How XERF works
Each pulse warms the deeper layers of the skin while integrated cooling helps regulate surface temperature. The handpiece tip is designed to spread energy evenly, which helps keep heating controlled across the treatment area.
Non-invasive radiofrequency
XERF Treatment in Adelaide
XERF Treatment is a non-invasive radiofrequency procedure that delivers controlled RF energy at selected tissue depths without needles or surgical incisions. It may be considered for people interested in discussing skin firmness or facial contour support.
Book a consultationWhat is XERF?
XERF is a multifrequency monopolar radiofrequency (RF) system developed by Cynosure Lutronic. It combines two frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz, so controlled heat can reach the surface, middle and deeper structural layers of the skin from a single external handpiece.
External handpiece and settings
Dr Wong sets the energy level, number of passes and areas covered based on your skin thickness, the degree of laxity and how your skin responds on the day. No microneedles or cannula are involved. That is one reason people who prefer to avoid needles often ask about XERF.
Gradual, individual changes
Rather than adding facial volume or resurfacing the skin, XERF delivers controlled RF energy at selected tissue depths. It may be discussed by people seeking gradual changes while maintaining their natural facial features. Individual responses vary.
Dr Wong will assess the degree of laxity, treatment area and desired outcome before recommending an appropriate plan.
Areas assessed during consultation
XERF may be discussed for selected areas of the face and neck depending on your concerns and assessment.
Areas often considered during assessment include:
Dr Wong will discuss which areas may be suitable and whether XERF aligns with your concerns during consultation.
- Full face
- Lower face
- Jawline
- Under the chin
- Neck
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When may XERF be considered?
Changes in firmness are a normal part of how skin changes over time and do not necessarily need treatment. If you would like advice about the jawline, under the chin or neck, a consultation can help you understand your options before deciding whether to proceed.
XERF is most often discussed for:
XERF is less suited to significant volume loss or more advanced laxity. In those situations, Dr Wong will talk you through other minimally invasive or surgical options and explain why one of them could suit you better.
- Skin that feels or looks less firm through the face or neck
- Mild laxity that softens the definition of the jawline or lower face
- Looseness under the chin
- Overall skin quality, when firmness is the main concern
What happens during your appointment?
A XERF appointment usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the areas treated. Numbing cream is rarely needed. Appointment length and comfort measures depend on the area and individual plan.
Warmth and discomfort vary between individuals and treatment areas. Tell Dr Wong if an area feels too intense so the settings can be reviewed.
Assessment and settings
Dr Wong talks through your goals, checks each area and sets the energy levels for your skin.
Preparing the skin
We cleanse your skin and mark the treatment area.
Radiofrequency treatment
Dr Wong moves the handpiece across each area in a set pattern. You may feel a pulse of warmth followed by cooling, repeated across the area.
Aftercare and review
Before you leave, Dr Wong explains aftercare and when to expect changes.
Expected changes after XERF
Visible changes, if any, may develop gradually. The clinic may discuss a review over approximately 8 to 12 weeks, but this is a planning guide rather than a predictable response or guaranteed outcome.
An individual plan may involve one appointment or further assessment before another appointment is considered. A 4 to 6 week interval or a review around 6 to 12 months may be discussed where appropriate; further procedures and maintenance are not automatic.
How much changes, and how long it lasts, depends on your baseline firmness, the degree of laxity, the areas treated and how your skin responds to RF. Sun exposure and lifestyle play a part too.
- Baseline skin firmness and degree of laxity
- Treatment area and settings
- Individual response to RF energy
- Sun exposure and lifestyle
- Some people may notice limited or no beneficial change
Recovery and possible side effects
Some people may return to work and usual activities on the same day, while others need more recovery time. Temporary redness or warmth may occur; duration depends on the treatment area, settings and individual response.
Possible effects include mild swelling, tenderness or temporary changes in sensation. Like any energy-based procedure, XERF carries a risk of blistering or burns. This is one reason Dr Wong chooses settings carefully for each person.
All procedures carry risks. Dr Wong discusses relevant complications, alternatives and individual suitability before consent.
Caring for your skin afterwards
- Follow your individual aftercare instructions.
- Use appropriate sun protection.
- Ask when to resume your usual skincare and activities.
- Contact the clinic promptly for unexpected or worsening symptoms; seek urgent medical care for severe symptoms.
Who may be suitable?
XERF may be considered for adults who are interested in exploring a non-invasive RF procedure and have concerns related to skin firmness or facial definition.
It may not address concerns primarily related to facial volume loss or more advanced tissue changes.
Dr Wong reviews your medical history, anatomy and previous treatments before confirming suitability. He may recommend another option when it is better aligned with the desired result. W Medical Aesthetics follows a doctor-led, consultation-first approach to treatment planning.
A consultation may be relevant for adults who:
- Prefer a procedure with gradual changes rather than immediate structural changes
- Interested in discussing facial or neck firmness concerns
- Do not want a microneedling procedure
- Prefer a procedure without surgical incisions
- Have realistic expectations about gradual changes
Dr Kee Sing Wong, MBBS, FRACGP, is a registered medical practitioner.
AHPRA registration number: MED0000996242
Registration status: Registered
Frequently asked questions
Is XERF painful?
Patients usually feel repeated warmth as the RF energy is delivered, followed by cooling at the skin surface. Sensation varies according to the treatment area, energy setting and individual sensitivity. Dr Wong can adjust the treatment parameters when required.
What number of appointments may be recommended?
Some people may notice changes after one appointment, while others may require further assessment or additional appointments. The recommended course depends on the degree of laxity, areas treated and desired outcome. Dr Wong will outline an individual plan rather than applying the same number of appointments to every patient.
How long do XERF results last?
Duration varies and cannot be predicted for an individual. A review around 12 months may be discussed where appropriate, but this does not mean a beneficial change will last for that period or that maintenance treatment is necessary.
Is there downtime?
Recovery differs between individuals. Temporary redness, warmth, swelling or tenderness may occur. Dr Wong explains expected recovery, possible complications and individual aftercare, including sun protection, before you decide whether to proceed.
How is XERF Treatment different from Morpheus8?
XERF delivers radiofrequency energy through an external handpiece without needles. Morpheus8 uses microneedles to deliver fractional bipolar RF into the skin. XERF may be considered by people who prefer an external RF approach, while Morpheus8 may be considered when texture, pores or acne scarring are also important concerns.
How much does XERF cost in Adelaide?
Pricing depends on the areas treated and the recommended treatment plan. W Medical Aesthetics will confirm the cost after Dr Wong has assessed your concerns and clinical suitability. You will receive clear information about the proposed treatment and pricing before deciding whether to proceed.
Take the next step
Book a XERF Treatment consultation
A consultation with Dr Wong provides time to discuss your concerns, compare suitable treatment options and understand what the procedure involves and what to expect. Recommendations are based on your anatomy, skin condition and preferred level of change.
Book a consultation with Dr WongThis information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment. Suitability, results, recovery and maintenance needs vary. All procedures carry risks. Images do not promise or predict outcomes.