What LDM means
LDM stands for local dynamic micro-massage. The handpiece alternates rapidly between two megahertz frequencies, typically 3 MHz and 10 MHz. Some handpieces add a 1 MHz option.
The lower frequency reaches into the dermis, and the higher one acts nearer the surface. The energy is not designed to heat tissue.
How an LDM ultrasound facial session in Singapore runs
How LDM differs from similar-sounding treatments
| Treatment | What it does | Relation to LDM |
|---|---|---|
| HIFU | Focused ultrasound heats points at set depths, as deep as the SMAS, aiming to lift | The opposite aim. LDM does not lift |
| Diagnostic ultrasound | Shows fat, filler and tissue before correction | An imaging tool, not a treatment |
| R2 Glow | Long-pulsed 755 nm and 1064 nm laser aimed at low-grade inflammation | A laser, not ultrasound |
| Hydrafacial | Suction-based surface cleansing and hydration | Works at the surface by a different method |
| Bojin facial | A manual technique using a horn, jade or stone tool | Not offered by this clinic |
Why no heat matters
Many skin devices work by heating tissue. LDM does not rely on that. Its energy is unfocused and low in intensity, so the effect is mechanical, more like a very fine massage. That makes it relevant to skin that reacts badly to heat. It also means you should not expect the structural change that a focused heat device aims for. The two have different jobs. Mild warmth can still be noticed, and this usually passes quickly. Settings are adjusted for darker skin types and for skin that is between other treatments.
Who it may suit
Dehydrated skin where the barrier is compromised.
Reactive skin that tolerates heat poorly.
Skin settling after laser, peels or injectables. Timing is planned around the earlier treatment.
Skin that reacts easily and needs gentle handling.
Who should wait, or be assessed first
Active infection, open wounds or a flare in the treatment area. Treatment is timed around these. In pregnancy, wait until suitability has been discussed.
Pacemakers or other implanted electronic devices, facial implants, recent filler or procedures in the area, and known reactions to coupling gels or serums.
Persistent redness, flushing or bumps that suggest rosacea, and suspected eczema or other skin disease.
Concerns about sagging, the jawline, scars or pigment.
What it cannot do
LDM is maintenance and support care, not correction. It cannot lift or tighten the face, including jowls and neck. For those concerns, a sagging face assessment is a better starting point. It does not resurface acne scars or texture, and S3 Resurfacing Lift is one pathway for that. It does not clear established pigment, for which pigmentation assessment comes first. It cannot treat rosacea or eczema on its own. It aims to support skin and does not change its structure, and no fixed result is promised. If your main concern is lifting, scars or dark patches, it is better to hear that early and choose a different route. LDM can then be discussed as support around that plan, if it is useful. Published studies of dual-frequency ultrasound have looked at recovery after nasal surgery, and at hydration and redness in acne and rosacea. They should not be read as a promise for your skin.
Risks and side effects
Redness or peeling is not a usual effect of LDM. Pigment change is considered low risk because there is no pigment target.
Mild warmth, tingling or brief flushing, which usually settles quickly.
A reaction to the coupling gel or a serum applied afterwards. Rosacea or eczema may flare.
Persistent redness, burning or swelling, rash or hives, blisters or open areas, a flare that does not settle, or fever or spreading warmth. See complication care.
Preparing and aftercare
Declare implants, pacemakers, pregnancy or breastfeeding, and your skincare actives. Pause retinoids and acids if advised. Avoid strong sun and tanning. Bring records of recent treatments.
Use gentle, fragrance-free products. Avoid saunas and strenuous exercise while skin feels warm. Wear sun protection daily, and bring back retinoids and acids gradually.
This is discussed at consultation, because skin and any combined treatment differ.
What is set for you individually
Dr Sin Yong decides at consultation whether LDM is advised at all. He also chooses the frequency combination, the coupling medium and the settings for darker skin or for skin between treatments. Timing around laser, peel or injectable work is planned too. The number and spacing of visits are not fixed, and maintenance is optional. Both adjust as your skin responds. It helps to think of LDM as one layer in a wider skin plan, and not as a plan in itself. If a concern needs a diagnosis first, that comes before any facial. If your skin is settling after laser, a peel or an injectable, bring your records so the timing can be matched to that treatment. Dr Sin Yong performs every treatment personally, and he will tell you if LDM is unlikely to help the concern you came with.
How the fee is set
Fees are not published. The fee follows your plan and is given in writing after assessment. It depends on the area, such as face or face and neck, how LDM combines with other care, the number and spacing of visits, and whether another diagnosis or treatment should come first. See how we quote. Figures are not quoted ahead of the examination. The consultation can also conclude that LDM is not needed, or that another treatment should come first. Please ask how any combined care affects your quote. Your written quote sets this out clearly.