Sofwave in Myeongdong & Euljiro at Val:U Dermatology Clinic
Sofwave at Val:U Clinic in Myeongdong is an ultrasound lifting treatment that heats the mid-dermis at a depth of about 1.5 mm to stimulate collagen, helping skin look firmer with softer fine lines. It costs KRW 990,000 (VAT excluded). Downtime is usually minimal, and results build gradually over roughly three months.
| Price from | KRW 990,000 (VAT excl.) |
|---|---|
| Treatment time | About 30–60 minutes depending on areas |
| Downtime | Usually minimal; mild redness for a few hours |
| Sessions | Often one, with maintenance as advised |
| Results | Gradual firming over about 3 months; results vary |
| Ideal for | Fine lines, early laxity, crepey skin, thinner facial skin |
Sofwave is a newer ultrasound lifting technology we offer in Myeongdong for people whose main concern is loss of firmness and fine lines rather than deep sagging. Instead of focusing energy on single points deep under the skin, it sends parallel ultrasound beams into the mid-dermis at around 1.5 mm, where much of the skin's collagen sits. Built-in cooling protects the surface during treatment. Val:U Clinic is a short stroll from Euljiro 1-ga Station, and the doctor will check whether Sofwave suits your skin before planning a session.
What is Sofwave and how does it work?
Sofwave uses a technology often described as synchronous ultrasound parallel beam delivery. Several transducers emit beams side by side, creating a band of controlled heat in the mid-dermis at a fixed depth of about 1.5 mm. This heat triggers the skin's repair response, prompting fibroblasts to build new collagen and elastin over the following weeks.
An integrated cooling system keeps the skin surface protected while energy is delivered, which helps limit surface damage and downtime. Because it works at a shallower level than SMAS-focused devices, Sofwave is often thought of as a skin-quality and fine-line lifting treatment rather than a deep structural one.
How much does Sofwave cost in Myeongdong?
Sofwave at Val:U is priced at KRW 990,000, with 10% VAT added. The doctor will confirm the treatment areas included during your consultation. If a combination with another device is suggested, you will receive the full breakdown in advance.
Sofwave versus Ulthera and Thermage
All three aim to stimulate collagen, but at different depths and in different ways:
- Sofwave: parallel ultrasound beams at a fixed 1.5 mm mid-dermal depth, with surface cooling, often chosen for fine lines and skin quality.
- Ulthera: focused ultrasound at several depths, including the SMAS layer, often chosen for jowls and jawline definition.
- Thermage FLX: monopolar radiofrequency spreading heat through the dermis, often chosen for overall tightening and texture.
Sofwave treatment day at Val:U
After cleansing, numbing cream may be applied, and some clinics also offer oral pain relief. A gel is spread over the skin and the handpiece is placed and fired in a planned pattern across each zone. Most people feel short bursts of deep heat with cooling in between; sensitivity varies by area, and bony regions can feel stronger.
Afterward, the skin may look slightly pink. You can typically apply makeup and resume normal activities the same day.
Common treatment zones include the forehead and brow, the cheeks, the jawline and the area under the chin, and some people add the neck. The doctor plans the pattern around your specific concerns, for instance concentrating on the brow if hooding is the issue or on the lower face if the jawline has softened. Because the depth is fixed, careful mapping rather than depth changes is how the treatment is personalized.
Results, side effects and aftercare
Some people notice a subtle lift immediately due to collagen contraction, but most change appears gradually over about three months as new collagen forms. Results vary with age, skin thickness and lifestyle, and maintenance treatments are generally needed to sustain the effect.
Common side effects include temporary redness, mild swelling and tenderness. Less commonly, people report small raised lines or red marks that fade over days to weeks, and very rarely burns or prolonged sensitivity. Use sunscreen, stay hydrated, and avoid saunas or intense heat for a day or two. Tell the doctor about recent fillers, threads, implants or skin conditions.
Visiting Val:U from Myeongdong or Euljiro 1-ga
Find us on the 4th floor at 32 Myeongdong-gil. From Myeongdong Station on Line 4, use Exit 6; from Euljiro 1-ga Station on Line 2, use Exit 5 or 6. Each walk is about 350 meters. We welcome patients until 20:30 on weekdays and between 10:00 and 17:00 on Saturdays and Sundays, and there is public parking nearby.
Book at Val:U Clinic, Myeongdong
English, Korean, Japanese & Chinese spoken · Open 7 days · 4F, 32 Myeongdong-gil
Frequently asked questions
Is Sofwave suitable for people in their 30s?
Many people in their 30s and 40s consider Sofwave to address early loss of firmness, fine lines and skin texture, since it works on the dermis rather than deep structural layers. Suitability depends on your skin rather than age alone, and the doctor will assess your laxity before recommending it.
How long does Sofwave last?
New collagen continues forming for around three months, and many people are advised to consider maintenance roughly once a year. Duration varies considerably with age, sun exposure and lifestyle. Consistent sunscreen use and good skincare may help the effect remain noticeable for longer.
Does Sofwave hurt?
Most people feel brief pulses of deep heat. Numbing cream and built-in cooling help, but areas over bone, like the forehead and jawline, can feel more intense. Staff check your comfort during treatment and can adjust pacing. Sensation usually settles quickly once the session ends.
Can I get Sofwave the same week I fly home?
Generally yes, because downtime is usually minimal. Some redness or mild swelling may appear for a few hours to a day. If you notice raised red lines, they typically fade on their own. Protect the skin from strong sun and avoid hot baths right after treatment.
Can Sofwave be combined with fillers or Botox?
Combinations are common, but timing matters. Energy-based treatments are often done before or at least a couple of weeks apart from fillers to avoid influencing the filler. Botox is sometimes done on the same day after the device treatment. The doctor will plan the order based on your goals.
Related treatments and guides
Mon–Fri 10:30–20:30 · Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00 · +82-2-2039-7431 · Directions · Price list · Book
Prices in KRW, VAT (10%) excluded unless stated; "~" means starting price. Results vary by individual; treatment is decided after a medical consultation.
