Should I be concerned about rippling after BodyTite?

Question

I have consulted a doctor who has suggested doing traditional lipo on the back of thigh and inner thigh, in conjunction with Body Tite. After doing some quick research it looks like Body Tite is just another name for laser lipo, which has a notorious reputation for leaving ripples and dents.Are there any concerns I should have about Body Tite? Is there any reason why Body Tite needs to be used with traditional lipo? Do you recommend Body Tite for legs?

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Bodytite is a radio-frequency treatment which serves to tighten skin. This accomplished by subdermal heating of the collagen fibers which can cause tightening as well as stimulate fibroblast activity for collagen deposition. This can be combined with liposuction (but does not necessarily need to be). 
With regards to your specific question, the theory behind BodyTite mirrors that of SmartLipo, in the sense that both rely on heat to impart a tightening effect. However, Bodytite demonstrates a 30% tightening (vs. 7% liposuction, SmartLipo 15%). This result can take as many as 3 months to become evident.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. BodyTite is a minimally-invasive body contouring procedure that utilizes radio-frequency assisted lipolysis. It combines two successful technologies into a double-duty procedure that reduces fat while simultaneously tightening the skin. Traditional liposuction removes excess fat and then relies on the skin to contract smoothly over the area on its own. BodyTite reduces fat without leaving behind wrinkly or saggy skin thru the use of radio-frequency. You can definitely use BodyTite to treat your legs. For more information, please make sure you get a in person consultation from a board-certified dermatologist.

Enamul Haque, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I agree with most of the answers given already. BodyTite is not the same as laser lipo as has been explained by other plastic surgeons in this forum. Side effects of liposuction including rippling are well known and somewhat operator dependent. As far as you needing BodyTite, that can only be answered effectively after having an in person evaluation by a board certified plastic surgeon.
I use traditional liposuction in conjunction with BodyTite and FaceTite on most of my cases to enhance the final results. Good Luck.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

The radiofrequency used in Bodytite is not like laser lipo.  I use BodyTite and FaceTie to obtain more tightening than liposuction alone.  both can be used without lipo to tighten skin as well.

Jonathan Zelken, MD · Answer

Hi there,
I do agree with your board certified plastic surgeon (I'm assuming, since it's BodyTite) that something- in addition to liposuction, is recommended in conjunction with liposuction fo the inner thigh. The inner thigh skin is very loose and liposuction alone can lead to shadows and contour irregularities. Laser lipo and BodyTite are two modalities that can exploit scarring to help with a "shrink wrapping" phenomenon over time. Laser liposuction is basically a laser at the end of a probe that exerts heat energy in all directions. BodyTite is a bipolar wand, with one end on the outside of the skin and the other on the inside, that channels the energy exactly where you want it - so you get more contraction where you want it, with less collateral damage. I think it's just a bit safer, that's all, while being more efficacious at the same time.
Hope this helps!
Dr Z

Richard E. Moore, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. BodyTite is quite a bit different from laser lipo in that it uses radio-frequency (RF) energy to tighten the skin and underlying connective tissue. While laser lipo can contract the skin by approximately 15%, BodyTite can contract the skin by 30-35% and the energy is much more dispersed than a laser. I use BodyTite or J-Plasma in all of my leg procedures because the contraction of skin helps to avoid the concerns you have raised about ripples and dents.I hope this was helpful - Dr. Moore.

Should I be concerned about rippling after BodyTite?

Answers (6)

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