Medically reviewed by Jason D. Wright, D.O., board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Wright Surgical Arts
Liposuction removes fat, but it can't tighten loose skin. Excisional surgery like a tummy tuck, arm lift, or facelift tightens skin by removing it, but it leaves longer scars. Many patients fall in between: they have stubborn fat and some loose skin, but not enough to need it cut away. That's where BodyTite and FaceTite come in, and they're a core part of Dr. Wright's practice.
What BodyTite and FaceTite are
BodyTite and FaceTite use radiofrequency-assisted liposuction, often called RFAL. A thin probe is placed beneath the skin through a small entry point, with a matching sensor resting on the skin's surface. Radiofrequency energy flows between them, melting fat and heating the tissue beneath the skin so it contracts and tightens as it heals. The loosened fat is then removed with liposuction.
Temperature is monitored continuously, both under the skin and on the surface, so the tissue is heated enough to tighten while the skin stays protected. BodyTite is used on the body, and FaceTite is a smaller version designed for the face and neck.
Areas we treat
| AREA | COMMON CONCERNS |
|---|---|
| Under the chin and jawline | Fullness under the chin, mild jowling, a softened jawline (FaceTite) |
| Neck | Early neck laxity with some fullness (FaceTite) |
| Abdomen | Stubborn fat with mild to moderate loose skin |
| Flanks and bra line | Rolls and fullness around the waist and back |
| Upper arms | Fat with mild sagging along the back of the arm |
| Thighs and knees | Fat with mild crepey or loose skin |
Who is a good candidate
You may be a good candidate if you have:
- Stubborn fat that hasn't responded to diet and exercise
- Mild to moderate skin laxity, but not skin that hangs or folds
- A stable weight
- Good overall health
- A goal of tightening without the longer scars of excisional surgery
BodyTite and FaceTite aren't a substitute for surgery when there's significant loose skin. If skin hangs over the waistband, the arms have a large hanging fold, or jowls are pronounced, removing skin surgically will give a better result. Dr. Wright will tell you honestly which approach fits.
How they compare to surgery
BodyTite vs. tummy tuck
A tummy tuck removes loose skin and repairs separated abdominal muscles. BodyTite can tighten mild to moderate laxity without a long scar, but it can't repair muscle separation or remove a significant amount of skin.
FaceTite vs. facelift
A facelift is a lower face and neck lift that repositions deeper tissues and removes excess skin. FaceTite is a good fit for earlier changes, such as fullness under the chin or mild softening along the jawline, with tiny entry points instead of incisions around the ears.
BodyTite vs. liposuction alone
Liposuction relies on the skin's own ability to shrink back after fat is removed. When skin has lost some elasticity, BodyTite adds tightening so the skin settles smoothly over the new contour.
What to expect
Like all procedures at Wright Surgical Arts, BodyTite and FaceTite are performed under deep IV sedation, and you'll go home the same day. Entry points are small and heal to tiny marks.
- After BodyTite, you'll wear a compression garment. After FaceTite, you'll wear a chin strap all the time for the first week, then whenever you're at home for the next three weeks.
- Swelling and firmness are normal and may last longer than after liposuction alone, because the heat that tightens the skin also adds to inflammation.
- Most patients are back to work after a weekend of rest, even when several areas are treated. After a lipo 360, plan on about 7 to 10 days.
- Lymphatic massage and HBOT can help with swelling and healing.
When you'll see results
You'll see an improvement in contour once early swelling settles. Skin tightening continues gradually over the following months as new collagen forms, with final results at about 6 to 12 months.
Risks and limitations
Risks include prolonged swelling or firmness, lumps that usually soften over time, numbness, contour irregularities, and, rarely, burns. With FaceTite, temporary weakness of the lower lip can occur and usually resolves. Results depend on your starting skin quality, and BodyTite and FaceTite can't match the tightening of excisional surgery when there's significant loose skin.
Frequently asked questions
Is BodyTite the same as liposuction?
BodyTite includes liposuction, but it adds radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin beneath the surface.
Will I have scars?
Only tiny marks from the small entry points.
Can BodyTite replace a tummy tuck?
Not when there's significant loose skin or muscle separation. It's a good option for mild to moderate laxity.
How long until I see results?
Contour improves once early swelling settles, and skin continues to tighten for 6 to 12 months.
Can FaceTite be combined with a facelift?
Yes. Dr. Wright sometimes uses it alongside surgery for added contouring.
Find out if BodyTite or FaceTite is right for you
Wright Surgical Arts in Pasco sees patients from the Tri-Cities, across the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. Dr. Wright will examine your skin and help you decide whether BodyTite, FaceTite, liposuction, or surgery will give you the best result.
Learn more about body sculpting at Wright Surgical Arts, or contact us to schedule your consultation.
This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Recovery, risks, restrictions, and results vary by patient.
