Sofwave vs. Ultrasound: Why Less Pain?
Same ultrasound technology, yet a noticeably different feel — here's how Sofwave's depth and distributed stimulation actually work.
When researching ultrasound lifting procedures, a common first thought is, "Aren't all ultrasound procedures painful?" Yet if you read reviews from people who've had Sofwave, you'll frequently come across comments like, "It was actually more manageable than I expected." So why does the same ultrasound technology feel so different?
> This article is an informational content piece from Beautystone Clinic in Hongdae.
The short answer: Sofwave delivers heat at a different depth and in a different way compared to conventional ultrasound procedures. Rather than intensely targeting a single deep point, it gently heats a broader area of the mid-Dermis while simultaneously cooling the surface — so the stimulation is distributed rather than concentrated.
In this article, you'll learn:
· What type of ultrasound technology Sofwave uses
· Why it tends to cause less discomfort
· Where the results actually come from
· How long it takes for improvements to fully developWhat Kind of Ultrasound Procedure Is Sofwave?
Sofwave uses multiple ultrasound transducers* placed directly on the skin to deliver heat to the mid-Dermis. Rather than driving energy deep into a single point, it uses a row of transducers to spread heat evenly across a consistent depth.
Ultrasound transducer*: A component that converts electrical signals into ultrasound vibrations, generating heat beneath the skin's surface. Sofwave uses multiple transducers arranged side by side.
According to clinical research on the Sofwave ultrasound device, seven transducers make direct contact with the skin and deliver heat to the mid-Dermis (approximately 1–2mm depth) while preserving the epidermis. Even within the same ultrasound category, the target depth and delivery method are what ultimately determine how a procedure feels.
Why Does It Tend to Cause Less Discomfort?
Some conventional ultrasound lifting procedures work by intensely stimulating a single deep point near the SMAS Layer. Because the energy is deep and concentrated, the sensation of sharp Pain tends to be quite distinct in that moment.
Sofwave, by contrast, broadly warms the mid-Dermis at a shallower depth while cooling the epidermis throughout. Because the stimulation is distributed rather than focused on one point, the discomfort is comparatively reduced.
- Depth: Targets the mid-Dermis rather than the deepest layers
- Method: Spreads heat broadly rather than concentrating it at a single point
- Surface: Cools the epidermis while delivering heat to deeper layers
The clinical research cited above also noted that topical anesthetic cream was applied prior to the procedure, and no adverse effects such as fat atrophy or prolonged Erythema or Swelling were reported. That said, individual Pain tolerance varies significantly — the same procedure can feel quite different from person to person.
Where Do the Results Actually Come From?
When Sofwave delivers heat to the mid-Dermis, it triggers Collagen contraction at that site, followed by a process of new Collagen synthesis. Visualizing which depth the heat reaches in cross-section makes this easier to understand.
Clinical research reported an increase in Collagen fiber density two months after the procedure. In other words, rather than delivering immediate results, the improvements develop gradually from within over the course of several weeks to months.
At Beautystone Clinic in Hongdae, We Start with Depth
At Beautystone Clinic in Hongdae, we don't simply say "it's ultrasound, so it's going to hurt." Instead, we start by explaining exactly which depth is being targeted and how the heat is delivered. For patients concerned about Pain, we adjust both the topical anesthetic and the pace of the procedure accordingly.
The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends that aesthetic procedures be performed by qualified medical professionals with skin expertise. Our clinic is within walking distance of Hapjeong Station, so you're welcome to stop by before your procedure for a quick skin assessment and Pain sensitivity check — so we can plan the right approach together.
It Helps to Know How Long Results Take to Develop
Improvements from Sofwave don't appear immediately after the procedure — they unfold over time. Rather than judging the outcome within a few days, it's important to evaluate the results over a period of several months.
- Immediately after: Mild tightening sensation and slight Erythema
- 1–2 months: Collagen stimulation progresses; Skin Texture begins to refine
- 3–6 months: Elasticity improvements become more established
The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery similarly notes that Collagen-stimulating skin tightening procedures typically take 3–6 months for results to fully develop. This article is intended as general information only — for guidance on the right procedure and Pain management approach for your specific needs, we recommend consulting with a medical professional before proceeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Sofwave really painless?
A. Rather than being completely Pain-free, Sofwave tends to cause less discomfort than conventional deep ultrasound procedures. Because it broadly heats the mid-Dermis while cooling the epidermis, the stimulation is distributed rather than concentrated. That said, individual Pain tolerance varies considerably.
Q. How is it different from Ultherapy?
A. Unlike procedures that intensely stimulate a single deep point, Sofwave heats the mid-Dermis broadly using multiple transducers. The key differences lie in the target depth and how stimulation is distributed.
Q. When will I start noticing results?
A. You may notice mild tightening immediately after the procedure, while Collagen-related improvements typically develop over 3–6 months. Rather than evaluating results after just a few days, it's best to observe changes over several months.
Q. Can I return to daily activities right after the procedure?
A. Most patients experience only minor Erythema or a warm sensation immediately after, and daily activities are generally not significantly disrupted. However, individual responses vary, so it's best to follow the post-procedure care instructions provided by your medical professional.
