How Sofwave Technology Works
Sofwave employs Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology, branded as SUPERB, to deliver focused ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis at a precise depth of 1.5mm. Unlike traditional focused ultrasound systems that fire a single beam at one focal point, Sofwave generates 7 parallel beams that create 3 thermal zones simultaneously. This multi-focal approach heats a larger volume of dermal tissue per pulse, enabling comprehensive treatment in fewer passes.
The device raises mid-dermal temperature to 60-70 degrees Celsius, which denatures existing collagen fibers and initiates a controlled wound-healing response. An integrated Sofcool cooling system maintains the epidermal surface at a safe temperature throughout treatment, reducing discomfort and eliminating the risk of surface burns. The thermal effect triggers fibroblast activation and neocollagenesis that continues for 12-16 weeks after treatment.
What Sofwave Treats
Primary Indications
Sofwave received FDA 510(k) clearance in 2019 for lifting the eyebrow and submental tissue, as well as improving facial lines and wrinkles. Clinical trials demonstrate a 95% patient satisfaction rate, with measurable tissue tightening documented via standardized photography at 12-week follow-up. The device effectively addresses mild to moderate skin laxity of the lower face, jawline, and neck without incisions or injectable agents.
Treatment Areas
The Sofwave applicator treats the full face including forehead, periorbital region, cheeks, nasolabial folds, jawline, and submental zone. Neck treatment addresses horizontal lines and vertical bands. Each anatomical zone requires 15-25 shots, and a full-face protocol typically involves 100-200 shots delivered over 30-45 minutes. Practitioners adjust energy levels between 0.7-2.0 joules per treatment line based on tissue thickness and patient tolerance.
Who Benefits from Sofwave Treatment
Ideal candidates are adults aged 30-60 with mild to moderate facial laxity classified as grade 1-2 on the Merz Aesthetics Scale. Patients seeking preventive anti-aging treatment in their early 30s also benefit, as stimulating collagen production before significant degradation occurs maintains skin structure longer. Sofwave suits individuals who want lifting results without the 4-6 week recovery period associated with surgical facelifts.
Contraindications include active skin infections at the treatment site, open wounds, severe cystic acne, and pregnancy. Patients with metal implants in the facial region should disclose this during consultation. Those with severe grade 3-4 sagging typically require surgical intervention, as energy-based devices cannot replicate the tissue repositioning achieved through surgical excision and suturing.
Sofwave Treatment Experience and Recovery
A Sofwave session begins with cleansing and application of ultrasound gel. No topical anesthesia is required for most patients, though it may be applied 20-30 minutes before treatment upon request. Patients report a warm, pulsing sensation rated 2-4 on a 10-point pain scale, significantly lower than the 5-7 rating typical of focused ultrasound at deeper depths. The session lasts 30-45 minutes for a full face protocol.
Post-treatment, patients experience mild redness lasting 30-60 minutes. There is zero downtime: normal activities including exercise resume the same day. No bruising, swelling, or tenderness occurs in most cases. Initial skin tightening becomes visible at 4 weeks, with progressive improvement continuing through 12 weeks as new collagen matures and reorganizes within the dermal matrix.
Expected Results and Maintenance
Published data shows that 90% of patients demonstrate measurable improvement in skin laxity at the 12-week mark. Sofwave targets the mid-dermis specifically, complementing deeper treatments that address the SMAS layer. Results from a single session last 6-12 months depending on the patient's age, skin quality, and collagen turnover rate. Kerscher M et al. J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(6):s54-s58. doi:10.36849/jdd.6073
Maintenance protocols involve 1 session every 6-12 months. RE:BERRY Gangnam offers Sofwave as both a standalone treatment and as part of multi-layer lifting protocols that combine mid-dermal and deep tissue stimulation. Patients who maintain consistent annual sessions report cumulative improvement, as each treatment reinforces residual collagen from prior sessions while generating additional new fibers.