You might first notice it in photos, in profile, or when the jawline looks softer than it used to. For some people, changes in the lower face and neck appear slowly. This can include mild skin laxity, early jowling, or fullness under the chin. These changes are common and may become more visible with time.

This is an option people may come across when looking into lower face and neck treatments. It is usually discussed alongside energy-based treatments and surgical lifting, which sometimes becomes unclear how it is positioned relative to other options.

This guide explains what the FaceTite procedure involves, when it may be considered, what recovery may involve, and why a medical consultation is needed before deciding if it is suitable.

What is FaceTite?

FaceTite is a minimally invasive medical procedure that uses radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis, or RFAL, technology. It is considered for patients with skin laxity and localised fat in the lower face and neck.

During the procedure, controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered beneath the skin and from the surface. This process is intended to affect soft tissue and fat beneath the skin. The way tissue responds can vary between individuals.

These processes occur gradually and can vary between patients. Factors such as skin thickness, age, and healing response can influence how the tissue responds.

The procedure works within the existing tissue and does not involve removal of excess skin. This is one reason why patient selection is considered during clinical assessment. Where there is a larger amount of loose skin, the response can be limited. In those cases, other options may be discussed during consultation.

From a clinical point of view, FaceTite sits between non-invasive treatments and surgical lifting. It is one option discussed during consultation. For more advanced changes, a surgical approach such as a facelift may be considered.

What does FaceTite address?

This treatment is often discussed in relation to changes in the lower face and neck. These can include mild skin laxity, a softer jawline, early jowling, fullness under the chin, or mild skin redundancy in the neck.

These changes can develop for different reasons. Ageing is one factor, though skin quality, facial structure, weight changes, and genetics also play a role. Because of this, the same concern can appear differently from one person to another.

These concerns are reviewed during consultation to understand how they present. The practitioner assesses the pattern and extent of change, then considers which options may be appropriate.

In some cases, more than one concern may be present at the same time. For example, a person may have both skin laxity and fullness under the chin. A consultation helps assess how these factors interact and whether a single approach is appropriate, or if other options should be considered.

FaceTite vs Facelift

This comparison often comes up during consultation. FaceTite and facelift surgery can both be discussed in relation to lower face and neck changes, but they are different procedures.

FaceTite

• Minimally invasive medical procedure
• Usually performed under local anaesthetic, with or without sedation
• Does not involve surgical removal of skin
• Often considered for early to moderate skin laxity
• Recovery needs vary between patients

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

• Surgical procedure
• Usually performed under general anaesthetic
• Involves lifting and repositioning deeper tissue
• May involve removal of excess skin
• Recovery is usually longer and more involved

FaceTite may be considered for patients with earlier changes in the lower face and neck. A facelift may be discussed where there is more advanced laxity or excess skin. A medical assessment is needed before either option can be recommended.

Who is FaceTite for?

Suitability for FaceTite depends on the individual, not just the concern being treated. A consultation looks at overall health, skin quality, anatomy, and personal goals.

It may be discussed for people who:

• are in good general health
• understand that results can vary
• are able to allow time for recovery
• are open to a minimally invasive approach where appropriate
• are open to other options if this procedure is not suitable

In some cases, another treatment or a surgical referral may be more appropriate. The purpose of the consultation is to decide what is suitable for the individual, rather than confirm a single treatment.

What the process may involve

1. Medical consultation

The process starts with a medical consultation. This is used to understand the patient’s health, concerns, goals, and suitability.

The consultation may include:

• a medical history review
• facial and neck assessment
• discussion of treatment goals
• explanation of options, risks, limits, and recovery

A treatment plan is only developed after this assessment.

2. Preparation before treatment

Preparation varies between patients. Some people may be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements before treatment. Skin preparation may also be recommended.

Clinical photos may be taken for medical records and assessment. These images are used to support clinical review.

The treating doctor provides instructions before the procedure.

3. Treatment day

The procedure is performed in a clinical setting. Local anaesthetic is usually used, with or without sedation, depending on the treatment plan.

During the procedure, a small entry point is made. The FaceTite device delivers controlled radiofrequency energy beneath the skin, while external monitoring helps track temperature.

Treatment time varies depending on the areas being addressed. Aftercare instructions are provided before the patient leaves.

4. Recovery and downtime

Recovery varies from person to person. Swelling, bruising, tenderness, numbness, or mild discomfort can occur after treatment.

Some people may need social downtime. Activity limits and aftercare instructions are discussed as part of the treatment plan.

Follow-up may be recommended to review healing and provide guidance where needed. Recovery advice is based on the procedure performed and the patient’s individual needs.

What to understand about FaceTite outcomes