Understanding Sofwave
Sofwave uses advanced ultrasound technology to deliver precise heat to the mid-dermis, around 1.5mm beneath the surface, where collagen is formed and maintained. This triggers the skin’s natural renewal process, gradually lifting and firming the skin while softening fine lines and wrinkles. Integrated cooling protects the surface throughout, making Sofwave suitable for all skin types and a refined alternative for those not ready for, or not wanting, a surgical approach.
How We Approach Sofwave Treatment
Treatment is always guided by a thorough consultation and assessment. Depending on your anatomy, skin quality, and the degree of laxity, Dr Lim will recommend whether Sofwave is right for you, and whether it should be combined with injectable treatments for a more complete result.
Dr Lim assesses your skin laxity, fine lines, and facial structure, distinguishing between loss of firmness and loss of volume. Sofwave is most effective for mild to moderate laxity, and the areas treated are planned around your goals.
The skin is cleansed and a topical numbing cream may be applied for added comfort. The treatment areas are then mapped to ensure even, precise coverage.
The Sofwave applicator is placed against the skin, delivering short pulses of ultrasound energy while cooling the surface. Patients typically feel brief moments of heat with each pulse. A full-face and neck treatment usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes.
Mild redness or slight swelling may be present for a few hours. Most patients return to normal activities the same day, and make-up can usually be applied the following day.
As collagen remodels over the following weeks and months, results are reviewed at a follow-up appointment. Many patients see meaningful results from a single session, with additional or maintenance treatments planned where appropriate.
Results develop gradually as new collagen forms, with improvements becoming visible over the following weeks and continuing to build for several months. At Arra, outcomes are designed to look subtle and natural, so you look refreshed and lifted rather than changed.
Onset: Gradual improvement from around six weeks, with optimal results at three to six months
Duration: Typically 12–18 months, depending on age, skin quality, and lifestyle
Maintenance: An annual session helps sustain collagen and firmness over time
Onset: Progressive softening as collagen renews over three months
Best for: Fine lines, crepey texture, and early loss of firmness across the face and neck
Note: Sofwave can be combined with dermal fillers or biostimulators to address both skin laxity and volume loss for a more comprehensive result
All timelines are indicative. Dr Lim will provide a personalised outlook during your consultation based on your skin, anatomy, and goals.
FAQ’s
Which areas can Sofwave treat?
Sofwave is most commonly used to lift the brows, firm the jawline and lower face, tighten skin beneath the chin and on the neck, and soften fine lines and wrinkles. It can also be used to improve the appearance of acne scarring. Dr Lim will recommend the most suitable areas for your goals.
How is Sofwave different from other ultrasound treatments?
Sofwave delivers parallel beams of ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis, treating a broad volume of tissue at a precise depth while the surface is actively cooled. This allows for an effective, comfortable treatment that is suitable for all skin types, with minimal downtime.
Does Sofwave hurt?
Most patients feel brief moments of heat with each pulse, which are generally well tolerated. Numbing cream and built-in cooling help keep the treatment comfortable, and Dr Lim will check in throughout.
How many sessions will I need?
Many patients see a meaningful improvement after a single treatment. Some may benefit from a second session, and an annual maintenance treatment helps sustain results. Dr Lim will advise during your consultation.
Is there any downtime?
Downtime is minimal. Mild redness or swelling usually settles within a few hours, and most patients return to work or social plans the same day. Dr Lim will advise on any specific aftercare at your appointment.