In this article
Two different technologies—and two different treatment strategiesWhy CityIR favors focused ESWTHow the technologies differDo not confuse Sofwave with SoftWaveWhat happens during a CityIR consultation?Questions worth asking before any facial-energy treatmentIs focused ESWT used for facial aesthetics?Choose a targeted, non-thermal approach
Two different technologies—and two different treatment strategies
Sofwave and focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy may sound similar, but they deliver energy in fundamentally different ways.
Sofwave uses controlled thermal ultrasound at a selected dermal depth. Focused ESWT delivers non-thermal mechanical pressure waves within a defined focal treatment zone at a selected depth.
CityIR favors focused ESWT for patients seeking a targeted, non-thermal facial protocol selected through professional clinical evaluation.
Request a focused-ESWT consultation
Why CityIR favors focused ESWT
Focused ESWT gives the treating professional control over the intended treatment depth, focal zone and protocol. CityIR uses that flexibility to build the treatment around the patient’s anatomy, tissue response and goals.
- Non-thermal treatment: focused ESWT uses mechanical pressure waves rather than controlled heat.
- Depth-specific targeting: energy is concentrated within a defined focal treatment zone at a selected depth.
- Adjustable treatment strategy: the treatment plan can be tailored to the intended anatomy and clinical objective.
- Evaluation-led care: CityIR selects the treatment plan after professional assessment rather than using the same protocol for every face.
For someone specifically looking for a non-thermal, depth-specific alternative to heat-based aesthetic ultrasound, focused ESWT offers a compelling option.
How the technologies differ
| Question | Focused ESWT at CityIR | Sofwave |
|---|---|---|
| Primary energy | Mechanical pressure waves | Thermal aesthetic ultrasound |
| Treatment field | Defined focal zone at a selected depth | Parallel ultrasound beams at a selected dermal depth |
| Thermal approach | Non-thermal | Controlled thermal effect |
| Protocol selection | Adjusted through professional clinical evaluation | Selected according to the provider’s aesthetic protocol and labeled use |
| CityIR availability | Provided by CityIR | Not provided by CityIR |
Do not confuse Sofwave with SoftWave
Sofwave is a branded thermal aesthetic-ultrasound system. SoftWave is a separate brand associated with an electrohydraulic acoustic-wave device. Neither name is interchangeable with the broader category of focused ESWT.
Compare SoftWave TRT with focused shockwave
What happens during a CityIR consultation?
The consultation establishes the treatment area, intended depth, goals, relevant history and whether the focused protocol is an appropriate fit. It is also the point to discuss treatment experience, alternatives, expected follow-up and the measures that will be used to judge whether the plan is worthwhile.
Questions worth asking before any facial-energy treatment
- What exact technology and device will be used?
- Is the treatment thermal or non-thermal?
- How is the intended treatment depth selected?
- How is the protocol adjusted for my anatomy and goals?
- How will progress be documented?
- What alternatives should I consider?
Is focused ESWT used for facial aesthetics?
CityIR offers focused ESWT as an individualized, non-thermal facial protocol. Facial rejuvenation is an off-label use, so suitability is determined through professional clinical evaluation.
Choose a targeted, non-thermal approach
If depth-specific targeting and a non-thermal treatment strategy match what you are looking for, schedule a CityIR consultation to discuss focused ESWT.
Discuss focused ESWT with CityIR
Evidence reviewed: September 2026.