Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Which Is Better for Lifting in Myeongdong Seoul?
RE:BERRY Myeongdong operates both Sofwave SUPERB and Ultherapy Prime under one roof — one of the few clinics in Korea offering both platforms. Aesthetic Medicine Specialists Dr. Seung-Jae Baek (Lic.143338) and Dr. Hoon-Sung Son (Lic.125783) have performed over 4,800 combined ultrasound lifting sessions and share an evidence-based comparison of Sofwave vs Ultherapy to help you choose the right treatment.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Which Is Better for Face Lifting?
Ultherapy targets the deep SMAS layer at 4.5mm for structural lifting while Sofwave targets the mid-dermis at 1.5mm for skin tightening — they complement rather than compete. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s multi-layer combo package (Ultherapy 200s + Sofwave 100s + InMode) costs ₩1,950,000 for comprehensive results.
The Sofwave vs Ultherapy debate is one of the most common questions international patients bring to RE:BERRY Myeongdong. The honest answer is that these two ultrasound platforms serve different purposes at different tissue depths, making them complementary rather than interchangeable. Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound (MFU-V) to create thermal coagulation points at 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm depths, with its primary advantage being the ability to reach the SMAS fascial layer — the same tissue plane surgeons address during a facelift. It is the only non-invasive device with an FDA lifting indication. Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology to deliver columnar heating at a fixed 1.5mm depth in the mid-dermis, stimulating collagen remodeling for skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. Because RE:BERRY Myeongdong houses both devices, Dr. Seung-Jae Baek can objectively recommend the right option — or the combination that delivers the best Sofwave vs Ultherapy result — based on your individual skin laxity, budget, and goals. Understanding which treatment addresses your specific concern is the first step to making an informed decision about Ultherapy Prime or Sofwave.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Results at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
Actual patient results comparing Sofwave tightening and Ultherapy lifting outcomes. Individual results vary.
How Sofwave vs Ultherapy Consultation Works at RE:BERRY
Four-step process to determine which ultrasound lifting treatment is right for you.
Skin Laxity Assessment & Goal Setting
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek evaluates your skin laxity on a 4-point scale using manual palpation and photographic analysis. Patients with moderate-to-severe laxity (grades 3-4) with visible jowling typically benefit most from Ultherapy Prime’s SMAS-level lifting. Those with mild laxity (grades 1-2) seeking skin tightening and texture improvement are ideal Sofwave candidates. This honest assessment determines the optimal Sofwave vs Ultherapy recommendation — or whether a combination delivers the best outcome.
Device Selection & Protocol Design
Based on your assessment, Dr. Baek designs a personalized protocol. Ultherapy Prime sessions involve 200-530 shots across 3 depth cartridges (1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm) with real-time DeepSEE visualization. Sofwave sessions deliver 100-200 shots at the 1.5mm mid-dermal layer using SUPERB parallel beam technology. For the combination approach favored in the Sofwave vs Ultherapy debate, both devices are used in the same session — Ultherapy first for structural lifting, then Sofwave for surface tightening.
Treatment Delivery
Ultherapy Prime takes 60-90 minutes for a full-face protocol with topical numbing applied 30-45 minutes beforehand. Patients rate comfort at 5-7 on a 10-point scale. Sofwave takes 30-45 minutes with no numbing required — comfort is rated 2-3 on the same scale due to its integrated SofCool cooling system maintaining epidermal temperature at 40°C. When choosing between Sofwave vs Ultherapy for pain tolerance, Sofwave wins decisively. The combo protocol takes approximately 90-120 minutes.
Post-Treatment & Follow-Up
Both Ultherapy and Sofwave require zero downtime. Mild redness resolves within 1-4 hours. Results develop over 2-3 months as new collagen forms. RE:BERRY provides follow-up assessment at the 3-month mark (in-clinic or via photo review for international patients). Dr. Hoon-Sung Son monitors your progress and recommends maintenance sessions — typically annual for Ultherapy, every 6-12 months for Sofwave.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Benefits Comparison
- Ultherapy — Deep Structural Lifting: Only FDA-cleared device with a lifting indication. Reaches the SMAS layer at 4.5mm for jawline definition and brow elevation.
- Sofwave — Surface Tightening & Comfort: SUPERB parallel beam technology at 1.5mm depth. 70% less discomfort than Ultherapy. FDA-cleared for wrinkle reduction.
- Combination — Maximum Results: Multi-layer approach targets SMAS + dermis simultaneously. 30-40% improved outcomes compared to either device alone.
- Both Devices Under One Roof: RE:BERRY Myeongdong operates both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime, eliminating clinic-hopping and ensuring consistent treatment.
- Zero Downtime for Both: Resume normal activities immediately after either Sofwave or Ultherapy. Safe to fly within 24 hours.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mild redness resolves in 1-4 hours. Some patients notice immediate skin firmness from initial collagen contraction. |
| Week 2-4 | Early tightening effects visible, particularly from Sofwave’s mid-dermal collagen stimulation. Skin feels smoother. |
| Month 1-2 | Neocollagenesis accelerates. Ultherapy’s deeper structural lifting begins manifesting as improved jawline contour. |
| Month 3 | Primary results visible from both treatments. Combination patients see the most dramatic improvement at this stage. |
| Month 6 | Peak results achieved. Maximum collagen remodeling from both Sofwave (dermal) and Ultherapy (SMAS) layers. |
| Month 12-18 | Ultherapy results maintained 12-18 months. Sofwave tightening maintained 6-12 months. Annual maintenance recommended. |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Complete Feature Comparison
| Feature | Ultherapy Prime | Sofwave SUPERB | Combo (Both) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Micro-Focused Ultrasound (MFU-V) | Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam | Multi-Layer Ultrasound |
| Target Depth | 1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm (SMAS) | 1.5mm (Mid-Dermis) | All depths: 1.5-4.5mm |
| FDA Indication | Lifting + Tightening | Tightening + Wrinkle Reduction | Both indications |
| Real-Time Imaging | DeepSEE Visualization | No | Ultherapy portion only |
| Treatment Time | 60-90 minutes | 30-45 minutes | 90-120 minutes |
| Pain Level (1-10) | 5-7 | 2-3 | 4-6 average |
| Numbing Required | Yes (30-45 min) | No | For Ultherapy portion |
| Downtime | None | None | None |
| Results Onset | 2-3 months | 2-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks (early tightening) |
| Peak Results | 6 months | 3-6 months | 3-6 months |
| Results Duration | 12-18 months | 6-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Best For | Moderate-Severe Laxity | Mild-Moderate Laxity | Maximum lifting effect |
| Price at RE:BERRY MD | From ₩1,950,000 (combo) | ₩2,590,000 (200s+Titanium) | ₩1,950,000 (200s+100s+InMode) |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Packages at RE:BERRY Myeongdong
All prices in KRW. Non-covered medical services.
Multi-Layer Lifting Package
- Ultherapy Prime 200 shots (SMAS layer)
- Sofwave 100 shots (mid-dermis)
- InMode FX or FORMA (full face)
- Free consultation with Dr. Baek
- Aftercare in your language
Sofwave + Titanium Package
- Sofwave 200 shots
- Titanium 80kJ
- Full-face dual-device protocol
- Post-treatment calming care
Titanium + Onda + InMode Package
- Titanium 80kJ
- Onda 80kJ
- InMode FX or FORMA (full face)
- Triple-technology lifting
Revinas + Onda + InMode Package
- Revinas 3,000 shots (nasolabial folds & double chin)
- Onda 120kJ
- InMode FX 1 area
- Targeted contouring protocol
Aesthetic Medicine Specialists — Both Devices, One Expert Team
Dr. Baek and Dr. Son are trained and experienced on both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime platforms at RE:BERRY Myeongdong.
Dr. Seung-Jae Baek
- Head Director, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- 4,800+ combined ultrasound lifting sessions
- Juvelook Certified Meister & Speaker
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Filler Education and Research Academy
Dr. Hoon-Sung Son
- Doctor, RE:BERRY Clinic Myeongdong
- Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery
- Specialist in multi-device lifting protocols
Medically reviewed by Dr. Seung-Jae Baek, Head Director, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist (Lic.143338), RE:BERRY
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: The Science Behind Both Technologies
Peer-reviewed evidence comparing micro-focused ultrasound (Ultherapy) and synchronous parallel beam ultrasound (Sofwave) for non-surgical lifting.
Ultherapy: Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU-V)
Ultherapy Prime delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy to create discrete thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at temperatures of 60-70°C. The DeepSEE visualization system provides real-time imaging of tissue layers, allowing the physician to confirm transducer placement at the target depth before energy delivery. The SMAS layer, located at approximately 4.5mm depth in most facial areas, is the primary structural target. When comparing Sofwave vs Ultherapy at the molecular level, Ultherapy’s ability to reach the SMAS distinguishes it as the only non-invasive device with an FDA-cleared lifting indication.
Sofwave: Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB)
Sofwave’s SUPERB technology generates seven parallel ultrasound beams that converge at a fixed 1.5mm depth in the mid-dermis. This creates a broad columnar thermal zone rather than discrete point coagulation, heating a larger volume of dermal tissue per shot. The integrated SofCool system maintains epidermal temperature at 40°C, preventing surface burns and reducing discomfort to a 2-3 rating on a 10-point scale. In the Sofwave vs Ultherapy comfort comparison, Sofwave’s cooling advantage is clinically significant — 70% less discomfort reported in comparative patient surveys.
Clinical Evidence for Combination Approach
Emerging evidence supports multi-depth ultrasound protocols combining SMAS-level and dermal-level energy delivery. The rationale is analogous to multi-layer surgical facelifts: addressing structural support (SMAS) and surface quality (dermis) simultaneously produces superior outcomes compared to single-layer treatment. Clinical observations at RE:BERRY Myeongdong show 30-40% improved patient satisfaction scores with the combination Sofwave vs Ultherapy approach compared to either device alone.
Fabi SG et al. Evaluation of micro-focused ultrasound with visualization for lifting, tightening, and wrinkle reduction of the decolletage. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;70(5):893-899. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2013.12.036
Goldie K et al. Sofwave technology for the treatment of facial laxity and wrinkles: a prospective, multicenter pivotal trial. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021;20(9):2838-2845. doi:10.1111/jocd.14336
Alam M et al. Ultrasound tightening of facial and neck skin: a rater-blinded prospective cohort study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2010;62(2):262-269. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2009.06.039
What Patients Say About Sofwave vs Ultherapy at RE:BERRY
“I originally came for Ultherapy only, but Dr. Baek recommended adding Sofwave 100 shots for the surface tightening. The combo result at 3 months was incredible — my jawline looks 5 years younger.”
“I have low pain tolerance so I chose Sofwave alone. Barely felt anything during treatment, and the results were genuinely impressive for my mild sagging. RE:BERRY never pushed Ultherapy on me.”
“Having both devices at one clinic was the deciding factor. Other clinics only have one and obviously recommend what they have. Dr. Son gave an honest comparison that matched what I read online.”
Frequently Asked Questions: Sofwave vs Ultherapy
Expert answers about choosing between Sofwave and Ultherapy for non-surgical face lifting at RE:BERRY Myeongdong.
₩1,950,000 for the Multi-Layer Lifting Package (Ultherapy 200s + Sofwave 100s + InMode FX/FORMA full face) at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. Sofwave 200s + Titanium 80kJ is ₩2,590,000. Individual Sofwave or Ultherapy pricing available during consultation.
₩1,950,000 for the combination package includes both Sofwave and Ultherapy at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. Globally, Ultherapy is typically 20-40% more expensive than Sofwave due to the proprietary DeepSEE visualization technology. In Korea, competitive pricing makes the combination package more affordable than Ultherapy alone at many international clinics.
30-40% improved outcomes are achieved by combining both rather than choosing one. Ultherapy delivers superior structural lifting for moderate-severe laxity (SMAS layer at 4.5mm). Sofwave delivers superior surface tightening for mild-moderate laxity (mid-dermis at 1.5mm). Your laxity grade determines which provides better results individually.
2-3 on a 10-point pain scale for Sofwave versus 5-7 for Ultherapy — Sofwave is approximately 70% less painful. Sofwave’s integrated SofCool system maintains epidermal temperature at 40°C. Ultherapy requires 30-45 minutes of topical numbing cream before treatment.
Yes, RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s Multi-Layer Lifting Package combines both in a single 90-120 minute session. Ultherapy Prime 200 shots targets the deep SMAS layer first, followed by Sofwave 100 shots for mid-dermal tightening, plus InMode FX or FORMA for superficial radiofrequency enhancement.
3 fundamentally different technologies: Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound (4.5mm SMAS), Sofwave uses parallel beam ultrasound (1.5mm dermis), and Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency (volumetric dermal heating). Thermage excels at volumetric tightening. Ultherapy excels at structural lifting. Sofwave excels at comfortable surface tightening.
Ultherapy Prime produces 25-35% more jawline definition than Sofwave alone because it reaches the SMAS at 4.5mm where structural support resides. Sofwave at 1.5mm improves skin quality and mild laxity. For significant jowling, V-line lifting with Ultherapy is the evidence-based choice.
Sofwave shows 15-20% better patient satisfaction for neck wrinkle reduction (horizontal lines) due to its parallel beam coverage pattern. Ultherapy is preferred for neck skin laxity (turkey neck). RE:BERRY Myeongdong often combines both with Titanium lifting for comprehensive neck rejuvenation.
24 hours is the recommended wait time before flying after either Sofwave or Ultherapy at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. Neither treatment has medical flying restrictions. Mild redness (1-4 hours) and occasional tenderness are the only post-treatment effects. Many international patients schedule treatment 1-2 days before departure.
0 days downtime for both treatments. Sofwave typically produces 1-2 hours of mild pinkness. Ultherapy may cause 2-4 hours of redness with occasional mild swelling. Both allow immediate return to all normal activities including makeup application.
95% of patients experience only temporary redness (1-4 hours) from both treatments. Ultherapy occasionally causes mild bruising (5-8% of patients) and temporary numbness (3-5%). Sofwave side effects are limited to redness and warmth. Serious adverse events are extremely rare for both FDA-cleared devices.
2-4 weeks for initial Sofwave tightening effects versus 2-3 months for Ultherapy structural lifting. Both reach peak results at approximately 3-6 months. The combination approach shows the earliest visible improvement because Sofwave delivers faster surface tightening while Ultherapy builds deeper structural support over time.
12-18 months for Ultherapy SMAS lifting results versus 6-12 months for Sofwave mid-dermal tightening. Annual Ultherapy maintenance and biannual Sofwave maintenance are recommended for sustained results. Combined protocol patients typically return once annually for a maintenance session.
1 session for both treatments produces visible results. Unlike many aesthetic treatments requiring multiple sessions, both Sofwave and Ultherapy deliver therapeutic collagen remodeling from a single treatment. Maintenance sessions are recommended at 6-12 month intervals depending on the device.
2-3 days is sufficient for consultation plus treatment at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. The combo Sofwave + Ultherapy session takes 90-120 minutes with no downtime. RE:BERRY is 2 minutes from Myeongdong Station Exit 8. Many patients combine lifting with other treatments like skin booster injections during their visit.
48 hours advance booking is recommended for lifting consultations at RE:BERRY Myeongdong to ensure Dr. Baek or Dr. Son are available for the comprehensive laxity assessment. Contact via WhatsApp, LINE, or call +82-2-2088-7070.
8 languages are supported at RE:BERRY Myeongdong: English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified/Traditional), Thai, Vietnamese, Mongolian, and Farsi. Sofwave vs Ultherapy comparisons, consent forms, and aftercare instructions are all available in your preferred language.
1.5mm fixed depth for Sofwave (mid-dermis) versus 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm adjustable depth for Ultherapy Prime. The 4.5mm cartridge reaches the SMAS fascial layer — a structural tissue plane that Sofwave cannot access. This depth difference is the fundamental distinction in the Sofwave vs Ultherapy comparison.
7-8 on a 10-point scale for Ultherapy on the jawline (one of the most sensitive areas) versus 3-4 for Sofwave on the same area. The jawline’s proximity to bone amplifies Ultherapy’s ultrasound energy perception. RE:BERRY applies extra numbing cream and uses a comfort protocol to manage Ultherapy jawline discomfort.
Ultherapy excels on the jawline, jowls, and brow for lifting. Sofwave excels on the cheeks, forehead, and perioral area for tightening and wrinkle reduction. For the submental (under-chin) area, both devices show comparable results. The combination covers all facial zones optimally.
RE:BERRY Myeongdong holds 8 manufacturer certifications and both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime devices are genuine manufacturer-supplied units with current calibration. Both devices undergo quarterly maintenance checks. Certification plaques are displayed in the clinic.
Yes, RE:BERRY Myeongdong shows device-specific before-and-after comparisons during consultation. Having both devices in one clinic allows direct comparison of outcomes from the same clinic, same doctors, and similar patient profiles — eliminating the marketing bias found in single-device clinics.
4,800+ combined ultrasound lifting sessions with both devices under one roof. Most Korean clinics only have one platform and inevitably recommend what they own. RE:BERRY Myeongdong’s dual-device capability means Dr. Baek recommends based on your laxity assessment, not inventory.
3 differentiators: both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime in one clinic, honest laxity-based device recommendation (not sales-driven), and a multi-layer combination protocol with Onda, Revinas, and InMode available for comprehensive lifting. RE:BERRY Myeongdong is open 365 days with 8-language support, 2 minutes from Myeongdong Station.
30s with mild laxity: Sofwave alone is typically sufficient for prevention and surface tightening. 40s with moderate laxity: Ultherapy or the combination package delivers more meaningful structural lifting. See our age-based lifting guide for detailed recommendations by decade.
80-85% of patients with mild-to-moderate laxity achieve satisfactory results without surgery using Sofwave, Ultherapy, or the combination. For severe laxity (grade 4), non-surgical treatments deliver improvement but cannot replicate surgical tissue repositioning. RE:BERRY provides honest assessments about realistic non-surgical expectations.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Ready to Compare Sofwave vs Ultherapy in Person?
Book a laxity assessment with Dr. Seung-Jae Baek or Dr. Hoon-Sung Son at RE:BERRY Myeongdong. Both devices available for same-day consultation and treatment. 2 minutes from Myeongdong Station Exit 8. Call +82-2-2088-7070 or message via WhatsApp.
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- ✓ No downtime — resume sightseeing immediately
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- ✓ Current promotion pricing available