XERF Treatment in San Diego
XERF is an advanced skin tightening treatment that uses multifrequency radiofrequency energy to heat shallow, middle, and deeper tissue layers, improving firmness and skin surface quality without needles or significant downtime.
At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, our board-certified dermatologists can use XERF alone or combine it with other technologies for a more comprehensive approach to rejuvenation.
What is XERF?
XERF is a noninvasive skin tightening treatment that uses multifrequency monopolar radiofrequency energy to heat shallow, middle, and deeper tissue layers. This supports fibroblastic function to enhance hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production while improving firmness and surface quality.
Three depth settings and ten intensity levels allow treatment to be adjusted to the skin and treatment area. Wave Fit™ pulse technology manages energy delivery, while Integrated Cryogen Delivery cools the surface for added comfort. Although some patients search for “XERF laser,” XERF is a radiofrequency treatment, not a laser.
Before and After XERF Treatment
What Can Be Achieved with XERF Treatment?
XERF skin tightening may improve several visible signs of aging while supporting both deeper skin structure and the quality of the surface.
Firmer Looking Skin
Multifrequency radiofrequency energy heats shallow, middle, and deeper tissue layers to support fibroblastic function and enhance hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production.
Improved Skin Surface Quality
Because XERF distributes heat across multiple levels of the skin, treatment may improve how firm, resilient, and healthy the surface appears over time.
More Defined Facial Contours
Treatment may improve mild laxity around the lower cheeks and jawline, helping facial contours appear more defined without surgery.
Reduced Appearance of Early Jowling
Controlled heating can address loose skin around the lower face while supporting gradual structural improvement.
Tighter Looking Neck Skin
XERF may be used on the neck to improve mild laxity, reduced elasticity, and visible changes in skin quality.
Progressive XERF Results
Some patients report an early feeling of tightness. Additional improvement may develop during the following weeks and months as fibroblastic function enhances hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production.
How Does XERF Compare With Other Skin Tightening Treatments?
Each technology delivers energy differently, which can influence the treatment depth, patient experience, and recommended plan.
XERF: Uses multifrequency monopolar radiofrequency energy to broadly heat shallow, middle, and deeper tissue layers. This can improve visible laxity and skin surface quality while supporting hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production.
Thermage FLX: The closest comparison to XERF because it also uses monopolar radiofrequency energy to broadly heat tissue and improve firmness.
Ultherapy Prime: Uses focused ultrasound energy to target selected dermal tissue at a variety of depths beneath the skin.
Sofwave: Delivers concentrated ultrasound energy at a controlled depth within the superficial to mid dermis.
Because Cosmetic Laser Dermatology offers all four technologies, our board certified dermatologists can select, combine, or alternate treatments based on skin quality, anatomy, degree of laxity, and individual goals.
Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Treatments in San Diego
No single skin tightening device is ideal for every patient. Cosmetic Laser Dermatology offers XERF alongside several leading energy based technologies, allowing our dermatologists to recommend an option based on the depth of laxity, treatment area, skin type, desired results, and tolerance for downtime.
ThermiSculpt³
ThermiSculpt³ is a signature treatment developed by and available exclusively at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. It combines micro liposuction, ThermiTight skin tightening, and dermal fillers or biostimulators to reduce fat beneath the chin, tighten loose neck skin, and improve chin and jawline definition within one coordinated treatment plan.
Ultherapy Prime
Ultherapy Prime uses focused ultrasound energy to target foundational tissue beneath the skin. Real time ultrasound imaging allows the dermatologist to visualize tissue layers during energy placement.
Thermage FLX
Thermage FLX delivers monopolar radiofrequency energy to heat deeper tissue while cooling the skin’s surface. It is commonly used to address laxity on the face, neck, eye area, and selected body areas.
Sofwave
Sofwave uses synchronous ultrasound parallel beam technology to stimulate collagen at a controlled depth within the mid dermis. It may improve mild skin laxity while requiring limited interruption to daily activities.
Since Cosmetic Laser Dermatology maintains more than 60 laser, light, ultrasound, and radiofrequency technologies, patients are not limited to one device. Treatments may also be combined or performed at different stages of a long-term rejuvenation plan.
Combining XERF With Sofwave
XERF and Sofwave may complement one another because they deliver energy differently. XERF broadly heats multiple levels of the skin, while Sofwave concentrates ultrasound energy within selected portions of the mid dermis.
Alternating XERF with Sofwave may allow our dermatologists to address a greater range of tissue depths while supporting fibroblastic function and enhancing hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production. Ultherapy Prime may also be considered depending on the depth of laxity and the patient’s treatment goals.
Combining XERF With ThermiSculpt³
ThermiSculpt³ is a signature treatment developed by and available exclusively at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology. It combines micro liposuction, ThermiTight, and strategically selected dermal fillers or biostimulators to reduce fullness beneath the chin, tighten loose neck skin, and improve chin and jawline definition.
XERF may be incorporated into a treatment plan before or after ThermiSculpt³ to further support skin quality and firmness. This combination approach can address fat, laxity, contours, and the skin surface rather than relying on one technology to treat every concern.
Hear From Our Patients
5/5 STARS
I trust Farzaneh Momeni completely with my skin. She is by far the best clinical aesthetician I’ve ever known. My skin has improved dramatically since I began monthly facials with her. Her treatments are 100% results-driven so if this is what you seek, look no further. Also, the entire Team at West Dermatology are top-notch. They’re always friendly, professional, & helpful, & greet everyone with a smile. 10 Stars all around!
My new regular cosmetic dermatology office. Dr Zubair is amazing and really patient with me. He has helped me over the last year with keloid scar removal, jaw Botox, and full facial acne scar treatment (ultra clear). The office is clean and the nursing/medical assistant staff is accommodating on all levels. I will always recommend this office and Dr Zubair to friends and family.
Most professional and most impressive! The service from the physicians to office staff is superb!
I live in Orange County and drove all the way out to see Dr. Wu because a friend of mine referred him (she had amazing results from her face and neck procedure). Dr. Wu is truly an artist! He made me feel extremely comfortable during my procedure. I was anxious when I got there, but he (and his staff) have such great energy and are so very kind and gentle that you can't help but feel at ease! The office was immaculate and they adhered to covid rules (sanitizing, temp checks, masks). This is my go-to place from now on and Dr. Wu is my go-to guy! Can't wait to see my final results! Thank you Phyllis (pre-op) for being so wonderful and informative! You were so very helpful and kind! I'll definitely be back!
Leysin and the entire team at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology are fantastic. They are professional, caring and communicative. The laser treatment was comfortable, efficient and effective! I highly recommend this practice. I definitely will come back and recommend her and Cosmetic Laser Dermatology to my family and friends.
Dr. Goldman is amazing! I came here for my permanent eyeliner removal (which is not offered anywhere near me), and they are completely removed in just one session. They use a special contact lens to protect your eyes from the laser, and there are no damages to my eyelashes. The healing was also nice and smooth. They have everything you need. I live almost 3 hours away, but it was totally worth the trip. For anyone who is looking to remove their permanent makeup, this is the right place to go :)-
Dr. Butterwick is fantastic, all of her team as well. They make sure your experience is pleasant and painless as possible. My tattoo removal and my injectables look amazing. I highly recommend her for any skin treatment.
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology was recommended to me by my dermatologist. He recommended Dr. Monica Boen. I'm so glad I took his recommendation. Everyone here at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology was super nice and friendly. Very welcoming. I came here for hair removal treatment. I did 4 sessions with Dr. Boen. Dr. Boen made me feel so comfortable and at ease when I talked to her. She explained everything before she did my treatment. I loved that. She was really easy to talk to. I definitely will come back and recommend her and Cosmetic Laser Dermatology to my family and friends.
This office is awesome. My visit today was with Dr. Groff. His bed side manner is so fun and welcoming. He understood my concerns and recommended a treatment plan that I feel was reasonable. I love his staff! They take there time to make sure you understand the treatment and after care. Everyone in the office, from the front desk to the nurses in the back, are so friendly and beautiful. They are very prompt and I trust my care with CLD. I can't wait for my next visit. See you guys in a few weeks!
"Dr. Sabrina Fabi is genius! Her technique is unlike anyone, her eye is precise, and her kindness and caring manner comes from the depth of her soul. She's simply brilliant! It's no wonder people travel the country just to be treated by her."
I wish I could give them 10 stars! I had such an awesome experience for my first visit and I am referring everyone I know to this office. From the super friendly staff to the state of the art procedures, they are the cream of the crop.
“I came to participate in a research study. All of the Doctors and staff at C.L. Dermatology are very professional, warm and friendly. All our my needs were anticipated and the hospitality of this office is like a five star hotel.”
Why You’ll Love Cosmetic Laser Dermatology
Treatments Performed by Board Certified Dermatologists
Every XERF consultation and treatment plan is guided by a board-certified dermatologist with an advanced understanding of skin anatomy, energy delivery, and collagen remodeling.
Access to More Than 60 Laser Technologies
Our extensive technology collection allows us to compare XERF with other options rather than recommending the same device for every concern.
Nationally Recognized Expertise
Our dermatologists are respected researchers, educators, authors, and speakers in cosmetic dermatology, laser medicine, injectables, and energy based treatments.
A Research Focused Approach
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology has remained at the forefront of aesthetic medicine through clinical research and the careful evaluation of emerging technologies.
Treatment Plans Based on Your Skin
Device selection, depth, intensity, and treatment schedule are determined after evaluating your skin quality, degree of laxity, anatomy, and aesthetic priorities.
Experience With Combination Treatments
When appropriate, XERF may be incorporated into a broader plan with lasers, injectables, biostimulators, or other tightening technologies to address multiple signs of aging.
What to Expect During a XERF Treatment
Before Treatment
Your dermatologist will examine the treatment area, discuss your goals, and determine whether XERF, Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, Sofwave, ThermiSculpt³, or a combination approach is most appropriate. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, medications, implanted devices, and previous cosmetic procedures.
During Treatment
The XERF applicator delivers controlled radiofrequency energy into selected tissue depths. Patients typically feel periods of warmth, while Integrated Cryogen Delivery cools the surface with each pulse.
XERF generally does not require injection anesthesia or topical numbing. A session commonly takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes, although treatment time varies according to the area and plan.
After Treatment
Most patients can return to their usual daily activities after the appointment. Temporary redness, warmth, tenderness, swelling, or sensitivity may occur.
Some patients notice an early feeling of tightness, while continued improvements can develop as fibroblastic function enhances hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production. Individual
Our Renowned Dermatologists
We are proud to share that Dr. Goldman, Dr. Butterwick, Dr. Groff, Dr. Fabi, & Dr. Boen have once again been recognized as Castle Connolly Top Doctors in 2026!
Cosmetic Laser Dermatology has been voted Best Cosmetic Dermatology Practice in San Diego Magazine’s 2025 “Best of San Diego” readers’ poll!
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Cosmetic Dermatologist, Best Cosmetic Surgeon, and Best Dermatologist for 4 consecutive years by the San Diego Reader Best Poll.
Dr. Mitchel Goldman was voted #1 Cosmetic Dermatologist in America by Newsweek
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Cosmetic Dermatologist and Best Cosmetic Surgeon for 8 consecutive years by the San Diego U-T Best Readers Poll.
Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, and Fabi made the top 8 in Newsweek’s Best Cosmetic Dermatologists in America for the last two years in a row
Voted in the top 10% of Realself Doctors by achieving high patient satisfaction and getting favorable feedback on Q&A
Dr. William Groff was voted Best Dermatologist for 10 consecutive years and Best Cosmetic Surgeon for 9 consecutive years by the La Jolla Light Best Readers Poll.
Drs. Goldman, Butterwick, Groff, Fabi, and Boen were named Castle Connolly Top Doctors in 2025, making us one of the Top 3 Practices in California with the most Castle Connolly Top Doctors in Dermatology.
Dr. Boen has been recognized as a Top Doctor in 2023 and 2024 by San Diego County Medical Society.
Dr. Butterwick, is a distinguished facial cosmetic surgeon certified by the American Board of Facial
Cosmetic Surgery (ABFCS).
XERF Treatment FAQ
XERF can produce visible improvements in skin firmness and surface quality for appropriately selected patients. It delivers controlled radiofrequency heat into shallow, middle, and deeper layers, supporting fibroblastic function and enhancing hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production. Results depend on skin quality, age, degree of laxity, treatment intensity, and the number of sessions completed.
Some patients notice an initial tighter feeling shortly after treatment. More gradual XERF results may develop during the following weeks and months as fibroblastic activity supports hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production.
The duration varies because XERF does not stop the natural aging process. Age, skin condition, sun exposure, lifestyle, treatment settings, and individual response can all influence longevity. Maintenance treatments may be recommended to help support the results.
The recommended number depends on the areas treated, degree of laxity, and desired level of improvement. Some patients may see visible changes following one session, while others may benefit from two or more treatments. Published patient examples from the manufacturer show results after both one and two sessions.
Most patients describe periods of controlled warmth rather than sharp discomfort. Wave Fit pulse technology balances energy delivery, while Integrated Cryogen Delivery cools the skin during each pulse. Individual sensitivity varies.
No. Although “XERF laser” is a common search phrase, the device uses multifrequency monopolar radiofrequency energy rather than laser light. The controlled heat reaches multiple tissue depths to improve firmness and skin quality.
The better option depends on the tissue depth and type of laxity being treated. XERF uses multifrequency radiofrequency energy to broadly heat shallow, middle, and deeper tissue layers, while Ultherapy Prime delivers focused ultrasound energy to selected foundational tissue beneath the skin. Both support hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production, although the recommended treatment depends on skin quality, anatomy, and individual goals.
Both treatments use monopolar radiofrequency energy and can broadly heat tissue to improve skin firmness. XERF uses two frequencies, three depth settings, and ten intensity levels, while Thermage FLX uses its proprietary radiofrequency delivery, cooling, and vibration technologies. The better option depends on the treatment area, skin quality, previous procedures, and individual goals.
Yes. XERF may be alternated with Sofwave because the technologies distribute energy differently. This approach may address a broader range of tissue depths while supporting hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastic fiber production. Ultherapy Prime and Thermage FLX may also be incorporated when appropriate.
Yes. ThermiSculpt³ addresses fullness, skin laxity, chin projection, and jawline definition through micro liposuction, ThermiTight, and fillers or biostimulators. XERF may be added to support overall skin firmness and surface quality as part of a more comprehensive plan.
XERF is designed to require little interruption to a typical routine, and many patients resume daily activities following treatment. Temporary redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, or sensitivity may still occur.
The cost depends on the treatment areas, number of sessions, and whether XERF is combined with another procedure. Cosmetic Laser Dermatology provides specific pricing after an in-person consultation and evaluation.
Patients searching for XERF treatment near me in San Diego can schedule a consultation at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in La Jolla. Our board-certified dermatologists will compare XERF with Thermage FLX, Ultherapy Prime, Sofwave, ThermiSculpt³, and other available technologies before recommending a treatment plan.
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