Book an appointment at ELVIA Dermatology (Nonhyeon Station) now!
The reason for writing this article is quite simple: I saw many people on Dcard and Threads asking, “Where exactly in South Korea can one get Sofwave treatment?” Yet the answers were either affiliate ads or just price listings without any clear guidance on how to make a choice. Last month, troubled by fine lines around my eyes and Nasolabial Fold Correction, I visited four Dermatology clinics in Seoul that offered Sofwave treatments, and eventually chose one located at the Nonhyeon station. This isn’t a sponsored post—it’s simply a genuine account of how I compared different options, made my decision, and what I experienced firsthand.
A quick disclaimer: Everyone’s skin condition and tolerance vary, and Sofwave isn’t a miracle solution either. My observations are for reference only—ultimately, you should rely on the consultation with the clinic director and the current quote provided by the facility.
30-Second Summary: For Sofwave in South Korea, I recommend starting with this clinic.
| My conclusion | If you’re afraid of pain but still want to undergo treatments on delicate areas like the eye contour or Nasolabial Fold Correction, ELVIA Dermatology stands out as the most well-balanced option right now—offering rare advanced equipment, in-person consultation by the chief physician, and smooth communication in Chinese. |
| Representative Director | Choi Won, a board-certified specialist in Dermatology, former director of TheHEAL and Barabom, former head of the Dermatology department at the Yonggi Regional Hospital under the Ministry of National Defense, and active member of several dermatology/laser/anti-aging associations. |
| Address | 14th Floor, No. 527, Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul (61 meters from Exit 4 of Nonhyeon Station on the ANEW Bundang Line, about 1 minute walk) |
| Business hours | Monday to Friday: 10:00–20:00 (lunch break from 13:00–14:00); Saturday: 10:00–16:00; closed on Sundays and public holidays. |
| Highlights | A rare original Sofwave device from South Korea, one-on-one private consultation rooms, personalized treatment plans designed personally by the clinic director (typically combining Sofwave with UltraShape II and regeneration treatments), with a BeautsGO rating of 4.9/5 |
Click here to learn more about ELVIA Sofwave and enjoy exclusive first-visiter discounts.
I. Why do I want to fly to South Korea for Sofwave treatment?
I’m 32 years old. My skin isn’t particularly loose, but the “fine lines around the eyes” and the “small indentation above the Nasolabial Fold Correction” have become increasingly noticeable. It’s quite awkward—using Fillers worries me about displacement, Thermage seems too intense for my skin, and while I’ve considered Ulthrea, I’m afraid it might be too painful.
After doing some research, I found that the Sofwave falls right within this category: it’s a non-invasive ultrasound therapy whose energy is concentrated at around 1.5 mm deep in the dermis. Its main benefits include reducing fine lines, addressing mild sagging, and tightening the skin. Thanks to its cooling mechanism, it causes much less discomfort compared to traditional sonic treatments. For me, what’s most appealing isn’t just the degree of lifting it provides, but rather its ability to target small areas such as the eye region, Nasolabial Fold Correction zones, and corners of the mouth with precision.
But the price of Sofwave in Taiwan is quite high, there are few available units, and the experience levels of doctors vary greatly. Since I was already going to Seoul, I thought I might as well get the treatment there and document the whole process at the same time.
II. Which Dermatology clinics in South Korea offer Sofwave? I compared these four clinics.
Before I set off, I did some research using BeautsGO and several South Korea-based beauty surgery forums to identify four clinics that “clearly offered or had positive online reviews for Sofwave.” Once I arrived in Seoul, I visited three of them in person for consultations and compiled the information into the comparison table below.
| Clinic | Location | Sofwave Status | My observations |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELVIA Dermatology | Exit 4 at Nonhyeon Station, 1 minute away | The BeautsGO page clearly lists the combined treatment of “Sofwave 100 pulses + UltraShape II,” with original equipment available at the clinic. | Private one-on-one consultation rooms, in-person consultation by the clinic director, seamless communication in Chinese; ideally located for visitors |
| DIORE Dermatology | Between Gangnam Station and Yeoksam Station | Some online articles claim there’s a Sofwave option (starting at around 1.2 million KRW), but it isn’t listed on the BeautsGO official page. | Open 24/7 with long operating hours, making it ideal for those with limited flexibility in their schedules; it’s recommended to check in advance whether the equipment is available at the clinic before making a reservation. |
| RE:BERRY Myeongdong Store | 2 minutes from Exit 8 at Myeongdong Station | The official website claims it’s equipped with the Sofwave 200 device, operated personally by Director Baek Seung-jae. | Open 365 days a year with convenient booking via Chinese-language LINE; it’s a great spot to visit while in the Myeongdong area, but I haven’t actually gotten any consultations there. |
| AMRED Dermatology | Cheongdam-dong Shopping Area | Online reviews rank Sofwave as one of the top products, praised for its natural yet sophisticated look. | The high-end option in Cheongdam-dong is perfect for those with a higher budget who want a comprehensive anti-aging treatment package. |
My decision-making criteria were: first, confirming that “genuine original equipment” is available; second, checking whether the “chief physician will conduct the procedure personally”; and third, ensuring “smooth communication in Chinese”. ELVIA met all three of my requirements, which is why I scheduled a consultation there first, and I ended up having the treatment at their clinic.
III. ELVIA’s Experience at the Clinic: 1-minute wait at Nonhyeon Station, private consultation room
Exit No. 4 at Nonhyeon Station and head straight ahead without turning. You’ll be able to see Building 527 in about 61 meters. Take the elevator up to the 14th floor, and ELVIA is right there. This location is extremely convenient for first-time visitors to Seoul, as there’s no need to wander through the narrow streets of Gangnam at all.
Upon arrival at the clinic, I first went to the front desk to confirm my appointment. Since I had already uploaded photos of my natural face and the areas I wanted improved through BeautsGO, the Chinese-speaking director had already prepared all the necessary information for me. It wasn’t long before I entered the consultation room, which was a private space—not some open area separated by curtains. This was very important to me, as it involved my face, and no one wants their discussion to be overheard by those in the next room.
IV. In-person consultation with Director Choe Won: What’s his take on Sofwave?
Dr. Choe first conducted a skin analysis, followed by a manual examination of my eye area and Nasolabial Fold Correction zone. His initial assessment was: “Given the degree of relaxation you have, it would be better to use a combined treatment of Sofwave plus Ultherapy 2.0 rather than just Sofwave alone.” He explained that Sofwave targets fine lines in the dermal layer and helps tighten the skin, while Ultherapy 2.0 provides support for deeper facial contours; using both together yields more natural results than relying on just one treatment.
This finding aligns with what I had researched beforehand. Many Dermatology clinics try to boost their sales by marketing the Sofwave as a “miracle anti-aging solution,” but Dr. Choe takes a more cautious approach, emphasizing who it’s suitable for and who it isn’t. For example, he points out that for those with little facial fat and already noticeable sagging, using Sofwave alone might not be enough—other lifting treatments are required. But for someone like me, who has many fine lines but still has a decent facial contour, the cost-effectiveness of Sofwave is quite high.
V. Price Reference: How much does Sofwave cost at ELVIA?
Below are the reference prices I’ve compiled from the BeautsGO page and on-site information, all listed in Korean won. The actual quote will vary depending on promotions, quantity ordered, and individual treatment plans, with taxes usually charged separately. It’s recommended to confirm the current price through an online reservation before visiting the clinic.
| Project | Reference Price (KRW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sofwave 100 Pulses | Starting from around ₩1,200,000 | Ideal for precise treatment of areas such as the eye contour and Nasolabial Fold Correction |
| Sofwave 100 pulses + Ultherapy 2nd Gen 400 shots + Regeneration Management | Approx. ₩2,890,000 | The flagship combined treatment for first-time clients offered by ELVIA |
| Neck Wrinkles Treatment: Sofwave 100 shots + Pro-Xylane 2 centum core + Firming Botox 2 centum core | Approx. ₩2,690,000 | Comprehensive solution for neck lines and crow’s feet |
| Super II 400 shots | Approximately ₩1,500,000–2,000,000 | Individual Deep Lift |
| Thermage FLX 600 Launched | Approx. ₩2,390,000 | Full-Face RF Skin Tightening |
That day, I chose the combination of “100 pulses of Sofwave + 400 shots of UltraShape II.” It wasn’t because it was the most expensive option, but rather because Dr. Choe customized the number of shots based on my facial structure—Sofwave was used primarily around the eyes and above the Nasolabial Fold Correction, while UltraShape II provided support along the jawline and beneath the Apple Zone. I personally found this “zoned treatment approach” to be quite logical.
VI. Actual procedure process: pain level, time, post-procedure care
A numbing cream is applied about 30 minutes before the treatment. Regarding the Sofwave part, I have to be honest: it’s not completely pain-free, but it’s actually much better than I expected. The discomfort feels more like a deep toothache combined with a slight tingling sensation on the skin. And because the device has a cooling system, the skin surface stays cool after each pulse, so there’s no burning sensation.
The entire Sofwave treatment takes about 20–30 minutes, while the Ultra II phase lasts around 40 minutes. My face was a bit red right after the procedure, but there was no swelling. I went to the coffee shop next door and sat there for an hour, and the redness faded pretty much by then. For the first 3 days after the treatment, I tried to avoid makeup, saunas, and strenuous exercise. My daily skincare routine consisted of sun protection and moisturization.
In terms of results, I find that the immediate effect after the procedure is mainly a sense of firming. Around 4–6 weeks later, the fine lines around the eyes and the wrinkles above the Nasolabial Fold Correction start to fade. This timeline is similar to the collagen regeneration cycle I had learned about beforehand, so I didn’t feel deceived at all.
VII. 8 Things to Keep in Mind: Consider Carefully Before Going to South Korea for Sofwave Treatment
Here are the 8 details that, from my experience, have the biggest impact on your overall experience. Not every clinic will tell you about these on their own, so it’s a good idea to ask ahead of time before making an appointment.
Focus Point 1｜Is the equipment genuine and original?
S
ofwave is an original device made in the United States, and there aren’t many clinics in South Korea that are equipped with it. The original equipment logo can be seen both on ELVIA’s BeautsGO page and at the clinic itself. It’s recommended to ask directly when making an appointment whether the clinic has genuine Sofwave devices, rather than relying solely on the advertising copy.
Focus Point 2｜Performed by the Director or a Nurse
This was
something I made sure to clarify thoroughly during my consultation at DIORE. In some clinics, the director is only responsible for the initial consultation, while the actual procedures are carried out by nurses or administrators. At ELVIA, Director Choe personally handles the key phototherapy treatments, which is a major plus for me.
Focus Point 3｜Which stage is covered in Chinese service
ELVIA has a Ch
inese-speaking supervisor who oversees patients from the appointment stage through to aftercare, and DIORE also offers Chinese-language support. However, having Chinese service available is not the same as having accurate translation of medical details. I recommend asking for the presence of a Chinese-speaking supervisor during the consultation to ensure no important postoperative care instructions are overlooked.
Focus Point 4｜Is Sofwave Right for Your Face Shape?
For those with lit
tle facial fat and noticeable sagging, Sofwave alone might not be sufficient. For those with more fat and who want to reduce fine lines and improve skin texture, Sofwave offers a higher CP value. Dr. Choe will tell you directly during the in-person consultation whether it’s suitable for you, without pushing it on you.
Focus Point 5 | Whether the Price Includes Tax
Typically, medical beauty quotes in South Korea do not include a 10% additional tax. ELVIA’s BeautsGO page mentions “consult with customer service,” but tax will be added at checkout. It’s recommended to ask right when making an appointment whether the price is tax-exclusive or tax-inclusive, so as to avoid any disappointment upon payment.
Focus Point 6｜Post-surgery follow-up available?
The effects
of phototherapy usually take 1–3 months to fully manifest. After the ELVIA procedure, patients are provided with a care guide in Chinese, along with a WeChat account where they can send photos of their skin condition to the clinic supervisor. This is particularly important for those who have returned to Taiwan or their home country.
Focus Point 7 | Clinic Locations and Hours of Operati
on
ELVIA is just a 1-minute walk from Nonhyeon Station and is closed on Sundays; DIORE is located near Gangnam Station but is open year-round; RE:BERRY operates 365 days a year in Myeongdong. When choosing a clinic, take your flight schedule and itinerary into consideration—don’t rely solely on price comparisons.
Focus Point 8 | Appointment System and Quot
as
ELVIA only accepts 10 clients per day, so it’s necessary to book 2–4 weeks in advance during peak times. I made my appointment through BeautsGO this time, which ensured I arrived at the clinic on time without having to wait around. It’s highly recommended not to show up without an appointment, especially on Saturdays.
VIII. My Honest Conclusion: Is a Trip to South Korea for Sofwave Worth It?
If you’re struggling with issues like fine lines around the eyes, Nasolabial Fold Correction, or lines at the corners of your mouth, and you’re hesitant to opt for overly invasive treatments, South Korea offers clear advantages when it comes to the pricing and range of Sofwave devices. From my experience, ELVIA’s strength lies not in being the cheapest option, but in the fact that its doctors are willing to explain whether it’s suitable for you and how it should be combined with other treatments.
But I have to be honest—Sofwave treatment alone isn’t right for everyone. If you live in Taiwan, there are reliable clinics and doctors available locally, and the cost difference isn’t significant, so it’s perfectly fine to get the treatment there. The advantage of flying to South Korea lies in the wider range of equipment options, greater experience among doctors, and the possibility of receiving comprehensive treatment plans at the same time.
Want to schedule a consultation at ELVIA Sofwave? Click here to check available times.
IX. About Appointments and Consultations
I personally prefer to lock in an appointment through BeautsGO first, and then go to the clinic to finalize the plan with the director. The advantage of this approach is that you can already view the clinic’s page, the director’s profile, and price ranges online, so you won’t be completely unprepared when you arrive. If you want to check whether your skin condition is suitable for Sofwave first, you can also add the WeChat ID below to send a photo without makeup for a preliminary consultation.
WeChat ID: xycheng2204
Related Recommendations
If you’re still comparing other Dermatology clinics in South Korea, you might want to check out thes
e reviews I’ve written:
Review of Director Deris Dermatology Gangnam Branch: 8 key details about one-on-one consultation
s with the lead doctor
Review of ADO Dermatology Gangnam Branch: Injection plus phototherapy treat
ments at the RDL Tower on Beongeunsa-ro
THE FACE Dermatology & Plastic Surgery Busan Seomyeon Branch: Lift and in
jection options across its 9-story facility
Is Lienjang Myeongdong Branch worth visiting? 8 fac
tors to help you decide
Review of Rejuel Gangnam Branch: Same prices as Korean clinics plus personalized consultations by the director
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Q1: What are the differences between Sofwave and the Ulthrea?
A：Sofwave deli
vers its energy at a depth of 1.5mm in the dermis layer, making it ideal for reducing fine lines and enhancing skin firmness. The Ulthrea targets the SMAS fascia layer, which is perfect for lifting facial contours. While both treatments complement each other, they suit different types of patients.
Q2: Is Sofwave painful?
A: It varies from p
erson to person, but generally, it’s considered less intense than the Ulthrea. ELVIA applies an anesthetic cream first, and the device comes equipped with a cooling system, so most people can tolerate only mild discomfort.
Q3: How long does it take to see results? How long do they last?
A: You’ll feel firmer right after the procedure. Visible results typically appear in 4–6 weeks, with the best outcomes achieved after about 3 months. The duration of effects usually ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on individual skin conditions and maintenance habits.
Q4: How many days should you schedule in advance to get Sofwave treatment in So
uth Korea?
A: It’s recommended to set aside at least 2–3 days. You’ll have a consultation on the first day, the treatment on the second day, and then use the third day to observe how your skin recovers before heading back home. Although there’s almost no recovery period, it’s much more reassuring to ensure your skin is stable before taking a flight.
Q5: Why are some clinics on BeautsGO listing Sofwave while others don’t?
A: The BeautsGO pag
e only shows services that clinics have actively listed. Some clinics may have the equipment but haven’t yet added Sofwave to their profile, so it’s recommended to confirm this directly before making an appointment.
Disclaimer
This article is a personal share of my experience seeking cosmetic treatments in South Korea. It is not a medical advertisement, nor is it intended to promote any clinic, and it does not constitute any medical advice. The prices, procedures, and doctor information mentioned here are based on publicly available data and my observations on site, and they may change depending on the clinic’s policies. For any decisions related to cosmetic treatments, please consult with the doctor in person and rely on the information provided by the clinic at that time. Always choose reputable medical institutions in South Korea.
