianca Clinic, we don’t base our decisions solely on the name of the procedure or the patient’s age; instead, we identify the causes of sagging for each specific area of the face.

 

This is done to comprehensively evaluate factors such as skin thickness and elasticity, the amount of fat in the cheeks and under the chin, bone structure, and the condition of the supporting tissues, in order to determine the appropriate approach.

 

For example, even if sagging along the jawline appears similar, the treatment plan will differ depending on whether the primary issue is skin laxity or sagging of the cheek tissue.

 

If there is sunken cheeks or hollows at the temples, it’s also essential to distinguish between the areas that need to be tightened and those that need to retain volume.

 

 

We use Borneuma to improve skin firmness and tightening, and HIFU for deep tissue tightening, depending on the specific need.

 

If necessary, we can also recommend treatments such as thread lifts and injectables. We prioritize the overall harmony of your face and your desired results to create a treatment plan that is appropriate for you.

 

In addition, everyone has their own preferences, such as “I want to avoid sunken cheeks,” “I want a more defined jawline,” or “I want to minimize pain as much as possible.”

 

Even for the same type of sagging, the choice of treatment will vary depending on your priorities.

 

During your consultation, please tell us not only about the areas of concern but also about the changes you’d like to see and any concerns you may have. We will propose a treatment plan that takes into account both medical considerations and your wishes.

 

For information on the various types of treatments for sagging skin and how to choose the right one based on the cause,The Complete Guide to Facial Sagging TreatmentsIt also explains that.

 

If you're unsure which light therapy treatment is right for you, please feel free to consult with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choose between Volnuma and HIFU based on the cause of sagging

Borneuma is a treatment designed to improve skin firmness and address sagging skin, while HIFU is a treatment aimed at tightening deep tissues.

 

Which option is more suitable depends on the cause of the sagging, the amount of fat, and the desired results.

 

At BIANCA CLINIC, we carefully assess the condition of each individual’s face and recommend the most suitable treatment.

 

If you're unsure whether to choose Volnuma or HIFU, please feel free to consult with us at our clinic.

 

▷View a list of anti-aging treatments for sagging skin and facial lifting, along with case studies
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