Ulthera Prime and Sofwave both use ultrasound, but they deliver it at different depths and for slightly different goals. Here is how they compare, and what you can book at Dernia in Myeongdong.
Ulthera Prime is a focused ultrasound (HIFU) device with real-time imaging that treats several depths, including the deep SMAS support layer, for a lifting effect that commonly lasts about a year. Sofwave uses parallel ultrasound beams at a single shallow depth in the mid-dermis, aiming mainly at skin tightening and fine lines, and is often described as more comfortable. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not currently offer Sofwave. Ulthera Prime starts from ₩390,000 for 100 lines and ₩1,390,000 for a 400-line full face (KRW, excluding 10% VAT); ask at consultation about alternatives.
Prices are in Korean won, exclude 10% VAT and are confirmed by a doctor at consultation.
Ulthera Prime vs Sofwave: the key difference is depth
Both treatments use ultrasound energy to heat tissue beneath the skin and stimulate collagen, without needles or incisions. What sets them apart is where that heat goes. Ulthera Prime focuses energy at several depths, including the SMAS, the firm layer that supports the face. Sofwave places heat in a band at a single, shallower depth in the mid-dermis, where the skin's own collagen sits.
That makes Ulthera Prime more of a lifting treatment and Sofwave more of a skin-tightening treatment. Please note that Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not currently offer Sofwave. We explain it here in general terms so you can compare. If Sofwave was on your list, ask at consultation about alternatives such as Ulthera Prime or Thermage FLX. For an overview of all devices, see Korean lifting treatments explained.
How does Ulthera Prime work?
Ulthera Prime is the latest Ultherapy system. It uses transducers set to different depths, commonly around 4.5 mm for the SMAS, 3.0 mm for the deep dermis and 1.5 mm for more superficial skin. Its key feature is real-time ultrasound imaging: the doctor sees the tissue layers on screen before placing each line, which helps deliver energy precisely and avoid bone or thin areas. Results develop over two to three months and commonly last about a year. Read more on the Ulthera Prime page.
How does Sofwave work?
Sofwave sends multiple parallel ultrasound beams into the skin at once, heating a cylinder-shaped zone in the mid-dermis at a fixed depth of roughly one and a half millimeters. Built-in cooling protects the surface. Because it does not target the deeper SMAS, it is mainly used to improve fine lines, crepiness and skin firmness rather than to lift heavier tissue. It is usually performed as a single session, with results developing over the following months.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Ulthera Prime | Sofwave |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | Micro-focused ultrasound (HIFU) | Parallel-beam ultrasound |
| Depth | Multiple depths, up to the SMAS | Single shallow mid-dermal depth |
| Imaging | Real-time ultrasound imaging | No real-time imaging of layers |
| Main goal | Lifting jawline, brows, under-chin | Skin tightening, fine lines |
| Comfort | Can be intense over bone | Often described as more comfortable |
| Downtime | None to minimal | None to minimal |
| At Dernia | Offered | Not currently offered |
Which gives better results?
It depends on what you want to change. If your main concern is heaviness along the jawline, early jowls, a lower brow or fullness under the chin, treating the deeper support layer with Ulthera Prime is usually the more logical approach. If your concern is mainly crepey texture or fine lines with good underlying support, a dermal tightener is the more targeted option. At Dernia, Thermage FLX is our dermal tightening alternative.
Many faces have both deeper laxity and surface crepiness. In that case, a doctor may suggest combining a deep lifter with a skin tightener. See combining Thermage and Ulthera and Thermage FLX vs Ulthera Prime.
Typical Ulthera timelines are on the Ulthera Prime results page. No energy device replaces surgery for heavy sagging.
With Ulthera Prime, some people notice a slight firming soon after treatment, but the main lift develops gradually over two to three months as new collagen forms. Because that peak usually arrives after you are home, take photos in the same light before treatment and again at one, three and six months. Sun protection, stable weight and good sleep all help results last.
Comfort: which hurts more?
Ulthera is known for being one of the more intense lifting treatments, because energy reaches deep tissue near bone. People often describe a deep, prickling heat or ache, especially along the jawline and forehead. Numbing cream is applied, and the doctor can adjust energy, spacing and depth to your comfort. Sofwave is often described as more comfortable thanks to its shallower depth and surface cooling, though sensations vary from person to person.
What happens on Ulthera Prime treatment day
- English consultation. A licensed doctor examines your face, explains whether lifting or tightening suits you better and agrees the number of lines and price.
- Cleansing and numbing. Numbing cream is applied for about 30–40 minutes.
- Mapping and imaging. Treatment zones are marked and the doctor checks tissue layers on screen.
- Treatment. Lines are placed at the planned depths. You can ask for a pause at any time.
- Soothing. Gel is removed, the skin is calmed, and you receive written aftercare in English.
Who is a good candidate?
Usually a good fit
- Mild to moderate sagging along the jaw, cheeks or brows
- Early jowls or a softening jawline
- People who want a single, no-downtime session
- Visitors who prefer to see results build after returning home
Talk to the doctor first
- Very thin faces with little fat
- Heavy sagging or excess skin
- Pregnancy, active infection or open wounds
- Recent filler or threads in the treatment area
Is it safe? Risks and side effects
Ulthera has been used for many years and is considered low risk in trained hands. Common, temporary effects include redness, mild swelling and tenderness for a few days. Less commonly, small bruises, welts in a line pattern, or temporary numbness or tingling can occur. Rarely, temporary nerve weakness or unwanted fat loss may happen if energy is placed too deep in thin areas, which is why imaging and a doctor's planning matter. Shallow ultrasound devices in general can cause temporary redness, swelling and tenderness. Contact the clinic promptly if you notice persistent numbness, weakness, blistering or worsening pain.
How much does ultrasound lifting cost in Seoul (2026)?
Dernia does not offer Sofwave, so we do not quote a price for it. Generally, Sofwave pricing depends on the areas treated and consumable costs. These are Dernia's 2026 prices for Ulthera Prime:
| Plan | Typical coverage | Price (KRW) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 lines | One target area, such as brows or under the chin | ₩390,000 |
| 300 lines | Lower face and jawline | ₩1,090,000 |
| 400 lines | Full face | ₩1,390,000 |
| 600 lines | Full face, under the chin and neck | ₩1,990,000 |
Prices exclude 10% VAT. The tourist VAT refund on cosmetic procedures ended on January 1, 2026. See the Ulthera Prime price page.
Planning ultrasound lifting around your Seoul trip
- Book ahead. Tell us your dates and concerns via the consultation form; if you were considering Sofwave, mention it so a doctor can suggest alternatives.
- Avoid your arrival day. Treat on day two or later.
- Getting here. Dernia is near Myeongdong Station (Line 4) and Euljiro 1-ga Station (Line 2).
- Flying home. Ulthera leaves no wounds, so most people can fly the next day.
After Ulthera: jaw tenderness can last a few days. Avoid saunas, very hot baths and intense workouts for a day or two, and use sunscreen daily. See our aftercare guide for more.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dernia offer Sofwave?
No, Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not currently offer Sofwave. A doctor can discuss alternatives such as Ulthera Prime or Thermage FLX at consultation.
Is Sofwave a type of HIFU?
Sofwave uses ultrasound, but with parallel beams at a single shallow depth, rather than the micro-focused points at multiple depths used by HIFU devices like Ulthera.
Which is better for jowls?
Jowls usually involve deeper tissue, so a lifter that reaches the SMAS, such as Ulthera Prime, is often more suitable. Your doctor will confirm after examining you.
How long does Ulthera Prime last?
Results commonly last about a year or longer, depending on age, skin and lifestyle. Many people repeat it yearly.
How much is Ulthera Prime at Dernia?
Ulthera Prime starts from ₩390,000 for 100 lines, and a 400-line full face is ₩1,390,000, excluding 10% VAT.
Does Ulthera hurt?
It can feel intense over bone, but numbing cream is used and the doctor adjusts settings to your comfort.
Considering ultrasound lifting in Seoul?
Share your concerns and travel dates. A doctor examines your face in person, explains which option suits you in English and confirms your plan and price before treatment.
Book a consultation View 2026 pricesRelated reading
This article is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation. Results vary between individuals, and suitability, treatment plan and final price are confirmed by a licensed doctor after an in-person examination. Dernia Clinic Myeongdong does not publish patient testimonials or before-and-after claims.