Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave Which Lifting Is Best for You?
Compare the three most advanced non-surgical lifting technologies at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport: Thermage FLX (radiofrequency), Ultherapy Prime (micro-focused ultrasound), and Sofwave SUPERB (synchronous ultrasound). All devices under one roof, certified physicians, and 365-day availability near ICN Airport.
Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave: Which Should You Choose?
Thermage FLX uses radiofrequency (RF) to tighten skin at the dermal level, best for overall skin tightening and texture. Ultherapy Prime uses micro-focused ultrasound (HIFU) to lift the deep SMAS layer at 4.5mm, best for significant sagging and jowls. Sofwave SUPERB uses synchronous ultrasound at 1.5mm depth for mid-dermal collagen stimulation, ideal for mild-moderate laxity with minimal discomfort.
Choosing between these three leading non-surgical lifting technologies depends on your specific concerns, laxity severity, pain tolerance, and budget. At RE:BERRY Incheon Airport, all three devices are available under one roof — one of the few clinics near the airport offering this complete selection. Thermage FLX excels at volumetric tightening across large treatment areas and is the gold standard for radiofrequency-based skin firming. Ultherapy Prime is the only FDA-cleared non-invasive treatment to lift the eyebrow, chin, neck, and decolletage by targeting the SMAS fascia layer — the same anatomical layer addressed in surgical facelifts. Sofwave SUPERB represents the newest generation of ultrasound lifting, delivering synchronized energy to the mid-dermis for effective collagen renewal with significantly less discomfort than Ultherapy. Many patients achieve optimal results by combining two technologies to address different tissue depths simultaneously. Dr. Cho Sung-Jun and Dr. Kim Dong-Young are experienced with all three systems and provide personalized recommendations based on ultrasound-guided skin assessment. The clinic operates 365 days a year with no additional fees for weekend or holiday appointments.
Before & After: Lifting Treatment Results
Actual patient results from Thermage, Ultherapy, and Sofwave treatments at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport.
How to Choose Your Lifting Technology at RE:BERRY
Four-step process to determine the ideal lifting treatment for your goals.
Skin Laxity Assessment
Dr. Cho or Dr. Kim performs a detailed facial analysis, evaluating skin laxity severity, tissue thickness, fat pad position, and bone structure. Ultrasound imaging may be used to visualize subcutaneous layers and determine which depths need treatment. This assessment is critical because Thermage targets the dermis (2-3mm), Sofwave targets the mid-dermis (1.5mm), and Ultherapy targets the SMAS (3-4.5mm) — different technologies for different anatomical needs.
Technology Recommendation
Based on the assessment, the physician recommends: Ultherapy Prime for moderate-to-severe sagging (jowls, neck laxity, brow drooping), Thermage FLX for generalized skin looseness and texture concerns, or Sofwave SUPERB for mild-to-moderate laxity with preference for minimal discomfort. Combination protocols targeting multiple depths may be recommended for comprehensive rejuvenation. Pricing and expected outcomes are discussed transparently.
Treatment Session
Numbing cream applied 20-30 minutes before treatment. Session duration varies: Sofwave 30-45 minutes, Thermage FLX 45-60 minutes, Ultherapy Prime 60-90 minutes. The physician controls energy delivery in real-time, adjusting power and depth based on your comfort and tissue response. All three treatments require no incisions and no anesthesia beyond topical numbing.
Aftercare & Results Timeline
All three treatments have zero downtime — you can fly, work, or apply makeup the same day. Thermage shows immediate tightening with progressive collagen remodeling over 3-6 months. Ultherapy lifts gradually over 2-3 months with peak results at 6 months. Sofwave improvement begins at 4 weeks and continues to 12 weeks. Aftercare instructions provided in your language, with follow-up available via messaging.
When Will You See Lifting Results?
- Thermage FLX: Immediate + Progressive Noticeable tightening right after treatment due to collagen contraction. Progressive improvement over 3-6 months as new collagen forms. Results last 12-24 months.
- Ultherapy Prime: Deepest Lifting The only non-invasive technology reaching the SMAS layer at 4.5mm. Gradual lifting over 2-3 months, peak results at 6 months. The strongest structural lift of the three technologies.
- Sofwave SUPERB: Fastest Visible Results Visible improvement starting at 4 weeks with continued collagen remodeling through 12 weeks. Least painful option with integrated skin cooling. Results last 12-18 months.
- All Three: Zero Downtime Every technology allows immediate return to activities. No incisions, no bandages, no recovery period. Fly the same day after any lifting treatment.
- Combination Protocols Available RE:BERRY Incheon Airport offers multi-technology packages: Sofwave + Onda (₩1,590,000), Onda + Revinas (₩1,490,000), and custom combinations for comprehensive dual-depth lifting.
- Annual Maintenance Recommended All three technologies benefit from annual touch-up sessions. Korean pricing makes regular maintenance 40-60% more affordable than the US, Europe, or Japan.
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 0 | Thermage: immediate mild tightening visible. Ultherapy/Sofwave: no visible change yet. Mild redness resolves within hours for all three. |
| Week 2-4 | Sofwave: first visible improvement in skin firmness. Thermage: progressive tightening continues. Ultherapy: collagen rebuilding begins at SMAS level. |
| Month 2-3 | Ultherapy: lifting effect becomes visible as SMAS layer contracts. Sofwave: significant improvement visible. Thermage: continued collagen maturation. |
| Month 3-6 | All three technologies approaching peak results. Ultherapy reaches maximum lifting at 6 months. Thermage and Sofwave collagen remodeling nearing completion. |
| Month 6-12 | Stable results maintained. Skin quality, firmness, and contour remain improved. This is the optimal window for any touch-up or additional treatment. |
| Month 12-24 | Results gradually diminish as natural aging continues. Annual maintenance session recommended to sustain lifted, tightened appearance. Thermage may last up to 24 months. |
Thermage FLX vs. Ultherapy Prime vs. Sofwave SUPERB
| Feature | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy Prime | Sofwave SUPERB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radiofrequency (RF) | Micro-Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) | Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam |
| Target Depth | Dermis (2-3mm) | SMAS Layer (3-4.5mm) | Mid-Dermis (1.5mm) |
| Primary Benefit | Skin tightening & texture | Deep structural lifting | Collagen renewal & mild lifting |
| Best For | Generalized laxity, skin quality | Jowls, neck, brow drooping | Mild-moderate laxity, prevention |
| Pain Level | 3-5/10 (vibration tip) | 6-7/10 (deep energy) | 2-4/10 (integrated cooling) |
| Treatment Time | 45-60 minutes | 60-90 minutes | 30-45 minutes |
| Results Onset | Immediate + 3-6 months | 2-3 months, peak at 6 | 4-12 weeks |
| Results Duration | 12-24 months | 12-18 months | 12-18 months |
| Downtime | None | None (mild swelling possible) | None |
| FDA Cleared | ✓ | Yes (lift claim) | ✓ |
| Sessions Needed | 1 per year | 1-2 per year | 1-2 per year |
| RE:BERRY Price | Contact for pricing | From ₩490,000/100 shots | ₩990,000/100 shots |
Lifting Treatment Pricing at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport
All prices exclude VAT. April 2026 promotional pricing. No weekend surcharges.
Sofwave SUPERB 100 Shots
- 100 shots synchronous ultrasound parallel beam
- 1.5mm depth mid-dermal collagen stimulation
- Integrated cooling for comfortable treatment
- Zero downtime — fly same day
- Results visible at 4 weeks, peak at 12 weeks
Onda Coolwaves 100kJ
- 100kJ microwave energy delivery
- Face and body lifting + contouring
- Targets fat + skin tightening simultaneously
- Combine with Sofwave for Double Line-Up (₩1,590,000)
- 30-45 minute session
Double Line-Up Lifting
- Sofwave 100 shots + Onda 100kJ
- Dual-technology comprehensive lifting
- Mid-dermal + subcutaneous targeting
- Best value combination package
- 90-minute complete session
Reberry Ultimate Lifting
- Onda 100kJ + Revinas 6,000 shots
- Recovery injection included
- Maximum lifting + collagen regeneration
- Multi-layer tissue remodeling
- For moderate-severe laxity
Meet Your Doctor
Dr. Sung-Jun Cho
- Medical Director, RE:BERRY Clinic Incheon Airport
- Aesthetic Medicine Specialist
- Located minutes from Incheon International Airport
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sung-Jun Cho, Medical Director / Aesthetic Medicine Specialist, RE:BERRY
The Science Behind Three Lifting Technologies
Peer-reviewed evidence comparing radiofrequency, micro-focused ultrasound, and synchronous ultrasound beam technologies.
Thermage FLX: Radiofrequency Collagen Remodeling
Thermage FLX delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy at 6.78 MHz into the dermis and subdermis, heating collagen fibrils to 65-75 degrees Celsius. This controlled thermal injury triggers immediate collagen contraction (accounting for the visible post-treatment tightening) followed by a prolonged wound-healing response that generates new collagen and elastin over 3-6 months. The FLX generation features a larger treatment tip (4cm2 vs 3cm2) and vibration technology that reduces pain by up to 59% compared to earlier models. Clinical studies demonstrate measurable skin thickness increases of 15-25% at 6 months post-treatment. The volumetric heating pattern of RF makes Thermage particularly effective for diffuse skin laxity across the entire face.
Ultherapy Prime: SMAS-Level Micro-Focused Ultrasound
Ultherapy is the only FDA-cleared non-invasive device with a specific indication for lifting the eyebrow, submental (under-chin), and neck tissue. It delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy to create discrete thermal coagulation points (TCPs) at precisely controlled depths: 4.5mm (SMAS layer), 3.0mm (deep dermis), and 1.5mm (superficial dermis). The SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) is the same tissue layer that plastic surgeons manipulate during surgical facelifts. By creating controlled injury at this depth, Ultherapy triggers neocollagenesis and tissue contraction that produces measurable lifting. Real-time ultrasound imaging allows physicians to visualize tissue layers and place energy deposits with precision. A landmark study by Suh et al. demonstrated average eyebrow elevation of 1.7mm at 90 days post-treatment.
Sofwave SUPERB: Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam
Sofwave SUPERB technology delivers 7 parallel ultrasound beams simultaneously at a focused depth of 1.5mm in the mid-dermis. Unlike Ultherapy’s single focal point approach, Sofwave’s parallel beam architecture treats a wider area per pulse, enabling faster treatment times (30-45 minutes vs 60-90 for Ultherapy). The integrated Sofcool cooling system maintains the epidermis at safe temperatures while the 1.5mm zone reaches therapeutic temperatures of 60-70 degrees. Clinical trials show significant improvement in Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Severity Scale scores, with 88% of treated patients exhibiting measurable improvement at 12 weeks. The technology is particularly effective for patients with mild-to-moderate laxity who want meaningful results with minimal discomfort.
Combination Therapy: Multi-Depth Approach
Emerging evidence supports combining different energy-based technologies to target multiple tissue depths in a single session or sequential sessions. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy demonstrated that patients receiving dual-depth treatment (HIFU for SMAS + RF for dermis) showed 34% greater improvement in Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores compared to single-modality treatment. At RE:BERRY Incheon Airport, popular combinations include Sofwave (1.5mm) + Onda (subcutaneous fat + tightening) for the Double Line-Up Lifting package, and Revinas (collagen regeneration) + Onda for the Double Energy Lifting protocol.
References: Suh DH et al. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(12):1720-1726. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2011.02148.x | Fabi SG et al. Lasers Surg Med. 2021;53(6):816-822. doi:10.1002/lsm.23357 | Goldie K et al. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2023;25(1):45-53. doi:10.1080/14764172.2023.2178636 | Fritz M et al. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2004;114(6):1612-1620. doi:10.1097/01.PRS.0000136830.38919.37
What Patients Say About Each Lifting Technology
“I had Ultherapy at another clinic before and the pain was intense. At RE:BERRY, Dr. Cho recommended Sofwave for my mild sagging and it was so much more comfortable. I could actually relax during the treatment and the results at 6 weeks were impressive.”
“After comparing all three options during my consultation, Dr. Kim recommended the Double Line-Up Lifting with Sofwave and Onda. The combination approach addressed both my facial sagging and double chin concern. Worth the trip from Bangkok.”
“I specifically wanted Ultherapy for my neck and jowl area. RE:BERRY’s pricing was significantly better than quotes I got in Singapore and the results at 4 months are dramatic. The deep lifting is exactly what I needed.”
Thermage vs Ultherapy vs Sofwave FAQ
Expert answers comparing the three leading non-surgical lifting technologies available at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport.
100% of lifting procedures at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport are performed by Dr. Cho Sung-Jun (Medical Director) or Dr. Kim Dong-Young — never delegated to technicians.
| Aspect | RE:BERRY Incheon | High-Volume Chain |
|---|---|---|
| Who performs treatment | Named physician only | Rotating staff |
| Device certifications | All 3 FDA platforms | 1-2 typical |
| Combined procedures | 30,000+ | Varies |
100% same-physician continuity at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport from initial skin assessment through real-time energy adjustments to post-treatment aftercare. Unlike high-volume chains where 3-4 staff rotate per session, Dr. Cho Sung-Jun or Dr. Kim Dong-Young personally handles every phase of your 45-90 minute lifting treatment.
5+ device certifications per physician — Dr. Cho Sung-Jun holds official Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, Sofwave SUPERB, Onda Coolwaves, and KDLA certifications. Both RE:BERRY Incheon Airport physicians are licensed Aesthetic Medicine Specialists with 15+ combined years of non-surgical lifting experience across 30+ device platforms.
RE:BERRY Incheon Airport prices Sofwave 100 shots at ₩990,000 ($762 USD), Onda 100kJ at ₩650,000 ($500 USD), and Shurink 100 shots at ₩45,000 ($35 USD) — 40-70% below US equivalents.
| Device | RE:BERRY Price | US Average | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sofwave 100 shots | ₩990,000 ($762) | $2,500-$4,000 | 50-70% |
| Thermage FLX 600 | Consultation | $2,000-$5,000 | 40-60% |
| Ultherapy 100 shots | Consultation | $3,000-$5,000 | 50-70% |
40-70% cheaper at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport versus Western clinics — Korea performs more non-surgical lifting procedures per capita than any other country, driving prices down through volume and competition.
| Treatment | US/UK Average | Australia | RE:BERRY Korea |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sofwave Full Face | $2,500-$4,000 | AUD $3,000-$5,000 | ₩990,000 ($762) |
| Thermage 600 shots | $2,000-$5,000 | AUD $3,000-$6,000 | 40-60% less |
| Ultherapy Full Face | $3,000-$5,000 | AUD $4,000-$7,000 | 50-70% less |
₩0 extra charges — RE:BERRY Incheon Airport’s quoted prices include consultation, numbing cream, treatment, LDM aftercare, and complimentary airport pickup.
| Item | RE:BERRY | US Clinic Typical |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation | Free | $100-$300 |
| Numbing | Included | $50-$100 |
| Aftercare LDM | Included | $150+ |
| Follow-up | Free (WhatsApp) | $100+/visit |
3 distinct tissue depths — Thermage FLX heats 1-4mm full dermis with 6.78MHz radiofrequency, Ultherapy Prime targets 4.5mm SMAS layer with micro-focused ultrasound, and Sofwave concentrates at 1.5mm mid-dermis with SUPERB parallel beam. HIFU vs RF lifting comparison details these depth differences.
| Feature | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy Prime | Sofwave SUPERB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depth | 1-4mm | 4.5mm SMAS | 1.5mm |
| Energy Type | RF 6.78MHz | HIFU | SUPERB Ultrasound |
| Duration | 45-60 min | 30-45 min | 25-30 min |
| Pain Level | 3-5/10 | 6-7/10 | 2-4/10 |
| Results Last | 12-24 months | 12-24 months | 12-18 months |
RE:BERRY Incheon Airport recommends Sofwave for patients aged 30-40 with mild laxity — its 1.5mm depth provides effective collagen renewal with only 2-4/10 pain at ₩990,000 per 100 shots. Ultherapy Prime’s deeper 4.5mm penetration is typically unnecessary for early aging.
| Age/Concern | Recommended | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 30-40 mild laxity | Sofwave | Gentle, low pain, sufficient depth |
| 40-50 moderate | Ultherapy or Thermage | Deeper structural lifting needed |
| 50+ severe | Multi-device combo | All depths for comprehensive results |
Yes — 25% of RE:BERRY Incheon Airport’s premium lifting patients receive multi-device protocols combining 2-3 platforms in staged sessions. Dr. Cho Sung-Jun designs custom multi-device lifting packages targeting all tissue depths: Sofwave at 1.5mm, Thermage FLX at 1-4mm, and Ultherapy Prime at 4.5mm SMAS for maximum collagen stimulation.
RE:BERRY Incheon Airport limits to 50-75 patients per physician annually versus 300-500+ at high-volume chains, ensuring personalized 60-90 minute consultations.
| Feature | RE:BERRY (Boutique) | Large Chain Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Patients per surgeon/year | 50-75 | 300-500+ |
| Same surgeon throughout | 100% | ~40% |
| Consultation time | 60-90 min | 20-30 min |
| All 3 FDA devices in-house | Yes | 1-2 typical |
3 advantages at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport over Gangnam: complimentary ICN airport pickup (saves 90+ minutes of Seoul transit each way), 365-day availability including holidays, and identical device quality with matched pricing. Lifting near Incheon Airport offers unmatched treatment-to-gate convenience for travelers.
95% of RE:BERRY Incheon Airport’s international patients fly home the same day after lifting treatments — all three devices produce zero functional downtime with only 1-3 hours of mild redness. RE:BERRY’s Yeongjong-do location means you’re minutes from ICN departure gates with complimentary drop-off service.
1-3 hours mild redness for Sofwave (shortest recovery), 2-4 hours for Thermage FLX, and 2-6 hours for Ultherapy Prime at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport.
| Factor | Sofwave | Thermage FLX | Ultherapy Prime |
|---|---|---|---|
| Redness duration | 1-3 hours | 2-4 hours | 2-6 hours |
| Swelling | None | Minimal | Mild, 1-2 days |
| Same-day flying | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Makeup OK after | Immediately | Same day | Same day |
1 day is sufficient for any single-device lifting treatment at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport — consultation, treatment, and recovery complete within 2-4 hours. Patients frequently combine Onda Coolwaves lifting with Sofwave in a single visit. Airport layovers of 4+ hours can accommodate Shurink HIFU or Sofwave sessions.
RE:BERRY Incheon Airport provides 3-month remote follow-up via WhatsApp with Dr. Cho Sung-Jun’s team — 92% of post-treatment questions are resolved through photo assessment within 24 hours. Patients send progress photos at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 3 months for collagen development tracking across Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, or Sofwave results.
Only Authentic, Brand-Certified Equipment
Every device at RE:BERRY is MFDS-certified and manufacturer-verified. We never use counterfeit or grey-market equipment.
Ready to Compare Lifting Options In Person?
Book a free consultation at RE:BERRY Incheon Airport. Dr. Cho or Dr. Kim will assess your skin and recommend the optimal lifting technology — Thermage, Ultherapy, Sofwave, or combination. 365 days open near ICN.
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- ✓ Free consultation with our doctors
- ✓ 8-language support (EN, JA, ZH, TH, VI, MN, FA)
- ✓ Inside Incheon International Airport
- ✓ Perfect for layover treatments
- ✓ Visa / Mastercard accepted
- ✓ Current promotion pricing available