Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Complete Comparison at RE:BERRY Gangnam Seoul
Choosing between Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, and Sofwave is the most common decision facing patients seeking non-surgical skin tightening in Seoul. RE:BERRY Gangnam is one of the few clinics certified for all three devices, allowing Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu to recommend the optimal treatment based on your skin condition, age, and goals rather than device availability. Compare Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave on energy type, depth, downtime, price, and clinical results — all under one roof at Gangnam Station.
Which Is Better: Thermage, Ultherapy, or Sofwave?
Thermage FLX (₩1,990,000 for 600 shots) tightens skin using radiofrequency at 2-4mm depth, Ultherapy Prime (₩490,000 per 100 shots) lifts the SMAS layer at 1.5-4.5mm using focused ultrasound, and Sofwave (₩990,000 per 100 shots) targets mid-dermis at 1.5mm — at RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu selects or combines all three based on your skin laxity, age, and treatment goals.
The Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave debate is not about which device is universally superior — each excels at a different depth and mechanism. Thermage FLX delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy that heats the full dermis (2-4mm), triggering volumetric collagen contraction for overall skin tightening. It is the gold standard for patients in their late 30s to 50s with mild-to-moderate laxity across the full face. Ultherapy Prime is the only FDA-cleared device that reaches the SMAS fascial layer at 4.5mm — the same layer surgeons target in surgical facelifts — making it the strongest choice for jawline lifting and submental tightening. Sofwave uses proprietary SUPERB (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology at 1.5mm depth, ideal for fine lines and early laxity with virtually zero downtime. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, 60% of patients over age 45 receive a combination protocol — typically Ultherapy Prime for deep lifting plus Thermage FLX or Sofwave for surface tightening — because no single device addresses all layers simultaneously.
Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Before and After
Actual patient results from RE:BERRY Gangnam. Individual outcomes may vary.
How Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Treatment Works
A physician-guided protocol to determine and deliver the ideal lifting device for your skin.
Comprehensive Skin Laxity Assessment
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu evaluates your skin using high-frequency ultrasound imaging to measure dermal thickness, SMAS depth, and subcutaneous fat distribution. This 20-minute consultation determines whether Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave — or a combination — will deliver optimal results. Your Fitzpatrick skin type, bone structure, and lifestyle (sun exposure, smoking) are all factored into the protocol design. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, 40% of consultations result in combination protocols rather than single-device treatments.
Thermage FLX: Radiofrequency Skin Tightening
Thermage FLX uses a 3.0cm2 treatment tip to deliver monopolar RF energy at controlled temperatures (60-70 degrees C) across the full dermis. The 600-shot protocol covers the entire face and submentum in approximately 45 minutes. AccuREP technology automatically calibrates energy delivery based on tissue impedance, ensuring uniform heating. Patients feel alternating hot and cool sensations with vibration — most rate discomfort at 3-4/10 without anesthesia. Collagen contraction begins immediately, with peak results at 3-6 months. Thermage FLX is priced at ₩1,990,000 for 600 shots at RE:BERRY Gangnam.
Ultherapy Prime: Focused Ultrasound SMAS Lifting
Ultherapy Prime delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy (MFU-V) at three precise depths: 1.5mm, 3.0mm, and 4.5mm (SMAS layer). Each pulse creates a thermal coagulation point (TCP) at 60-70 degrees C, triggering neocollagenesis and tissue contraction at the deepest non-surgical level possible. The DeepSEE visualization system allows Dr. Ryu to see tissue layers in real-time before firing. Full-face Ultherapy Prime with 300-530 shots takes 60-90 minutes. Priced at ₩490,000 per 100 shots, custom protocols are designed based on treatment area and laxity severity.
Sofwave: SUPERB Mid-Dermal Remodeling
Sofwave uses 7 parallel ultrasound beams at 1.5mm depth to create a continuous zone of thermal effect in the mid-dermis. The integrated Sofcool cooling system protects the epidermis while heating the target zone to 60-70 degrees C. Treatment takes 25-30 minutes for full face with virtually no downtime — patients describe it as the most comfortable of the three devices. At ₩990,000 per 100 shots, Sofwave is ideal for patients in their early 30s to mid-40s with early laxity, fine lines, or those wanting to maintain results between annual Thermage or Ultherapy sessions.
What to Expect from Each Lifting Device
- Multi-Layer Collagen Stimulation Combining Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave addresses all collagen layers: Sofwave at 1.5mm (mid-dermis), Thermage at 2-4mm (full dermis), and Ultherapy at 4.5mm (SMAS). This 3-layer approach produces 40-60% superior lifting versus any single device alone.
- No Surgery, No Scars, No General Anesthesia All three devices are non-invasive with no incisions, sutures, or general anesthesia required. Treatments are performed in the clinic with patients returning to normal activities immediately (Sofwave) or within 24-48 hours (Thermage, Ultherapy).
- Results That Build Over 3-6 Months Unlike surgical facelifts with immediate but swelling-masked results, energy-based lifting triggers progressive neocollagenesis. Patients see gradual improvement from week 2, with peak results at 3-6 months as new collagen fibers mature and contract.
- Long-Lasting 12-24 Month Effects Clinical studies show Ultherapy results lasting 18-24 months, Thermage FLX 12-18 months, and Sofwave 12-15 months. Annual maintenance sessions at RE:BERRY Gangnam extend results indefinitely.
- Safe for All Skin Types Including Asian Skin All three devices (Thermage, Ultherapy, Sofwave) bypass the epidermis entirely, making them safe for Fitzpatrick I-VI skin types with zero risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — a critical advantage for Asian patients.
- Physician-Customized Combination Protocols At RE:BERRY Gangnam, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu designs custom Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave combination protocols. The Signature Lifting Package (₩5,990,000) combines Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots + Onda + Revinas for maximum multi-layer results.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Mild redness and warmth for Thermage/Ultherapy (resolves 2-4 hours). Sofwave patients report virtually no visible changes. All devices: immediate tightness sensation from initial collagen contraction. |
| Week 1-2 | Subtle firmness improvement noticeable. Mild tingling or tenderness in treated areas (Ultherapy). No visible bruising or peeling from any device. Resume all activities including exercise. |
| Month 1-2 | Early collagen remodeling visible. Jawline definition improves. Fine lines around eyes and mouth begin softening. Skin texture improvement noticeable under good lighting. |
| Month 3-4 | Peak improvement phase. Measurable tissue lifting on clinical assessment. Nasolabial folds reduce. Jowl laxity visibly improved. Most dramatic changes noticed by friends and family. |
| Month 6-12 | Maximum collagen maturation achieved. Results stabilize at their best level. Consider maintenance session with Sofwave or partial Thermage to sustain results. |
| Month 12-24 | Gradual natural aging resumes but from a higher baseline. Annual repeat session recommended. Combination patients maintain superior results throughout the full cycle. |
Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Side-by-Side
| Feature | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy Prime | Sofwave |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Type | Monopolar RF | Micro-Focused Ultrasound | SUPERB Ultrasound |
| Treatment Depth | 2-4mm (full dermis) | 1.5-4.5mm (SMAS layer) | 1.5mm (mid-dermis) |
| Primary Effect | Skin tightening | Deep tissue lifting | Fine line reduction |
| Best Age Range | Late 30s-50s | 40s-60s | Early 30s-mid 40s |
| Treatment Time | 45 min (600 shots) | 60-90 min (300-530 shots) | 25-30 min (100-200 shots) |
| Pain Level (1-10) | 3-4 (with vibration) | 5-7 (with numbing) | 1-2 (most comfortable) |
| Downtime | Mild redness 2-4 hrs | Mild swelling 24-48 hrs | None to minimal |
| Results Onset | 2-4 weeks | 2-4 weeks | 1-2 weeks |
| Peak Results | 3-6 months | 3-6 months | 3 months |
| Duration of Results | 12-18 months | 18-24 months | 12-15 months |
| FDA/MFDS Cleared | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes | Yes / Yes |
| Price at RE:BERRY | ₩1,990,000 / 600 shots | ₩490,000 / 100 shots | ₩990,000 / 100 shots |
Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Pricing at RE:BERRY Gangnam
All prices valid April-June 2026. Non-covered medical service.
Thermage FLX 600 Shots
- 600 shots full-face coverage
- AccuREP auto-calibration technology
- Solta Medical certified tips (authenticity guaranteed)
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care + LDM
Reberry Signature Lifting Package
- Ultherapy Prime 530 shots (full face + neck)
- Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda Lifting 100kJ
- Revinas 12,000 shots
- LDM recovery treatment
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
Ultherapy Prime 100 Shots
- 100 shots targeted treatment
- DeepSEE real-time visualization
- Merz Aesthetics certified clinic
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care
Sofwave 100 Shots
- 100 shots with SUPERB technology
- Sofcool epidermal cooling
- Sofwave Medical certified clinic
- Free consultation with Dr. Ryu or Dr. Oh
- Post-treatment soothing care
Reberry Premium Lifting Full Package
- Ultherapy 530 shots + Sofwave 200 shots
- Onda 100kJ + Revinas 12,000 shots
- Titanium 80kJ
- Aftercare Full Package (Dermio, Velcomed)
- LDM + Premium Anti-Aging Injection
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu
- CEO, RE:BERRY Clinic Gangnam
- Medical Director, Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Revinas Official KOL (Key Opinion Leader)
- Ultherapy Prime Certified Physician
- License No. 131644
Medically reviewed by Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu, CEO / Medical Director, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave
Peer-reviewed clinical evidence comparing radiofrequency and ultrasound-based skin lifting technologies.
Monopolar Radiofrequency: Thermage FLX Mechanism
Thermage FLX delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy through a 3.0cm2 capacitively-coupled electrode. The alternating electric field generates volumetric heating throughout the full dermis (2-4mm), raising tissue temperature to 60-70 degrees C. This thermal threshold triggers immediate collagen fiber contraction (denaturation of triple-helix structure) and subsequent neocollagenesis through fibroblast activation and upregulation of heat shock proteins HSP47 and HSP70. A prospective study of 58 patients demonstrated statistically significant improvement in jowl laxity, nasolabial folds, and periorbital rhytides at 6 months post-treatment, with 87% patient satisfaction. The fourth-generation FLX platform’s AccuREP technology performs 60 impedance measurements per second, automatically optimizing energy delivery to maintain therapeutic temperatures while minimizing pain — a critical advancement over earlier Thermage generations that makes the Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave comparison more nuanced than ever.
Micro-Focused Ultrasound: Ultherapy Prime SMAS Targeting
Ultherapy Prime generates micro-focused ultrasound energy that converges at discrete focal points, creating thermal coagulation points (TCPs) of approximately 1mm3 at 60-70 degrees C. The unique capability of Ultherapy Prime is reaching the superficial muscular aponeurotic system (SMAS) at 4.5mm depth — the same anatomical layer addressed in surgical rhytidectomy. By creating controlled thermal injury at the SMAS level, Ultherapy triggers neo-collagen and neo-elastin synthesis within the fascial plane, producing tissue lifting rather than surface tightening alone. A multicenter randomized controlled trial of 93 patients showed a mean brow lift of 1.7mm at 90 days with improvement maintained at 365 days, confirming the durability of ultrasound-mediated SMAS contraction.
SUPERB Technology: Sofwave Parallel Beam Architecture
Sofwave’s SUPERB (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology differentiates itself from Ultherapy by using 7 parallel ultrasound beams to create a continuous heating zone at 1.5mm depth, rather than discrete thermal coagulation points. This mid-dermal targeting produces uniform collagen remodeling across a broader treatment plane. The integrated Sofcool system maintains epidermal temperature below 42 degrees C during treatment, virtually eliminating pain and downtime. A 73-patient clinical study reported significant wrinkle reduction on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Severity Scale at 12 weeks, with 72% of subjects showing improvement and no adverse events. When comparing Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave, Sofwave occupies a unique position as the most comfortable treatment with the shallowest effective depth.
Combination Protocols: Multi-Depth Energy Delivery
Emerging evidence supports multi-device combination protocols for superior outcomes in the Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave paradigm. A retrospective analysis of 120 patients receiving sequential Ultherapy + Thermage FLX showed 40-60% greater improvement on the Allergan Skin Quality Assessment Scale compared to either device alone. The rationale is anatomically sound: Ultherapy addresses SMAS lifting (4.5mm), Thermage targets full dermal tightening (2-4mm), and Sofwave provides mid-dermal remodeling (1.5mm) — collectively treating three distinct collagen-bearing layers. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, the Signature Lifting Package combines these modalities with Onda microwave lipolysis and Revinas radiofrequency for a comprehensive 5-device protocol.
Alam M et al. Ultrasound tightening of facial and neck skin: a rater-blinded prospective cohort study. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2010;62(2):262-269. doi:10.1016/j.jaad.2009.06.039
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
Brobst RW et al. Noninvasive treatment of the neck. Facial Plast Surg. 2014;30(1):6-13. doi:10.1055/s-0034-1371903
Goldie K et al. Sofwave evaluation of a novel SUPERB ultrasound technology for non-invasive facial tissue lifting and tightening. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2023;22(3):879-885. doi:10.1111/jocd.15588
What Our Patients Say About Lifting Treatments
“I came to RE:BERRY Gangnam specifically because they have all three devices. Dr. Ryu recommended Ultherapy for my jawline and Sofwave for my forehead. After 3 months, my friends in Tokyo asked if I had surgery. The combination approach was worth every won.”
“At 52, I was considering a surgical facelift. Dr. Ryu suggested trying the Signature Lifting Package first. The Thermage + Ultherapy combination gave me results I honestly did not think were possible without surgery. My neck looks 10 years younger.”
“I chose Sofwave because I could not afford any downtime during my Seoul trip. The treatment took 25 minutes, zero pain, and I went straight to Myeongdong shopping afterwards. Already seeing improvement at 6 weeks. Will come back for Ultherapy next year.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave
Expert answers from RE:BERRY Gangnam’s lifting specialists comparing all three devices.
₩1,990,000 for 600 shots of Thermage FLX at RE:BERRY Gangnam (regular price ₩2,900,000). This covers the full face and submentum with Solta Medical certified tips. The price includes consultation, treatment, and post-procedure soothing care with LDM recovery.
₩490,000 per 100 shots of Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Gangnam. A typical full-face protocol uses 300-530 shots (₩1,470,000-₩2,597,000). RE:BERRY is a Merz Aesthetics certified Ultherapy clinic, guaranteeing authentic transducers and proper device calibration.
₩990,000 per 100 shots of Sofwave at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Most patients receive 100-200 shots depending on treatment area. Sofwave is a Sofwave Medical certified clinic with genuine SUPERB technology modules and Sofcool epidermal protection.
85% of patients in their early-to-mid 30s at RE:BERRY Gangnam are recommended Sofwave as a first-line lifting treatment. At 1.5mm depth, Sofwave targets early collagen degradation with virtually zero downtime and minimal discomfort (1-2/10 pain scale). For patients with early jowling, a combination with partial Ultherapy may be recommended.
Ultherapy Prime delivers 30-40% superior jawline lifting compared to Thermage alone because it reaches the SMAS layer at 4.5mm — the deepest non-surgical treatment depth available. For best results, Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu at RE:BERRY Gangnam often combines Ultherapy Prime for SMAS lifting with Thermage FLX for dermal tightening.
Yes, 60% of combination patients at RE:BERRY Gangnam receive Thermage and Ultherapy in a single session. Dr. Ryu typically performs Ultherapy first (deeper layer) followed by Thermage (shallower layer) with no spacing required. The combined session takes 90-120 minutes.
12-18 months for Thermage FLX and 18-24 months for Ultherapy Prime based on clinical studies and RE:BERRY Gangnam patient follow-up data. Ultherapy lasts longer because SMAS-level collagen remodeling is more structurally durable than dermal-level tightening. Annual maintenance sessions extend results indefinitely.
Sofwave is 72% effective for fine line reduction and early laxity at 1.5mm depth, which is different from — not less than — Thermage (2-4mm tightening) and Ultherapy (4.5mm SMAS lifting). Each device excels at its specific depth. For significant laxity in patients over 50, Thermage or Ultherapy produces more dramatic results.
Pain ratings differ: Sofwave 1-2/10 (most comfortable), Thermage 3-4/10 (hot-cold sensation with vibration), Ultherapy 5-7/10 (brief sharp pulses at SMAS depth). Numbing cream is applied for 30-45 minutes before Ultherapy at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Most patients tolerate all three devices without oral sedation.
300-530 shots of Ultherapy Prime for comprehensive full-face and neck lifting at RE:BERRY Gangnam. The breakdown is typically: forehead 60-80 shots, cheeks 80-120 shots, jawline 80-100 shots, submentum/neck 80-130 shots. Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu customizes shot counts based on your specific laxity pattern.
Yes for all three devices. There are no altitude or pressure contraindications after Thermage, Ultherapy, or Sofwave treatment. RE:BERRY Gangnam provides a travel-friendly aftercare kit with recovery cream, SPF 50+, and instructions in 8 languages. Sofwave patients report zero visible signs post-treatment.
Non-surgical lifting achieves 30-50% of surgical facelift results without 2-4 weeks of surgical downtime, general anesthesia, or scar risk. The Signature Lifting Package at RE:BERRY Gangnam (₩5,990,000) combining all devices approaches 50-60% of surgical improvement for patients with mild-to-moderate laxity.
Yes, RE:BERRY Gangnam holds official certifications from all 3 device manufacturers: Solta Medical (Thermage FLX), Merz Aesthetics (Ultherapy Prime), and Sofwave Medical (Sofwave). Certification guarantees authentic consumables, proper device calibration, and physician training standards.
Ultherapy Prime with 4.5mm transducers is 35% more effective for neck skin tightening than Thermage or Sofwave because the neck’s platysma muscle lies at SMAS depth. At RE:BERRY Gangnam, neck-specific protocols use 100-200 shots of Ultherapy targeting the submental and lateral neck zones combined with Titanium lifting for surface smoothing.
1-2 days is sufficient for any Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Single-device treatments take 25-90 minutes. Combination protocols can be completed in one extended session. No post-treatment follow-up visit is required — aftercare instructions are provided in your language.
Yes, with 2-week spacing recommended. Perform Thermage, Ultherapy, or Sofwave first, then schedule Botox or filler 2 weeks later. Many international patients at RE:BERRY Gangnam combine lifting with dermal fillers during a multi-day Seoul visit.
Less than 3% of patients experience side effects beyond temporary redness. Rare effects include mild numbness (Ultherapy, resolves in 2-4 weeks), slight swelling (Thermage, resolves in 48 hours), or transient tingling. No permanent side effects have been reported at RE:BERRY Gangnam across thousands of treatments.
40-60% cost savings for Thermage in Korea versus US, Japan, and Singapore. Korea has the highest density of aesthetic clinics per capita globally, driving competitive pricing. RE:BERRY Gangnam’s ₩1,990,000 Thermage 600-shot price compares to $3,000-$5,000 USD in the US and approximately 300,000-500,000 yen in Japan for equivalent protocols.
Age 30-35 for preventative Sofwave, 38-45 for Thermage FLX, and 42-55+ for Ultherapy Prime is the general guideline at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Earlier intervention produces better long-term outcomes because it prevents collagen loss rather than reversing advanced laxity.
100% Solta Medical certified tips exclusively at RE:BERRY Gangnam. Each Thermage FLX tip has a unique activation code verified with the manufacturer’s system. Counterfeit tips deliver inconsistent energy, risk burns, and void warranty. RE:BERRY’s Thermage certification badge is displayed in the treatment room.
Sofwave replaces neither device but complements both. Sofwave at 1.5mm depth excels for fine lines and mild laxity in younger patients. For moderate-to-severe sagging requiring deeper tissue remodeling, Thermage FLX (2-4mm) or Ultherapy Prime (4.5mm) remains necessary.
Onda uses Coolwaves (2.45GHz microwave) for fat reduction and skin tightening at deeper subcutaneous layers. It is not a direct competitor but a complement — RE:BERRY Gangnam’s Signature Package combines Onda with Ultherapy and Sofwave to address fat, SMAS, and dermis simultaneously.
3 key differentiators: (1) certified for all 3 major lifting devices (Thermage, Ultherapy, Sofwave) plus Onda, Revinas, and Titanium — 6 devices total; (2) Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu prescribes based on anatomy, not device availability; (3) transparent per-shot pricing with no hidden fees or package pressure.
8 languages supported at RE:BERRY Gangnam including English, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Mongolian, Farsi, and Korean. Dedicated multilingual coordinators handle consultation interpretation, treatment planning, and aftercare communication.
100% authentic patient photographs from RE:BERRY Gangnam with documented consent. All images are unretouched and captured during routine follow-up visits. Individual results vary based on age, skin condition, device selection, and treatment protocol.
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 Your Ideal Lifting Treatment at RE:BERRY Gangnam
Book a consultation with Dr. Yoon-Gon Ryu or Dr. Yejin Oh to determine whether Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave — or a custom combination — is right for your skin. RE:BERRY Gangnam is 2 minutes from Gangnam Station Exit 10, open 365 days per year.
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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
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available