Sofwave uses the latest advancements in ultrasound technology to rejuvenate the skin – lifting and tightening areas like the face and neck, softening fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin quality by boosting collagen and elastin. Additionally, Sofwave is a non-surgical option to lift the brows, tighten the jowls and jawline, and to help address neck laxity. It can also be used to tighten other areas on the body including laxity of the thighs, arms, abdomen, and knees.

Sofwave technology uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology, or SUPERB, to allow the ultrasound energy to penetrate into the mid-dermal tissue at precisely 1.5mm. This innovative technology means that the bulk heating is localized to specifically stimulate collagen regeneration and production where it matters most without harming any other surrounding tissues, specifically the epidermis and muscle and bone tissue deeper within the body. This allows the Sofwave energy device to treat ALL skin types without downtime.

The ultrasound energy heats the dermis and triggers your body’s healing response, a process called neo-collagenases, which tells your body to regenerate and produce collagen. Collagen is an essential protein for skin elasticity and that signature youthful look of young, healthy skin. This production of collagen is what reduces the fine lines and wrinkles and the sagging skin associated with aging.

There is no downtime for these procedures and patients can resume regular activities immediately. There is a fractional pulsated heating sensation during treatment pulses, but Sofwave Ultrasound technology is integrated with cooling and is much more tolerable than other treatments such as Ulthera. At The Derm Institute, patients are numbed with a compounded topical numbing cream and also have the option to use PRO-NOX for increased comfort.

Yes! Sofwave is FDA-cleared and is safe for all skin types. Sofwave uses an integrated cooling system called Sofcool™ to protect the outermost layer of the skin while allowing the ultrasound waves to reach the precise depth in the dermis that is required for effective treatment.  

According to the Sofwave website, there were no adverse events related to the device reported during the clinical study.

Because of the internal cooling mechanism designed to protect the outer layers of skin, Sofwave is safe on all skin types, so anyone who is experiencing mild to moderate signs of aging and has noticeable drooping, fine lines and wrinkles is a candidate. Generally, candidates are in their mid- to late 30s to 50s. The lack of downtime, minimal time commitment for the procedure, and non-invasive nature make this treatment accessible to virtually anyone who wants to renew their appearance.

Clinical studies show optimal results to treat mild to moderate laxity with our ultrasound parallel beam technology can often be achieved with a single session. Maintenance is recommended approximately once a year.

Most patients can see the initial results from Sofwave treatments within a few weeks, and should notice significant improvement after roughly 12 weeks as new collagen forms and tightens the skin. Patients can get noticeable results after just a single treatment, but a second treatment is recommended for optimization as the new collagen induced in the first session will be even more responsive to additional treatment.

A single Sofwave treatment requires about 45 minutes to an hour of numbing, with the treatment itself to be about 30-45 minutes depending on the areas treated. There is no downtime, so you can immediately return to your regular schedule!

Dr. Chiu often combines Sofwave tightening treatments with other procedures such as injection of biostimulatory fillers such as Radiesse or Sculptra or minimally invasive threadlifts to further maximize results. Dr. Chiu is a nationally recognized expert and speaker in combination treatments to tighten and lift the skin for both the face and body. We will tailor and customize the best treatment plan for you, based on your skin type, age, and your cosmetic goals.