
2026-05-29 • Patient Resources & Tips
Hello! This is Seye Clinic, embracing all the beauty in the world.
Sofwave is a next-generation lifting treatment that powerfully promotes collagen and elastin regeneration by delivering parallel ultrasound waves to the dermal layer of the skin. With a treatment time of approximately 40 minutes, its effects last for 8 to 12 months. At Seye Clinic, we provide precise, customized treatments with minimized pain, offering healthy and elastic skin.
In our practice, we consistently see patients who are concerned about sagging skin and fine lines but hesitate to undergo lifting procedures due to fears of facial volume loss or excessive pain. For these individuals, Seye Clinic often recommends Sofwave as an effective solution. Sofwave is a treatment designed to restore lost skin elasticity by delivering high-intensity parallel ultrasound (SUPERB™ technology) to the mid-dermal layer (approximately 1.5mm deep), thereby promoting collagen and elastin regeneration. Unlike traditional HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) devices that deliver energy in a dot-like pattern, Sofwave utilizes 7 cylindrical ultrasound beams that simultaneously deliver thermal energy broadly across the dermal layer. This unique approach ensures a wider treatment area per pulse.
The device precisely elevates the target tissue temperature to an optimal 60-70℃ for collagen denaturation, resulting in powerful tightening effects. Concurrently, a robust surface cooling system (SofCool™) operates to prevent thermal damage to the epidermis, ensuring patient comfort and safety. A study published in the international journal 'Dermatologic Surgery' in 2021 clinically reported that Sofwave treatment significantly increased dermal collagen density and showed high efficacy in wrinkle improvement while safely protecting the epidermis. This underscores Sofwave's ability to induce fundamental skin improvement by acting deep within the dermis without causing surface damage. After performing over 500 Sofwave treatments, one pattern we notice is the consistent improvement in overall skin texture and firmness, particularly in areas prone to fine lines like around the eyes and mouth.

Sofwave is a highly satisfying procedure, but it's crucial to understand its advantages and a few considerations before treatment. In our clinical experience, Sofwave is an excellent choice, especially for individuals with less facial fat who are concerned about volume loss, or those seeking improvement in neck wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes. By concentrating energy exclusively on the dermal layer, it avoids affecting the fat layer, allowing for safe treatment without the risk of hollowing. However, questions about pain during the procedure are common. Since Sofwave delivers thermal energy broadly to the dermis, patients may experience a stinging heat sensation in areas close to bone, such as the jawline. While the pain level is generally rated around 3-4 out of 10, Seye Clinic ensures patient comfort by applying ample numbing cream and actively utilizing the device's built-in cooling system. Most patients find the discomfort tolerable, and we prioritize a comfortable experience.
Furthermore, Sofwave is known for having minimal downtime. Patients might experience mild redness, warmth, or slight swelling for 1-2 days post-treatment, which naturally subsides. To maintain the effects for longer, it's advisable to avoid saunas or strenuous exercise for about 1 week after the procedure and to focus on moisturizing and sun protection (SPF 30 or higher). However, if you desire powerful lifting of the deep fascial layer (SMAS layer), combining Sofwave with other lifting treatments might be more appropriate than Sofwave alone.
To help patients choose the most suitable treatment for their skin concerns, Seye Clinic has compared some of the most popular lifting procedures.
Comparison Item | Sofwave | Ultherapy | Thermage FLX |
Mechanism of Action | Parallel Ultrasound (SUPERB™) | Micro-focused Ultrasound | Monopolar Radiofrequency (RF) |
Target Layer | Mid-dermis (1.5mm depth) | SMAS Fascia (3.0/4.5mm) | Dermis ~ Subcutaneous Tissue |
Main Effects | Fine wrinkle improvement, skin elasticity, pore reduction | Fundamental lifting of deep sagging | Overall skin tightening, facial contour improvement |
Pain Level | 3-4 out of 10 | 5-6 out of 10 | 4-5 out of 10 |
Downtime | Minimal (redness for a few hours) | Mild swelling or dull pain for 1-2 weeks | Minimal |
Duration of Effect (Average) | Approx. 8-12 months | Approx. 6-12 months | Approx. 6-12 months |
Cost in Gangnam | Reasonable (excellent value) | Premium price range | Premium price range |
• For those with less facial fat and concerns about fine wrinkles: Sofwave is recommended. It increases dermal collagen without affecting the fat layer, avoiding volume loss.
• For those concerned about jowls or deep contour sagging: Ultherapy is recommended. It provides powerful physical lifting by tightening the SMAS layer, the skin's support structure.
• For those wanting to tighten overall facial fat: Thermage FLX is recommended. Its radiofrequency heat effectively contracts fat tissue to slim and refine the overall facial volume.
At Seye Clinic, we precisely diagnose each patient's skin thickness and degree of sagging to propose a personalized treatment plan that combines Sofwave with other lifting procedures as needed.

When considering lifting procedures, patients often weigh concerns about treatment cost, pain, downtime, and the longevity of results. In our clinical experience, Sofwave is an appealing treatment that can address many of these concerns effectively. From a cost perspective, Sofwave is generally more reasonably priced compared to Ultherapy or Thermage, making it a good value option for those seeking effective lifting. Of course, treatment costs can vary depending on the number of shots and clinic policies, so a thorough consultation to determine the appropriate number of shots for your specific needs is essential.
As mentioned earlier, the pain level is typically around 3-4 out of 10, which can be adequately managed with numbing cream and the integrated cooling system. Most patients describe the sensation during treatment as uncomfortable but tolerable. Downtime is minimal, allowing for an immediate return to daily activities, with any mild redness or swelling usually disappearing within 1-2 days. If you have an important event, it's wise to schedule the treatment a few days in advance. The duration of effects varies individually, but typically, a single session provides results lasting approximately 8 to 12 months. Since Sofwave works by inducing collagen regeneration, patients usually begin to notice gradual improvements in elasticity and wrinkle reduction about 1 month after treatment, with peak effects observed around 2-3 months. For sustained results, we generally recommend a maintenance treatment once a year. At Seye Clinic, we meticulously analyze each patient's skin condition and degree of aging to determine the most effective shot count and treatment areas. The expertise of a skilled medical team is particularly crucial for delicate areas such as around the eyes, neck, and forehead, and our medical professionals, with their extensive treatment experience, promise precise and safe procedures.
Gangnam, Seoul, stands as the epicenter of aesthetic medicine in South Korea, leading the latest trends. Seye Clinic, conveniently located just a 1-minute walk from Gangnam Station, delivers exceptional patient satisfaction based on extensive experience and expertise in numerous lifting procedures. The reasons why Seye Clinic holds a particular advantage in Sofwave treatments are manifold. Our clinic is led by KOL (Key Opinion Leader) specialist doctors who personally oversee the entire process, from consultation to treatment. We don't merely operate the device; we accurately understand each patient's unique skin characteristics and facial structure to formulate the most ideal design and shot plan. For instance, even with the same number of shots, the results can vary significantly depending on where and how the energy is concentrated. With the know-how gained from thousands of lifting procedures, we meticulously perform treatments to ensure patients achieve the most satisfying outcomes.
Furthermore, Seye Clinic strictly adheres to the use of genuine tips. The efficacy and safety of Sofwave treatment are heavily dependent on using authentic tips. We transparently verify the use of genuine tips to our patients through a digital NFC tag authentication process, which is a crucial factor for patients to receive treatment with peace of mind. Beyond Sofwave, we are also an Ulthera Official NFC Tip Certified Clinic and possess various other premium lifting devices like Thermage FLX. This means we can offer not only standalone Sofwave treatments but also customized combination therapies that maximize synergistic effects with Ultherapy, Thermage FLX, and other lifting procedures, tailored to address patients' complex skin concerns. Seye Clinic strives to be a long-term partner in our patients' journey towards beauty, going beyond simply providing treatments.
At Seye Clinic, we follow a systematic and meticulous approach to ensure our patients achieve optimal results and a satisfying experience with Sofwave treatment.
1. 1:1 Precise Diagnosis and Customized Consultation: Before the procedure, our KOL specialist doctors thoroughly diagnose the patient's skin condition, elasticity, wrinkle depth, and facial contours. We dedicate ample time to listen to the patient's concerns and explain the principles of Sofwave treatment, expected effects, and precautions in detail. During this process, we determine the most suitable shot count and treatment areas for the patient, and if necessary, suggest combining Sofwave with other lifting procedures.
2. Genuine Tip Verification and Anesthesia: Immediately before the treatment, we verify the use of a genuine Sofwave tip through a digital NFC tag authentication process. Subsequently, numbing cream is applied for a sufficient duration to minimize discomfort.
3. Precise Design and Treatment: After anesthesia, our medical team performs a precise design on the patient's face. This is to accurately identify the areas where Sofwave energy can be delivered most effectively. During the procedure, we continuously monitor skin reactions and adjust energy intensity and shot intervals to achieve maximum efficacy while ensuring safety. Our medical team is committed to error-free treatment, especially in delicate areas such as around the eyes, mouth, and neck, based on a deep understanding of these regions.
4. Post-Treatment Care and Precautions: After the treatment, we provide care to soothe the skin and reiterate detailed post-treatment precautions (e.g., moisturizing, sun protection, avoiding alcohol/smoking).
Seye Clinic's Sofwave treatment is more than just operating equipment; it is an artistic approach dedicated to the beauty of each individual patient. We are committed to helping our patients regain confidence as they witness their skin naturally and healthily rejuvenate after treatment.
• Sofwave is a lifting treatment that promotes collagen and elastin regeneration by delivering parallel ultrasound to the mid-dermis (1.5mm).
• It is particularly effective for individuals with less facial fat concerned about volume loss, and for improving fine wrinkles, neck wrinkles, and eye area elasticity.
• Pain is rated 3-4 out of 10, manageable with numbing cream and a cooling system, with minimal downtime allowing for quick return to daily life.
• A single treatment typically lasts 8-12 months, with elasticity improvement felt after 1 month and peak effects at 2-3 months.
• Seye Clinic in Gangnam provides safe and satisfying results through precise diagnosis by KOL specialist doctors, genuine tip usage, and personalized treatment plans.
Q1. How much pain should I expect during a Sofwave treatment?
A1. While pain tolerance varies, at Seye Clinic, we use numbing cream and the device's built-in cooling system to reduce discomfort to a stinging heat sensation, typically rated 3-4 out of 10. The treatment usually takes approximately 40 minutes.
Q2. What is the downtime after Sofwave treatment, and can I wear makeup immediately?
A2. Seye Clinic's Sofwave treatment has virtually no downtime. You might experience mild redness for a few hours to a day immediately after the procedure, but you can wash your face and apply makeup right away, allowing for an immediate return to daily activities.
Q3. When do Sofwave results appear, and how long do they last?
A3. You'll gradually start to notice wrinkle improvement and increased elasticity about 1 month after treatment, as collagen regeneration begins. The effects typically peak at 2-3 months. Clinically, a single treatment is reported to last approximately 8 to 12 months.
Q4. Can Sofwave treatment reduce facial fat or cause hollowing?
A4. No, Sofwave targets the mid-dermis (1.5mm), which is shallower than the fat layer, making the risk of fat destruction extremely low. Therefore, individuals with less facial fat who are concerned about hollowing can safely undergo this treatment.
Ready to experience the difference? Book a free consultation via WhatsApp (+82-10-3110-9806) or browse our current events and packages. Our English-speaking team is ready to help you plan your visit.
*This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. Please consult a qualified medical professional before undergoing any aesthetic procedure.
Seye Clinic
10F, 55 Seocho-daero 77-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul
• Parking available (1h free with treatment)
Phone: +82-507-1345-5928
Email: info@seyeclinic.com
Opening Hours: Weekdays/Evening Clinic 10:30-21:00 (reservation cutoff 19:00), Weekends/Public Holidays 10:30-19:00 (reservation cutoff 17:00)
Copyright © 2026 SEYE CLINIC. All Rights Reserved.
Seye Clinic
10F, 55 Seocho-daero 77-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul
• Parking available (1h free with treatment)
Representative: Eun Sol Lee
Privacy Officer: Eun Sol Lee
Business Registration Number: 470-03-03420
Phone: +82-507-1345-5928
Email: info@seyeclinic.com
Opening Hours: Weekdays/Evening Clinic 10:30-21:00 (reservation cutoff 19:00), Weekends/Public Holidays 10:30-19:00 (reservation cutoff 17:00)
Copyright © 2026 SEYE CLINIC. All Rights Reserved.