Ultherapy vs Softwave — Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

Same energy, different depth

Because both devices use ultrasound, patients often assume Softwave is simply a newer or gentler Ultherapy. A better way to think about them is as tools aimed at different layers. Ultherapy is designed to concentrate energy into tiny focal points deep under the skin — including the SMAS, the fibromuscular layer that holds the cheeks and jowls in place. Softwave is designed to deliver energy in a band within the mid-dermis, roughly where collagen density determines how firm, smooth and finely lined skin looks.

So the useful question is not "which is stronger?" but "where is my problem?" Heaviness along the jawline points deeper; crepiness, fine lines and loss of snap point to the dermis.

How each works in practice

Ultherapy Prime

The operator views the tissue layers on screen, then chooses transducers to place lines of thermal points at the intended depth. Dr. Byun Jeik — winner of the Ultherapy Transducers category at the 2024 Merz Golden Record Award — maps lines to the vectors of sagging rather than covering the whole face uniformly. Sensation is commonly a deep ache over bony areas, and comfort is discussed beforehand.

Softwave

Softwave's applicator cools the surface while delivering energy into the mid-dermis, which many patients find comparatively comfortable. Because its target is the dermis, it is often chosen for fine lines, mild laxity and overall skin quality — and around delicate areas such as the eyes, where Doje may pair it with Eye Thermage in the Eye Program.

Side-by-side comparison

When Doje combines them

Softwave appears as an option in Doje's Mid-Face and Marionette programmes alongside Ultherapy Prime — but as options, not a bundle. A combination is suggested when a face shows two layers of change: a lower face that has dropped, and skin that has lost density. Ultherapy then addresses the deeper vector while Softwave refines the dermis. When only one layer is involved, using both adds heat without adding benefit, which runs against Doje's principle of treating only as far as needed.

If sagging has progressed beyond what energy can reposition, Dr. Byun may recommend a lower-face thread lift first, with energy treatment used later for skin quality.

Which should you choose?

• Ultherapy — if you see jowls, a blurred jawline or heaviness under the chin and still have reasonable facial volume.
• Softwave — if your contour is mostly intact but skin looks crepey, finely lined or less firm, or you prefer a typically gentler session.
• Both — if assessment finds deep descent and dermal thinning together.
• Something else — if laxity is marked, or if the issue is volume loss rather than sagging (see facial volume loss).

Recovery and aftercare

Most people return to normal routines immediately. Mild redness or tenderness usually settles within hours to days. Sun protection and avoiding saunas for a short period are typical advice.

Cost

Fees are quoted after a 1:1 consultation, since device choice, shot counts and any combination depend on your assessment. Ask for a written quote; Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan.

Frequently asked questions

Is Softwave just a gentler Ultherapy?

Not exactly. Both use ultrasound, but Softwave targets the mid-dermis while Ultherapy can reach the deeper SMAS, so they suit different problems.

Which is better for fine lines?

Softwave is often the more relevant choice for fine lines and crepey texture, because its energy is concentrated in the dermis.

Which is better for jowls?

Ultherapy is usually more relevant for jowls because it can treat the deeper support layer. Marked jowls may need a thread lift.

Can they be done together?

Yes, when both deep sagging and skin thinning are present. Doje combines them only when assessment shows both layers need treatment.

Is there downtime?

Downtime is usually minimal for both, with transient redness or tenderness that varies by person.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Ultherapy Prime
• Softwave
• Thermage vs Softwave
• Energy device depths
• Fine lines
• Loss of skin elasticity
• Ultherapy vs Thermage

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.