It was once the case that surgery offered the only feasible solution for tightening sagging skin in the aging face and neck. But now, a technological innovation by Inmode called FaceTite™ makes “non-excisional” procedures a reality for qualifying men and women to achieve these types of results. Radiofrequency energy is applied directionally, offering greater control over the coagulation of fat and the tightening of the surrounding skin. Patients are able to enjoy better definition in the lower face and neck areas through results that are comparable to traditional face and neck-lifts.
A jowl lift with minimal surgery is possible through the use of FaceTite technology using radiofrequency applications
How FaceTite ™ Achieves 3D Tissue Remodeling For A Tighter Face and Neck
FaceTite™ is an accessory handpiece used with a central platform called BodyTite™, also developed by Inmode. Its special size and the nature of its configuration is optimally designed for applying radiofrequency to treat problem areas in the face and neck.
Using an application known as RFAL (radiofrequency assisted lypolysis), RF energy is used directionally (i.e. not as a general field) to heat and liquefy adipose tissue (i.e. fat). The heat also affects the collagen strands which form the structure of skin’s internal framework. This causes the skin to contract. In doing so, it reshapes the affected treatment area to produce a more desirable contour, an effect similar to shaping clay (or other soft substance) with stretch wrap. This is also referred to as 3D tissue remodeling.
During a procedure, a small incision, in the shape of a hole through which a tube-shaped cannula is inserted. RF is applied to melt the fat which is suctioned out through this structure as the skin is tightened due to the heat. Patients are left without visible scarring since no stitches are needed to close the wound
A Jowl Lift, Double Chin Removal and Neck Tightening With Minimal Surgery
Many people seek non-surgical solutions for sagging skin and the prominence of fat in unwanted areas. These problems contribute to jowls, the presence of a double chin, and loose skin around the neck. One common factor that contributes to these facial contouring issues is the loss of skin elasticity.
Changes to two main types of proteins, collagen, and elastin, resulting in older-looking skin. Collagen can be thought of as a building block that contributes to the firmness of our skin. Elastin is a protein that has a spring-like property, allowing the skin to return to its original form once it is stretched. Damage to these proteins results in sagging, droopiness, and an overall loss of youthful shape and definition in the face and neck.
Beneath the surface, muscle and fat tissue also experience the effects of aging over time. In our earlier years, these tissues are evenly distributed. With age, they lose volume and can even clump. As the muscles and fat weaken and atrophy, they start to migrate downward due to the pull of gravity. Jowls can develop, as well as a double chin.
In the past, eliminating jowls, double chins and loose neck skin required surgical excision to remove fat tissue and tighten the skin. However, this leaves behind permanent scarring.
FaceTite ™ procedures make it possible to leave the skin in-tact while creating necessary changes to greatly improve the contours of the face and neck.
Research on the Effectiveness of FaceTite™
The Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Global Open published a study on the effectiveness of the FaceTite™ handpiece used in conjunction with the NeckTite™ applicator. Fifty-five men and women underwent RFAL treatment for skin laxity in the neck and jowls. The researchers concluded that RFAL offers a safe and effective treatment for improving skin laxity as well as fat deposits in the cervicomental zone and the jowls.
Paula Abdul Shares Her Experience With FaceTite™
Television personality and pop-culture icon, Paula Abdul, opted for a FaceTite™ procedure before her Las Vegas residency tour, Forever Your Girl. At age 57, she was interested in tightening the loose skin which had developed along her jawline. However, she did not want to undergo invasive surgery. Her FaceTite™ treatment was able to accomplish the natural-looking tightening effect that she wanted. She was so pleased with her results and shared her overall experience on the Wendy William’s Show. Paula Abdul also decided to become a brand ambassador for InMode.
Candidates for FaceTite ™ Procedures – Who Qualifies?
FaceTite ™ is recommended for men and women with mild to moderate skin laxity. The presence of unwanted fat is not a necessary requirement to qualify for this procedure. The skin tightening component can be performed without the need for adipose removal to redefine the contours of the face and neck.
Traditional face and neck lift surgery is recommended for skin which displays severe signs of aging or poor elasticity.
FaceTite ™ Procedures for Men and Women in Los Angeles
If you are in the greater Los Angeles area and are considering FaceTite ™ to restore a more youthful appearance in your face and neck, click the button below for a complimentary consultation with Dr.U
Frequently Asked Questions on FaceTite™
Although FaceTite™ can perform a jowl lift with minimal surgery, non-surgical neck tightening and double chin removal, can it also be used throughout other areas of the face, including upper regions?
Yes, can be applied to the forehead brow area, the nasolabial folds, the skin around the eyes, the cheeks and the surrounding areas of the mouth. However, greater precision may be required, depending on the goals of the procedure. If this is the case, a different handpiece, called AccuTite™ may be necessary.
Will I experience pain during a FaceTite ™ procedure?
Before the actual procedure, you will be treated with local anesthesia and light sedation to maximize your comfort.
What is the recovery process like following a FaceTite ™ procedure?
Since a FaceTite™ procedure can be performed at our office without hospitalization, you are able to return home immediately. Some patients may choose to take a week off since there may be minor bruising and swelling. But downtime is not necessary. And it is possible to return to work right away.
Is the radiofrequency energy used by InMode technology safe?
According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, the RF energy used for skin tightening procedures is not the same as the radiofrequency which comes from cell phones and microwaves. Also the radiofrequency used by cosmetic procedure technologies can be controlled to a great extent by the system’s settings to prevent risks associated with overheating. This is the reason they have been approved by the FDA. Also, the organization asserts that in humans, there is no direct link between RF exposure and cancer risk. And study findings which have shown the development of cancer in animals due to radiofrequency have not been able to be replicated.
References
Evangelos Keramidas EBOPRAS and Stavroula Rodopoulou, MD, EBOPRAS, Radiofrequency-assisted Liposuction for Neck and Lower Face Adipodermal Remodeling and Contouring, Journal List Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open v.4(8); 2016 Aug
