Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime Which Is Better for Face Lifting in Gangnam Seoul?
Choosing between Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime is the most common question our international patients ask at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Both deliver non-surgical lifting without incisions, but they use fundamentally different energy technologies targeting different tissue layers. This physician-led comparison breaks down SUPERB ultrasound versus Micro-Focused Ultrasound with Visualization across 8 clinical dimensions so you can make an informed decision before your Seoul visit.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime: Which Is Better?
Ultherapy Prime targets the deep SMAS layer at 4.5mm for structural lifting at ₩490,000 per 100 shots, while Sofwave treats the mid-dermis at 1.5mm for collagen-driven skin tightening at ₩990,000 per 100 shots — RE:BERRY Gangnam offers both devices with physician-only protocols and 70% of patients combine them for full-layer rejuvenation.
The Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime decision depends on your primary concern. Ultherapy Prime uses Micro-Focused Ultrasound with real-time visualization (MFU-V) to deliver precise thermal coagulation points at the SMAS fascia (4.5mm), platysma, and dermis — the same structural layer addressed in surgical facelifts. This makes Ultherapy Prime the superior choice for jawline definition, jowl reduction, and brow lifting. Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology at 1.5mm depth to create a wide thermal zone in the mid-dermis, stimulating intense neocollagenesis for skin texture improvement, fine-line reduction, and mild tightening. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Medical Director Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu evaluates each patient’s skin laxity grade, tissue thickness, and aesthetic goals to recommend the right device — or a combination protocol. The clinic holds official certifications from both Merz Aesthetics (Ultherapy) and Sofwave Medical, with authentic device verification available at every consultation.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime Results at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Individual outcomes may vary.
How Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime Consultation Works at RE:BERRY Gangnam
A physician-guided process to determine the right lifting device for your face.
Skin Laxity Assessment & Tissue Mapping
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu performs a comprehensive evaluation using high-frequency ultrasound imaging and manual palpation to assess SMAS thickness, dermis density, subcutaneous fat distribution, and skin elasticity grade. This determines whether your laxity is superficial (better for Sofwave) or structural (better for Ultherapy Prime). The consultation includes facial proportion analysis and discussion of your aesthetic priorities — whether that is jawline definition, skin texture, or overall tightening.
Device Selection & Protocol Design
Based on assessment results, Dr. Ryu recommends one of three protocols: (1) Ultherapy Prime standalone for structural SMAS lifting, (2) Sofwave standalone for dermal collagen renewal and mild tightening, or (3) the RE:BERRY Signature Lifting combination for comprehensive multi-layer rejuvenation. Shot counts, energy levels, and treatment zones are customized for each patient — no generic protocols. Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime selection at RE:BERRY Gangnam is always evidence-based, never influenced by margin considerations.
Physician-Only Treatment Delivery
All Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime treatments at RE:BERRY Gangnam are performed exclusively by licensed physicians. For Ultherapy Prime, the physician uses real-time ultrasound visualization to identify the SMAS plane and place each thermal coagulation point with sub-millimeter precision. For Sofwave, the physician adjusts energy intensity across 7 treatment zones based on tissue response. Treatment time ranges from 30-60 minutes depending on shot count and device.
Post-Treatment Assessment & Follow-Up Plan
Immediately after treatment, the physician documents baseline photography and discusses expected timeline for results. Ultherapy Prime results emerge over 3-6 months as SMAS collagen contracts and remodels. Sofwave results appear within 4-12 weeks as dermal collagen density increases. A 4-week follow-up appointment is scheduled to assess early response and determine if additional sessions are recommended. RE:BERRY Gangnam provides aftercare instructions in 8 languages for international patients.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime Benefits Comparison
- Deep SMAS Lifting (Ultherapy Prime) Ultherapy Prime reaches the SMAS layer at 4.5mm depth — the same tissue targeted in surgical facelifts. MFU-V creates precise thermal coagulation points that trigger SMAS contraction and neocollagenesis for measurable jawline definition and brow elevation.
- Intense Dermal Collagen Renewal (Sofwave) Sofwave’s SUPERB technology delivers a wide, uniform thermal zone at 1.5mm depth across the entire treatment area. This triggers 2x collagen production versus single-point energy delivery, improving skin texture, elasticity, and fine wrinkles.
- Real-Time Visualization (Ultherapy Prime) Unlike any other lifting device, Ultherapy Prime provides live ultrasound imaging during treatment. The physician can see the exact tissue layer receiving energy, ensuring SMAS-level accuracy impossible with blind-delivery devices.
- Virtually Pain-Free Option (Sofwave) Sofwave’s integrated cooling system (Sofcool) maintains epidermal temperature below 40 degrees C during treatment. Most patients rate comfort at 2-3 on a 10-point scale versus 5-7 for Ultherapy Prime — making Sofwave the preferred choice for pain-sensitive patients.
- Combination Synergy (Both Devices) Treating both the SMAS (Ultherapy Prime) and dermis (Sofwave) creates multi-layer lifting that neither device achieves alone. RE:BERRY Gangnam’s Signature Lifting Package combines both for comprehensive rejuvenation.
- Zero Downtime for Both Neither Sofwave nor Ultherapy Prime requires social downtime. Patients can apply makeup immediately and return to normal activities. Minor redness resolves within 1-2 hours. Safe to fly the same day.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mild warmth and slight tenderness at treatment sites for both devices. Sofwave patients typically feel nothing by evening. Ultherapy Prime patients may notice mild soreness for 24-48 hours. |
| Week 1-2 | Initial tightening sensation as early collagen response begins. Sofwave patients often report smoother skin texture within 7-10 days. Ultherapy Prime patients notice subtle jawline definition. |
| Month 1-2 | Sofwave results becoming visible with improved skin elasticity and fine-line reduction. Ultherapy Prime SMAS contraction phase producing progressive jowl improvement and jawline sharpening. |
| Month 3-4 | Peak Sofwave results achieved — maximum collagen density in the mid-dermis. Ultherapy Prime entering peak structural lifting phase with measurable brow elevation and nasolabial fold improvement. |
| Month 5-6 | Peak Ultherapy Prime results with maximum SMAS remodeling complete. Combined protocol patients see full multi-layer rejuvenation. Results often described as looking 3-5 years younger. |
| Month 12-18 | Results maintained with natural aging progression. Annual maintenance sessions recommended: Sofwave every 6-12 months, Ultherapy Prime every 12-18 months for sustained lifting. |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime: Complete Comparison Table
| Feature | Sofwave | Ultherapy Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | SUPERB (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) | MFU-V (Micro-Focused Ultrasound + Visualization) |
| Target Depth | 1.5mm (mid-dermis) | 1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm (dermis to SMAS) |
| Primary Effect | Collagen renewal + skin tightening | SMAS structural lifting + collagen |
| Best For | Fine lines, texture, mild laxity | Jawline, jowls, brow lift, moderate laxity |
| Pain Level | 2-3/10 (Sofcool integrated) | 5-7/10 (numbing cream recommended) |
| Treatment Time | 25-40 minutes | 45-90 minutes |
| Results Onset | 4-12 weeks | 2-6 months |
| Results Duration | 6-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Downtime | None | None (mild soreness 24-48 hrs) |
| Real-Time Imaging | No | Yes (ultrasound visualization) |
| Price at RE:BERRY Gangnam | ₩990,000 / 100 shots | ₩490,000 / 100 shots |
| FDA/MFDS Cleared | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes |
| Certification | Sofwave Official Certified Clinic | Ultherapy Prime Official Certified Clinic |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime Pricing at RE:BERRY Gangnam
All prices in KRW. Non-covered medical services. Prices valid April-June 2026.
Ultherapy Prime 100 Shots
- Ultherapy Prime MFU-V treatment (100 shots)
- Real-time ultrasound visualization
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care
- Aftercare in 8 languages
Sofwave 100 Shots
- Sofwave SUPERB treatment (100 shots)
- Sofcool integrated cooling
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care
- Aftercare in 8 languages
Reberry Signature Lifting Package
- Ultherapy Prime 530 shots
- Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda lifting 100kJ
- Revinas 12,000 shots
- LDM recovery treatment
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu
- Aftercare in 8 languages
Reberry Premium Lifting Full Package
- Ultherapy Prime 530 shots
- Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda 100kJ
- Revinas 12,000 shots
- Titanium 80kJ
- Aftercare Full Package (Dermio, Velcomed)
- LDM recovery
- Premium Anti-Aging Injection
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- CEO, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Revinas Official KOL (Key Opinion Leader)
- Juvelook Official KOL
- Ultherapy Prime Certified Physician
- License No. 131644
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime
Peer-reviewed evidence comparing SUPERB ultrasound and Micro-Focused Ultrasound technologies for non-surgical face lifting.
Micro-Focused Ultrasound (Ultherapy Prime): SMAS-Level Collagen Remodeling
Ultherapy Prime delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy to create discrete thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at precisely controlled depths — 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm. The 4.5mm transducer uniquely targets the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS), the fibromuscular layer that plastic surgeons manipulate during facelift surgery. Each TCP raises tissue temperature to 60-70 degrees C, denaturing collagen and triggering a wound-healing cascade that produces new type I collagen over 3-6 months. The integrated DeepSEE ultrasound visualization allows physicians to see subcutaneous tissue in real-time, avoiding non-target structures and ensuring SMAS-level energy delivery. A landmark FDA-registered trial demonstrated that Ultherapy Prime produces measurable brow elevation of 1.5-2.0mm at 90 days post-treatment, with improvements sustained at 12 months.
Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (Sofwave): Volumetric Dermal Heating
Sofwave’s SUPERB technology uses seven parallel ultrasound beams to create a broad cylindrical thermal zone at 1.5mm depth in the mid-to-deep dermis. Unlike point-based systems like Ultherapy, Sofwave heats a 3D volume of tissue simultaneously, generating more uniform collagen denaturation across the treatment plane. The integrated Sofcool cooling system maintains epidermal temperature below the damage threshold, making the treatment significantly more comfortable. Clinical studies report a 2x increase in dermal collagen density at 12 weeks post-treatment, with 76% of subjects showing improvement on the Merz Aesthetics Scale for moderate-to-severe wrinkles.
Comparative Clinical Outcomes
The fundamental difference between Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime lies in treatment depth and mechanism. Ultherapy Prime’s multi-depth capability (reaching 4.5mm SMAS) produces structural lifting — repositioning ptotic tissue by contracting the fascial support layer. Sofwave’s fixed 1.5mm depth produces dermal tightening — improving skin quality, elasticity, and surface wrinkles through volumetric collagen renewal. Both are FDA-cleared and MFDS-approved. In clinical practice at RE:BERRY Gangnam, patients with Grade II-III laxity (moderate jowling, noticeable nasolabial folds) typically benefit more from Ultherapy Prime, while patients with Grade I-II laxity (early sagging, fine lines, texture concerns) often prefer Sofwave for its superior comfort and faster visible results.
Suh DH et al. Intense focused ultrasound tightening in Asian patients: clinical and pathologic results. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(11):1595-1602. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02094.x
Brobst RW et al. Noninvasive treatment of the neck using focused ultrasound. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(12):1382-1388. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000000188
Halachmi S et al. Safety and efficacy of a novel ultrasound technology for non-invasive skin tightening and lifting. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(11):2882-2888. doi:10.1111/jocd.13706
Goldan O et al. Early and late effects of the Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam SUPERB technology on collagen structure. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2022;21(7):2957-2963. doi:10.1111/jocd.14613
What Our Patients Say About Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime
“I initially came for Ultherapy only, but Dr. Ryu recommended adding Sofwave after assessing my skin. The combination was exactly right — my jawline got the structural lift from Ultherapy Prime and my overall skin quality improved dramatically from Sofwave. I look naturally refreshed, not “done.” The whole consultation and treatment took about 2 hours.”
“I chose Sofwave because I am very sensitive to pain. The treatment was surprisingly comfortable — maybe a 2 out of 10 at most. After 8 weeks, my friends asked if I had been sleeping better because my skin looks so much firmer and brighter. Very satisfied with the results and the price at RE:BERRY Gangnam.”
“As someone in my late 40s with significant jawline sagging, Ultherapy Prime was clearly the right choice. Dr. Ryu showed me the ultrasound screen during treatment so I could see exactly where the energy was being placed. At month 4, the lifting is remarkable — my nasolabial folds are visibly reduced. Worth the trip to Seoul.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime
Expert answers from RE:BERRY Gangnam’s lifting specialists.
₩990,000 per 100 shots for Sofwave and ₩490,000 per 100 shots for Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Gangnam. The Signature Lifting Package combining both devices (Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots + Onda + Revinas + LDM) is ₩5,990,000. All prices valid April-June 2026.
2-3 on a 10-point scale for Sofwave versus 5-7 for Ultherapy Prime. Sofwave’s integrated Sofcool system maintains epidermal temperature below 40 degrees C, making it significantly more comfortable. Ultherapy Prime’s deeper SMAS penetration (4.5mm) creates more sensation, but topical numbing cream applied for 30-45 minutes before treatment reduces discomfort substantially.
Yes, 70% of lifting patients at RE:BERRY Gangnam receive both devices in a single session. The recommended protocol is Ultherapy Prime first (deeper SMAS layer) followed by Sofwave (mid-dermis). Combined treatment takes 90-120 minutes. This same-day approach is particularly efficient for international visitors with limited time in Seoul.
6-12 months for Sofwave and 12-18 months for Ultherapy Prime. Ultherapy Prime results last longer because SMAS collagen remodeling is more durable than dermal collagen renewal. For sustained results, RE:BERRY Gangnam recommends Sofwave maintenance every 6-12 months and Ultherapy Prime every 12-18 months.
Ultherapy Prime is superior for jawline definition because it reaches the 4.5mm SMAS layer — the structural foundation that supports the lower face. Clinical data shows 1.5-2.0mm measurable brow elevation and proportional jawline improvement at 90 days. Sofwave at 1.5mm depth tightens skin quality but cannot produce the same degree of structural repositioning.
Yes. Sofwave’s wide thermal zone at 1.5mm stimulates 2x collagen production across the entire dermis, making it more effective for fine lines, crepiness, and overall skin quality. 76% of Sofwave patients show measurable wrinkle improvement on the Merz Aesthetics Scale at 12 weeks.
200-300 shots of Sofwave and 300-530 shots of Ultherapy Prime for a comprehensive full-face treatment. RE:BERRY Gangnam’s Signature Lifting Package includes 530 Ultherapy Prime shots + 200 Sofwave shots, which covers forehead, temples, cheeks, jawline, and submental area for complete multi-layer lifting.
Zero social downtime for both devices. Sofwave patients experience no visible side effects — can apply makeup immediately. Ultherapy Prime patients may have mild redness for 1-2 hours and tenderness for 24-48 hours. Both treatments allow same-day return to normal activities, including flying.
Yes, for both devices. There are no altitude-related contraindications after Sofwave or Ultherapy Prime. RE:BERRY Gangnam provides a travel-friendly aftercare kit with soothing cream, SPF protection, and instructions in 8 languages. Many international patients schedule treatment 1-2 days before departure.
Late 20s-30s with early laxity typically benefit more from Sofwave’s collagen renewal. Ages 40-60+ with moderate-to-significant sagging respond better to Ultherapy Prime’s SMAS-level lifting. However, age alone does not determine the best device — skin laxity grade, tissue thickness, and facial anatomy matter more. Dr. Ryu at RE:BERRY Gangnam performs individualized assessment for every patient.
Both devices treat the neck effectively. Ultherapy Prime targets the platysma muscle at 4.5mm for structural neck tightening and is more effective for double chin reduction. Sofwave improves neck skin texture and horizontal lines at 1.5mm depth. For comprehensive neck rejuvenation, RE:BERRY Gangnam often combines Ultherapy Prime with Sofwave for dual-layer treatment.
Both devices are equally safe for Fitzpatrick III-V Asian skin types. Neither creates surface wounds or risks post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sofwave’s 1.5mm depth with Sofcool protection and Ultherapy Prime’s targeted subsurface TCPs both bypass the melanin-containing epidermis entirely.
Sofwave uses SUPERB technology (parallel beams at 1.5mm) while generic HIFU devices use single-point focused ultrasound at varying depths. Sofwave is FDA-cleared with clinical data from controlled trials, while many Korean HIFU devices (Ultraformer, Shurink) have MFDS clearance only. The clinical evidence base for Sofwave vs generic HIFU differs substantially in quality and volume.
Neither device replaces surgery for severe laxity (Grade IV). Ultherapy Prime provides 30-40% of surgical facelift results for moderate laxity without incisions, anesthesia, or downtime. Sofwave addresses skin quality rather than tissue repositioning. For patients not ready for surgery or seeking maintenance between procedures, both devices offer meaningful improvement.
Thermage FLX uses monopolar radiofrequency to tighten all layers simultaneously, while Sofwave (ultrasound, 1.5mm) and Ultherapy Prime (ultrasound, up to 4.5mm) target specific depths. For the full comparison, see our Thermage vs Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave page. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Ryu recommends the device that matches your specific laxity pattern.
1-2 sessions annually for Sofwave and 1 session every 12-18 months for Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Most patients see optimal results from a single treatment of each device. Maintenance frequency depends on age, skin condition, and desired results.
100% authentic devices verified by official manufacturer certifications. RE:BERRY Gangnam holds Sofwave Official Certified Clinic status from Sofwave Medical and Ultherapy Prime Official Certified Clinic status from Merz Aesthetics. Certification plaques are displayed in the clinic, and patients can verify serial numbers during consultation.
3 differentiators: (1) both devices available in one clinic for objective comparison — many clinics carry only one device; (2) all treatments physician-performed, never delegated to nurses or technicians; (3) Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu has 30,000+ treatment experience across all major lifting platforms.
Yes. 40% of RE:BERRY Gangnam lifting patients add Thermage FLX (₩1,990,000 for 600 shots) to their protocol. Thermage monopolar RF provides volumetric tissue heating complementary to the focused ultrasound of Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime. Spacing of 2-4 weeks between devices is recommended.
Sofwave has a dedicated peri-orbital treatment head for under-eye wrinkles and crow’s feet. Ultherapy Prime also treats the periorbital area with its 1.5mm transducer. For comprehensive eye area lifting, RE:BERRY Gangnam often recommends Sofwave for fine lines plus Ultherapy Prime for upper eyelid and brow elevation.
No upper age limit for either device. Patients aged 25 to 75+ receive treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Skin quality response is excellent across all ages, though younger patients (25-35) typically need fewer shots. Patients over 65 may require higher shot counts for equivalent results due to baseline collagen depletion.
4-12 weeks for Sofwave visible results and 2-6 months for Ultherapy Prime peak results. Sofwave’s dermal collagen response is faster because mid-dermis tissue remodels more quickly than SMAS fascia. Ultherapy Prime produces more gradual but more durable structural changes over a longer timeline.
25% of lifting patients at RE:BERRY Gangnam are male. Both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime work identically on male skin, though men typically have thicker dermis requiring slightly higher energy settings. Dr. Ryu adjusts protocols for male facial anatomy, including jawline contouring and neck tightening.
8 languages are supported at RE:BERRY Gangnam: English, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Farsi, and Korean. Dedicated multilingual coordinators assist during consultation, treatment, and aftercare for all Sofwave vs Ultherapy Prime appointments.
₩990,000 vs ₩490,000 per 100 shots reflects the higher consumable costs of Sofwave transducers compared to Ultherapy Prime cartridges in the Korean market. However, Sofwave typically requires fewer total shots for full-face treatment (200-300 vs 300-530), so total treatment costs can be comparable depending on the protocol.
Sofwave 100 shots takes 25-35 minutes — suitable for a lunch-break appointment. Ultherapy Prime 100 shots requires 30-45 minutes including numbing time. Full-face protocols for either device are not realistic during a lunch break but are achievable within a half-day visit to RE:BERRY Gangnam.
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 Prime in Person?
Book a personalized lifting consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh at RE:BERRY Gangnam — 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10. Both devices available for same-day comparison and treatment, 365 days per year.
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- ✓ Gangnam Station area, Seoul
- ✓ No downtime treatments available
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- ✓ Current promotion pricing available