Sofwave
Ultrasound at 1.5 mm — the depth where lines start
Sofwave treats the dermis at 1.5 mm, the layer where fine lines begin, rather than the deep fascia that conventional HIFU aims for. Energy is spread across seven wide cylinders instead of scattered points, and the epidermis is cooled throughout. It is the option we reach for on thin skin — around the eyes, on the neck — where deep lifting is not the right tool.
※ The final plan and cost are confirmed by your physician after an in-person examination at the clinic. Results and recovery vary by individual.
What the device actually does
Ultrasound energy is delivered in parallel rather than focused on a single deep point. It reaches the dermis at 1.5 mm and forms coagulation zones there, which prompts collagen regeneration in the layer where surface elasticity actually sits.
The epidermis is cooled continuously while this happens, so heat stays in the dermis and the surface is protected. That is why the treatment is described as having little effect on daily life afterwards — the thermal zones are formed below, not on top.
Why lines start, in three stages
Collagen in the skin declines by roughly 1% a year from the mid-twenties. How much wrinkle change is possible depends on how effectively collagen in the dermis is regenerated.
- 01Stage 1 — fine lines appearCollagen loss shows up first in the thin superficial layer, so fine lines form around the eyes and on the forehead.
- 02Stage 2 — expression lines setRepeated movement of the facial muscles gradually fixes the lines between the brows and across the forehead.
- 03Stage 3 — structure changesAs the supporting layer weakens, contour loss and sagging become clear on the cheeks, around the mouth and on the neck.
Conventional HIFU and Sofwave
HIFU stands for High Intensity Focused Ultrasound — strong ultrasound gathered at one point to generate heat deep in the skin. Sofwave works differently, so the results differ too.
| Conventional HIFU | Sofwave | |
|---|---|---|
| Target depth | 3–4.5 mm | 1.5 mm |
| Target layer | The deep SMAS fascia | The dermis, where lines begin |
| How energy is delivered | Concentrated at focal points to drive deep lifting | SUPB parallel ultrasound, spread wide and evenly |
| Best suited to | Pulling up structure that has descended | Surface firmness on thin skin — eye area, neck, fine lines |
| Limit to be aware of | Improvement of superficial fine lines can be limited | Not a substitute for deep structural lifting |
The three things that make it different
These are the technologies the manufacturer builds the device around.
At a glance
What to expect, and when
Response varies between individuals. This is the pattern we describe at consultation.
Where it is used
Sofwave is aimed at areas that need surface firmness, including skin too thin for deep lifting.
Where we treat differently
Depth control and energy setting are operator decisions, not device defaults.
Questions we are asked most
Does it hurt?
Sofwave applies a cooling system that protects the epidermis, so the burden of discomfort is considerably lower than with conventional HIFU. Most patients complete the session comfortably.
Is there swelling or downtime?
Because only the superficial layer is stimulated, normal activity resumes straight after the session, and swelling or flushing is generally minimal.
When do the changes appear?
A mild tightening may be felt immediately after the session. Wrinkles and firmness then improve gradually between weeks 4 and 12, as collagen regeneration progresses.
Which areas is it most suited to?
It is particularly aimed at surface firmness on thin, sensitive skin — the eye area, neck lines and fine lines.
Can I combine it with Thermage or Ultherapy?
They work at different depths, so a combined plan is common. Which combination is appropriate, and in what order, is decided with your doctor at consultation.
※ Sofwave works on surface firmness in the dermis and is not a replacement for deep structural lifting or for surgery. Results, sensation and recovery vary by individual, and no outcome is guaranteed. Suitability and the treatment plan are confirmed by your doctor at consultation.
What we look at before anything is switched on
You have read this far. Start with one photo.
Free, one-on-one, and nothing is decided until you see the plan in person.
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