XERF is a non-invasive treatment that firms the skin on the face using radiofrequency energy. Controlled heat acts on collagen at various depths within the tissue and triggers its gradual remodeling. The treatment is intended for people with mild to moderate loss of skin firmness who want to improve their facial contours without surgery, needles, or a long recovery period. At the Esthetic Clinic in Bratislava, we were the first in Slovakia to introduce the XERF treatment in October 2026. The clinic is located at Partizánska 2, and you can schedule a consultation directly, without a referral.
| What is | non-invasive monopolar radiofrequency with two frequencies, 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz |
| What causes | loss of skin firmness, early signs of sagging, and less defined facial contours and jawline |
| Areas | cheeks, lower third of the face, jawline, area under the chin, neck, area around the eyes, and, depending on the indication, the abdomen and knees |
| Duration of treatment | approximately 60 minutes |
| Pain and Anesthesia | You will gradually feel more intense heat; we will adjust the intensity accordingly; no anesthetic cream is needed, as the device’s built-in cooling system ensures your comfort |
| Recovery | usually without a healing period; the skin may be slightly warmer or slightly reddened for a short time; no special lifestyle restrictions are necessary |
| Number of treatments | varies by individual; one treatment may be sufficient for mild sagging, while a second treatment may be recommended for more pronounced sagging of facial tissues |
| Result | Initial results immediately after treatment; more noticeable changes after approximately 14 days; further improvement over the course of three months |
| Checkup | after three months, free of charge |
| Price | from 690 € depending on the area treated |
| Initial Consultation | 50 € (30 minutes); if you undergo the procedure, this amount will be deducted from the treatment price |
| Booking | directly, without a voucher |
What is XERF and how does it work?
XERF is a monopolar radiofrequency (RF) device that operates at two frequencies: 6.78 MHz and 2 MHz. This allows us to target different depths of tissue. This is radiofrequency facial remodeling: controlled heating affects collagen structures and triggers remodeling processes that continue for weeks to months after treatment. The goal is not to change facial features, but to support skin firmness and its natural structure.
The device operates in three modes, depending on the depth at which the energy is to be applied:
| Mode | Where it operates |
|---|---|
| SHALLOW | more superficial remodeling |
| MEDIUM | medium tissue level |
| DEEP | Deeper remodeling based on anatomical indications |
During treatment, the system monitors skin contact, temperature, and tissue impedance (electrical resistance), and combines energy delivery with integrated cooling. The treatment does not use needles and does not damage the skin’s surface.
Why Do We Analyze the Face First?
Facial aging isn’t just a matter of wrinkles. The quality of the skin, collagen, subcutaneous tissue, and connective tissue structures all change. Some people mainly lose skin firmness, while others experience changes in volume, the jawline, or the contour of the lower third of the face. That is why we do not use a single, one-size-fits-all lifting protocol.
Before treatment, the doctor will assess:
- skin quality and thickness,
- distribution of subcutaneous fat,
- degree of skin laxity,
- facial contours,
- areas that need support,
- aesthetic procedures you have undergone in the past.
Based on the examination, the practitioner creates a personalized treatment plan: selecting treatment areas, depth settings, and treatment parameters. We call this approach XERF by Esthetic, which stands for anatomically customized remodeling. The result depends not only on the device, but also on the correct indication.
Who XERF Is Suitable For and Who It Isn’t
We primarily consider XERF in cases of:
- gradual loss of skin firmness and early signs of sagging,
- changes in facial contours and a less defined jawline,
- sagging tissues in the lower third of the face,
- changes following significant weight loss,
- age-related deterioration in skin quality.
On the face, we most often treat the cheeks, the lower third of the face, along the jawline, and under the chin. In addition to the face, neck, and eye area, the abdomen and knees may also be treated depending on the indication. Suitability is not determined by age alone, so treatment is always preceded by a consultation.
In cases of significant excess skin, XERF is not sufficient; in such cases, a surgical facelift remains the most effective solution. The doctor assesses the suitability of the treatment and any potential contraindications on an individual basis during the initial consultation.
XERF or a Classic Facelift
XERF is not a facelift, nor do we present it as such. In a surgical facelift, excess skin is removed, and in cases of significant sagging, surgery remains the most effective method. XERF improves the quality and firmness of the tissue without making any incisions. It is intended for people whose skin firmness we want to address before surgery becomes necessary, or for those who do not want surgery. Non-invasive technologies have their limits and cannot replace the results of a properly indicated facelift. We will assess which approach is more suitable for you during a consultation.
XERF Compared to Other Methods
XERF, HIFU, and Ultherapy
XERF, HIFU, and Ultherapy are different technologies and different devices. Both HIFU and Ultherapy use focused ultrasound energy, while XERF uses monopolar radiofrequency energy. They differ in how heat is generated and distributed, as well as in how they affect individual layers of tissue. Therefore, we don’t ask which technology is better, but rather which is more suitable for a specific face, skin type, and concern. We perform focused ultrasound treatments at our clinic using the Ultraformer III device.
XERF and Other Radio Frequencies
XERF is also a radiofrequency treatment. It differs from the Venus microneedle radiofrequency treatment in that it does not use needles and focuses on skin firmness and facial contours, rather than primarily on skin texture, scars, and stretch marks. It differs from the VIVA multipolar radiofrequency treatment in that it offers two frequencies and three depth modes. It is also often compared to Thermage, another monopolar radiofrequency device that operates at a single frequency. Which radiofrequency treatment will be more effective for facial remodeling depends on whether the primary goal is to address firmness and contours or the quality of the skin’s surface.
XERF and Botulinum Toxin
Botulinum toxin type A relaxes facial muscles and smooths out expression lines caused by movement, such as those on the forehead or around the eyes. It does not alter skin firmness or facial contours. XERF, on the other hand, does not affect facial expressions but targets collagen and tissue firmness. Therefore, it’s not a matter of which is more cost-effective, but rather which issue you want to address. Both treatments can be used in combination; your doctor will determine which is appropriate for you. Learn more about wrinkle treatment with botulinum toxin.
XERF and Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is an injection treatment in which active ingredients are introduced into the skin through tiny punctures. It primarily improves skin hydration and quality. XERF does not use needles or substances; instead, it uses heat to stimulate collagen and addresses loss of firmness and contour. Depending on the findings, we can combine these treatments.
Alternatives to XERF at the Esthetic Clinic
| Method | How It Works | When to Consider It |
|---|---|---|
| Ultraformer III | focused ultrasound, needle-free | loss of firmness in the face, neck, and selected areas of the body |
| Venus | microneedles and radiofrequency | skin texture, wrinkles, acne scars, stretch marks |
| VIVA | Multipolar Radio Frequency | fine wrinkles, loss of elasticity |
| Thread Lift | Absorbable barbed threads under local anesthesia | sagging contours in the lower third of the face |
| S-lift | a minor procedure involving a single absorbable suture and a small incision above the ear | slight sagging of the cheeks |
| Surgical Facelift | surgery to remove excess skin | significant excess skin |
Skin Longevity: XERF as Part of Long-Term Skincare
We can’t stop aging. However, we can influence the quality of the tissue as we age. We call this approach “Skin Longevity.” The goal isn’t to look like someone else, but to preserve as long as possible:
- skin firmness,
- a healthy collagen structure,
- natural facial proportions,
- healthy and functional skin tissue,
- a face that still looks like you.
Not every patient needs additional treatments. If a single treatment is insufficient, the doctor can incorporate XERF into the Skin Longevity program and combine it with other methods in a sequence that is appropriate both in terms of timing and anatomy—for example, with BBL for pigmentary and vascular concerns, or with the MOXI laser for skin texture and quality. The goal is not to perform as many procedures as possible, but to select the ones that a specific face needs.
How the XERF treatment works
- Consultation (€50). The doctor will assess your face and your expectations and let you know if XERF is right for you.
- Treatment Plan. Based on the examination, the doctor will determine the treatment areas, depth settings, and treatment parameters.
- Treatment. The applicator is placed on the skin; the device monitors contact, temperature, and tissue impedance while cooling the skin’s surface. You’ll feel gradually increasing heat, and we’ll adjust the intensity based on your tolerance. The treatment lasts approximately 60 minutes. No anesthetic cream is needed; the device’s built-in cooling system ensures your comfort.
- After the treatment. The skin may feel slightly warmer or be slightly reddened for a short time. No special post-treatment restrictions are required after XERF treatment, and the patient can resume normal daily activities.
- Follow-up. We recommend a follow-up examination after three months, when the full effect has been achieved. The follow-up is free of charge. If there is significant sagging of the facial tissues, a second treatment may be appropriate.
Price of XERF Treatment
Prices are listed by treatment area. The cost of the initial consultation is deducted from the treatment price if you undergo the procedure.
| Area | Price |
|---|---|
| Face | 1,690 € |
| Face and neck | 1,890 € |
| Eye area | 690 € |
| Other area | from 890 € |
The initial consultation (30 minutes) costs 50 €. The follow-up visit after three months is free of charge. The clinic does not have contracts with health insurance companies; you are responsible for paying for your treatment yourself. You can find the current prices in the price list.
XERF at the Esthetic Clinic in Bratislava
Esthetic Clinic is a private clinic located at Partizánska 2 in the Old Town (2nd floor, Block A). It has been in operation for more than 20 years and is an accredited training center of the Slovak Medical University. The XERF treatment is professionally supervised by MUDr. Alexandra Novotná Rozborilová, PhD., a dermatovenerologist with over 33 years of experience specializing in dermatology, aesthetic medicine, and laser medicine. Patients rate the clinic on Google an average of 4.9 out of 5 based on more than 1,000 reviews. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Frequently asked questions
Are you already doing XERF?
Yes. We have been offering XERF treatments at the Esthetic Clinic in Bratislava since October 2026. You can schedule a consultation directly through the online form, by phone, or by email.
Is XERF a laser?
No. XERF uses radiofrequency energy, not light like a laser. You can find it on our website in the “Laser Medicine” section, among other device-based treatments.
Is the XERF treatment painful?
During the treatment, you will mainly feel a gradually intensifying sensation of warmth. We adjust the settings based on the area being treated and your tolerance, and we can modify the intensity during the treatment. No anesthetic cream is needed; the device’s built-in cooling system ensures your comfort. No needles are used.
How many XERF treatments do I need?
For mild sagging, a single treatment may be sufficient; the results will then continue to improve over the following weeks and months. For more pronounced sagging of facial tissues, a second treatment may be recommended. The doctor will determine the number and timing of subsequent treatments based on the findings and the skin’s response. XERF is therefore not a treatment regimen with a fixed number of sessions.
When will I see the results?
The first effects can be observed immediately after treatment. More noticeable changes begin to appear after approximately 14 days, and the results continue to develop over the course of three months. The duration of the effects varies from person to person. We evaluate the results at a follow-up visit after three months, when the effects are fully developed.
How long do the results of XERF last?
The duration of the results varies from person to person. It depends on age, skin quality, the degree of sagging, lifestyle, and natural aging. XERF does not stop the biological aging of the skin. Based on the findings, the treatment may be repeated in the future as part of a long-term facial care plan.
Which non-invasive facelift should I choose if I want long-lasting results?
It depends on exactly what you want to address. Both XERF and Ultraformer III improve skin firmness, and the results develop gradually as collagen is produced. A thread lift lifts sagging tissue immediately, but it is a minor procedure involving threads placed under the skin. No non-invasive method can replace a surgical facelift when there is a significant excess of skin. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate approach during your consultation.
Is recovery time needed after XERF?
Generally speaking, no. XERF does not damage the skin’s surface, so it does not require a traditional healing period. The skin may feel slightly warmer or appear slightly reddened for a short time. No special restrictions are necessary after XERF treatment, and the patient can resume normal daily activities. However, individual responses may vary.
Is XERF suitable for women over 40?
Yes, if you are experiencing mild to moderate loss of skin firmness, a less defined jawline, or sagging tissue in the lower third of the face. Age alone, however, is not the deciding factor. The doctor will assess the quality and thickness of the skin, subcutaneous fat, and the degree of laxity.
Do you also perform XERF on men?
Yes. XERF is not intended solely for women. For men as well, the condition of the skin, the degree of sagging, and facial anatomy are key factors, all of which the doctor will assess during the consultation.
Is XERF suitable for sensitive skin?
XERF does not use needles and does not damage the skin’s surface; we adjust the energy intensity to your tolerance. Therefore, it may be an option for those with sensitive skin; your doctor will determine its suitability during a consultation. In cases of stable rosacea or eczema, the doctor will assess suitability on a case-by-case basis; treatment is postponed in cases of acute inflammatory symptoms.
Is XERF also suitable for a slim face?
Yes, but the approach must be careful. Subcutaneous fat is an important component of youthful facial fullness, and its loss can accentuate signs of aging in certain face shapes. For a slender face, we therefore opt for a more conservative approach, focusing on skin tightening and preserving natural proportions.
Does health insurance cover XERF treatment?
No. XERF is a cosmetic treatment, and the Esthetic Clinic does not have a contract with health insurance companies. You are responsible for paying for the treatment yourself.
Can I give XERF as a gift certificate?
Yes. An Esthetic Clinic gift certificate can also be used for the XERF treatment. A doctor will assess whether the treatment is appropriate. You can purchase a gift certificate in amounts ranging from €100 to €3,000, valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.
Can I come to XERF from another city?
Yes. You can make an appointment directly, without a referral, from any city. The clinic is located in downtown Bratislava at Partizánska 2; there are 7 parking spaces in the courtyard, and there’s a public transit stop right next to the building. If you’re traveling from out of town, please let us know when you make your appointment. We’ll also let you know if it’s possible to have your consultation and treatment on the same day.
Schedule a consultation with XERF
Book a consultation
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Tell us what you would like to improve. We will recommend a suitable treatment and suggest the next steps.
Book an appointment