Traditional liposuction removes fat but relies entirely on the skin to retract on its own — patients with pre-existing laxity may be left with loose skin after the fat is removed. BodyTite, offered by Dr. Forrest S. Roth, MD, FACS, adds a radiofrequency component: an internal cannula and external electrode deliver bipolar RF energy that heats the tissue as fat is being removed, contracting the overlying skin in real time. The result is measurably tighter skin in the treatment area — a result that traditional liposuction cannot achieve.

Dr. Forrest S. Roth uses BodyTite most commonly for the abdomen, flanks (love handles), arms, inner thighs, and submental area (under the chin). It is particularly well-suited for areas where skin laxity accompanies fat — such as an abdomen with some looseness after weight loss or pregnancy, where liposuction alone would improve the contour but leave skin slack. Each BodyTite plan is customized based on the patient's anatomy, laxity degree, and goals.

<p>BodyTite is minimally invasive — it is not a non-surgical procedure. Like traditional liposuction, it requires small cannula incisions (2–4 mm). However, it does not require general anesthesia: the procedure is performed under local anesthesia (tumescent solution), with optional light IV sedation available for patients who want added comfort. Dr. Forrest S. Roth performs BodyTite at an accredited surgical facility in Upper Kirby (near River Oaks), Houston, TX, with full pre-operative planning and post-operative care. Patients should expect a recovery period, though the incisions are much smaller than excisional procedures like a tummy tuck or arm lift.</p>

Most patients Dr. Roth treats with BodyTite experience meaningful improvement in both contour and skin firmness in the treated area. BodyTite is not a replacement for a tummy tuck or arm lift in patients with significant skin excess — it is best for those with mild to moderate laxity who want measurable tightening along with fat reduction without committing to a longer excisional scar. Tissue remodeling and skin contraction continue for up to 6 months; optimal results are typically visible at 3–6 months post-procedure.

Recovery from BodyTite is similar to traditional liposuction. Dr. Forrest S. Roth, MD, FACS advises patients to expect 3–5 days of rest for smaller treatment areas such as the arms or submental, and up to 10–14 days for larger areas such as the abdomen and flanks. A compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks. Bruising and swelling are most pronounced in the first 1–2 weeks and resolve gradually. Most patients return to desk work within the first week after treatment.

BodyTite is most appropriate for patients with mild to moderate abdominal skin laxity and fat who want skin tightening without the longer incision and recovery of a full abdominoplasty. Patients with significant skin excess — a pronounced abdominal apron, severe laxity, or diastasis recti — are typically better served by a tummy tuck. Dr. Forrest S. Roth assesses each patient individually during consultation. For patients who fall between both options, he discusses the expected outcomes of each approach so the patient can make an informed decision based on their goals and acceptable trade-offs.