As we age, the production of the structural skin proteins collagen and elastin begins to decrease, leading to decreased skin elasticity and increased skin laxity, emphasizing fine lines, wrinkles, and cellulite. Increased skin laxity often affects many body areas, including the lower face, jawline, jowls, eyes, neck, decolletage, arms, legs, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs. Loose skin on the face and body can lead many patients to seek an anti-aging skin-tightening treatment. Many patients think that an invasive surgical facelift performed by a plastic surgeon is required to improve these signs of aging. However, non-invasive skin-tightening procedures can be a non-surgical facelift to reduce skin laxity for tighter, more youthful-looking skin. Dr. Michele Green in New York City is an expert cosmetic dermatologist who often uses non-invasive skin-tightening procedures to help her patients achieve tighter, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

Sofwave and Ultherapy are two FDA-approved skin tightening procedures that provide patients with smooth, firm, evenly textured skin in a single treatment. These non-invasive procedures provide similar results but differ in their treatment depths, with Sofwave only going 1.5 mm deep. At the same time, Ultherapy shoots energy 1.5, 3, and 4.5 mm deep, affecting the dermis and deeper layers of the skin. Both Sofwave and Ultherapy provide patients with long-lasting results without downtime or risk of significant side effects, making the procedures easier to access than surgical facelifts. To find the best treatment option, you can schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Green, who will generate the individualized treatment plan to suit your needs best.

Experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green has been masterfully treating patients in her Upper East Side New York City dermatology office for more than 25 years. An expert in a wide range of cosmetic and medical treatments, including Sofwave, Ultherapy, Botox, dermal fillers, Chemical Peels, Microneedling, and more, Dr. Green is well-known for creating unique treatment plans for each patient. Frequently recognized for high patient satisfaction, Dr. Green has been voted one of New York City’s best dermatologists by publications such as Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and The New York Times.

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What is Sofwave treatment?

The Sofwave treatment is an FDA-cleared skin-tightening procedure that utilizes Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB) to help patients achieve a more youthful appearance. This treatment is safe for all skin types and tones and can be used on the face as well as the body. During the procedure, the Sofwave device delivers ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis, heating the skin to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which tightens the skin. To enhance patient comfort, the Sofwave device includes built-in cooling technology that protects the skin’s surface. A topical anesthetic is often applied to improve comfort throughout the treatment further. After the procedure, patients may experience minor redness, but there is usually no downtime, allowing them to return to their daily routines quickly. Results typically begin to appear within 3 to 6 months as collagen production increases, and the effects are expected to last up to two years. Many patients opt for maintenance treatments once a year to maintain their desired results.

Is Sofwave FDA-approved?

Yes! During clinical trials, Sofwave was found to be safe and effective at tightening the skin, leading to its approval by the FDA. The treatment received its first FDA approval in 2019 for tightening the skin and minimizing fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck. Since then, the treatment has been approved for more indications, including cellulite on the thighs and skin tightening on the upper arms.

Can you use Sofwave for face and jowl skin tightening?

Yes! Sofwave can be performed on the full face as well as the neck and submental area to rejuvenate the skin and tighten sagging jowls. One of the many benefits of Sofwave is its ability to tighten the skin of the face and jowls by stimulating collagen production. In just one treatment, the ultrasound energy heats the dermis, prompting new collagen to form. This tightens the skin and lifts the jowls. When you consult with Dr. Green regarding your skin laxity and sagging jowls, she will evaluate the skin and develop an individualized treatment plan, including non-invasive procedures, such as Sofwave, that will give you the aesthetic results you desire.

Does Sofwave hurt?

The Sofwave treatment has some discomfort associated with it from the heat generated during the procedure. To minimize discomfort, the Sofwave is equipped with an integrated cooling system called Sofcool™. The cooling technology protects the outer layer of the skin while the ultrasound energy penetrates to the proper treatment depth. Additionally, many providers will apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area prior to the procedure. With topical numbing cream, there is minimal patient discomfort, and the procedure is well tolerated. Patients may be pink for a few minutes following the procedure; otherwise, there is no downtime following Sofwave.

Is Sofwave a laser?

While Sofwave is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure for skin tightening, it is technically not a laser. Laser treatments harness light energy to rejuvenate the skin, while Sofwave uses ultrasound energy from high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves heat the dermis, where collagen is found. The generated heat promotes collagen production, tightening the skin in the treatment area.

How much does Sofwave cost?

The cost of Sofwave treatment depends on various factors, including your geographic location, the type of institution you receive treatment, and the area being treated. The Sofwave treatment will be more expensive in metropolitan areas such as NYC than in other geographic locations. The area being treated also plays a role in determining the total cost of the procedure, as treating a larger surface area will likely increase the price. Additionally, Sofwave treatment may be more costly at a board-certified dermatologist’s office than at a Medspa, where a nurse or aesthetician may be performing the treatment. While institutions such as MedSpas may have special offers that make treatment less expensive, the procedure may not be as effective or safe as receiving the treatment from a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green. It is always recommended to see a board-certified dermatologist to avoid any adverse side effects or complications. Ultimately, when you consult with Dr. Michele Green, she will evaluate the treatment area and create a tailored treatment plan that caters to your particular needs. The precise cost of your treatment can be determined at this time.

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What is Ulthera treatment?

Ultherapy, also known as Ulthera, is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment designed to tighten the skin on the face, neck, legs, and upper arms. This procedure utilizes ultrasound energy to stimulate the production of new collagen in the treated areas. By replenishing collagen levels, Ultherapy helps achieve a more youthful and naturally refreshed appearance. The treatment involves a specialized applicator that delivers micro-focused ultrasound energy to the deeper layers of tissue while keeping the surface of the skin unharmed, resulting in zero downtime and minimal side effects. At the beginning of the treatment, an ultrasound gel is applied to the skin at the specific treatment areas and delivers ultrasound energy to the dermis. One of the advantages of Ultherapy is that it allows for real-time ultrasound imaging during the procedure, enabling the provider to visualize each layer of tissue for a more precise and effective treatment. Results from the procedure typically become visible within 3 to 6 months, as new collagen production develops gradually over time. The effects can last for up to two years, and many patients opt for annual maintenance treatments to sustain their best results.

Is Ulterapy a laser?

No. Similarly to Sofwave, Ultherapy is not a laser. It is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that delivers ultrasound energy, not laser light, to the dermal layer to rejuvenate the skin.

Where can you use Ultherapy?

Ultherapy can be used to treat skin laxity in many different areas, including the face, neck, chest, legs, and arms. With its ultrasound technology, Ultherapy does not cause any harm to the skin, making it an excellent option for tightening and firming the skin.

Sofwave vs Ultherapy

Sofwave and Ultherapy are both skin-tightening procedures that use ultrasound technology to promote new collagen production. Neither treatment is inherently better than the other, as each has unique benefits and downsides. Sofwave and Ultherapy primarily differ in their treatment depth. Sofwave focuses the ultrasound energy at a depth of 1.5 mm, while Ultherapy targets 1.5 mm, 3 mm, and 4.5 mm. Sofwave only stimulates collagen production in the dermis, while Ultherapy also targets the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS). When the SMAS is heated with ultrasound energy, it contracts and tightens the skin further. While Ultherapy can tighten the skin in multiple ways, there are additional risks associated with it. When an inexperienced provider, such as an aesthetician at a med spa, performs the treatment, there is an increased risk that the energy from the Ultherapy treatment can penetrate the fat under the skin and break it down. The loss of fat can lead to a hollow, sunken appearance. This risk is minimized when an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, performs the skin-tightening procedure. When you consult with Dr. Michele Green in her boutique dermatology office, she will develop a customized treatment plan that provides you with natural-looking, aesthetic results.

What other treatment options are available for skin tightening?

Sofwave vs Thermage FLX

Sofwave and Thermage are both excellent non-invasive skin-tightening treatments that aim to stimulate collagen production to firm and tighten the skin. Sofwave utilizes SUPERB (Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology) to heat the dermal layer of the skin and stimulate collagen production. There is no downtime or side effects associated with treatment, and patients typically begin to see visible results three to six months later. As Sofwave can last for up to two years, patients often engage in annual maintenance sessions to keep optimal results from treatment.

Thermage is considered to be the gold standard for skin tightening thanks to its ability to produce tighter, more youthful-looking skin with long-lasting results. Thermage utilizes radiofrequency energy to stimulate the production of new collagen in the dermis. Thermage FLX, the newest generation of Thermage lasers, has additional AccuREP technology, allowing for more precise delivery of radiofrequency energy. Thermage FLX is additionally equipped with a larger treatment tip, allowing for faster treatment times, greater heating of the dermis, and increased production of collagen. After just one treatment session, patients can look forward to long-lasting results for up to two years with no downtime or side effects. Thermage results are typically visible two to three months after treatments, and it is recommended to have annual treatment sessions to maintain and enhance results.

For patients looking to improve skin laxity, Dr. Green often recommends Thermage over Sofwave. Sofwave has only been FDA-cleared to treat the face, neck, upper arms, and cellulite, while Thermage is FDA-cleared to treat the face, neck, decolletage, upper arms, hands, knees, buttocks, legs, and abdomen. Thermage’s radiofrequency energy can also penetrate deeper into the skin than Sofwave’s ultrasound energy, allowing for increased effectiveness and collagen production with Thermage treatment. Thermage is safe and effective for patients of all skin types and tones, and as such, it is Dr. Green’s go-to treatment for non-surgical skin tightening.

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Sofwave vs Microneedling

Regarding skin rejuvenation, neither treatment is inherently better than the other. While Sofwave and Microneedling both tighten skin and stimulate collagen production, they are unique in their modality and have perks that make them better suited for different individuals. Sofwave is better for widespread skin tightening treatment and has long-lasting results after one treatment session. Microneedling, on the other hand, is often used on smaller areas but can treat acne scars, fine lines, stretch marks, large pores, and hyperpigmentation on top of tightening the skin. While microneedling is more versatile, it often requires a series of treatments to see optimal results, while Sofwave often only requires one treatment. Sofwave has no associated downtime, while microneedling can have redness, swelling, or flaking for a few days following the procedure. Ultimately, if you are unsure which skin rejuvenation treatment you want to pursue, you should consult a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. Dr. Green has been using non-invasive treatments like Sofwave and microneedling in her private dermatology office to provide patients with youthful, natural-looking results without invasive surgery for over 25 years.

Sofwave versus Vivace

Vivace is an innovative treatment that combines microneedling and radiofrequency energy to improve skin elasticity, tone, and texture. The Vivace device contains tiny, surgical-grade gold-tipped needles that create microchannels when passed along the skin, triggering the skin’s natural wound-healing process and collagen production. At the same time, radiofrequency energy is delivered to the dermis to stimulate collagen production further. Patients typically experience very mild redness after treatment, which resolves independently within 24 hours. Typically, a series of Vivace treatments four weeks apart is best to achieve optimal results.

Vivace can help minimize skin laxity and the appearance of acne scars, facial wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, pore size, and stretch marks. Sofwave, however, is only used to tighten and firm the skin. While Vivace requires multiple treatment sessions, only one Sofwave treatment is necessary to improve skin laxity. When deciding between Sofwave and Vivace, it all comes down to the skin concerns being treated — Vivace is great for patients with mild skin laxity who want to treat a variety of skin concerns, such as fine lines, pigmentation, and texture. On the other hand, Sofwave is best for patients who are solely looking to tighten their skin. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private NYC dermatology office, she will help you choose the best treatment for your skin type, tone, and concerns.

Sofwave vs Morpheus8

There are a few things to consider when deciding between Sofwave and Morpheus8 treatment. Each treatment can be beneficial, and depending on your needs and aesthetic goals, one may be the better option. Sofwave is an ultrasound-based skin-tightening treatment that stimulates collagen production in the dermis. It is a non-invasive procedure and has no associated downtime. The results from Sofwave take 3 to 6 months to appear and last up to two years after the initial treatment, making it a long-term skin rejuvenation solution. Morpheus8 is a minimally invasive radiofrequency microneedling treatment that improves skin texture by minimizing wrinkles and enhancing skin tightness. The micro-injuries caused by the tiny, surgical-grade needles stimulate the wound-healing process and collagen production. The radiofrequency energy simultaneously heats the dermal layer of the skin, boosting the body’s natural production of collagen. The results from Morpheus8 are visible soon after treatment and can last around 12 months, making it an effective and efficient option for skin rejuvenation.

Both Sofwave and Morpheus8 treatments are safe and effective for any skin type and tone. Sofwave requires one treatment with results lasting up to two years, while Morpheus 8 requires a series of treatments to obtain results for one to two years. Results from Sofwave are typically visible three to six months after treatment, while results with Morpheus 8 can be visible immediately after each treatment. Additionally, Sofwave penetrates the skin at a depth of about 1.5mm, while Morpheus 8 can penetrate up to 4mm deep. The best way to determine which treatment is most suitable for you is to seek the guidance of an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green. At your initial consultation with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your facial structure and discuss your needs and desires, creating a personalized skin rejuvenation treatment plan that is tailored to you.

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Sofwave vs HIFU

HIFU and Sofwave are two different non-surgical cosmetic procedures for skin-tightening. HIFU is an acronym that stands for high-intensity focused ultrasound. It is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure similar to Sofwave, relying on ultrasound energy to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area. Sofwave and HIFU can be used for skin-tightening on the face, neck, and decolletage. However, HIFU and Sofwave differ in a couple of key ways. While Sofwave focuses on delivering higher energy parallel ultrasound waves at a depth of 1.5mm, HIFU delivers focused energy up to a depth of 4.5mm to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Because the energy converges to target deeper tissue, the top layer of skin is left undamaged. As anti-aging treatments, both Sofwave and HIFU can last up to 1-2 years and can continue to firm up your skin for months after your treatment. Both treatments are safe and effective when performed by an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, so if you are ready to treat your skin laxity, then it is time to consult with Dr. Michele Green.

Sofwave vs. Surgical Facelift

Patients interested in skin tightening around their face and neck must decide whether to receive a noninvasive treatment or a surgical facelift. There are key differences between Sofwave, a noninvasive skin tightening procedure, and a surgical facelift, including the potential results,  side effects, downtime, and cost. Sofwave, while tightening the skin and improving mild to moderate skin laxity, has temporary results lasting up to two years. On the other hand, a surgical facelift can dramatically improve skin laxity for 10-15 years but is an invasive procedure with extensive downtime and risk of severe side effects. Surgical facelifts can, however, help to address severe skin laxity and excess skin that cannot be treated with non-invasive procedures like Sofwave. Ultimately, the best treatment depends on the severity of the skin laxity and the patient’s desired improvement. When you consult with Dr. Michele Green in her private dermatology office regarding skin-tightening, she will evaluate the treatment area. She will discuss the best treatment option for your desired facial rejuvenation. If you are experiencing severe skin laxity and excess skin, Dr. Green will refer you to a trusted plastic surgeon for a surgical facelift consultation.

Is Sofwave better than Ultherapy?

Sofwave and Ultherapy are both skin-tightening treatments that utilize ultrasound waves to heat the dermis, stimulating collagen production, which tightens the skin. Neither treatment is inherently better than the other. Rather, Dr. Green will help you choose the skin-tightening treatment option that is best for you. The key difference between Sofwave and Ulthery is in their treatment depths. Sofwave focuses the ultrasound energy at the 1.5 mm depth, while Ultherapy targets 1.5 mm, 3 mm, and 4.5 mm depth. The 1.5 mm depth is the superficial dermis, while the 3 mm depth is the deep dermis; finally, the 4.5 mm depth is where the superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is found. Collagen is primarily found in the dermis, allowing both Sofwave and Ultherapy to promote new production as they generate heat there. When the SMAS layer is heated, the energy strengthens the SMAS to tighten the skin further. While Ultherapy’s deeper penetration can have added skin tightness if performed incorrectly by an inexperienced provider, Ultherapy can heat and destroy fat within the treatment area. Fat loss can result in a sunken or aged appearance. To avoid adverse effects such as fat loss, it is vital to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, for any skin tightening procedures. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of NYC, she will develop a treatment plan that caters to your aesthetic needs and goals.

How long do Sofwave results last?

Sofwave treatment produces long-lasting skin-tightening results; however, they are not permanent. While individual results may vary, most patients observe that the cosmetic effects of their Sofwave treatment last one year, with many patients enjoying the results for up to two years. Since the effects of Sofwave take some time to become visible following treatment, most patients engage in regular maintenance treatment sessions every year to keep up the best cosmetic results. By electing to undergo maintenance treatment sessions at regular intervals, patients can maintain a smooth, firm, tight, and more youthful appearance without the need for invasive cosmetic surgery.

Does Sofwave really work?

Yes! Sofwave is a safe and effective treatment for patients with mild to moderate skin aging, which can manifest as fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity. During Sofwave treatment, ultrasound energy is shot 1.5 mm into the superficial dermis. The energy heats the treatment area, encouraging collagen production, which leads to tighter skin. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading to increased skin laxity and fine lines — by promoting new production, Sofwave treatment can reverse these signs of aging for smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.

How to get started with skin tightening today?

Collagen and elastin are structural proteins naturally found in the body that keep the skin smooth, firm, tight, and youthful-looking. As we age, the body’s natural production of these proteins decreases, leading to increased skin laxity that can emphasize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and cellulite. Luckily, there are skin-tightening treatment options available that do not require any surgery or downtime, including Sofwave, Ultherapy, and Thermage FLX. Most often, Dr. Green will turn to Thermage FLX, which is considered the gold standard for skin tightening due to its ability to be used anywhere on the body, low risk of discomfort during treatment, and long-lasting results. To find out which treatment option is best for you, schedule your initial consultation with expert board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy, creating customized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. If you are concerned with skin laxity and are interested in learning more about skin tightening treatment options, consult with expert Dr. Michele Green for a customized skin rejuvenation treatment plan. Contact the office today or call 212 535 3088 to book an appointment with Dr. Michele Green.

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