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RESERVATION 02-514-0011

Reverse Aging

Sofwave

Sofwave delivers ultrasound heat to the dermis to encourage collagen remodeling. We check the condition of the dermis first, then judge whether it is suitable.

Ultrasound lifting handpiece (AI-generated concept image)

Sofwave

Sofwave

A facial contour rarely softens for one reason alone. The epidermis, dermis, SMAS, fat layer, and bone each change at their own pace, so the first step is to find out which layer the change began in. Sofwave is an ultrasound lifting treatment focused on the dermis, and it aims to restore density in the connective tissue that supports the skin from within.

Recommended for

  • Those who feel the skin has thinned and lost some of its firmness
  • Those whose schedule leaves little room for a long downtime
  • Those sensitive to pain who find strong lifting treatments demanding
  • Those noticing the line between the cheek and jaw beginning to soften
  • Those whose skin texture has loosened after childbirth or a change in weight

Our View

How we see it at Cheongdam Laplace

Heat directed at the dermal layerSofwave uses ultrasound beams arranged in parallel to gather heat in the mid-dermis. It is designed so that the epidermis is protected by cooling while thermal stimulation is concentrated in the dermis, and remodeling of collagen and elastin can be expected.
Lifting planned layer by layerSometimes treating the dermis alone is enough, and sometimes the SMAS needs to be addressed as well. Laplace assesses the two layers separately and sequences the treatment so that only the layer that needs it is approached.
We identify what does not need treating yetChanges that look like a loss of firmness sometimes come from dryness, pigmentation, or swelling instead. In consultation we separate the causes first, and if lifting is not what this stage calls for, we say so plainly.

The process

01

Layer assessment

Through palpation and photographic records, we review together which layer the change began in, from the epidermis to the bone.

02

Planning the treatment area

We decide together how much to allocate across the forehead, cheeks, and jawline, taking the differences between the two sides of the face into account.

03

Anesthesia and delivery

After topical anesthesia, epidermal cooling is maintained while ultrasound is delivered across the planned zones in a set order.

04

Review immediately after

We check the redness and swelling right after the treatment and agree on when to return so the collagen response can be reviewed.

Treatment information

Treatment time and recovery period may vary depending on the treatment area and your individual condition.
Treatment timeAbout 20-40 minutes depending on the area
AnesthesiaTopical anesthetic (about 30-40 minutes of waiting after application)
RecoveryWashing and daily activity the same day (varies by individual)
Recommended intervalUsually every 6-12 months, adjusted to your condition
Treatment areasForehead · Cheeks · Jawline · Neck (partial selection available)

Frequently asked questions

How is it different from Ulthera?

They target different layers. Sofwave works mainly on the mid-dermis, while Ulthera works on the deeper SMAS layer. Which one suits you depends on skin thickness and the cause of the sagging, so we check the layers in consultation before advising.

Will I see a change right away?

Right afterward you may feel a temporary sense of tightening from the heat. Collagen remodeling takes time, so it is usually observed gradually over about 2-3 months, and the degree of change varies by individual.

How much does it hurt?

Topical anesthesia and epidermal cooling are used together to reduce the burden of pain, and during delivery a stinging or hot sensation may appear briefly. How much pain is felt varies by individual, so we adjust the intensity as we proceed.

Can I have it on the same day as other treatments?

Depending on your skin, it is sometimes done on the same day as a skin booster or toxin, and sometimes it is better to leave an interval. Overlapping thermal stimulation can lengthen recovery, so we separate the order in consultation.

Precautions and possible side effects

  • Redness, swelling, and a tingling sensation may remain in the treated area for several hours to several days.
  • Blisters, superficial burns, and temporary reduced sensation are reported rarely.
  • Temporary hive-like wheals or tenderness may occur.
  • It is not performed during pregnancy or where there is acute inflammation or infection in the treatment area.
  • If the sagging is advanced or caused by skeletal change, the change may fall short of expectations.

Treatment results may vary depending on individual condition, and side effects may occur. Please confirm the details through a consultation with our medical staff.

Consultation comes first

Before deciding on a treatment, let us look at your current condition together.