Are you considering scheduling a Sofwave treatment to beautify and rejuvenate your loose, wrinkled skin? If so, you may have questions like, “How long does Sofwave last?” and “How does this treatment compare to other similar nonsurgical treatments?” Most people can expect to enjoy their Sofwave results for up to 12 months after treatment. But how does this timeline compare to similar non-surgical skin rejuvenation procedures? Learn the answer to that question and more in this helpful guide.
Key Takeaways
- Sofwave results typically last around 12 months after a single treatment, with some clients enjoying subtle improvements beyond that as collagen continues to remodel.
- Sofwave uses SUPERB ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen and elastin in the mid-dermis, delivering gradual lifting without surgery or downtime.
- Compared to similar treatments, Sofwave offers comparable longevity to Morpheus8 and EMFace (around 12 months), while Ultherapy, Thermage, and HIFU may last slightly longer, between 18 months and 2 years.
- Annual maintenance treatments help extend Sofwave results and keep skin looking firm, lifted, and refreshed over time.
- The best non-surgical skin tightening treatment depends on your skin, your goals, and an in-person consultation with a qualified provider at SKINNEY Medspa in NYC or Miami.
Comparing Sofwave Results to 6 Popular Services
No one can maintain youthfulness forever. The body begins aging from the moment of birth. But there are ways to delay the natural effects of time on your body, especially your skin. Some people use surgical interventions like facelifts and upper eyelid surgery to combat loose, wrinkled skin.
Unfortunately, these types of treatments are costly and risky by nature. That’s why nonsurgical facial rejuvenation options like Sofwave are experiencing such a rapid rise in popularity. They’re less risky than surgery, have minimal downtime, and don’t leave unsightly scars behind.
Sofwave is an FDA-cleared device that uses ultrasound energy to create new collagen in the skin. It’s often used to tighten the skin, lift the eyebrows, neck tissue, and submental area, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It requires zero downtime and is a noninvasive alternative to a surgical facelift. But how long does Sofwave results last, especially when compared to similar treatments? Here’s how the leading-edge Sofwave device compares to five other popular minimally invasive aesthetic services.
#1 Morpheus8
Morpheus8 is a skin rejuvenating treatment that uses microneedling technology combined with radiofrequency energy. Its primary purpose is to tighten and firm the skin by increasing its elastin and collagen composition.
In addition to minimizing wrinkles and tightening the skin, Morpheus8 also corrects complexion concerns and melts stubborn subdermal fat pockets. Your provider can adjust the depth of the needles to target specific areas while leaving deeper tissues unharmed.
Sofwave vs Morpheus8
Morpheus8 is an exceptional treatment option for anyone who wants to lift, tighten, and beautify the skin of the neck and neck without scalpel incisions. Sofwave achieves the same goal using different methods. Here’s what to know about the similarities and differences between these two treatments.
Treatment
How long does Sofwave last compared to Morpheus8? Before answering that question, let’s dive into how these two treatments work. As mentioned, Sofwave sends ultrasound energy into the skin. This energy penetrates the tissue just beneath the skin’s surface and temporarily injures it.
In response to the injury, the body produces more elastin and collagen and sends them to the site to help it heal. Collagen and elastin levels can peak up to six months after treatment. When they do, you’ll see a notable difference in how tight and firm the treated areas look.
Morpheus8 also boosts elastin and collagen levels in the body. The device inserts small needles into the skin. These needles emit radiofrequency energy and create micro-injuries. The body heals these injuries with an influx of elastin, collagen, and other healing materials.
Results
Sofwave results typically take between three to six months to appear fully. However, most patients see some results within one to two weeks of treatment.
Some people notice results within a few days of Morpheus8 treatment. But the final results can take anywhere between three and four weeks to appear.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to Morpheus8?
While everyone is different, most people get to enjoy their Sofwave results for up to 12 months. Some patients continue to see subtle improvements long after that, though. This is because the collagen created by the body in response to treatment doesn’t just disappear after a year.
Morpheus8 offers similarly long-lasting results. Most patients report noticeable aesthetic improvements for up to 12 months (or longer) after treatment.
Maintenance
Doing so can help keep your collagen and elastin production high, allowing you to continue enjoying tighter, more youthful skin.
Maintenance recommendations for Morpheus8 follow a similar pattern. Most people can maintain their results with once-annual treatments, but some opt to get treatments every six to eight weeks. It really depends on each person’s individual aesthetic goals.
#2 Ultherapy
Ultherapy is another FDA-cleared device that uses ultrasound technology to improve wrinkles and reduce skin laxity. Like Sofwave and Morpheus8, it also increases the skin’s collagen content. It also penetrates and tightens the muscle tissue beneath the skin. All of these targeting aspects make this an excellent treatment for sagging, lax skin.
Sofwave vs Ultherapy
How long does Sofwave last compared to Ultherapy? This is a common question patients ask aesthetic treatment providers. Both treatments offer exceptional long-lasting results, but Ultherapy’s effects tend to last a bit longer than Sofwave’s. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two outstanding facial treatments.
Treatment
Both Sofwave and Ultherapy are noninvasive, which makes them attractive alternatives to surgical interventions. They both utilize the power of ultrasound energy waves to prompt increased collagen production in the skin.
Results
Ultherapy results typically become apparent two to six months after treatment, a timeline similar to that associated with Sofwave treatments.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to Ultherapy?
The most dramatic Sofwave results typically last up to 12 months, with some patients seeing residual effects long after that.
Ultherapy results are also impressively long-lasting. Most patients can expect to enjoy tighter, firmer skin for anywhere between one and two years after treatment.
Maintenance
Most providers recommend maintenance Sofwave treatments every year. Patients who receive Ultherapy, on the other hand, may be able to go up to two years between maintenance appointments.
#3 Thermage
Thermage is one of the most established names in non-surgical skin tightening, with millions of treatments performed worldwide since its FDA clearance. It uses monopolar radiofrequency energy to heat the deep dermis, prompting both an immediate skin-tightening effect and the production of fresh collagen in the months that follow. The result is firmer, smoother skin with no incisions and no real downtime.
Sofwave vs Thermage
Sofwave and Thermage are both non-invasive collagen-stimulation treatments, but they use very different technologies to get there. Sofwave delivers ultrasound energy into the mid-dermis using SUPERB™ parallel-beam technology, while Thermage relies entirely on radiofrequency to heat the deeper layers of the skin. Both stimulate the body’s natural healing response, and both lead to gradual, natural-looking lifting and tightening.
Treatment
Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB™) to deliver precise ultrasound energy to the mid-dermis, the layer where collagen and elastin are produced. Thermage uses monopolar radiofrequency energy at 6.78 MHz, paired with surface cooling and a comfort-pulse system that helps protect the outer layer of the skin throughout treatment. Despite the different energy types, both treatments work beneath the surface to firm and refine the skin without ablation.
Results
Most patients begin noticing initial Thermage results within a few weeks, with final results developing over three to six months as new collagen forms. The Sofwave timeline is similar, with subtle improvement often visible in the first few weeks and peak results around the three-month mark.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to Thermage?
A single Thermage session typically delivers results that last one to two years, which is part of what has made it a long-standing favorite for clients who prefer an annual treatment. Sofwave results generally last around 12 months, with many clients enjoying continued, subtle improvement beyond that as collagen finishes remodeling.
Maintenance
Most providers recommend annual Sofwave maintenance treatments to keep collagen production active and preserve your results. Thermage maintenance is typically spaced further apart, with many clients comfortable returning every one to two years for a single touch-up session.
#4 HIFU
A HIFU facial stimulates collagen by sending high-intensity focused ultrasound energy into the skin. It reduces wrinkles, tightens the skin, and improves elasticity. It’s widely regarded as an efficient, non-invasive facelift option.
Sofwave vs HIFU
Sofwave and HIFU are both very similar treatments. They both use ultrasound energy to achieve the primary goal of lifting and toning the skin. However, Sofwave uses Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology, while HIFU uses High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound.
Treatment
Before answering the question, “How long does Sofwave last compared to HIFU?” it’s important to dive deeper into how each treatment works. Sofwave heats the skin uniformly to a depth of 1.5 mm. HIFU, on the other hand, can focus its thermal energy at depths of 1.5, 3, or 4.5 mm in the skin. Additionally, Sofwave delivers heat energy more widely beneath the skin, while HIFU creates pinpoints of concentrated heat.
Results
You will likely see subtle results within days of your HIFU or Sofwave treatments. However, both treatments require up to six months for final results to become apparent.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to HIFU?
While Sofwave delivers exceptional results for up to 12 months, HIFU’s results may last up to 18 months after treatment.
Maintenance
Sofwave requires annual maintenance treatments. Patients who receive HIFU, on the other hand, may be able to wait 18 to 24 months between treatments.
#5 EMFace
EMFace is an FDA-cleared device that promotes collagen and elastin production with high-intensity facial electrical stimulation (HIFES) technology. It also utilizes radiofrequency to obtain its skin-tightening results. This treatment doesn’t just target the skin; it also sculpts the underlying muscles. This results in both wrinkle reduction and a more sculpted profile.
EMFace stimulates muscle contractions that would otherwise be difficult to achieve. It helps combat the mid-face droop that most people begin to notice around the age of 45 and older. It also promotes collagen and elastin production, which helps firm and improve facial elasticity.
Sofwave vs EMFace
It’s natural to wonder, “How long does Sofwave last compared to EMFace?” Many people want to know the answer to this question to help them choose between these two popular treatments. The good news is that you’ll likely be satisfied with the results of either treatment. Though they use differing technologies, both treatments can help smooth away wrinkles and give you a younger-looking profile.
Treatment
Sofwave treatments are noninvasive but still send heat waves into the skin that may be uncomfortable. Therefore, most providers apply a topical numbing cream to targeted areas before beginning treatment.
You won’t need numbing cream for EMFace treatments. Instead, the face must be very dry for the sticky treatment pads to adhere correctly to the skin. The sensation can be powerful but shouldn’t be painful. Most patients say it feels like an intense workout session for your face.
Results
Most patients see their final EMFace results within about 12 weeks of treatment, typically after completing a recommended series of four sessions spaced roughly 7 to 10 days apart. Sofwave follows a similar timeline, with peak results usually visible around the three-month mark as new collagen fully develops, though many clients begin noticing subtle tightening within the first few weeks. The key difference is in the protocol: EMFace requires a short, closely spaced series to reach optimal results, while Sofwave is often performed as a single session, with results building gradually over the months that follow.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to EMFace?
Like Sofwave, EMFace results typically last up to 12 months.
Maintenance
Most experts recommend annual Sofwave and EMFace maintenance treatments. However, some patients opt to schedule EMFace sessions every 3 to 6 months to achieve optimal benefits.
#6 XERF Skin Tightening
XERF is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses advanced radiofrequency (RF) energy to stimulate collagen and elastin production deep within the skin. By delivering controlled heat to multiple tissue layers, XERF helps improve skin firmness, smooth fine lines, and restore a more lifted, youthful appearance.
Unlike treatments that focus solely on the skin’s surface, XERF targets the deeper structural layers responsible for skin laxity. This approach can help address common signs of aging, including sagging along the cheeks, jawline, and neck, while enhancing overall skin quality and elasticity.
XERF is particularly beneficial for individuals beginning to notice mild to moderate skin laxity, typically in their 30s, 40s, and beyond. As collagen production naturally declines with age, XERF encourages the body’s own regenerative processes to create firmer, tighter skin over time.
Sofwave vs XERF
If you want to compare Sofwave to Xerf, you’ll find that both treatments are designed to stimulate collagen production and improve skin laxity without surgery. The difference? They use different technologies to achieve their results.
Sofwave uses ultrasound energy to target the mid-dermal layer, while XERF utilizes radiofrequency energy to heat deeper tissue layers. Both treatments can effectively improve skin firmness, soften fine lines, and create a more refreshed appearance.
Treatment
Sofwave is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound energy to heat targeted layers beneath the skin, creating a warming sensation during the procedure. Sessions are typically completed in under an hour, depending on the treatment area, and patients can return to their normal activities immediately afterward.
XERF uses advanced radiofrequency energy to deliver controlled heat to deeper layers of the skin, helping stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness. Patients often describe the treatment as a comfortable warming experience. Treatment times vary based on the areas being addressed, and there is little to no downtime following the procedure.
Results
While some patients notice an initial improvement in skin firmness shortly after treatment, XERF results continue to develop as new collagen forms over time. Most patients see optimal results within two to three months following treatment.
Depending on the degree of skin laxity and individual goals, some patients benefit from a series of treatments to achieve the best outcome.
How Long Does Sofwave Last Compared to XERF?
Results from both Sofwave and XERF can last up to 12 months or longer, depending on factors such as age, skin quality, lifestyle habits, and the body’s natural aging process.
Maintenance
Many providers recommend annual maintenance treatments with either Sofwave or XERF to help preserve collagen levels and maintain results. Some patients choose to schedule XERF treatments every six to 12 months to support ongoing skin tightening and rejuvenation.
How to Choose the Right Non-Surgical Facelift
From Sofwave and XERF to Ultherapy, Thermage, Morpheus8, EMFace, and HIFU, today’s non-surgical lifting treatments deliver real, visible results without incisions, anesthesia, or extended recovery. Each addresses skin laxity with a different technology, and the right choice depends on your skin, your goals, and your provider’s assessment of your laxity in person.
Some treatments excel at deep structural lifting, others at smoothing surface texture, and a few at sculpting the muscle and contour beneath the skin. Morpheus8, for example, combines microneedling with radiofrequency to firm skin and refine texture in one step, though the tiny needle channels may leave temporary marks that resolve as the skin heals. Sofwave and XERF, by contrast, work entirely beneath the surface, with no needles and no visible recovery.
Choosing between them often comes down to nuances that are easier to weigh in person than online. A consultation with an experienced provider helps clarify which technology, or combination of technologies, fits your skin type, your timeline, and the results you want.
Experience Sofwave and Advanced Skin Tightening at SKINNEY Medspa in NYC and Miami
At SKINNEY Medspa, we specialize in the full spectrum of advanced skin tightening technologies, including Sofwave, the new XERF multi-frequency RF device, Ultherapy, Thermage, and Morpheus8. Questions like “How long does Sofwave last?” and “Which treatment is right for me?” come up in nearly every consultation, and our team takes the time to answer them thoughtfully, building a plan around your skin, your concerns, and your lifestyle.
As a leading provider of Sofwave in NYC and Miami, we’d love to show you what gradual, natural-looking lifting can do for your skin. Call our NYC team at (212) 754-6639 or our Miami location at (305) 717-7576 to book your complimentary consultation today.
