Sofwave vs Ultherapy Which Is Better for Face Lifting in Gangnam Seoul?
Choosing between Sofwave and Ultherapy is the most common lifting dilemma patients face in 2026. RE:BERRY Gangnam is officially certified for both Sofwave and Ultherapy Prime — one of the few clinics in Seoul with dual certification. Medical Director Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu has performed 30,000+ combined lifting sessions and customizes the optimal device based on your skin laxity, collagen density, and treatment goals. Compare Sofwave vs Ultherapy side-by-side with real data from our Gangnam clinic.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Which Lifting Treatment Is Better at RE:BERRY Gangnam?
Sofwave targets mid-dermis at 1.5mm depth for collagen renewal with minimal pain at ₩990,000 per 100 shots, while Ultherapy Prime reaches the 4.5mm SMAS layer for deeper structural lifting at ₩490,000 per 100 shots — both certified at RE:BERRY Gangnam where Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu selects the optimal device after ultrasound skin analysis.
The Sofwave vs Ultherapy debate is not about which device is universally superior — it is about which device matches your specific anatomy. Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology to deliver 3D volumetric heating at 1.5mm depth, stimulating neocollagenesis in the mid-dermis. This makes Sofwave ideal for patients aged 30-45 with early-to-moderate skin laxity who want natural tightening with virtually zero downtime. Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) to target the 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm layers — including the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system), the same tissue layer plastic surgeons manipulate during facelifts. This deeper penetration makes Ultherapy the gold standard for patients over 40 with moderate-to-severe sagging who need structural repositioning. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu uses real-time ultrasound imaging to assess your dermal thickness, collagen density, and fat pad distribution before recommending one device or a combination protocol. Both devices are FDA-cleared and MFDS-approved, and RE:BERRY Gangnam holds official certification from both Sofwave Medical and Merz Aesthetics.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Before and After at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Individual outcomes may vary depending on skin condition and treatment protocol.
How Sofwave vs Ultherapy Consultation Works at RE:BERRY Gangnam
A systematic approach to selecting the right lifting device for your face.
Ultrasound Skin Analysis & Collagen Mapping
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu begins every Sofwave vs Ultherapy consultation with a high-resolution ultrasound skin scan that measures dermal thickness (typically 1.2-2.5mm), collagen fiber density, subcutaneous fat layer depth, and SMAS layer position. This 15-minute analysis determines whether your skin responds better to Sofwave’s mid-dermal heating or Ultherapy’s deep SMAS targeting. Patients with thin dermis (under 1.5mm) often benefit more from Sofwave, while those with thicker tissue and deeper sagging are better candidates for Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
Personalized Device Selection & Protocol Design
Based on the ultrasound data, your Aesthetic Medicine Specialist designs a customized protocol. For Sofwave, this includes shot count (typically 100-200), energy level (0.5-2.0J), and treatment zones. For Ultherapy, it includes transducer selection (DS 4-4.5, DS 7-3.0, DS 10-1.5), shot count (200-530), and depth mapping. Some patients receive a hybrid Sofwave vs Ultherapy protocol where each device treats different facial zones — Sofwave for the forehead and periorbital area where tissue is thinner, and Ultherapy for the lower face and jawline where deeper lifting is needed.
Treatment Session & Real-Time Monitoring
Sofwave sessions take 30-45 minutes for a full face with the Sofwave Intelligent Cooling system maintaining surface temperature below 40°C while delivering 70°C heat at depth. Ultherapy Prime sessions take 60-90 minutes for 530 shots, with DeepSEE visualization confirming precise energy delivery to each tissue layer. Both Sofwave and Ultherapy treatments at RE:BERRY Gangnam are performed exclusively by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh — never delegated to nurses. Pain management includes topical anesthesia and, for Ultherapy, optional oral analgesics.
Post-Treatment Recovery & Follow-Up Protocol
After Sofwave, patients experience mild warmth and tingling for 1-2 hours with no visible redness in 90% of cases — you can apply makeup and return to activities immediately. After Ultherapy Prime, mild swelling and tenderness may persist for 3-5 days, with rare bruising in 5-10% of patients. Both Sofwave vs Ultherapy treatments trigger progressive collagen remodeling over 3-6 months. RE:BERRY Gangnam includes a complimentary LDM therapy session post-treatment to accelerate cellular recovery and reduce inflammation.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Benefits Comparison
- Sofwave: Virtually Painless Treatment Sofwave’s SUPERB technology with integrated SofCool cooling keeps surface temperature comfortable while heating collagen at 1.5mm depth. Pain scores average 2-3/10 compared to Ultherapy’s 5-7/10 without anesthesia.
- Ultherapy: Deepest Non-Surgical Lifting Available Ultherapy Prime is the only FDA-cleared non-invasive device that targets the SMAS layer at 4.5mm depth — the same layer addressed in surgical facelifts — for structural lifting that no other energy device can match.
- Sofwave: Zero Downtime for Busy Schedules 90% of Sofwave patients show no visible redness post-treatment. You can fly home, attend meetings, or resume travel plans the same day — making Sofwave ideal for medical tourists with tight itineraries.
- Ultherapy: Clinically Proven 12-18 Month Longevity Clinical studies show Ultherapy Prime results last 12-18 months with a single session. The deep SMAS collagen remodeling and tissue repositioning creates lasting structural improvement.
- Dual Certification at RE:BERRY Gangnam RE:BERRY Gangnam holds official certification from both Sofwave Medical and Merz Aesthetics (Ultherapy), guaranteeing genuine devices, certified operators, and manufacturer-backed treatment protocols.
- Combination Protocol for Maximum Results Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu’s Signature Lifting Package (₩5,990,000) combines Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots + Onda + Revinas for multi-layer lifting from SMAS to superficial dermis — addressing every depth simultaneously.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Sofwave: Minimal warmth, no visible changes. Ultherapy: Mild swelling and tenderness in treated areas. Both: Avoid intense heat exposure and heavy exercise. |
| Week 1-2 | Initial tightening sensation begins. Sofwave patients report smoother skin texture. Ultherapy patients may notice early jawline definition improvement. Resume normal skincare routine. |
| Month 1-2 | New collagen production accelerates. Early lifting visible — especially in the jowl, nasolabial fold, and brow areas. Skin feels firmer to touch for both Sofwave and Ultherapy patients. |
| Month 3-4 | Peak neocollagenesis phase. Sofwave results become most visible with tighter mid-face contour. Ultherapy structural lifting reaches 60-70% of final result with noticeable jawline repositioning. |
| Month 5-6 | Maximum results achieved for both devices. Before-and-after comparison photographs taken at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Maintenance plan discussed based on individual collagen regeneration rate. |
| Month 12-18 | Sofwave maintenance session recommended at 8-12 months. Ultherapy results plateau at 12-18 months. Annual touch-up session preserves lifting effect and prevents new collagen loss. |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy: Complete Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Sofwave | Ultherapy Prime |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | SUPERB ultrasound (parallel beam) | MFU-V (micro-focused + visualization) |
| Treatment Depth | 1.5mm (mid-dermis) | 1.5mm, 3.0mm, 4.5mm (including SMAS) |
| FDA Clearance | Yes (skin lifting + wrinkle reduction) | Yes (skin lifting — brow, chin, neck, décolletage) |
| Pain Level (1-10) | 2-3/10 (with SofCool) | 5-7/10 (without anesthesia), 3-4/10 (with) |
| Session Duration | 30-45 minutes (full face) | 60-90 minutes (530 shots full face) |
| Downtime | None — immediate return to activities | 1-3 days mild swelling, rare bruising |
| Results Onset | Gradual, peak at 3-4 months | Gradual, peak at 4-6 months |
| Results Duration | 8-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Best For | Ages 30-45, early sagging, maintenance | Ages 40+, moderate-severe sagging, structural lift |
| Price at RE:BERRY Gangnam | ₩990,000 / 100 shots | ₩490,000 / 100 shots |
| Certification | Sofwave Medical Certified | Merz Aesthetics Certified |
Sofwave vs Ultherapy Pricing at RE:BERRY Gangnam 2026
Ultherapy Prime 100 Shots
- 100 lines of micro-focused ultrasound
- DeepSEE real-time visualization
- Topical anesthesia included
- Post-treatment LDM therapy
- Doctor-only treatment
Sofwave 100 Shots
- 100 shots SUPERB ultrasound
- SofCool integrated cooling
- No anesthesia required
- Zero downtime guarantee
- Doctor-only treatment
Reberry Signature Lifting Package
- Ultherapy 530 shots
- Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda lifting 100kJ
- Revinas 12,000 shots
- LDM aftercare included
Reberry Premium Lifting Full Package
- Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda 100kJ + Titanium 80kJ
- Revinas 12,000 shots
- Premium Anti-Aging Injection
- Full aftercare (Dermio + Velcomed + LDM)
Your Sofwave vs Ultherapy Specialist at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- Current Medical Director, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Sofwave Medical Official Certified Operator
- Ultherapy Prime (Merz Aesthetics) Official Certified Operator
- Revinas KOL & Juvelook KOL
- Regular Member, Korean Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
- Member, Korean Society for Stem Cell Research
- Former Associate Director, Pangpang Clinic Sinsa Branch
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
Clinical Evidence: Sofwave vs Ultherapy Scientific Research
Understanding the Science Behind Sofwave vs Ultherapy Lifting
Both Sofwave and Ultherapy rely on ultrasound energy to induce thermal coagulation points (TCPs) in the dermis and subdermis, triggering a wound-healing cascade that produces new type I and type III collagen fibers. However, their mechanisms differ fundamentally in depth, energy delivery pattern, and tissue interaction.
Sofwave’s SUPERB technology creates a 3D cylindrical heating zone at 1.5mm depth, producing a broad area of neocollagenesis across the entire treatment plane. This parallel beam approach ensures uniform dermal remodeling without skipping zones between focal points. Clinical trials demonstrate a significant improvement in skin laxity grading on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale, with 88% of patients showing measurable lifting at 12 weeks post-treatment.
Ultherapy Prime’s MFU-V technology creates discrete thermal coagulation points at three depths — 1.5mm (dermis), 3.0mm (deep dermis/subcutis), and 4.5mm (SMAS layer). The SMAS targeting is unique among non-invasive devices: by heating the muscular fascia to 60-70°C, Ultherapy induces contraction and subsequent fibrotic tightening of the same anatomical layer that surgeons manipulate during a non-surgical facelift. This multi-depth approach explains Ultherapy’s superior performance in patients with moderate-to-severe laxity.
At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu frequently combines both modalities in a single session for patients who require both superficial textural improvement and deep structural lifting. The Sofwave vs Ultherapy combination protocol treats all tissue layers from 1.5mm to 4.5mm, achieving synergistic results that neither device delivers alone. This approach is supported by growing evidence for multi-modal energy-based device protocols in aesthetic medicine, and is particularly effective when combined with Revinas for enhanced collagen stimulation.
Brobst RW et al. Noninvasive Treatment of the Neck. Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2014;22(2):191-202. doi:10.1016/j.fsc.2014.01.003
Fabi SG. Noninvasive skin tightening: focus on new ultrasound techniques. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2015;8:47-52. doi:10.2147/CCID.S69118
Suh DH et al. Intense Focused Ultrasound Tightening in Asian Skin: Clinical and Pathologic Results. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(11):1595-1602. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02094.x
Goldie K et al. Sofwave for Non-invasive Skin Tightening and Lifting: Safety and Efficacy in a Prospective Multi-center Study. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023;22(3):919-925. doi:10.1111/jocd.15568
What Patients Say About Sofwave vs Ultherapy at RE:BERRY Gangnam
“I was torn between Sofwave and Ultherapy, but Dr. Ryu did an ultrasound scan and recommended Sofwave for my thin skin. The treatment was completely painless and I went shopping in Gangnam right after. My jawline looked noticeably tighter within 6 weeks.”
“At 52, I needed deeper lifting than Sofwave could provide. Dr. Ryu performed Ultherapy Prime 530 shots on my lower face and neck. The results at 4 months are remarkable — my jowls have visibly lifted and the neck bands are much smoother.”
“I got the Signature Lifting Package with both Sofwave and Ultherapy at RE:BERRY Gangnam. It was a full-day treatment but the combined result is better than anything I have tried in 15 years of aesthetic treatments. The multi-layer approach really works.”
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Sofwave vs Ultherapy FAQ at RE:BERRY Gangnam
100% physician-performed at RE:BERRY Gangnam — Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu (License 131644, CEO/Medical Director) has completed 30,000+ lifting procedures across all major platforms. Both Sofwave and Ultherapy treatments are performed directly by Dr. Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh (License 144238). Treatment is never delegated to nurses, technicians, or trainees.
100% same-physician continuity from consultation through treatment and follow-up at RE:BERRY Gangnam. 39.7% of Western medical tourists rank physician continuity as their top concern (KHIDI 2025). RE:BERRY’s boutique model limits to 3-4 patients per doctor daily, guaranteeing uninterrupted physician attention throughout your 30-120 minute lifting session.
6 manufacturer certifications at RE:BERRY Gangnam — dual-certified for both Sofwave (Sofwave Medical, Israel) and Ultherapy Prime (Merz Aesthetics), plus Thermage FLX (Solta Medical), Onda (DEKA), Revinas, and Soprano Titanium. Most clinics carry only 1-2 devices, limiting their ability to prescribe objectively. Dr. Ryu selects based on ultrasound skin analysis data.
₩990,000 per 100 shots for Sofwave and ₩490,000 per 100 shots for Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
| Treatment | RE:BERRY Price | US Average | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sofwave 100 shots | ₩990,000 (~$710) | $2,500-4,000 | 72-82% |
| Ultherapy Prime 100 shots | ₩490,000 (~$350) | $1,500-3,000 | 77-88% |
| Signature Lifting Package | ₩5,990,000 | Not available | Multi-device exclusive |
₩1,980,000 for full-face Sofwave (200 shots) vs ₩2,597,000 for full-face Ultherapy (530 shots) at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
| Full-Face Protocol | Shots Needed | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sofwave | 200-300 | ₩1,980,000-2,970,000 |
| Ultherapy Prime | 300-530 | ₩1,470,000-2,597,000 |
| Signature Lifting | 530 Ultherapy + 200 Sofwave + Onda + Revinas | ₩5,990,000 |
47-88% savings at RE:BERRY Gangnam compared to equivalent lifting treatments in the US, Japan, and Singapore.
| Country | Sofwave 100 Shots | Ultherapy 100 Shots |
|---|---|---|
| RE:BERRY Gangnam | ₩990,000 (~$710) | ₩490,000 (~$350) |
| Japan (Tokyo) | ¥200,000 (~$1,350) | ¥100,000 (~$675) |
| Singapore | SGD 2,500 (~$1,850) | SGD 1,200 (~$890) |
| USA | $2,500-4,000 | $1,500-3,000 |
30-40% stronger structural lift with Ultherapy reaching the 4.5mm SMAS layer vs superior skin quality improvement with Sofwave at 1.5mm mid-dermis at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
| Feature | Sofwave SUPERB | Ultherapy MFU-V |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | 1.5mm mid-dermis | 1.5-4.5mm SMAS |
| Structural lift | Mild-moderate | Moderate-significant |
| Pain (1-10) | 2-3 (Sofcool) | 5-7 (numbing cream) |
| Results last | 8-12 months | 12-18 months |
| Best candidate | Ages 30-45, mild laxity | Ages 40-65, moderate+ |
3 tissue depths addressed with triple-device protocol at RE:BERRY Gangnam — Thermage FLX (₩1,990,000) adds volumetric RF tightening.
| Device | Technology | Depth | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sofwave | SUPERB ultrasound | 1.5mm | ₩990,000 |
| Thermage FLX 600 | Monopolar RF | Full dermis | ₩1,990,000 |
| Ultherapy Prime | MFU-V | 4.5mm SMAS | ₩490,000/100 |
30-40% of surgical facelift results achievable with Ultherapy Prime, and meaningful skin quality improvement with Sofwave — without incisions or downtime at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
| Factor | Sofwave + Ultherapy | Surgical Facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Lift intensity | 30-40% of surgical | 100% |
| Downtime | Zero | 2-4 weeks |
| Anesthesia | None (topical only) | General |
| Scarring risk | Zero | Visible incisions |
| Cost | ₩1,480,000 | ₩5,000,000-15,000,000 |
3-4 patients per doctor daily at RE:BERRY Gangnam versus 20-30+ at high-volume chains — the key difference for objective device selection.
| Feature | RE:BERRY (Boutique) | Large Chain Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Both Sofwave + Ultherapy | Yes (dual certified) | Usually 1 device |
| Same surgeon throughout | 100% | ~40% |
| Consultation time | 60-90 min | 20-30 min |
| Unbiased recommendation | Yes (data-driven) | Limited by inventory |
₩990,000 and ₩490,000 published pricing at RE:BERRY Gangnam with zero hidden fees — unlike many clinics that require consultation before revealing costs.
| Feature | RE:BERRY (Boutique) | Large Chain Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Price published online | Yes (all treatments) | “Contact us” |
| Consultation fee | Free | ₩30,000-100,000 |
| Language support | 8 dedicated languages | Basic English |
| Custom aftercare | Yes, per patient | Standard protocol |
95% of Sofwave patients and 85% of Ultherapy patients fly the same day from RE:BERRY Gangnam with no restrictions. Sofwave produces zero visible effects — immediate makeup and travel. Ultherapy may cause mild redness for 1-2 hours; 30% experience tenderness for 24-48 hours. No altitude or cabin pressure contraindications exist for either device.
2-3 pain rating for Sofwave and 5-7 for Ultherapy on a 10-point scale at RE:BERRY Gangnam — both with zero social downtime. Sofwave: no visible redness in 85% of patients. Ultherapy: mild swelling 2-3 days, rare bruising in 5-10%. Zero burns, scarring, or permanent adverse effects with either FDA-cleared device when operated by certified physicians.
2-3 days for the combination protocol at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Day 1: free consultation + dual treatment (90-120 min). Day 2: optional complementary treatment like Rejuran skin booster (₩240,000/2cc) or Sofwave standalone maintenance. Day 3: departure. RE:BERRY is open 365 days, 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
3-month remote follow-up included free at RE:BERRY Gangnam — progress photos reviewed by Dr. Ryu via WhatsApp or LINE at 4-week, 8-week, and 12-week intervals. Sofwave collagen results develop over 1-6 months; Ultherapy structural changes mature over 2-6 months. 80% of international lifting patients return for annual maintenance sessions.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Find Out Whether Sofwave or Ultherapy Is Right for You at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Book a complimentary ultrasound skin analysis with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu to determine whether Sofwave, Ultherapy Prime, or a dual-device protocol delivers the best lifting result for your unique facial anatomy. RE:BERRY Gangnam is open 365 days, supports 8 languages, and is 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10.
Book Your Sofwave vs Ultherapy Consultation
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- ✓ Free consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ Gangnam Station area, Seoul
- ✓ No downtime treatments available
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- ✓ Current promotion pricing available