As we age, the skin gradually loses collagen and elastin—the structural proteins responsible for firmness and elasticity. This process can lead to skin laxity, fine lines, and loss of definition in areas like the jawline, neck, and brows.
Today, many patients want solutions that can restore firmness and lift the skin without surgery or downtime.
One of our favorite technologies designed to address this need is Sofwave, an advanced ultrasound treatment that stimulates the body’s natural collagen regeneration.
At Chicago Aesthetic Studio, Sofwave has become a popular option for patients looking for non-surgical skin tightening with predictable results and minimal downtime.
Contents
What Is Sofwave?
Sofwave is an FDA-cleared skin tightening treatment that uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam (SUPERB™) technology to deliver focused ultrasound energy into the mid-dermis.
This layer of the skin is where collagen production occurs, making it an ideal target for treatments designed to improve skin firmness.
Sofwave’s SUPERB™ technology delivers energy to a depth of approximately 1.5mm and generates heat in the range of 65–70°C (150–158°F) – the thermal threshold at which collagen remodeling occurs. Integrated real-time cooling simultaneously protects the skin surface throughout the treatment.
By precisely heating this layer, Sofwave stimulates the body’s natural healing response, encouraging the production of:
- New collagen
- New elastin
- Stronger skin structure
Over time, this process can help create firmer, tighter, and more youthful-looking skin.
Sofwave by the Numbers
- 40+ peer-reviewed clinical publications
- 68% average collagen increase in biopsy studies
- 33% average elastin increase in biopsy studies (Wat et al., 2022)
- 667,000+ treatments performed worldwide
Sources: Wat et al., Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2022; Sofwave clinical data.
What Areas Can Sofwave Treat?
Sofwave is used to improve skin laxity in several areas of the face and body, including:
- Eyebrows
- Jawline
- Neck
- Submental area (under the chin)
- Upper arms
- Cellulite on the thighs
Because the treatment targets the dermis while protecting the skin surface, it can be performed safely across a wide range of skin types.
Why Many Patients Choose Sofwave
Patients today often want treatments that provide visible results without surgery or extended recovery time.
Sofwave offers several advantages that make it appealing for those goals.
Non-Surgical Lifting
Sofwave stimulates collagen to gradually tighten and lift the skin without incisions or anesthesia.
Minimal Downtime
Most patients return to normal activities immediately after treatment.
Natural-Looking Results
Because Sofwave works by stimulating the body’s own collagen production, improvements develop gradually and look natural.
Precision Energy Delivery
Ultrasound technology allows energy to be delivered precisely to the dermal layer while protecting the surface of the skin.
What to Expect During a Sofwave Treatment
A typical Sofwave session takes approximately 30–45 minutes, depending on the treatment area.
During treatment:
- A handheld applicator is placed on the skin.
- Ultrasound energy is delivered into the dermis.
- Integrated cooling protects the skin surface.
Patients often describe the sensation as warm pulses with manageable discomfort.
Because Sofwave is non-invasive, most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the procedure.
When Will You See Results?
Sofwave stimulates collagen regeneration, which takes time.
Most patients begin to see improvement within 4–12 weeks, with continued results developing over 3–6 months as new collagen forms.
Many patients experience results that last 12 months or longer.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Sofwave?
Sofwave is typically recommended for patients who:
- Have mild to moderate skin laxity
- Want visible tightening without surgery
- Prefer little or no downtime
- Want to support long-term skin health through collagen regeneration
A consultation with a qualified provider can help determine whether Sofwave is the right treatment for your goals.
Sofwave Treatments at Chicago Aesthetic Studio
Sofwave is part of our comprehensive approach to non-surgical facial rejuvenation.
Many patients combine Sofwave with other treatments, such as:
- Injectables
- Regenerative treatments
- Medical-grade skincare
This approach allows us to create customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s goals.
Schedule a consultation to learn whether Sofwave may be right for you.
FAQ
How does Sofwave tighten skin?
Sofwave uses ultrasound energy to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production that helps tighten and firm the skin.
How long do Sofwave results last?
Results typically continue to improve for 3–6 months and may last 12 months or longer depending on the patient.
Is Sofwave safe?
Sofwave is FDA-cleared for several aesthetic indications and has been used in hundreds of thousands of treatments worldwide.
Is there downtime after Sofwave?
Most patients experience little to no downtime and return to normal activities immediately.
