FaceTite – Scarless Face Contouring & Skin Tightening In San Diego
Dr. Kearney is proud to offer patients FaceTite by Inmode which is an advanced contouring and skin tightening system that gives surgical results without the scars. It’s a wonderful option for individuals who are looking for an improvement in facial and neck laxity but want to avoid the incisions and downtime associated with traditional face and neck surgery. As patient interest in non-surgical solutions rises, FaceTite allows Dr. Kearney to offer another treatment option that can help patients achieve a more youthful appearance without having to undergo traditional surgery.
FaceTite uses RFAL (Radio-Frequency Assisted Lipolysis) technology to deliver highly controlled radiofrequency energy that causes skin and subcutaneous tissue to contract. After administering a local anesthetic, Dr. Kearney inserts a small cannula beneath the skin with an external electrode placed on the skin’s surface. This highly-controlled thermal field works by delivering rapid and uniform heating which simultaneously liquefies the fat under the skin and “shrink wraps” the tissue. System safeguards regulate skin temperature to ensure patient safety.
FaceTite Benefits:
- Mini Facelift results
- Minimal downtime, bruising and pain
- Outpatient procedure under local anesthesia
- Surface skin contraction of up to 47%
- No incisions
FaceTite can be used on areas of the face and neck with saggy skin including the jowl line, a double chin, and other areas with deep lines and loose skin. An improvement can be seen soon after treatment with the most noticeable results appearing in 3-6 months and skin contraction can continue for up to a year. FaceTite can also be used for patients who don’t necessarily have excess fat but just want an improvement in skin laxity.
The FaceTite procedure must be performed by a skilled physician and Dr. Kearney is one of the very first Plastic Surgeons in San Diego to offer FaceTite. The machine is ONLY available to Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. For more information about Board Certification click here.
How Long Does A FaceTite Treatment Take?
The duration of these treatments depends in part on what areas you are having treated. Most of Dr. Kearney’s FaceTite procedures take about an hour.
Facetite Procedure In San Diego
The procedure is performed with only local anesthesia to numb the areas where tiny incisions are created for the insertion of the cannula. The cannula itself is very thin, about the size of a knitting needle. The treatment areas are injected with a tumescent solution common to modern liposuction. The solution consists of saline, epinephrine, and Lidocaine.
This numbs the area, makes the fat easier to remove, and constricts the blood vessels for less bleeding and subsequent bruising. Then Dr. Kearney inserts the FaceTite™ handpiece/cannula. On the tip of the cannula is an internal electrode that delivers the radiofrequency energy below the skin to liquefy the fat. Above the skin on the surface rests the other portion of the handpiece, a metal wand that serves as the external electrode. This is important because it gives the RF energy a pathway upward through the skin from the internal electrode to the external electrode. This provides the skin tightening typical to RF treatments.
While the thin cannula is delivering the RF energy below the skin to liquefy and then suction out unwanted fat, the RF energy is also pulsing upward through the skin. This is the dual benefit of FaceTite.
Is There Anything I Should Avoid After My FaceTite Treatment?
FaceTite with Dr. Kearney is radiofrequency assisted liposuction, although with FaceTite the skin tightening aspect is more front and center than the fat removal. Where possible, Dr. Kearney will place you in a compression garment or compression bandages, and this will likely limit your desire to be out in public. This is only for a few days, and then you wear them at night.
Otherwise, there really aren’t any restrictions.
How Long Will My Results From FaceTite Last?
The skin tightening and contouring that occur with FaceTite will begin to be seen after about one week and they can continue to improve for nine months. From there FaceTite results can last up to five years. The results of FaceTite are similar to those delivered by a mini facelift.
What Are The Risks Associated With FaceTite?
Because FaceTite delivers many of the same results as a surgical facelift, it’s considered to be very safe because it doesn’t involve any of the possible side effects involved with surgical facelifts. The only invasive aspect of FaceTite is the insertion of the very thin cannula. Both the cannula and the external electrode are equipped with thermal controls to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Plus, the energy used, radiofrequency energy, has been used for decades with imaging such as MRIs and is safe and effective. RF energy is also used for many skin-tightening aesthetic treatments.
Who Is A Good Candidate For A FaceTite Treatment?
As we age, the skin on the lower portion of our face loosens and begins to sag. This is a universal problem with aging, especially in the jowls. FaceTite is a good option for anyone with this loose skin who would like to tighten up their profile but doesn’t want to have surgery to do so. In reality, that’s pretty much anyone over the age of 45.
The one exception is if you’ve had any dermal fillers injected recently. If you have, you’ll need to wait at least two months before you should have FaceTite with Dr. Kearney.
What Are The Differences Between FaceTite & A Surgical Facelift?
Obviously, the main difference is that FaceTite does not involve any incisions, general anesthesia, weeks of downtime, and the other risks and recovery issues involved with a surgical facelift. Since Dr. Kearney performs so many surgical facelifts, he is particularly qualified to compare FaceTite and surgery. His estimate is that FaceTite delivers, depending on the individual patient, from 40-60 percent of the tightening that a surgical facelift achieves.
That’s not to claim that FaceTite can deliver the same results as a facelift. When Dr. Kearney adjusts the underlying support musculature and removes excess skin in surgical facelifts these are permanent results.
Still, for those who don’t want surgery, FaceTite can provide something akin to a mini facelift.
Request a consultation for more information on FaceTite in San Diego and La Jolla.
Why Choose Dr. Robert Kearney for FaceTite
When choosing FaceTite, you want a surgeon with extensive experience, precision, and a strong academic foundation. Dr. Robert Kearney is a double board-certified plastic surgeon in San Diego. After graduating cum laude from Providence College, he completed rigorous surgical training at the University of South Florida, Vanderbilt University, and a craniofacial fellowship under world-renowned surgeon S.A. Wolfe, MD. His advanced background in craniofacial, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery gives him a unique depth of expertise in facial contouring and rejuvenation procedures like FaceTite.
Dr. Kearney has a long-standing reputation for innovation and excellence. He served on the faculty at the University of South Florida, where he trained future plastic surgeons. Today, he continues to bring that same dedication and forward-thinking approach to his private practice in San Diego. Known for staying on the cutting edge of cosmetic techniques, he combines advanced training with a patient-centered philosophy, ensuring safe, natural, and lasting results. Choosing Dr. Kearney means trusting your FaceTite procedure to a surgeon who prioritizes both artistry and safety at every step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect immediately after the procedure?
You can expect some swelling, redness, and mild tenderness in the treated area. These effects are normal and typically improve within the first few days. Some patients also notice slight numbness or tightness, which fades as healing progresses. Most people feel comfortable enough to return to light daily activities the same or the next day.
Do I need someone to drive me home after FaceTite?
If FaceTite is performed with only local anesthesia, many patients can safely drive themselves home. However, if sedation or stronger medication is used for comfort, you’ll need someone to drive you home. Dr. Kearney will let you know ahead of time what’s required.
Is there a risk of scarring?
Because FaceTite uses tiny entry points rather than large incisions, the risk of visible scarring is very low. Any small marks usually fade over time and are barely noticeable once healed.
Will I need maintenance treatments?
Most patients see long-lasting improvements that can last several years. However, the natural aging process continues, so some patients choose maintenance treatments or combine FaceTite with other skin-tightening or rejuvenation options in the future to extend results.
Can I wear makeup after the procedure?
It’s generally best to avoid makeup for the first 24-48 hours to minimize the risk of irritation or infection. Once Dr. Kearney clears you, you can resume wearing makeup as normal.
When can I return to work after FaceTite?
Many patients return to work within two to three days, depending on the extent of treatment and their comfort with mild swelling or bruising. Some may choose to wait a week until most visible effects subside.
Are there activity restrictions during recovery?
Yes, you’ll want to avoid strenuous activity, bending, or heavy lifting for at least a few days to a week. Light walking is fine and even encouraged to support circulation and healing.
How should I care for my skin after FaceTite?
Follow Dr. Kearney’s instructions carefully. Typically, this includes keeping the area clean, using gentle cleansers, applying recommended ointments, and wearing a compression garment if advised. Using sun protection and staying hydrated will also help promote optimal healing and results.
Schedule A FaceTite Consultation In San Diego!
If you're interested in learning more about a Facetite procedure in San Diego, call the plastic surgery office of Robert Kearny MD at (858) 677-9352 or click here to book an appointment online.
