Guide

How does Sofwave help sagging skin and jowls?

Sagging along the jaw happens when collagen and elastin weaken and the skin can no longer hold underlying tissue firmly. Sofwave uses SUPERB technology, which sends multiple parallel ultrasound beams into the mid-dermis at around 1.5 mm. The heat triggers new collagen and elastin, gradually firming the skin and refining the jawline.

Because it works at a consistent dermal depth with built-in cooling, Sofwave is often described as comfortable and quick. It is FDA-cleared for lifting the eyebrow and lax submental and neck tissue and for improving facial lines. See our Sofwave page for more on the device.

Who does Sofwave suit?

Adults with mild to moderate sagging and early jowls
People with thinner skin or less facial fat, where deeper energy may not be ideal
Those who want firmness plus improvement in fine lines and texture
Patients wanting a session with little to no social downtime

It is less likely to give a satisfying result for heavy jowls or significant skin excess. Active infection, open wounds, metal implants in the area and pregnancy are common reasons to avoid or postpone.

Sofwave vs Ultherapy for jowls

Depth: Ultherapy can reach the SMAS at around 4.5 mm; Sofwave focuses on the mid-dermis.
Effect: Ultherapy leans toward structural lift; Sofwave toward dermal firming and texture.
Comfort: both cause heat; Sofwave has integrated cooling.
Choice: depends on skin thickness, fat and the degree of laxity.

Many patients have both in a single plan. Compare them in Ultherapy Prime vs Sofwave.

What to expect at Re:berry Hongdae

Diagnosis: the doctor assesses whether laxity sits mainly in skin or in deeper support.
Plan: Sofwave alone or combined; shot count set per area.
Treatment: gel is applied and the handpiece pulses across mapped zones with cooling.
After: mild redness; makeup can usually be applied the same day.

How long does a session take?

A full-face Sofwave session often takes around 30–45 minutes, and adding the neck extends it. Allow extra time for consultation, numbing if used, and cleansing. Because downtime is usually minimal, many visitors fit Sofwave into a sightseeing day.

How many sessions?

Most patients start with one session, then reassess after about three months. Some doctors recommend a second session for more noticeable change. Maintenance is often around once a year. Results vary by individual.

Useful combinations

Ultherapy Prime: for deeper lift with Sofwave for surface firmness
Thread lifting: for immediate repositioning of more advanced jowls
Skin boosters: to support hydration and skin quality
Filler: where volume loss makes jowls look heavier

How do I know if Sofwave is right for my jowls?

A quick self-check is to look at your profile in natural light. If the jawline has softened but there is no heavy fold of skin, and the skin feels thin or crepey, a dermal treatment like Sofwave may be a reasonable starting point. If you can see a distinct jowl that hangs below the jaw, or you have thicker skin with more fat, a deeper or combined approach is often considered. Only an in-person diagnosis can confirm this, and the doctor will also look at volume loss, bone support and skin quality.

Side effects

Expect possible redness, mild swelling and tenderness for hours to a few days. Rarely, small temporary welts or skin sensitivity can occur. Avoid hot saunas and intense exercise for a day and use sunscreen.

Aftercare tips

Use a gentle cleanser and a calming moisturizer for a few days, and keep up daily sunscreen. Skip retinoids and exfoliating acids for about two to three days if your skin feels sensitive. Collagen remodeling continues for months, so a healthy routine with good sleep and hydration supports the outcome. See our lifting aftercare guide.

Alternatives

Thermage FLX, Ultherapy, thread lifting and surgery for advanced laxity are alternatives your doctor may discuss. Our sagging skin and jowls page compares them.

Booking

Pricing depends on area, shot count and plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation. See our Location & Hours page for directions and book through our Booking page.

Is Sofwave good for Asian skin?

Sofwave works in the dermis and does not target pigment, which is why many clinics consider it suitable for a range of skin tones, including Asian skin. As with any heat-based device, settings are adjusted to the individual. The doctor will review your skin type and history of pigmentation before treatment.

Does Sofwave hurt?

Most people feel brief heat with each pulse, especially over bony areas such as the jawline. Built-in cooling helps, and numbing cream may be offered. Many patients describe it as tolerable, but sensitivity varies. Tell the practitioner if you need a pause during treatment.

When will I see my jawline improve?

Some people notice slight tightening soon after, but the main effect develops as collagen rebuilds over one to three months. Change is usually subtle and gradual. Photos taken before treatment and at around three months help you compare progress objectively.