Sofwave™

Conveniently located to serve the areas of Chicago, IL

Sofwave™ is a non-invasive ultrasonic wave treatment that eliminates wrinkles and lifts sagging skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer complexion. This FDA-cleared treatment strategically diminishes signs of aging by stimulating the body’s natural collagen and elastin production to refresh your appearance.

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Dr. Paul Phelps, a Chicago-based oculofacial surgeon and member of the Oculofacial Society, has many years of experience helping patients reach their beauty goals. Our team will work with you to restore your complexion so you can feel your best. If you have been struggling to manage signs of facial aging, you do not have to settle. Sofwave™ has helped thousands of patients revitalize their skin, and we can help you do the same.

Contact Chicago Oculofacial Plastic Surgery online or call (312) 888-5754 to get started.

About Sofwave™

Collagen and elastin are vital proteins found in the skin’s dermis layer. They work together to maintain the skin’s structure, strength, and elasticity. As collagen and elastin production slows, skin begins to lose its structural stability. Gravity takes its toll, and the skin around the eyes, mouth, and neck may begin to sag. Additionally, several internal and external factors can cause skin to show signs of aging including pollution, hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. ⁽¹⁾ However, there are non-surgical treatments to address these issues that are conveniently designed to minimize patient downtime.

If you are struggling with facial skin laxity, wrinkles, and fine lines, Sofwave™ is a safe, effective treatment for all skin types. It uses ultrasound energy to heat the skin, stimulating collagen and tightening your skin. The treatment improves your skin without the risks associated with incisions and anesthesia. It can:

Eliminate fine lines
Decrease the appearance of wrinkles
Lift the skin around the eyes
Improve the chin and neck
Lift the eyebrows
Reduce cellulite
Improve the appearance of acne scars

The SUPERB System

Studies show that ultrasonic energy can penetrate deeper than other non-surgical treatments, such as radiofrequency (RF) and lasers. ⁽²⁾ Sofwave™ applies ultrasonic energy to the skin to trigger the production of collagen. It does so by producing heat. The Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam SUPERB™ is the latest advancement in ultrasonic technology, allowing energy to penetrate the deepest layers of the skin, where it is needed most. Sofwave™ is also designed with Sofcool™ technology which cools the upper skin layers while the ultrasonic waves treat the lower layers, for ultimate comfort.

Non-Invasive Eyelid Lift

Sofwave™ can provide a non-invasive eyelid lift if you are experiencing sagging skin in the upper or lower eyelids. While Sofwave can help improve overall skin quality and reduce fine lines and wrinkles in the periorbital area (around the eyes), it may not provide the same level of correction or address specific anatomical issues targeted by blepharoplasty. However, for individuals seeking non-surgical alternatives or those with mild to moderate concerns about skin laxity, wrinkles, or texture around the eyes, Sofwave may offer a non-invasive option to improve the appearance of the periorbital area without the need for surgery or downtime.

Sofwave™ Benefits

After a Sofwave™ treatment, you can enjoy more youthful-looking skin. The benefits of Sofwave™ also include the following:

Non-invasive face & neck rejuvenation
Stimulated collagen and elastin production
Enhanced skin elasticity
Fast treatment
Zero downtime
Long-lasting results

Sofwave™ is also safe for all skin tones and types. In the past, people with darker skin tones were more susceptible to damage from ultrasonic and laser treatments. Sofwave™ is specifically designed to be a safe treatment for people with more melanin in their skin.

Candidates for Sofwave

If you are seeking a nonsurgical treatment without downtime for mild to moderate skin laxity, wrinkles, and fine lines you are likely a good candidate for Sofwave™. However, you may not be the best candidate if you recently received dermal fillers, such as Juvéderm, Restylane, or Bellafill. If you have used retinoid creams in the last six months, we may need to delay your treatment. If, during your initial consultation, Dr. Phelps determines this is not the best treatment for you based on your medical history, then our team can recommend alternative treatments for the best results. If you have a skin infection, scarring, a pacemaker, or electronic implants that could be affected by ultrasonic energy, Dr. Phelps will likely recommend one of our corresponding procedures.

Personal Consultation

Your journey toward achieving your desired aesthetic goals begins with a one-on-one personal consultation with our experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Paul Phelps. During your consultation, Dr. Phelps will ask you to provide details about your medical history. He will also review the best treatment options after a thorough physical examination of your skin’s properties. He may recommend that you receive more than one treatment to help you meet your goals.

To learn more about how our corresponding procedures can reduce signs of aging and help you restore your appearance, see our blog.

Preparation

To prepare for your treatment, you will need to stop using retinoids for at least six months before your treatment. Retinoids change the composition of your skin, often resulting in a thicker top layer. ⁽³⁾ If you are thinking about receiving dermal fillers, you will also need to delay your filler appointments. You should stop taking blood thinners for at least two weeks before your procedure. When you arrive at the office, wear comfortable clothes and come with a clean face that is product-free. You will need to take good care of your skin for the best results.

Sofwave Procedure

Sofwave™ is completely non-invasive. The treatment itself involves applying a specialized handheld device to the treated area. Dr. Phelps will apply ultrasonic energy to penetrate the deep layers of the skin and trigger new collagen and elastin production. You will feel some warmth when he applies the device, but Sofcool™ technology is an integrated cooling system that will keep your skin comfortable throughout the process. The procedure takes approximately 30-40 minutes and you can return home immediately afterward.

Sofwave™ Recovery

Sofwave™ does not require any downtime, and you can return to your daily routine right away. Although side effects are rare, some patients occasionally experience discomfort, discoloration, or bruising after treatment. If this occurs, contact our office immediately for assistance. After your treatment, you will see the longest-lasting results if you take good care of your skin. Wearing SPF, limiting sun exposure, and staying hydrated will prolong the anti-aging effects and help your skin heal due to the collagen production process the treatment stimulates.

Results

After a Sofwave™ treatment, you will notice a visible reduction in sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines. Depending on where you receive the treatment, your face and neck will also be tighter and more firm. You will look more awake, and the reduction of wrinkles will have an anti-aging effect that will improve your overall facial expressions. If you use makeup or skin care products, you will not need to work around wrinkles or worry that lines will alter your appearance. You can enjoy smoother, more youthful skin in just one treatment.

Corresponding Procedures

Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids. During eyelid surgery, we can remove the skin from the upper or lower eyelids depending on your needs. During an upper blepharoplasty, Dr. Phelps makes a small incision above the eyelid to remove excess skin and fat and reposition the delicate muscles surrounding the eye. During a lower blepharoplasty, he makes a small incision on the inside of the lower eyelid to remove excess fat pads and skin. A quad blepharoplasty includes both the upper and lower eyelid, which may be an option to address multiple concerns.

Brow Lift

A brow lift is a surgical procedure for patients who have deep wrinkles that can only be reversed by repositioning the skin on the forehead. This procedure is best for patients who have moderate to severe skin sagging in this area. During the procedure, Dr. Phelps makes a small incision along the hairline to reposition and remove excess skin. After a brow lift, you will look younger, more awake, and brighter due to the reduction of a furrowed brow that is so common with age. The treatment is long-lasting, and the best option for correcting severe brow sagging.

Face and Neck Lift

A face and neck lift is a combined surgical procedure during which Dr. Phelps makes a discreet incision around the ear and along the hairline, readjusting the skin and underlying structures on your face and neck to eliminate wrinkles and lines. This is best for patients who are experiencing moderate to severe wrinkles that are too severe to be corrected with non-invasive skin-tightening methods.

Cost of Sofwave™ in Chicago

The cost of your Sofwave™ treatment will depend on your goals and the size of the treatment area, which will be determined after your personal consultation. Contact our office or call (312) 888-5754 to get started.

FAQ

Are there any side effects associated with Sofwave™?

Sofwave ultrasonic skin tightening is a generally safe procedure with minimal side effects. Common side effects may include mild redness, swelling, or sensitivity in the treated area, which usually subside within a few days.

Is Sofwave™ safe?

Yes, Sofwave™ is a well-tolerated FDA-cleared treatment. Since the treatment is nonsurgical, it comes with fewer risks than surgical procedures that would require anesthesia. There is also no risk of scarring because the treatment does not require incisions or sutures. You will not need to undergo the lengthy recovery process of surgical procedures which can be time-consuming and require time away from work and activities you love.

Are there any age restrictions for Sofwave™?

Sofwave is a versatile treatment suitable for a wide range of ages. While there are no specific age restrictions, the ideal candidate is generally experiencing signs of aging such as sagging skin, reduced skin elasticity, wrinkles, and fine lines.

How long do the results of Sofwave™ ultrasonic skin tightening last?

The longevity of the results from Sofwave ultrasonic skin tightening can vary from patient to patient based on individual factors. However, with proper skincare maintenance and a healthy lifestyle, many patients enjoy their results for years after their initial treatment.

References

Ganceviciene R, Liakou AI, Theodoridis A, Makrantonaki E, Zouboulis CC. Skin anti-aging strategies. Dermato-Endocrinology. 2012;4(3):308-319. doi:https://doi.org/10.4161/derm.22804
Khan U, Khalid N. A Systematic Review of the Clinical Efficacy of Micro-Focused Ultrasound Treatment for Skin Rejuvenation and Tightening. Cureus. Published online December 4, 2021. doi:https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.20163
Mehta-Ambalal SR. Neocollagenesis and Neoelastinogenesis: From the Laboratory to the Clinic. Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery. 2016;9(3):145-151. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-2077.191645