FaceTite®, BodyTite®,
and AccuTite™
FaceTite®, BodyTite®, and AccuTite™ in Birmingham, AL
Radiofrequency Face and Body Contouring
For many people, excess fat, sagging skin, and other signs of aging become more bothersome over time. While traditional cosmetic surgical procedures are very effective at addressing these considerations, scar concerns and the recovery time associated with these more well-known procedures have always been a point of hesitation for many individuals who would otherwise be interested in aesthetic surgery. Scar minimization is always desirable; however, in many cases, shortening scar length can detract from the final result by limiting the ability to remove the necessary skin. If only there was a way to shrink skin and cause it to tighten without the need for using more standard-type scars and incisions to cut the excess skin away…
FaceTite®, BodyTite®, and AccuTite™ are minimally invasive radiofrequency (RF) treatments suitable for most areas of the body. They are appropriate considerations for addressing a variety of contour concerns ranging from the lower abdomen to the delicate skin under the eyes. These radiofrequency face and body contouring treatments use cutting-edge technology, and they can often be performed under minimal anesthesia to produce imperceptible resulting scars.
What Do Radiofrequency Treatments Target?
Excess Fat
Radiofrequency treatments can reduce or soften excess fat deposits all over the body. Commonly used in conjunction with liposuction, this novel therapy melts fat and alters contours in various regions. BodyTite® is usually used on the torso and extremities, while FaceTite® is primarily used to treat the face and neck. AccuTite™ can further treat the most delicate and sensitive areas of the face, including the lower lids and nasolabial folds. These treatments use controlled thermal energy to melt away fat deposits without injuring the surrounding tissues.
Sagging Skin
Radiofrequency therapy produces controlled thermal heating of targeted layers of skin. This results in a “tightening effect” that can assist with correction of mild skin laxity that may otherwise persist from liposuction procedures, where mild skin laxity needs to be addressed simultaneously for optimal results. The resultant skin shrinkage can predictably improve contour and appearance in a variety of body regions where skin laxity is a concern.
Skin Texture
Controlled heating of the skin stimulates the net production of collagen and elastin. These important proteins are vital for skin health and tone. Collagen and elastin fibers in the skin tend to decline in content with age. Radiofrequency skin therapies can restore skin to a younger-looking state by improving fine lines and textural skin concerns resulting from gradual laxity and natural changes in skin composition.
How Are Radiofrequency Treatments Performed in Birmingham?
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The first step in a radiofrequency treatment is a consultation with the doctor. During this consultation, you will have an opportunity to discuss your concerns and hear recommendations for treatment considerations. Should radiofrequency be the ideal treatment, Dr. Cohn will explain how it works and answer any questions you have about the procedure.
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Radiofrequency treatments are performed under light IV sedation. This means they are safer and less prone to complications than a full-scale surgery that requires general anesthesia. These treatments occur in our outpatient accredited facility and do not take very long to perform. Treatment incorporates judicious use of local anesthesia along treated regions to ensure a comfortable post-op recovery.
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Radiofrequency treatments are performed using a specialized device. FaceTite®, BodyTite®, and AccuTite™ each use a slightly different device (handpiece), but they all utilize the same type of technology to achieve results. The bottom half of a small, thin caliper (size of a spaghetti noodle) is precisely placed beneath the skin and maneuvered to treat the targeted areas in each case. The top half of the caliper stays on the surface of the skin to provide safety feedback about the temperature of the skin during treatment.
When the probe is in the appropriate location, the device head will be activated, sending RF waves from the head to the probe. This allows the RF waves to be precisely targeted to only affect the tissue between the device head and the probe. The RF waves will heat the targeted area, melt fat deposits, tighten skin, and contour the body or face.
Recovery
What Is Recovery Like After Radiofrequency Treatment?
Radiofrequency treatments do not require long recovery times. Most patients can return to work within one to three days. There is no significant downtime or recovery period associated with radiofrequency treatments. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous physical activities or activities that place undue strain on the treated areas for up to three days.
Results
How Soon Will I See My Radiofrequency Treatment Results?
After the procedure, initial results may be visible within days. However, RF treatments continue to improve the treated area over time, so final results may not be visible for up to six months.
Scars
Does Radiofrequency Treatment Cause Scarring?
Radiofrequency treatments are minimally invasive and, thus, do not require extensive incisions. There is a chance for a small scar at the location of the probe insertion, but the location of this scar is strategically placed, and this scar typically heals imperceptibly over the early healing period. The lack of significant scarring is a major advantage of radiofrequency treatments over traditional plastic surgery.
Pain
Is Radiofrequency Treatment Painful?
Some patients may experience bruising, soreness, or swelling in the treated areas. These symptoms are usually mild and rarely require medical treatment. Over-the-counter medications are typically adequate if moderate discomfort occurs. Prescription pain medicine is utilized when appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for radiofrequency treatment in Birmingham, AL?
If you are concerned about stubborn fat deposits, sagging skin, or displeasing body contours, you may be a candidate for radiofrequency treatment. Candidates should be in good health with realistic goals for the procedure. Inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions or take any medications that may increase the risk of complications during the procedure.
Visit our blog about facial procedure options to see if radiofrequency treatment or a facial plastic surgery procedure is better suited for you.
How should I prepare for my radiofrequency treatment?
Before the procedure, patients should refrain from smoking or drinking alcohol for at least two weeks. Patients should also talk with their doctor about stopping any blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory medications, or other drugs that may impact the procedure. These issues should be addressed during your consultation with the doctor.
How long do radiofrequency results last?
For most patients, the results of radiofrequency therapy last beyond a year. This may vary depending on the area and concerns treated, the condition of the patient’s skin and tissue prior to treatment, and the level of further stress placed upon the tissue after treatment. With proper care and lifestyle changes, the beneficial effects of radiofrequency treatments can be extended.
Are there other types of radiofrequency skin tightening treatments available?
We also offer Morpheus8, which uses the same technology via the same platform as FaceTite®, BodyTite®, and AccuTite™. Morpheus8 is a non-surgical treatment performed by our aesthetician, similar to our other medpa services, but it combines microneedling with RF energy to increase collagen production, tighten the skin, and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Can radiofrequency treatments be combined with other procedures?
FaceTite®, BodyTite®, AccuTite™, and Morpheus8 can all be used together as part of a single treatment targeting multiple areas of the body. In addition, other treatments such as dermal filler and neuromodulator injections can be done in concert with a radiofrequency treatment. Radiofrequency treatments can also treat sagging skin and excess fat deposits following a plastic surgery procedure.
While not performed concurrently, RF treatments can assist with recovering from the following:
What are the costs of radiofrequency treatments?
The costs of radiofrequency treatment will vary depending on the areas treated, the conditions addressed, and the doctor’s fees. The price may also vary based on the anesthesia. Dr. Cohn will give you a personalized radiofrequency treatment price following your consultation.
Can radiofrequency treatments in Birmingham, AL, be used for weight loss?
Radiofrequency treatments are not designed for weight loss. While some amount of fat will be melted away, it is highly unlikely to have a significant impact on your overall weight. These treatments are designed for body contouring. The treatment’s beneficial effects may fade if the patient gains excessive amounts of weight following the procedure.
