FaceTite Complications: A Complete Guide

FaceTite is a modern, minimally invasive treatment. It utilises radiofrequency energy to tighten skin and melt excess fat. It’s often called a non-surgical facelift because it offers visible lifting without large incisions or lengthy recovery. However, like any medical procedure, FaceTite carries certain risks and possible complications.

Knowing these risks is key to making an informed decision. In this detailed guide, we’ll look at the common and rare side effects, risk factors, and how to minimise complications. 

What Is FaceTite?

FaceTite is based on Radiofrequency-Assisted Lipolysis (RFAL) technology. A thin probe is placed just under the skin, delivering controlled heat between an internal and external electrode. The heat melts small pockets of fat while stimulating collagen contraction and production, leading to tighter, smoother skin over time.

The procedure is typically carried out using a local anaesthetic and takes around an hour. Results develop gradually as the skin remodels itself over the next few months.

Common treatment areas include:

• Lower face and jawline
• Neck
• Cheeks
• Under the chin

People often choose FaceTite because it bridges the gap between non-invasive treatments and surgical facelifts, offering noticeable improvement with reduced downtime.

Common and Temporary Side Effects

Some side effects are expected after any FaceTite treatment. These reactions are part of the normal healing process and usually settle within a few days to a few weeks.

Most patients recover smoothly and notice steady improvement as swelling goes down and the skin starts to tighten. Here’s what you can expect during the early recovery period:

1. Swelling and Bruising

Slight swelling and bruising are entirely expected after FaceTite. They occur because the heat and movement under the skin temporarily irritate the tissues.

You may notice puffiness or slight discolouration around the treated area for a few days. Applying a cold compress, sleeping with your head elevated, and avoiding strenuous activity can help the swelling resolve faster.

2. Tenderness or Discomfort

It’s common for the treated area to feel tender or slightly sore, similar to mild muscle soreness. This usually lasts a few days.

Most patients manage it easily with over-the-counter pain relief and gentle care. The discomfort fades as the tissues heal and tighten.

3. Numbness or Tingling

Temporary numbness or tingling is another common effect. It happens when small surface nerves are mildly irritated by the heat or swelling.

These sensations usually improve on their own within a few weeks as the nerves recover. Gentle massage and keeping the area moisturised can also help comfort the skin during healing.

4. Redness

The skin may look red or flushed immediately after the procedure. This is because of increased blood flow and mild inflammation, both of which are part of the natural healing response.

The redness typically fades within a few hours to a couple of days, leaving the skin calm and refreshed.

More Serious Complications

While FaceTite is generally safe, there are some less common complications that can occur. These are not the norm, but it’s worth understanding them so you know what to look out for and how they’re managed.

Most people recover smoothly after FaceTite, but a small number of patients experience side effects that go beyond simple swelling or redness. These issues are usually temporary and treatable if recognised early.

1. Burns or Skin Injury

FaceTite works by delivering controlled heat under the skin. If the temperature rises too high or the device isn’t moved evenly, the skin may become overheated.

This can cause mild burns, redness, or small scabs that heal over time. In rare cases, it may lead to slight scarring or uneven texture.

Choosing an experienced, well-trained provider greatly reduces this risk, as they monitor temperature throughout the procedure.

2. Irregular Contours or Lumps

Sometimes, the fat melts unevenly, or the skin tightens more on one side than the other. This can create small lumps or areas that look slightly uneven.

Most of these irregularities settle as swelling reduces and the skin continues to tighten over the following weeks.

A gentle massage can help smooth the area. If unevenness remains after several months, a touch-up or minor correction may be considered.

3. Infection

Even though FaceTite uses tiny entry points, there’s still a small chance of infection if the skin isn’t kept clean.

Signs include redness that spreads, warmth, tenderness, or discharge from the incision sites. In some cases, you might also feel feverish.

If this happens, contact your doctor right away. Antibiotics usually clear the infection quickly when treated early. Good hygiene and following post-procedure instructions help prevent it.

4. Prolonged Swelling or Hardness

It’s common to have some swelling after treatment, but in a few cases it can last longer than expected.

This happens when fluid collects under the skin or when the tissue reacts to the heat. The area might feel slightly firm or puffy for several weeks.

Gentle massage and light movement often help it settle. If the swelling doesn’t go down after a month, your doctor can assess and manage it.

5. Pigmentation Changes

Some people may notice temporary colour changes in the treated skin. This happens when the heat or inflammation affects pigment cells.

The skin can appear darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation), depending on your skin type and sensitivity.

Wearing sunscreen daily and avoiding direct sunlight during recovery helps prevent this. In most cases, the colour returns to normal gradually as the skin heals.

6. Nerve Sensitivity or Temporary Numbness

FaceTite works close to small facial nerves, and sometimes these nerves can become irritated by heat or swelling.

You may feel tingling, mild numbness, or slight weakness in a small area of the face. These sensations are usually temporary and improve as the nerves recover.

If numbness lasts longer than six to eight weeks, your doctor may recommend further assessment or mild treatment to support healing.

Factors That Increase the Risk

Certain health or lifestyle factors can make complications more likely.

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for FaceTite. The following factors can increase the risk of unwanted side effects:

• Smoking: Nicotine reduces blood flow and delays healing. It increases the risk of infection, scarring, and poor skin recovery. Avoid smoking or vaping for several weeks before and after treatment.
• Chronic health conditions: Conditions like diabetes or poor circulation can slow the healing process and raise the chance of complications. Always share your full medical history with your doctor.
• High body mass index (BMI): A BMI over 30 can make it harder to achieve smooth, even results and may increase the risk of fluid build-up or bruising. It’s best to be near a healthy weight before treatment.
• Blood-thinning medication or supplements: Medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain herbal supplements (like fish oil, garlic, or vitamin E) can cause more bleeding and bruising. Your doctor may ask you to stop these ahead of time.
• Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol before or soon after treatment can increase swelling and bruising. Avoid alcohol for at least two weeks on either side of your procedure.
• Poor overall health: Good nutrition, hydration, and rest are essential for recovery. A weak immune system or poor general health can slow healing and raise infection risk.
• Unrealistic expectations: FaceTite works best for mild to moderate skin laxity. If the skin is very loose, a surgical facelift may give more noticeable results. Having realistic goals helps ensure satisfaction with the outcome.

How to Reduce the Risk of Complications?

Here’s what you can do before, during, and after treatment to make the process safer.

1. Choose a Qualified Practitioner

Look for a doctor or surgeon trained specifically in FaceTite or radiofrequency-assisted procedures. Ask about their experience and request before-and-after photos.

2. Attend a Full Consultation

Provide your full medical history and discuss your expectations honestly. An experienced doctor will assess whether FaceTite is right for your skin type and condition.

3. Prepare Before the Procedure

Follow pre-treatment instructions, such as stopping blood-thinning medication, avoiding alcohol, and not smoking.

4. Ensure Proper Technique and Safety

During the treatment, your doctor should use temperature monitoring and ensure even energy delivery to prevent burns or uneven results.

5. Follow Post-Procedure Care

Keep the treated area clean, avoid strenuous activity for a few days, sleep with your head raised, and protect your skin from the sun.

6. Be Patient

Skin tightening takes time. Results continue to improve for up to six months as collagen rebuilds.

Final Thoughts

FaceTite is a safe and effective option for skin tightening and contouring with less downtime than surgery. However, it remains a medical procedure that requires careful consideration. Complications are rare when performed by an experienced practitioner and followed by proper aftercare. 

The key to great results is choosing a skilled provider, following post-treatment advice, and allowing time for your skin to heal. If you’re thinking about FaceTite, do your research, ask questions, and make safety your top priority because lasting, natural results always start with the right care.

Frequently Asked Questions

01. What are the risks of FaceTite?

FaceTite is generally safe, with minimal risks. Most patients only experience mild bruising or soreness. Serious complications, like infection, are very uncommon.

02. Can FaceTite injure a nerve?

Nerve injury is extremely rare. Burns and nerve issues can happen if the procedure isn’t done carefully, but with an experienced practitioner, the risk is minimal.

03. How long does numbness last after FaceTite?

Tenderness and numbness are common, especially around the jowls. Most people notice improvement within a few weeks, but full sensation can take up to six months to return.

04. How many years does FaceTite take off?

FaceTite provides noticeable tightening that can last longer than other treatments. While results are FDA-approved for about a year, many patients see improvements for up to five years.

05. How painful is FaceTite?

FaceTite is comfortable. Local anaesthetic and a tumescent solution are used, so you shouldn’t feel pain during or after the procedure.