New at Sculpture Wellness Clinic
XERF Skin Tightening in Istanbul
Two radiofrequencies, delivered in a single shot. XERF heats the deeper layers of the skin in a controlled way to support firmer-looking skin on the face, jawline and neck, with no needles and no incisions.
- 6.78 + 2 MHz
- Two RF frequencies in one shot
- 3 depths
- Shallow, middle and deep, with 10 energy levels
- No needles
- Cryogen cooling protects the skin surface
- 45 min
- Or less for a full face, per the manufacturer
The short answer
What is XERF?
XERF is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment developed by Cynosure Lutronic. It uses monopolar radiofrequency (RF) energy at two frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz, to create controlled heat in the skin and the tissue beneath it. That heat is designed to tighten collagen and encourage new collagen to form, which is why the skin can look firmer in the weeks and months after treatment.
We brought XERF to our clinic in Etiler, Istanbul, for people who want to address loose skin on the face and neck without surgery. As with every treatment at Sculpture, it starts with a consultation: your doctor examines your skin and tells you honestly whether XERF suits you.
XERF at a glance
- Device
- XERF by Cynosure Lutronic
- Technology
- Non-invasive monopolar radiofrequency
- Frequencies
- 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz
- Settings
- 3 depths, 10 energy levels
- Cooling
- Integrated cryogen cooling
- Session
- Full face in 45 minutes or less
- Typical plan
- Two sessions, four to six weeks apart
- Back to your day
- Usually the same day
How it works
One shot, three depths
Many monopolar RF systems work at a single frequency. XERF adds a second, lower frequency that carries energy deeper, and your doctor chooses how far it should reach for each area of your face. Select a mode to see where the energy goes.
WaveFit pulse
Energy is spread across several pulses instead of one intense burst, for a steadier rise in tissue temperature.
Integrated cooling
Cryogen cooling is delivered as the energy is applied, helping to protect the outer layer of the skin.
Impedance feedback
The system reads the electrical resistance of the tissue during treatment, supporting controlled energy delivery.
Treatment areas
Where XERF is used
XERF is mainly used on the face and neck. Your doctor maps out the areas and the depth for each one at your consultation.
- FaceLoose skin and loss of firmness across the face.
- BrowA heavier-looking brow area.
- Jawline and jowlsA softer contour along the jaw.
- Under the chinLooseness in the submental area.
- NeckLaxity and loss of firmness on the neck.
- Fine linesThe appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What to expect
Your XERF journey
Consultation
Your doctor reviews your skin, medical history, medications, implants and recent aesthetic treatments, then plans the areas, depths and energy levels with you.
The session
A return pad is placed on your back and the handpiece delivers energy across the area, with cooling at each pulse. You will feel heat. A full face takes 45 minutes or less, according to the manufacturer.
Right after
Mild redness and swelling are common and usually settle on their own. Most people go back to normal activities the same day. Your doctor explains aftercare and sun protection.
Over the following months
Some tightening may be visible early, and changes keep developing as collagen remodels. The manufacturer recommends two sessions and reports results lasting around six to nine months.
Honest guidance
Is XERF right for you?
It may suit you if
- You have mild to moderate loosening of the skin on the face, jawline or neck
- You would rather avoid surgery and keep to your normal routine
- You are comfortable with results that build gradually and vary from person to person
- You understand that results fade over time and may need maintenance
Talk to your doctor first about
- Pregnancy, as XERF is not used during pregnancy
- A pacemaker or other implanted electronic device, which rules out monopolar RF
- Other implants in or near the treatment area
- An active infection or skin condition in the area
- Recent fillers or other aesthetic treatments, because timing matters with heat
- Medical conditions or medications that affect healing
If the skin is very loose, an energy device will not replace surgery. In that case our plastic surgeon can talk you through a face and neck lift.
Evidence and standards
What the research says
Clinical study, 2026
A prospective study across four clinics
39 adults aged 28 to 70 had two XERF sessions without numbing cream. Results were assessed at 30 and 90 days after the final session.
- 36 of 39
- rated as improved by clinicians at 90 days (33 of 39 at 30 days)
- 33 of 39
- reported satisfaction at 90 days (31 of 39 at 30 days)
- 4.2 / 10
- average pain score during treatment, described as mild to moderate
Redness and swelling were mild and temporary, and there were no long-lasting adverse events.
Read this with its limits
The study had no control group, clinicians who scored the results were not blinded, people were followed for 90 days and it included skin types I to IV. The manufacturer provided the device and research support, and the authors call the findings preliminary. Your own result may differ.
Regulatory status
U.S. FDA 510(k)
K251327, August 11, 2025. Cleared for electrocoagulation and hemostasis in dermatologic and general surgical procedures; skin tightening describes the effect of soft tissue coagulation.
View the FDA recordEU CE MDR
Certified through DNV Product Assurance (Notified Body 2460), according to the device's Turkish distributor.
South Korea MFDS
Authorized as a medical device in South Korea, where it was developed, according to the distributor.
Clearance does not mean a treatment is right or risk-free for everyone. XERF is a medical device used in a clinical setting under physician supervision.
Questions
XERF: frequently asked questions
What is XERF treatment?
XERF is a non-invasive skin tightening treatment that uses monopolar radiofrequency at two frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz. It heats the skin and the tissue beneath it in a controlled way, which is designed to tighten collagen and encourage new collagen to form.
Does XERF really work?
In a 2026 study across four clinics, clinicians rated 36 of 39 people as improved 90 days after two sessions. The study had no control group and was supported by the manufacturer, so the authors call its findings preliminary. How much change you see depends on your skin, your age and how loose the skin is, and no one can promise a specific result. Your doctor will tell you what is realistic for you.
Is XERF a laser?
No. XERF is often called a laser, but it uses radiofrequency energy rather than laser light.
How long does XERF last?
The manufacturer reports results lasting around six to nine months after two sessions. The skin keeps aging, so your doctor may discuss maintenance sessions. Long-term independent data is still limited because XERF is a new device.
How much does XERF cost in Istanbul?
We do not publish fixed prices, because the cost depends on the areas treated and the plan your doctor recommends. You will get a clear quote after your consultation, and you can also ask us on WhatsApp.
Does XERF hurt? Will I need numbing cream?
You will feel heat during treatment, and the cooling system helps keep it comfortable. In the 2026 study, 39 people were treated without numbing cream and their pain averaged 4.2 out of 10, described as mild to moderate. Sensitivity varies, so your doctor adjusts the energy level to what you can tolerate.
Is there any downtime after XERF?
Most people return to normal activities the same day. Mild redness and swelling are common and usually settle on their own. Your doctor will explain aftercare, including sun protection.
How many XERF sessions will I need?
The manufacturer recommends two sessions about six weeks apart, and the 2026 study used two sessions four weeks apart. Your doctor decides on your plan after examining your skin.
What are the downsides of XERF?
XERF is not a surgical lift, so very loose skin may need a different approach. Results build gradually, vary between people and are not permanent. You will feel heat during treatment, and temporary redness and swelling are common. Like any energy-based treatment it carries risks, which your doctor explains before you decide.
Who should not have XERF?
XERF is not used during pregnancy or in people with a pacemaker or another implanted electronic device. Tell your doctor about any other implants, skin conditions, medications and recent aesthetic treatments so they can assess whether it is suitable.
Can XERF be combined with Botox or fillers?
Often, yes, but timing matters because heat can affect recently placed fillers. Your doctor plans the order of treatments and the gap between them.
Can I have XERF while visiting Istanbul?
Yes. Most people return to normal activities the same day, so a session can fit into a short stay, and the first consultation can be held remotely before you travel. If two sessions are planned, talk to us about how to schedule the second one.
Find out if XERF is right for you
Consultations in English and Turkish at our clinic in Etiler, Istanbul.
Gül Sokak No:11, 1. Söltaş Evleri, Akatlar, Etiler – İstanbul
Monday to Friday 09:00 to 19:00, Saturday 09:00 to 18:00
This page is for information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Device specifications and treatment data are as stated by the manufacturer, the device's Turkish distributor and the study cited above. Results vary from person to person.
Sources: FDA 510(k) K251327 · Weiss et al., Cureus 2026 · Cynosure Lutronic · XERF Türkiye
