The Power Duo for Skin Tightening: Oligio + HIFU
- Dr. Koay Chiew Ping
- Sep 30
- 3 min read

Have you ever stood in front of the mirror, gently pulling your skin back to imagine how you’d look with a firmer, lifted face? You’re not alone. Skin laxity is one of the most common concerns we see at Dream Clinic — and it’s also one of the earliest visible signs of aging.
As we grow older, collagen and elastin — the proteins that keep our skin plump, firm, and elastic — gradually decline. In fact, studies suggest we lose about 1% of collagen every year after our mid-20s. Combine that with sun exposure, lifestyle, and genetics, and the result is sagging skin, fine lines, and a tired appearance, even if you still feel energetic inside.
That’s where advanced non-surgical technologies come in. At Dream Clinic, one of our favourite skin-tightening strategies is the combination of Oligio (radiofrequency) and HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound). Together, they address both the superficial and deep structures of the skin — giving a natural, long-lasting lift without needles, scars, or downtime.

Oligio: The Surface Tightener
Oligio is an advanced monopolar radiofrequency (RF) system designed to gently heat the deeper dermal layers of the skin. When controlled heat is applied, collagen fibres contract immediately — giving an instant tightening effect — and fibroblasts are stimulated to produce new collagen over the following months.
The science behind Oligio:
Heat causes collagen’s triple-helix structure to “shrink,” creating visible tightening.
Fibroblast activity is boosted, leading to neocollagenesis (new collagen formation).
Increased circulation enhances skin health and glow.
Benefits clients notice with Oligio:
Immediate tightening after the first session
Softer, smoother skin texture
Minimal discomfort, no downtime
Safe for all skin tones
Clinical evidence supports its effectiveness. A review in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (2014) confirmed that RF is a reliable method for skin tightening with high patient satisfaction and a strong safety profile.

HIFU: The Deep Lifter
It delivers focused ultrasound energy into the SMAS layer (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) — the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts.
This deep thermal effect stimulates collagen remodelling and tissue contraction, gradually lifting the skin from within.
The science behind HIFU:
Ultrasound energy creates controlled thermal coagulation points.
This triggers wound healing and collagen remodelling.
Long-term lifting develops over 2–3 months as new collagen strengthens the structure.
Key benefits of HIFU:
Lifts sagging cheeks, jawline, and neck
Defines the V-line face shape
Provides gradual, natural results
Safe, non-invasive alternative to surgery
Multiple studies — including one by Suh et al. (Dermatologic Surgery, 2011) — have shown significant tightening and lifting effects in Asian patients, with high satisfaction and minimal risk.
Why Combine Oligio + HIFU?
Think of your skin like a mattress:
By targeting multiple skin depths, the two treatments complement each other beautifully:
At Dream Clinic, we often recommend starting with HIFU for deep lifting, followed by Oligio to refine the surface — ensuring both short-term satisfaction and long-term improvements.
How Does It Compare to Other Treatments?
Surgical facelift: More dramatic, but involves downtime, scars, and higher cost.
Threads: Immediate lift but temporary, with risks of migration or asymmetry.
Fillers: Add volume but don’t tighten the skin.
Laser resurfacing: Improves texture but doesn’t target deeper sagging.
Oligio + HIFU is ideal for clients who want visible, natural results without the risks or recovery of surgery.
When Will You See Results?
6+ months: With proper maintenance, results can last even longer.

Your Personalised Skin Plan
Dr Koay’s Tip: Combining Oligio and HIFU is like investing in your skin’s “youth savings account” — the earlier you start, the longer you preserve firmness and definition.
At Dream Clinic, no two faces are the same. During your consultation, we’ll analyse your skin, discuss your concerns, and design a treatment plan tailored just for you.
📞 Book your consultation today and let’s lift, tighten, and refresh — the Dream way.
References
Fabi SG, Goldman MP. Radiofrequency devices for skin tightening: A review of the literature. J Drugs Dermatol. 2014;13(12):1489–1494.
Alster TS, Tanzi EL. Nonablative cutaneous remodeling using radiofrequency devices. Clin Dermatol. 2004;22(5):487–491.
White WM et al. Selective creation of thermal injury zones in the superficial musculoaponeurotic system using intense focused ultrasound. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2007;9(1):22–29.