Sofwave vs. Ulthera: Why Sofwave Is the Safer, More Comfortable, and More Effective Choice

Ultrasound skin tightening treatments are designed to lift, firm, and stimulate collagen without surgery. Two of the most recognized options are Sofwave™ and Ulthera®. While both use ultrasound technology, they differ significantly in comfort, safety, treatment consistency, and overall results.

Understanding these differences explains why many clinics and patients are choosing Sofwave as the preferred option.

How the Technologies Differ

Ulthera

Ulthera uses high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) that delivers energy in small, deep focal points, reaching down to the SMAS layer.

• Energy is delivered as single dots

• Requires multiple dots to connect into lines for effective lifting

• Highly dependent on technician skill and precision

• Inconsistent energy placement can reduce results

  
  

Sofwave

Sofwave uses SUPERB™ (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam) technology, delivering uniform energy at an optimal mid-dermal depth, where collagen production is most active.

• Larger treatment head

• Heats a broader, evenly distributed area

• Does not rely on connecting individual dots

• Produces more consistent and reliable results

Depth: Deeper Is Not Always Better

While Ulthera targets deeper tissue, clinical studies show that effective skin lifting does not require energy to penetrate as deeply as Ulthera delivers.

• Collagen responsible for skin firmness primarily resides in the mid-dermis

• Excessively deep energy increases discomfort without improving outcomes

• Deeper penetration mainly results in more pain, not better lifting

Sofwave focuses precisely on the depth that matters most: maximizing collagen stimulation while minimizing unnecessary tissue trauma.

Comfort & Safety

Ulthera

• Painful

• Often requires pain medication or nerve blocks

• Higher risk of discomfort-related side effects

• No built-in skin cooling, increasing risk of burns or blisters

Sofwave

• Significantly more comfortable

• Integrated contact cooling protects the skin surface

• Lower risk of burns, blisters, or overheating

• Minimal redness or swelling

• No downtime

  
  

This advanced cooling system makes Sofwave a safer choice, especially for patients with sensitive skin.

Results & Recovery

Both treatments stimulate collagen gradually, with results improving over 3–6 months. However:

• Ulthera often comes with more swelling, soreness, and recovery time

• Sofwave delivers visible tightening with minimal discomfort and no downtime

Patients can return to daily activities immediately after Sofwave treatment.

Conclusion

Sofwave offers clear advantages over Ulthera:

✔ Less pain

✔ Safer with built-in cooling

✔ Lower risk of burns or blisters

✔ More consistent energy delivery

✔ Larger treatment area = better collagen stimulation

✔ More predictable, natural results

✔ No downtime

For most patients, Sofwave delivers better overall outcomes without the discomfort and risks associated with deep HIFU treatments.

Book a Consultation

If you’re considering non-surgical skin tightening, our team will assess your skin and recommend the safest and most effective option for your goals.

📞 604-233-0878

📍 Reviva Laser Skin Clinic at 150B – 8220 Lansdowne Road, Richmond, BC