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Tightening and contouring devices: Sofwave Ultrasound

The Derm Institute offers non-invasive skin procedures clinically proven to tighten and contour the skin by stimulating the production of collagen and elastic tissue.

We use state-of-the-art, clinically-proven technology including the next generation Sofwave SUPERB (synchronous ultrasound parallel beam) technology, FDA-cleared to lift the eyebrow, lift the lax skin under the jawline and neck, as well as improving facial lines and wrinkles. Sofwave technology allows for safe treatment for tightening of the skin in all skin types, often with a single 30 to 45 minute treatment! Lax, crepy skin head to toe can be treated utilizing this device. Clinically proven with consistent results, 86% of study subjects demonstrated improvements in wrinkle appearance.

Before & After Sofwave

Sofwave Ultrasound tightening technology allows for safe treatment for tightening of the skin in all skin types, often with a single 30 to 45 minute treatment!

Sofwave is a more comfortable and no-downtime skin tightening alternative to other ultrasound treatments on the market such as Ultherapy, and in less sessions than radiofrequency treatments such as Exilis or Morpheus. Integrated cooling enables more comfortable treatments at the optimal depth without damage to the overlying skin. This breakthrough tightening technology by Sofwave was given Elle Magazine’s 2021 Future of Beauty award.

Popular areas of treatment include:

  • Brow lift
  • Jawline and lower face
  • Neck
  • Inner upper arms
  • Abdomen
  • Thighs
  • Knees

Sofwave Skin Tightening Diagram

Sofwave uses proprietary Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology to heat the mid-dermal tissue at just the right depth and temperature to rejuvenate collagen fibers and elastic tissue. Ultrasound energy delivered at this power causes contraction, tightening and stimulation of new collagen over time without repeated sessions. The result is tighter, firmer, younger appearing skin. Sofwave works to better define and improve sagging of the face, neck and jawline, as well as smoothing and sculpting of unsightly bulges and wrinkles on the body. This treatment is safe in all skin types, even darker skin, and has no downtime.

Please read our post Sofwave Ultrasound skin tightening treatment instructions for best results and what to expect.

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Common Questions:

What can Sofwave treat?

Sofwave uses the latest advancements in ultrasound technology to rejuvenate the skin – lifting and tightening areas like the face and neck, softening fine lines and wrinkles, and improving skin quality by boosting collagen and elastin. Additionally, Sofwave is a non-surgical option to lift the brows, tighten the jowls and jawline, and to help address neck laxity. It can also be used to tighten other areas on the body including laxity of the thighs, arms, abdomen, and knees.

How does Sofwave work?

Sofwave technology uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology, or SUPERB, to allow the ultrasound energy to penetrate into the mid-dermal tissue at precisely 1.5mm. This innovative technology means that the bulk heating is localized to specifically stimulate collagen regeneration and production where it matters most without harming any other surrounding tissues, specifically the epidermis and muscle and bone tissue deeper within the body. This allows the Sofwave energy device to treat ALL skin types without downtime.

The ultrasound energy heats the dermis and triggers your body’s healing response, a process called neo-collagenases, which tells your body to regenerate and produce collagen. Collagen is an essential protein for skin elasticity and that signature youthful look of young, healthy skin. This production of collagen is what reduces the fine lines and wrinkles and the sagging skin associated with aging.

What is the downtime? Is there discomfort?

There is no downtime for these procedures and patients can resume regular activities immediately. There is a fractional pulsated heating sensation during treatment pulses, but Sofwave Ultrasound technology is integrated with cooling and is much more tolerable than other treatments such as Ulthera. At The Derm Institute, patients are numbed with a compounded topical numbing cream and also have the option to use PRO-NOX for increased comfort.

Is Sofwave safe?

Yes! Sofwave is FDA-cleared and is safe for all skin types. Sofwave uses an integrated cooling system called Sofcool™ to protect the outermost layer of the skin while allowing the ultrasound waves to reach the precise depth in the dermis that is required for effective treatment.  

According to the Sofwave website, there were no adverse events related to the device reported during the clinical study.

Who is Sofwave for?

Because of the internal cooling mechanism designed to protect the outer layers of skin, Sofwave is safe on all skin types, so anyone who is experiencing mild to moderate signs of aging and has noticeable drooping, fine lines and wrinkles is a candidate. Generally, candidates are in their mid- to late 30s to 50s. The lack of downtime, minimal time commitment for the procedure, and non-invasive nature make this treatment accessible to virtually anyone who wants to renew their appearance.

How many treatments do I need?

Clinical studies show optimal results to treat mild to moderate laxity with our ultrasound parallel beam technology can often be achieved with a single session. Maintenance is recommended approximately once a year.

How soon can I expect to see results from Sofwave treatments?

Most patients can see the initial results from Sofwave treatments within a few weeks, and should notice significant improvement after roughly 12 weeks as new collagen forms and tightens the skin. Patients can get noticeable results after just a single treatment, but a second treatment is recommended for optimization as the new collagen induced in the first session will be even more responsive to additional treatment.

How long does treatment take?

A single Sofwave treatment requires about 45 minutes to an hour of numbing, with the treatment itself to be about 30-45 minutes depending on the areas treated. There is no downtime, so you can immediately return to your regular schedule!

Can Sofwave Ultrasound Tightening be combined with other cosmetic procedures?

Dr. Chiu often combines Sofwave tightening treatments with other procedures such as injection of biostimulatory fillers such as Radiesse or Sculptra or minimally invasive threadlifts to further maximize results. Dr. Chiu is a nationally recognized expert and speaker in combination treatments to tighten and lift the skin for both the face and body. We will tailor and customize the best treatment plan for you, based on your skin type, age, and your cosmetic goals.

Call us today at (310) 939-9800 to see if Sofwave is the right treatment for you!