Sofwave - Skin Tightening
Starting in our mid-20s, collagen and elastin naturally begin to break down, leading to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity.¹ Many people also notice that their skin begins to sag after rapid weight loss, as with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Sofwave™ offers a non-invasive procedure to rejuvenate and restore skin’s youthful appearance by stimulating collagen production. Using advanced Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB™), it precisely targets the mid-dermal layer to improve facial lines, soften wrinkles, and lift areas like the brows and neck. This innovative procedure provides natural, long-lasting results without surgery or downtime, making it a trusted choice for patients in Naples and Fort Myers. To further enhance skin firmness and hydration, we often recommend SkinBetter AlphaRet Body Lotion as a topical companion to Sofwave body treatments.
What is Sofwave?
Sofwave Skin Tightening is FDA cleared for remodeling collagen, which improves facial lines and wrinkles, tightens skin, and lifts the eyebrows, under chin, and neck area.
Sofwave uses synchronous ultrasound to reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as lift the eyebrows, neck and submental area (under the chin). The treatment is also helpful for jowling. It can be used on any skin type or color. As a non-invasive treatment, patients can return to their normal activities immediately following their treatment. You will walk out of our office looking the same as when you walked in.
But after 30-90 days you will see the transformation as wrinkles, lines, and folds soften and become less noticeable. Studies show that the best results are achieved with 2-3 treatments done about 6 weeks apart.
While initially approved for the face and neck, we have seen great results in other areas of the body, including arms, tummy, neck, inner thighs, and above the knee. It does not remove fat, but improves skin laxity by tightening and lifting skin in the treated area.
How does Sofwave Work?
Sofwave works by delivering advanced ultrasound energy to the mid-dermal layer of the skin, where it creates precise microthermal injuries. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, prompting the production of new collagen—an essential protein for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. As collagen regenerates, the skin becomes smoother, firmer, and more resilient. Fine lines, wrinkles, and laxity are visibly reduced, resulting in a youthful, refreshed appearance. This non-invasive treatment enhances skin tone and texture without surgery or downtime, offering natural-looking rejuvenation with minimal disruption to daily life.
Why is Collagen Important?
Collagen is an essential protein found in the skin, muscles, tendons, and hair, playing a vital role in maintaining skin strength, elasticity, and structure. In youthful skin, abundant collagen helps maintain a smooth, plump, and firm appearance. However, as we age, collagen production begins to decline—often starting in our twenties—leading to visible signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity. Environmental factors, like prolonged sun exposure, can further damage collagen fibers, accelerating the aging process. Collagen regeneration is crucial for preserving a youthful complexion, making treatments like Sofwave, which stimulate collagen production, highly effective in maintaining skin vitality and reducing the signs of aging.
Benefits of Sofwave
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Clinically proven to lift and tighten, for less sagging and smoothing of fine lines
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Non-invasive, non-surgical procedure with no downtime
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Quick treatment sessions lasting approximately 30-45 minutes
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Safe and effective for all skin types, including darker skin tones
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Suitable for year-round treatments, even after sun exposure
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Stimulates collagen regeneration for long-lasting, natural results
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Built-in cooling mechanism ensures a comfortable treatment experience while protecting the skin
Am I a Candidate for Sofwave?
Sofwave is safe and effective for all skin types and tones. Sofwave skin tightening may be right for you if your goals include:
Lift
Experience a natural-looking lift of the eyebrow area and jawline, helping you appear alert, rested, and youthful.
Tighten
Tighten sagging skin in areas like the jawline, neck, upper arms, inner thighs, abdomen, and above the knees.
Firm
Reduce signs of aging on the neck by improving skin quality, thickness, and smoothness. Achieve a softer, smoother appearance all over.
Reduce
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles and achieve a softer, smoother appearance.
Preparing for Treatment
Before your Sofwave treatment, our experienced providers will walk you through every step and address any questions you may have. To ensure your comfort during the procedure, we will call in a custom-blended topical numbing cream. You will apply the numbing cream 2 hours prior to your appointment, and again 1 hour before your appointment.
We recommend avoiding skincare treatments that could cause irritation, such as chemical peels or aggressive exfoliation, in the days leading up to your appointment.
The Sofwave Treatment Experience
Once you arrive, we will take your "Before" photos, remove the topical numbing, and get you comfortable in a reclining chair
During the 45-minute treatment we use a soft jet of super-chilled air to combat any build-up of heat from the ultrasound energy being delivered below the skin surface. Patients find the combination of numbing cream and chilled air to be perfectly comfortable - even for extended sessions (i.e., multiple areas). Using Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam SUPERB™ technology, ultrasound energy is precisely delivered through an applicator to heat the dermal layers while the SofCool™ mechanism protects the skin’s surface. This process stimulates collagen production, leading to gradual improvements over the following months. Most patients can immediately resume daily activities and skincare routines post-treatment, with no lingering effects, allowing them to drive home comfortably and safely.
Sofwave Recovery & Results
Recovery from Sofwave is quick and straightforward, with most patients resuming normal activities immediately after their treatment. While some improvements can be noticed within the first week, the full benefits emerge as collagen continues to regenerate over the next three to six months. This natural collagen renewal process enhances skin firmness, smoothness, and overall appearance. Results are long-lasting. To combat the normal collagen loss that occurs over time, we recommend annual re-treatments to continually stimulate collagen regeneration, keeping your skin as firm and smooth as possible.
More Information About Sofwave™
Skin Tightening FAQs
How is Sofwave different from other cosmetic procedures?
Sofwave stands out due to its Synchronous Ultrasound Parallel Beam Technology (SUPERB™), which delivers precise ultrasound energy to the skin’s mid-dermal layers while protecting both the healthy fat layer and the skin’s surface with its integrated SofCool™ system. This ensures effective collagen stimulation in the treatment area with minimal discomfort. Unlike more invasive procedures, Sofwave requires no social downtime, allowing patients to quickly return to their daily routines while achieving natural, long-lasting skin rejuvenation.
Is Sofwave painful?
Patients typically experience mild to moderate warmth during Sofwave treatments, but topical numbing is applied beforehand for comfort. For additional relief, we offer super-chilled air and Pro-Nox™, a patient-controlled nitrous oxide system that helps ease any discomfort.
How long does a Sofwave treatment take?
A typical Sofwave session lasts between 30 to 45 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
How many Sofwave treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies based on individual aesthetic goals. Our skilled providers will develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs during your consultation.
Can I combine Sofwave with other treatments?
Yes, Sofwave can be safely combined with other cosmetic procedures for enhanced results. During your consultation, our team will review your treatment options and customize a treatment plan designed to achieve your desired outcome.
Where can I find Sofwave near me?
Yag-Howard Dermatology, led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Cyndi Yag-Howard, offers Sofwave skin tightening to patients in Naples or the surrounding areas, including Bonita Springs. This non-invasive procedure is designed to lift and tighten skin on the face and body with minimal downtime. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Sofwave can help you achieve firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
Does Sofwave have any side effects?
Unlike cosmetic surgery procedures that address skin laxity in the face like a facelift or body contouring procedures to address skin laxity on the body, Sofwave requires no incisions or downtime. Sofwave is clinically proven to be safe and effective,³ however, as with any aesthetic treatment, some side effects may occur. Common side effects of Sofwave include mild redness or swelling, temporary tingling or sensitivity, and slight tenderness, which may last a few days but does not interfere with daily activities. Most patients tolerate the treatment well, making it a popular option for those seeking skin tightening without the risks or recovery time associated with cosmetic surgery.
Schedule Your Consultation
At Yag-Howard Cosmetic Dermatology, our MedSpa and Cosmetic consultations are complimentary. We welcome patients from Naples and Fort Myers, Florida to meet with our experienced PA esthetician, both of whom have years of expertise in helping patients achieve beautiful skin. Whether you are seeking to enhance your skin’s tone, texture, evenness, or firmness, our MedSpa treatments, including Sofwave, provide effective solutions with real benefits and lasting results.
Please call us at 239-421-4506 for a Consultation or schedule online.
¹ Plastic & Aesthetic Research. Skin collagen through the lifestages: importance for skin health and beauty. https://www.oaepublish.com/articles/2347-9264.2020.153. Accessed March 14, 2025.
² Journal of Clinical Dermatology. Efficacy and safety of high-intensity, high-frequency, non-focused ultrasound parallel beams for facial skin laxity. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38031530/. Accessed March 14, 2025.
³ Lasers in Surgery & Medicine. Vectorized facial skin tightening: A study on the Thermal Thread Technique™ utilizing high-intensity, high-frequency, parallel ultrasound beam. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/lsm.23771. Accessed March 14, 2025.
What Our Patients Say
Naomi C.
"Dr. Cyndi is so amazing. She provides the quality of care that you could expect to receive from someone who is a family member. You receive true TLC at this practice!"
