FAQ
Sofwave vs Ultherapy in Seoul: What's the Difference?
Quick answer
Both use ultrasound, but at different depths. Sofwave targets the mid-dermis at about 1.5 mm with parallel beams and built-in cooling, so it suits fine lines, texture and mild laxity. Ultherapy reaches deeper, including the SMAS, for lifting jowls and brows. At The Heal in Jamsil, Seoul, we choose by your anatomy. Send photos on KakaoTalk for a plan before you fly.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa , board-certified dermatologist · Updated October 2026
Sofwave depth
About 1.5 mm
Ultherapy depth
Up to 4.5 mm
Sofwave best for
Fine lines, texture
Ultherapy best for
Deeper lifting
How the technologies differ
Sofwave uses synchronous parallel ultrasound beams to heat a consistent layer in the mid-dermis, about 1.5 mm deep, while an integrated cooling system protects the surface. Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound with live imaging to place heat points at depths of 1.5, 3.0 and 4.5 mm, reaching the SMAS layer. Both stimulate collagen; the difference is mainly where the energy goes.
Because of these differences in depth, the two are often seen as complementary rather than competing treatments.
Which concerns each suits
- Sofwave: fine lines, crepey texture, mild laxity, a gentle brow lift and neck skin quality.
- Ultherapy: jowls, jawline definition, lowered brows, under-chin laxity and deeper structural sagging.
- Both: people with mixed concerns may benefit from combining or alternating.
Thin, delicate skin and deep sagging call for different approaches, which is why an in-person assessment matters.
For many patients, the decision comes down to whether the main problem is skin quality or structural sagging, and that is easiest to judge in person with good lighting and movement.
Comfort and downtime
Sofwave's cooling and shallower depth often make it feel more comfortable, though sensitivity varies. Ultherapy produces deeper heat pulses, managed with numbing and adjusted energy; see does Ultherapy hurt? Both have minimal downtime, with mild redness or swelling that settles quickly, so either can fit a short Seoul trip.
Either option can be scheduled the day after arrival and is easy to fit around sightseeing, which is why both are popular with visitors.
Results and choosing between them
Results from both develop over two to three months as collagen rebuilds, and vary between individuals. If your main goal is smoother skin with a subtle lift, Sofwave may be enough; if you want visible jawline or brow lifting, Ultherapy is usually the anchor. Our Design Lift program combines devices when that gives a more natural result. Send us photos and we will suggest the right fit .
We will also tell you when neither device is the best answer, for example when volume loss rather than laxity is the main issue.
The Heal approach
We look at skin thickness and where your laxity sits before choosing Sofwave, Ultherapy or a combination, rather than defaulting to one device.
Expert review
Dr. Yang Jeong-hwa
Medical Director · Board-certified dermatologist · Seoul National University College of Medicine
Written for international patients and reviewed for medical accuracy. Individual results vary; your plan is decided in person after a skin assessment. Our review policy
Visit us
The Heal Dermatology Clinic Jamsil
4F, 329 Olympic-ro, Songpa-gu, Seoul, Korea
5 min walk from Jamsil Station (Line 8), Exit 9
Mon & Fri 10:00–20:00
Tue–Thu 10:00–19:30
Sat 09:30–16:00 · Sun & holidays closed
International patients
Visiting Seoul? Get your plan before you fly.
English consultations with a board-certified dermatologist, 5 minutes from Jamsil Station. Treatments are scheduled around your downtime and flights. International patient guide
1
Message us
Concerns, optional photos and travel dates via form or KakaoTalk.
2
Get your plan
Suggested treatments and timing around your flights.
3
Consult & treat
In-person assessment with Dr. Yang in English, then treatment.
Frequently asked
Related questions about Sofwave and Ultherapy
Is Sofwave better than Ultherapy?
Neither is better overall; they target different depths and concerns. Sofwave suits fine lines and skin quality, while Ultherapy is better for deeper lifting of the jawline and brows.
Can I combine Sofwave and Ultherapy?
Yes, in suitable patients. Combining them treats both deeper structure and the mid-dermis. The doctor decides depth, energy and order for your face.
Which is better for the neck?
It depends on whether the issue is crepey skin or deeper laxity. Sofwave often helps skin quality, while Ultherapy targets lifting. Many necks benefit from both.
How long do Sofwave results last?
Results commonly last around a year, depending on age and lifestyle. Maintenance sessions help sustain improvement over time.
Keep exploring
Related treatments & guides
English consultations in Jamsil, Seoul
Match the right ultrasound lift to your skin
Send your photos and travel dates. We reply with a personalised plan before you fly.