Sofwave™ — The next-generation non-invasive skin tightening treatment with no downtime

Sofwave™ uses ultrasound technology to deliver high frequency energy which stimulates the production of new collagen and elastin within the skin. It was approved by the FDA in 2019 as a clinically proven procedure for skin tightening and improve the fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck.

Dr. Shelton uses Sofwave™ at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York which was one of the research trial sites providing clinical data to the Sofwave™ company when applying for their FDA clearance. He says, this new technology targets the specific dermal layer of the skin avoiding treatment of the deeper subcutaneous layer.

How long is the treatment?

It is a quick procedure that takes as little as 90 minutes for the full face and neck region.

How many treatments are needed?

A majority of patients need only one treatment. However some may need 1–2 treatments, depending on the patient’s skin condition and the physician‘s recommendation. Treatment can be done annually to proactively improve collagen production and combat the hands of time.

How long does it take to show results?

Gradual improvements usually take 6 to 12 months to appear but some patients have felt their skin tighten almost immediately and may see actual lifting in a few months. This is because the collagen regeneration process takes up to a year or more to obtain its maximum improvement.

Is there a recovery period?

There is no prolonged recovery, nor is there any Sofwave downtime. Some patients may have mild redness and mild swelling very rarely.

Advantages of Sofwave™

• It protects the epidermis (outer layer of the skin that is visible to the eye)
• Minimizes discomfort
• It prevents damage to the surrounding skin
• Ideal for those looking to minimize fine lines and wrinkles without downtime.
• The main appeal of a non-surgical approach with skin tightening is little to no downtime.
• Safe for all skin types
• There are no sutures, anesthesia, or surgery involved.

Ultherapy and Sofwave™

Both Ultherapy and Sofwave™ treatments use high focused ultrasound energy to heat the skin in order to induce collagen production. Both these devices offer a no downtime treatment for skin tightening. Sofwave™ delivers a horizontal line of energy at the same time and Dr. Shelton uses this for the more superficial layers of dermis underneath the skin’s surface. He uses the Ultherapy for the slightly deeper dermis which produces sequential energy beams that form a line horizontally. The two devices have produced great results for Dr. Shelton when used solely but in some patients, the combined treatment seems to give a better response.