Why skin elasticity matters
After buccal fat is removed, the cheek's soft tissue must redistribute and the overlying skin must redrape against the new contour. In younger patients with good elasticity, this happens cleanly and produces a smooth, slim cheek. In patients with reduced elasticity, the skin may not fully redrape — leading to subtle sagging or "deflated" appearance at the new boundary.
Skin tightening procedures address this by stimulating collagen production and inducing controlled contraction of the dermis. The result is firmer, tighter skin that redrapes more cleanly against the underlying tissue.
Who benefits from the combination
- Patients age 35+ where natural elasticity is declining
- Patients with significant sun damage
- Patients with mild jowling already starting
- Patients who lost significant weight (and skin elasticity hasn't recovered)
- Patients with thin skin (often genetic)
Young patients (under 30) with excellent elasticity typically don't need skin tightening combined with buccal fat — their natural elasticity handles the redrape.
What FaceTite actually does
FaceTite is a minor procedure that uses bipolar radiofrequency energy delivered via a small probe placed under the skin and a paired external electrode. The skin is heated to a controlled temperature (around 38–40°C externally, higher internally) which:
- Contracts existing collagen fibres
- Stimulates production of new collagen over 3–6 months
- Tightens the dermis
- Produces gradual lifting and tightening of the lower face
The procedure adds about 30 minutes to the surgical session. Recovery is essentially the same as buccal fat alone (mild swelling, no external scars).
Alternatives to FaceTite
Several skin tightening modalities can combine with buccal fat removal:
- FaceTite — bipolar radiofrequency, single session, immediate during surgery
- External radiofrequency series (Thermage, Profound, etc.) — non-invasive, multiple sessions, can be done before or after surgery
- Ultrasound-based tightening (Ultherapy) — non-invasive, slow gradual effect
- PRP / Growth factor injections — small effect but synergistic with surgery
Of these, FaceTite is the one most commonly combined with buccal fat in a single surgical session, because it can be done through the same incision area under the same anaesthetic.
Realistic expectations
Skin tightening combined with buccal fat removal is not the same as a surgical facelift. The effect is:
- Modest tightening of the dermis
- Gradual development over 3–6 months
- Particularly visible at the jaw line transition
- Helps the buccal fat result look cleaner long-term
It does not address significant jowling, deep nasolabial folds, or substantial skin excess — those require more substantial procedures.
Frequently asked questions
Does FaceTite leave scars?
No external scars — the probe enters through tiny entry points (1–2 mm) that heal invisibly. The thermal effect is delivered under the skin, so the external skin surface heals normally.
How long does the FaceTite effect last?
Effects typically peak at 6 months and persist for several years, though natural aging continues. Periodic top-up treatments at 2–3 year intervals can maintain results.
Will adding FaceTite significantly increase the cost?
It adds meaningful cost — FaceTite uses single-use disposable cartridges and takes additional surgical time. Specific quotes via WhatsApp.
Not sure if you're a candidate?
Buccal fat pad removal is the right choice only for the right face. Send 3 facial photos (front, profile, three-quarter) and Doç. Dr. Erdal will give you an honest, no-pressure suitability assessment before you decide anything.
Ready to discuss buccal fat removal?
Schedule a free WhatsApp consultation with Doç. Dr. Erdal. Send a few facial photos and your questions — typical response within 2 hours during business hours.