A full-face Sofwave treatment typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes of device time, while smaller areas such as the brow or under the chin may take 15 to 20 minutes. At Re:berry Hongdae, allow roughly 1.5 to 2 hours for the whole visit, including consultation, cleansing and numbing.
Re:berry Clinic Hongdae · Information reviewed for accuracy · Results vary by individual.
What affects how long Sofwave takes?
Sofwave is an FDA-cleared device that uses parallel ultrasound beams to heat the mid-dermis, at a depth of about 1.5 mm, to stimulate new collagen. The treatment time depends mainly on:
- Area size: A full face takes longer than the brow or jawline alone.
- Number of passes: More passes over an area add time but follow a set protocol.
- Combined zones: Adding the neck commonly adds 10 to 20 minutes.
- Comfort breaks: Pausing when a zone feels intense extends the session slightly.
Because Sofwave's handpiece has built-in cooling, the skin surface stays protected, and the operator works systematically zone by zone.
What happens during the whole appointment?
- Consultation: A doctor confirms suitability and the areas to treat, about 10 to 20 minutes.
- Cleansing and numbing: Makeup is removed and numbing cream is usually applied for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Treatment: About 30 to 45 minutes for a full face.
- Soothing: A brief calming step before you leave.
For a first visit, allowing around two hours avoids feeling rushed. Learn more on our Sofwave page. If you are combining Sofwave with another treatment on the same day, such as Botox or a booster, add the time for that step and any extra numbing.
How soon do results show?
Some people notice a slight firming soon after, but the main collagen response develops over about 1 to 3 months, with continued improvement for some patients up to 6 months. Most people need little to no downtime beyond mild redness for a few hours. Results vary by individual.
Is Sofwave quicker than Ultherapy?
Session lengths are broadly similar for a full face, though Sofwave treats a shallower, uniform depth while Ultherapy targets several depths, including the SMAS. The choice depends on your skin and goals rather than speed. Compare them in Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave. To book, visit our Booking page.
At a glance
- Full face: About 30 to 45 minutes of treatment
- Face and neck: Often about 45 to 60 minutes
- Small areas: Roughly 15 to 20 minutes
- Whole visit: About 1.5 to 2 hours including numbing
- Results seen: Gradually over 1 to 3 months
Related questions
Can Sofwave be done on a lunch break?
A small area may fit into a long break, but with numbing time a full-face session usually needs about 1.5 to 2 hours. Mild redness is common for a few hours, so plan accordingly if you return to work. Ask the team for a time estimate based on the areas you plan to treat when you book.
How many Sofwave sessions are needed?
Many patients start with a single session and review results after about three months. Some doctors suggest a second session or yearly maintenance, depending on skin laxity and goals. Results vary by individual. Sofwave can also be combined with other treatments in a designed plan, such as boosters for skin quality or Botox for expression lines.
Does Sofwave hurt?
Most people feel brief hot pulses, which are more noticeable over bony areas. Numbing cream and built-in cooling help, and many patients find it tolerable. Tell the operator if any area feels too intense so they can pause. Mild redness or warmth afterward usually settles within a few hours.
Keep reading
Before you book
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Suitability, dose, number of sessions and expected results are decided by a doctor at consultation, and results vary by individual. Possible side effects include redness, swelling and bruising. Pricing is confirmed in writing before any treatment. See our medical disclaimer.
Still have a question?
A doctor at Re:berry Clinic Hongdae can answer it for your skin specifically. Multilingual consultation support is available.