Thermage vs Softwave — Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

Two routes to the dermis

Thermage and Softwave sit closer to each other than either does to Ultherapy. Both work mainly on the skin's own collagen network, so both are typically chosen when the contour of the face is still in place but the skin has lost firmness, become finely creased or started to look crepey. The difference is in how the energy arrives.

Radiofrequency, as used by Thermage, generates heat as current meets the natural resistance of tissue. It warms a relatively broad volume, including the fibrous septae that tether the skin to deeper layers — which is why patients sometimes notice a subtle tightening of contour as well as texture. Softwave's ultrasound beams, by contrast, are concentrated in a defined band of the mid-dermis while the surface is actively cooled, which aims to protect the epidermis and keep the session comparatively comfortable.

How Doje Clinic uses each

At Doje, energy devices are chosen by depth, sagging, fat and elasticity — never applied as a package. Thermage tends to be considered where a larger area of skin needs firming, or where skin over the jawline and neck has softened. Softwave tends to be considered for fine lines and skin density in patients who want a typically gentler experience, or in lean faces where too much broad heating is undesirable.

Around the eyes the two are designed to complement each other: Eye Thermage treats eyelid skin with a dedicated tip, while Softwave can support the surrounding periorbital skin. That pairing is one of the options within the Eye Program, planned by Dr. Byun Jeik in a 1:1 consultation.

Side-by-side comparison

When Doje combines them

The most common reason to pair them is the eye area, where eyelid skin and the surrounding crow's-feet zone behave differently. Elsewhere on the face, combining two dermal devices only makes sense if there is a clear reason — for example broad laxity across the lower face plus fine lines concentrated in one area. Where deeper sagging is part of the picture, a Ultherapy Prime or a thread lift usually takes priority, and a dermal device follows for skin quality.

For skin that is very thin or dehydrated, Doje may first improve the tissue with boosters such as Rejuran or GOURI before or alongside energy treatment.

Which should you choose?

• Thermage — if you want broad firming across the face, jawline or neck, or eyelid skin treatment.
• Softwave — if fine lines and skin density are the priority, or you prefer a typically gentler session.
• Eye Thermage + Softwave — if hooded or crepey eyelids come with fine lines around the eyes.
• Neither alone — if jowls or deep sagging dominate; a deeper-acting option is usually needed.

Recovery and aftercare

Most people resume normal life the same day. Expect possible mild redness; follow sun protection and avoid saunas, hot yoga and heavy alcohol for a short period. See energy device aftercare.

Cost

Fees are quoted after a 1:1 consultation because area, shot count and any pairing depend on your assessment. Ask for a written quote; Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan.

Frequently asked questions

Do Thermage and Softwave lift sagging?

Both mainly firm and tighten the skin. For marked sagging, a deeper option such as Ultherapy or a thread lift is usually more relevant.

Which is better for the eyes?

They complement each other: Eye Thermage treats eyelid skin, and Softwave can support the surrounding area. Doje offers them as a paired option in the Eye Program.

Which is more comfortable?

Softwave is often described as comfortable because of surface cooling, while Thermage feels like brief heat pulses. Sensation varies by person and area.

Is one better for thin skin?

It depends on fat and elasticity. In lean faces Doje may favour more targeted energy or first strengthen the skin with boosters.

When will I see results?

Some tightening may be felt early, but collagen renewal typically builds over two to three months, and results vary.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Thermage FLX
• Softwave
• Eye Thermage vs Softwave
• Crepey under-eye skin
• Hooded eyes
• Collagen stimulation explained
• Ultherapy vs Softwave

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.