Sofwave™ is a FDA-cleared technology that utilises ultrasound waves to effectively and safely rejuvenate skin and reduce wrinkles. It is also approved to smoothen the appearance of acne scars and cellulite.
It is a non-invasive approach to rebuilding collagen, and is touted as a true “lunchtime facelift” that requires minimal to no downtime and takes just half an hour*.
Sofwave™ treatment can help:
*Half an hour for a browlift
Sofwave™ uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam SUPERB™ Technology to deliver energy at a precise depth of 1.5mm in the mid-dermis. This energy also diffuses to the deeper layers such as the SMAS and hypodermis. This causes initial collagen contraction and later also causes neocollagenesis and neoelastinogenesis, leading to skin tightening and rejuvenation.
The non-invasive device also comes with an integrated cooling mechanism (SofCool™) to protect the skin during treatment, especially when dermal temperatures reach 55-65˚C, the optimal range for remodelling collagen and elastin fibres.
While Sofwave™ is primarily used for softening wrinkles and lax skin around the eyebrows and neck, it was recently FDA-cleared for reducing skin laxity on the arms and the appearance of cellulite on the thighs and buttocks.
Sofwave™, HIFU, Ultherapy and Thermage are non-invasive procedures that rejuvenate the skin but differ in technology and approach.
For example, Sofwave™ employs ultrasound technology to deliver precise, controlled heating to a depth of 1.5mm, providing dynamic results in the superficial layer of the skin.
In contrast, HIFU focuses on deeper layers of the skin for lifting effects. Both treatments yield noticeable results with minimal downtime, offering patients unique solutions for varying skin concerns.
| Sofwave™ | HIFU | Ultherapy® | Thermage FLX | |
| FDA-approved for fine lines and wrinkles | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Target area |
1.5mm mid-dermal layer, targeting to treat fine lines and wrinkles. |
Most effective at SMAS layers (3-4.5mm). Can also reduce double chins. |
Most effective at SMAS layers (3-4.5mm). Dermal Layers targeting possible with 1.5mm transducers. Can also reduce double chin. |
Superficial layer (about 3mm). |
| Unique points |
Parallel beams for greater coverage and shorter procedures. No need for ultrasound visualisation as it heats superficially, avoiding nerve and blood vessel damage. |
Fired in either a dot or line fashion over the face. Smaller spot size hence less consistency and longer procedures. |
1.5-4.5mm. Fired in a dot fashion over the face. | Like Sofwave, Thermage targets wrinkles and fine lines well, but uses radiofrequency instead of Ultrasound. |
| Level of Discomfort |
Non-invasive and comfortable with SofCool technology for safety. Suitable for all skin colors without risk of PIH or scarring. |
Non-invasive. Some warmness of the skin which can be managed with numbing cream. | Discomfort is minimal. The rhythmic sounds of the machine allow patients to anticipate when energy is being delivered. |
Slight discomfort from heat during energy delivery; more than Sofwave at higher settings. Features Cryogen cooling for safety. |
| Side effects | Temporary redness and swelling are common, and should self-resolve within days. |
Temporary redness and swelling are common, and should self-resolve within days. Deeper settings have the risk of Neurovascular injury. |
Temporary redness and swelling are common, and should self-resolve within days. Deeper settings have the risk of Neurovascular injury. |
Temporary redness and swelling are common, and should self-resolve within a few hours. |
| Downtime | Minimal or none | Minimal or none | Minimal or none | Minimal or none |
| Price | From $600 for under eye lifting, $2800 for full face lifting, $800 for acne scar treatment and $3000 for cellulite reduction on the arms | $2,000 for face, $2,500 for face and neck treatment | $4,500 for face, $5,500 for face and neck treatment | $3,000 for eye lifting and $4,000 for face |
| Results | A few weeks, with full results in at 1-3 months. Effects can last around a year. | Full results take 2-3 months to develop. Results last up to 6 months | Full results can take up to 6 months to develop and last for around 1-2 years. | Full results 3-4 months after treatment. Results can last 1 year. |
No, they are simply different solutions that cater to the unique concerns of every client.
For example, Sofwave™, which prizes itself on skin tightening, helps skin feel tighter and firmer after treatment, especially for clients with skin laxity issues. Tightened skin results in fewer wrinkles and fine lines and offers the appearance of a “lifted” face, but this “lifting” comes from the skin and not from underlying facial muscles and tissues.
HIFU and Ultherapy, on the other hand, both lift the face “from within”. These treatments reach depths of up to 4.5mm under the skin and target the SMAS muscle layer, one of the muscles targeted during surgical facelifts.
As such, these treatments help achieve a “lifted” look, particularly in the lower face, jowls and jawline.
However, as this lifting targets the deeper layers of the skin, the effects on superficial fine lines and wrinkles may not be as prominent as with Sofwave™.
Each technology has its own benefit and delivers results when chosen appropriately. The key to achieving the best results is a professional assessment and a tailored treatment plan.
Sofwave™ penetrates an accurate depth of 1.5mm to stimulate neocollagenesis where it matters. While you may experience some discomfort, it is usually manageable. We offer various numbing techniques and procedures to help ensure a comfortable experience.
Additionally, Sofwave™’s integrated Sofcool™ system ensures zero damage to the epidermis or the underlying structures beneath the dermis.
Certain skin types are more susceptible to burns from light-based therapies. However, ultrasound procedures like Sofwave™ are safe and effective regardless of your skin type.The treatment is truly colour-blind in the sense that even people with darker skin tones can benefit from it. This is a gamechanger for darker-skinned patients who wish to treat their acne scars but are unsuitable to do laser treatments due to the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
However, do note that Sofwave™ is unsuitable for pregnant women and those with severe acne or open wounds on the face.
Our rates* are as follows:
| Area | Price |
| Forehead and brow lift | $900 |
| Crows feet and under eyes | $600 |
| Forehead, brow lift, crows feet and undereyes | $1400 |
| Full Face including jawline and submentum (double chin) | $2800 – $3400 |
| Neck | $1200 – $1800 |
| Jawline and submentum (double chin) | $1000 – $1200 |
| Full Face and neck | $3800 – $4200 |
| Acne scars | $800-1200 |
| Arms | $3000 – $4500 |
*Rates are just a guide and are dependent on the number of shots required and seniority of the performing doctor.
Sofwave™ in Singapore can be used to treat the whole face, neck and body. Its main strength is its proficiency at skin tightening and improving superficial facial lines and wrinkles.
The length of Sofwave™ treatment in Singapore will depend on the treatment area and your individual treatment plan. A face procedure usually takes roughly 40 minutes, making it a perfect lunchtime procedure.
Immediately post treatment, the skin may appear slightly red with limited swelling for up to a few hours post treatment – but there are no reported severe side effects.
With Sofwave™, there is little to no downtime. After treatment, you may apply makeup and resume most normal activities immediately without following any special post-treatment measures.
A minority may experience some mild swelling post-procedure, which typically resolves within a week.
No significant preparations are required for your Sofwave™ treatment.
You will be able to see visible results even after just one treatment. However, some cases, such as more severe laxity or acne scars, may require 2-3 sessions for optimal results.
You may see results immediately after the first treatment. However, the collagen regeneration process can take up to 12 weeks, so you can expect continued improvement over the next three months following treatment.
You can repeat treatment every 6-12 months.
Yes, Sofwave™ can be safely performed with most other procedures, including Botox and filler injections even within the same session. This is because injectables often target deeper structures of the face. Additionally, since Sofwave™ does not affect the skin’s pigment, it can be combined with various laser procedures in the same session. Your doctor will help you tailor a holistic plan that best suits your needs.
Like what you read? Share them!
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 10am-9.30pm
Sat 10am-8.30pm
Sun 10am-7.30pm
