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.”
Sofwave vs Ultherapy FAQ at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Sofwave costs ₩990,000 per 100 shots and Ultherapy Prime costs ₩490,000 per 100 shots at RE:BERRY Gangnam. A full-face Ultherapy treatment of 530 shots typically costs ₩2,597,000, while a full-face Sofwave of 200 shots costs ₩1,980,000. The Signature Lifting Package combining both is ₩5,990,000.
Per 100 shots, Ultherapy Prime at ₩490,000 is actually more affordable than Sofwave at ₩990,000 at RE:BERRY Gangnam. However, Sofwave requires fewer total shots for similar coverage areas, so overall session costs can be comparable depending on your treatment plan.
Sofwave averages 2-3 out of 10 on the pain scale thanks to integrated SofCool cooling, while Ultherapy rates 5-7 out of 10 without anesthesia. With topical numbing cream applied 30 minutes before treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam, Ultherapy pain drops to 3-4 out of 10. Most patients tolerate both comfortably.
Ultherapy Prime provides 30-40% stronger structural lifting because it reaches the SMAS layer at 4.5mm depth, while Sofwave targets the mid-dermis at 1.5mm for collagen tightening. For moderate-to-severe sagging, Ultherapy is clinically superior. For mild laxity with skin texture concerns, Sofwave delivers excellent results with zero downtime.
Yes, 40% of RE:BERRY Gangnam lifting patients receive both devices in a single session. The Signature Lifting Package (₩5,990,000) combines Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots + Onda + Revinas for multi-layer lifting from the SMAS to superficial dermis.
Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB) technology to heat a cylindrical zone at 1.5mm depth across the entire treatment area. Ultherapy uses micro-focused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) to create discrete thermal coagulation points at 3 depths: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm including the SMAS fascia layer.
Sofwave results last 8-12 months on average before a maintenance session is recommended. Ultherapy Prime results last 12-18 months due to the deeper SMAS-layer collagen remodeling. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, annual touch-up sessions maintain optimal lifting for both devices.
After Sofwave, 95% of patients have zero visible effects and can fly immediately the same day. After Ultherapy Prime, mild swelling may last 2-3 days, so we recommend waiting 24-48 hours before flying. RE:BERRY Gangnam coordinates treatment timing with your departure schedule.
For Sofwave alone, 1-2 days is sufficient since there is zero downtime and the session takes only 30-45 minutes. For Ultherapy Prime, plan 2-3 days in Seoul to allow mild swelling to subside. For the combination protocol, 3-4 days gives optimal recovery time before traveling.
Ultherapy Prime is significantly better for jowl lifting because it reaches the 4.5mm SMAS layer where structural support for the lower face originates. Sofwave treats only the 1.5mm dermis, which improves skin texture but cannot reposition sagging jowl tissue. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu recommends Ultherapy Prime as the first-line treatment for jowl concerns.
Sofwave is often preferred for forehead treatment because the forehead has thinner tissue (1.0-1.5mm dermis), making Sofwave’s 1.5mm depth ideal. Ultherapy’s deeper transducers may not be necessary in this area. However, for forehead skin laxity with brow drooping, Ultherapy’s 3.0mm transducer effectively lifts the brow position.
RE:BERRY Gangnam is officially certified by both Sofwave Medical (Israel) and Merz Aesthetics (Ultherapy). Certification plaques are displayed in the clinic, and patients can verify serial numbers. All consumable tips are manufacturer-supplied originals with lot tracking.
Sofwave is optimal for patients aged 30-45 with early-to-moderate skin laxity who want preventive lifting and collagen renewal. Ultherapy Prime is best for patients aged 40-65 with moderate-to-severe sagging who need structural SMAS-layer repositioning. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu personalizes the recommendation after ultrasound skin analysis.
Most patients achieve their desired result with 1 session of Ultherapy Prime (530 shots for full face) or 1-2 sessions of Sofwave (200 shots each). Severe laxity may benefit from a second Ultherapy session at 12 months. Sofwave maintenance every 8-12 months preserves results long-term.
Thermage FLX uses radiofrequency (not ultrasound) for volumetric skin tightening. Sofwave treats mid-dermis with ultrasound. Ultherapy reaches the deepest SMAS layer. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Ryu often combines Ultherapy (deep lifting) with Thermage (volumetric tightening) for patients who need both structural lift and skin density improvement.
Sofwave is FDA-cleared for neck wrinkle reduction and shows 70-80% improvement in horizontal neck lines after 1 session. For vertical neck bands (platysmal bands), Ultherapy Prime’s 4.5mm depth is more effective at tightening the platysma muscle. RE:BERRY Gangnam often uses Sofwave for neck texture combined with Ultherapy for structural neck lifting.
Sofwave side effects are minimal: 85% of patients report zero visible redness, with temporary warmth lasting 1-2 hours. Ultherapy may cause mild swelling (2-3 days), tenderness, and rarely bruising (5-10% of patients). Neither device causes burns, scarring, or permanent side effects when performed by certified operators at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
Both Sofwave and Ultherapy are safe for all Fitzpatrick skin types (I-VI) including Asian skin. Unlike laser treatments, ultrasound-based devices bypass melanin entirely, eliminating the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Both devices have extensive clinical data in Korean and Japanese patient populations.
Yes, 65% of lifting patients at RE:BERRY Gangnam add skin boosters like Rejuran (₩240,000/2cc) or Juvelook (₩340,000/4cc) in the same session. Skin boosters enhance hydration and micro-texture while Sofwave or Ultherapy addresses structural lifting, creating a comprehensive rejuvenation result.
RE:BERRY Gangnam is open 365 days including holidays from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Walk-in consultations are available, but for Sofwave or Ultherapy sessions, advance booking is recommended to ensure device availability and adequate treatment time. Book via WhatsApp, LINE, KakaoTalk, or WeChat.
RE:BERRY Gangnam provides full consultation and aftercare in 8 languages including English, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin), Thai, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Farsi, and Korean. All treatment explanations, consent forms, and post-care instructions are available in your preferred language.
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu uses high-resolution ultrasound scanning to measure your dermal thickness, collagen density, fat pad depth, and SMAS layer position. Patients with thin dermis and mild laxity are recommended Sofwave. Patients with thicker tissue, deeper fat pads, and moderate-severe sagging are recommended Ultherapy Prime.
RE:BERRY Gangnam is one of the few clinics in Seoul holding dual official certification from both Sofwave Medical and Merz Aesthetics. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu has performed over 30,000 lifting treatments and offers unbiased device selection based on ultrasound data, not brand partnerships.
For periorbital lifting, Eye Oligio (200-400 shots) is the most precise option. However, Ultherapy’s 1.5mm DS 10 transducer can treat the brow and upper periorbital zone. Sofwave’s larger treatment head makes precise under-eye work more challenging. RE:BERRY Gangnam offers specialized eye lifting protocols.
The Reberry Signature Lifting Package costs ₩5,990,000 and includes Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots + Onda lifting 100kJ + Revinas 12,000 shots + LDM aftercare. This multi-device protocol addresses all tissue depths from 1.5mm to 4.5mm for comprehensive face lifting.
Choosing the wrong device wastes ₩500,000-₩2,000,000 and 3-6 months waiting for suboptimal results. A proper Sofwave vs Ultherapy comparison at RE:BERRY Gangnam ensures you invest in the device that matches your anatomy, laxity grade, pain tolerance, and recovery timeline.
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.
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