A comprehensive record of Sofwave and sound wave treatments at secret Dermatology in South Korea: The pain is indeed intense, but when I saw my jawline return to its original position after the treatment, it was absolutely worth it.

Secret Sofwave Ultrasound Face Lifting + Sofwave Full Record: The pain is indeed intense, but when I saw my jawline return to its original position after the treatment, it was all worth it.

Hello everyone, I’m Xiaomei. I just returned from Seoul last week. This time, I didn’t go there to eat barbecue or shop around in Hongdae; instead, I underwent a treatment that I had been thinking about for over half a year – the combination of HIFU and Sofwave. To be honest, I kept regretting it during the flight, thinking, “What am I doing? Spending money just to suffer…” But when I saw the results after the treatment, I have to say it was worth it.

In this article, I will detail the entire process of undergoing ultrasonic resurfacing and Sofwave treatment at Secret Dermatology, including pre-treatment consultations, my personal experiences during the procedures, cost estimates, as well as post-treatment care and the timeline for observing results. I hope this information will be helpful to anyone who is considering such treatments.

💉 What is Secret’s Sofwave Lifting treatment in Dermatology? What are the benefits of using it in combination with Sofwave?

Before we start, let me briefly explain what HIFU and Sofwave are. Otherwise, you might end up in the same confusion as I did at first – not having any idea what exactly was being done.

HIFU, whose official name is High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound, works by using ultrasonic waves to create heat coagulation points in the deeper layers of the skin. This process stimulates the contraction of the SMAS layer, thereby achieving a tightening effect. In simple terms, it uses ultrasonic waves to “heat and tighten” your face from the inside out. Sounds a bit scary, right? But the results are indeed very noticeable.

The HIFU is primarily designed to target deep-layer tissues and address the issue of sagging contours. On the other hand, Sofwave is a new type of ultrasonic lifting technology. Its ultrasonic frequency and penetration depth differ from those of traditional HIFU devices. The ultrasonic energy emitted by Sofwave is delivered parallelly into the dermis, allowing for more precise localized tightening. As a result, the recovery period after the procedure is also shorter.

During the pre-operative consultation, the director of secret Dermatology told me that the combination of HIFU and Sofwave is currently their most recommended treatment option. The reason is simple: HIFU is used for deep lifting of the overall facial contours, while Sofwave focuses on fine-tuning specific areas. Together, these two techniques provide comprehensive treatment from the inside out. After the procedure, the face will feel as if it has been “lifted upward” rather than “shrunk inward”, and the results will look natural, without any signs of artificial plastic surgery.

When it comes to the equipment at secret Dermatology, I really need to mention it specifically. On the 5th floor, there are 13 separate treatment rooms, equipped with 2 HIFU machines, 2 ONDA devices, 2 Thermage systems, and 2 Potenza devices – a truly ample supply of equipment. During treatments, there is no need to wait in line for a machine to become available, so the entire process is very smooth. Moreover, each treatment room is independent, ensuring complete privacy for patients.

✨ A true record of the experience during Sofwave and Sofwave treatments at secret Dermatology in South Korea

Alright, the big moment is here. I know what everyone really wants to know is how much pain it actually causes.

I have read many articles online. Some people say it feels like being burned by a hot pen, while others describe it as being snapped by a rubber band. I must say that everyone’s experience is indeed very different. But my own real feeling is this: the first half was still tolerable, but when it reached the lower jaw and neck area, I really almost sat up in bed.

The process is roughly as follows:

The first step is to cleanse and remove makeup. The nurse will help you thoroughly remove all the makeup and sunscreen from your face, ensuring that the ultrasonic energy can be transmitted correctly.

The second step is to apply an anesthetic. At secret Dermatology, patients are usually treated with an anesthetic ointment for approximately 30 minutes; some clinics use a 20-minute application time. The longer duration here is likely intended to minimize any discomfort felt by the patients.

The third step is the 3D skin examination before the procedure. I was really impressed by this! They have a set of 3D skin examination equipment that can scan the condition of each layer of your skin. The director will use this data to determine the appropriate depth and energy level for the treatment. Not every clinic offers this service, but secret Dermatology makes it a standard part of their process. After the examination, the director told me that my fascia layer had begun to sag slightly and recommended using a 4.5-mm probe for the HIFU treatment, while focusing on the Nasolabial Fold Correction and the chin contour with the Sofwave.

Step four: the actual treatment. During the HIFU procedure, the probe will come into contact with your face, and you will feel a warm, stinging sensation penetrating deep into your skin. During the first round of treatments, the pain was relatively mild, ranging around 3 to 4 on a scale of 10. However, when the treatment reached the area near the jawline and neck, the pain intensity suddenly increased to 7 to 8 on the same scale. It’s like someone was using a red-hot needle to poke at your face repeatedly, and the heat kept accumulating. The nurse provided me with a pressure ball to hold during the treatment, and I must say that I almost crushed it in my hands.

After the HIFU treatment, I rested for about 10 minutes before moving on to the Sofwave session. To be honest, the discomfort caused by the Sofwave was much lower than that of the HIFU – it was only around 2 to 3 on the pain scale. Instead of a sharp stinging sensation, it felt more like a gentle, even warmth. The entire treatment took approximately 15 minutes. The director explained that the Sofwave acts at the dermal layer, helping to stimulate the regeneration of Collagen and also providing a localized tightening effect.

The entire procedure, from lying down to the completion, took approximately 2 and a half hours. Right after it was over, my face was red and slightly swollen, but there was no such gruesome sight as raw flesh. The nurse applied a calming mask to my face, and after resting for about 20 minutes, most of the redness had subsided.

💰 Costs of secret HIFU + Sofwave treatments and their conversion into Taiwanese dollars

The cost is undoubtedly the aspect that everyone cares most about. The charging method for medical aesthetics in South Korea is different from that in Taiwan. Most clinics charge based on the number of injections administered, and the number of injections required varies depending on the area and depth of treatment.

According to the information I have gathered, the cost of using the HIFU at secret’s Dermatology department for the entire face and neck ranges from approximately 1.2 million to 1.5 million Korean won. The specific fee depends on an individual’s skin condition and the treatment plan chosen. If Sofwave is used in combination, the cost for Sofwave alone is around 800,000 to 1 million Korean won. When both treatments are performed together, many clinics offer a combined discount, with the total cost typically falling between 1.8 million and 2.2 million Korean won.

Based on the current exchange rate (approximately 24 New Taiwan dollars per 10,000 South Korean won), the cost of a full-face HIFU treatment ranges from 28,800 to 36,000 New Taiwan dollars, while a Sofwave treatment costs around 19,200 to 24,000 New Taiwan dollars. If both treatments are performed together, the total cost would be approximately 43,000 to 53,000 New Taiwan dollars. Of course, this is just a rough estimate; the actual fee will depend on the assessment results provided by secret Dermatology.

Some people might think that this price is higher than that in Taiwan, but I would like to point out that the medical beauty equipment in South Korea is updated very frequently. Secret Dermatology uses only original, high-end equipment, and the treatments are performed by three experienced directors themselves, making the cost-performance ratio quite favorable. Moreover, the medical beauty industry in South Korea is highly competitive, and clinics have strict requirements for equipment maintenance and operational skills, ensuring a higher quality of services.

If you want to save money while ensuring that you are getting genuine equipment, you can make an appointment through the BeautsGO platform. There are usually some promotional activities available, and the clinics listed on the platform have all been verified, so you can rest assured.

🗓️ Secret Dermatology’s Postoperative Care and Results Timeline

After undergoing ultrasonic lifting and Sofwave treatment, it is important to understand that the final results will not be visible immediately. Everyone should be mentally prepared for this.

On days 1 to 3, your face may experience mild swelling and redness, and you might feel a slight soreness when touched. During these days, it is absolutely essential not to apply ice packs or heat packs; simply allow your face to recover naturally. When washing your face, be gentle and avoid rubbing too hard. From my personal experience, the swelling is usually most noticeable on day 2, and it begins to subside significantly by day 3.

Week 1: During this phase, the main goal is to reduce swelling, so the facial shape will appear more natural than on the day of the surgery. However, it is still far from achieving the final result. At this time, it is essential to avoid strenuous exercise, as well as visiting steam rooms or saunas, since high temperatures can undermine the effectiveness of ultrasonic treatments. In terms of skincare, keeping the skin hydrated and protecting it from the sun are of utmost importance. I recommend choosing moisturizers with simple ingredients and sunscreens with an SPF of at least 50.

Week 2 to Week 4: During this period, you will begin to notice initial results from the lifting treatments. Your jawline will become more defined, and your facial contours will seem to lift slightly. However, the effects at this stage are not yet stable. It is recommended to continue to maintain proper hydration and sun protection, and avoid excessive facial massage.

From the 1st to the 3rd month: This is the critical period for Collagen production. The principle of ultrasonic therapy is to stimulate the deep tissues of the skin to repair themselves, thereby promoting the generation of new Collagen. Therefore, the effects become apparent gradually. According to secret Dermatology, most patients will notice noticeable tightening results 1 to 3 months after the treatment; their facial contours will become clearer, and the jawline will become more defined.

From the 3rd to the 6th month: This period is the stage when the effects become stable and are most noticeable. From my personal experience, around 2 and a half months after the procedure, friends around me started asking if I had lost weight. In fact, my weight hadn’t changed at all, but the contours of my face simply looked tighter. This is precisely the magic of HIFU combined with Sofwave.

In addition, the three-layer HIFU treatment offered by secret Dermatology is also an excellent aid for post-operative care. The principle behind this treatment is to inject Filler in multiple layers at different depths within the dermis, which helps the skin retain moisture and recover more effectively after HIFU treatment. Its effect lasts for approximately 5 months, making it more long-lasting than conventional HIFU treatments. If administered one month after HIFU, it can further enhance the lifting effects achieved by the procedure.

👥 Who is suitable for undergoing HIFU treatment at secret Dermatology?

Although the effects of HIFU and Sofwave are quite good, not everyone is suitable for them. The director of secret Dermatology specifically emphasized this during my pre-treatment consultation.

Suitable candidates for HIFU treatment:

Firstly, those whose facial contours have become noticeably sagging. If you notice that your chin line is no longer distinct, that your face looks rounder than it did when you were younger, or that your Nasolabial Fold Correction and Marionette Line Correction have become more pronounced, these are all issues that can be improved through HIFU.

Secondly, those whose skin elasticity has decreased. As people age, the loss of Collagen in the skin leads to reduced elasticity. HIFU can stimulate the production of new Collagen, helping to restore the skin’s firmness.

Thirdly, those who do not want to undergo surgery but still desire to achieve lifting effects. Compared to facelift surgeries, HIFU is a non-invasive procedure that does not require incisions, and the recovery period is also shorter. Although the results are not as long-lasting as those achieved through surgery, it represents an excellent option for those who prefer to avoid surgical interventions.

Groups who are not suitable for HIFU treatment:

Firstly, pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding. The energy emitted by ultrasound may have an impact on the fetus or baby, so it is not recommended to undergo this treatment during these periods.

Secondly, those with inflamed or infected facial areas should wait until the condition has healed before proceeding. If you have pimples that are inflamed, eczema flaring up, or skin wounds, it is recommended to wait until these issues have resolved before undergoing any cosmetic procedures.

Thirdly, individuals with metal implants in their bodies. If you have a pacemaker or any other metal implant, ultrasound may interfere with the functioning of these devices, so it is essential to inform your doctor in advance.

Fourth, those who are sensitive to heat. Some people are naturally more sensitive to heat, and undergoing HIFU treatment may cause adverse reactions in them.

❓ FAQ on Common Issues Related to Ultrasound Face Lifting at Secret Dermatology

Q1: Which one has better effects, HIFU or Sofwave?

A: The principles and effects of the two methods differ significantly, making them suitable for different needs. HIFU primarily targets the deep fascia layer, providing comprehensive results and being ideal for those who wish to improve the overall sagging of their facial contours. Sofwave, on the other hand, focuses on more precise localized tightening, making it perfect for addressing details such as Nasolabial Fold Correction and fine lines around the eyes. Secret Dermatology generally recommends using both methods in combination for optimal lifting results.

Q2: Can I wear makeup after HIFU treatment?

A: It is recommended not to wear makeup within 24 hours after the procedure, to give the skin time to rest and recover. After 24 hours, you can resume wearing makeup normally, but it is advisable to choose products with mild ingredients and avoid those containing irritating substances.

Q3: How long does the effect of HIFU last?

A: According to secret Dermatology, the effects of HIFU generally last for 12 to 18 months. The specific duration may vary depending on an individual’s physical condition, lifestyle habits, and post-treatment care. To maintain the best results, it is recommended to undergo a maintenance treatment once a year after the procedure.

Q4: Are there any dietary restrictions after ultrasonic face lifting?

A: It is recommended to avoid spicy and irritating foods, as well as alcohol, within one week after the procedure. Spicy foods and alcohol may exacerbate facial swelling and inflammation, hindering the recovery process. It is advisable to consume more foods rich in vitamin C and protein, which can help with the synthesis of Collagen.

Q5: Can I exercise after undergoing HIFU treatment?

A: It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise within 3 days after the procedure, as physical activity can accelerate blood circulation and potentially exacerbate the swelling in the face. After 3 days, you can resume light exercise, but it is advisable to choose low-intensity activities and avoid high-intensity training.

Q6: Why choose to undergo Lifting in South Korea instead of Taiwan?

A: South Korea is one of the countries with the most advanced medical aesthetics industries in the world. The equipment is updated rapidly, and physicians possess relatively rich clinical experience. Secret Dermatology, located in Gangnam District, Seoul, is one of the premier destinations for medical aesthetics treatments in South Korea, offering top-notch facilities and technologies. Additionally, Secret Dermatology is equipped with 3D skin analysis systems that allow patients to clearly see the results of their treatments. It is worth mentioning that appointments at Secret Dermatology are available on Sundays, which is particularly convenient for busy professionals with limited time.

Q7: How long does it take to see the results after ultrasonic face lifting?

A: Most people begin to notice significant tightening effects 1 to 3 months after the procedure, with the results reaching their peak 3 to 6 months later. Some individuals may experience initial improvements immediately after the surgery, but these are usually temporary due to swelling. The actual effects only become apparent once the Collagen has had sufficient time to regenerate.

Well, the above is a detailed record of my experience undergoing ultrasonic lifting and Sofwave treatment at secret Dermatology.

To be honest, the pain during the procedure is real—and it’s by no means something you can easily ignore. But when you see your jawline slowly returning to its original position and your facial contours becoming increasingly defined day by day, that feeling will truly make you forget how much pain it was at first.

If you are considering undergoing HIFU or Sofwave treatment, it is recommended that you first consult with the experts at secret Dermatology for a pre-treatment consultation. Let the director provide you with professional advice based on the condition of your skin. Under no circumstances should you simply choose a clinic based on its price alone – after all, you only have one face, and the quality of the equipment and the experience of the doctor are truly crucial factors.

I hope this article is helpful to you who are still considering the topic. See you next time!

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