- Overview
- Surgeon
- Q&A
About the treatment
Skin Tightening
Skin tightening is a non-surgical procedure that uses heat or energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin. This can result in a more youthful appearance by tightening lax skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Benefits of skin tightening:
- Tightens lax skin
- Reduces wrinkles
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Can be used on the face, neck, body, and hands
- Types of skin tightening procedures:
- Radiofrequency
- Ultrasound
- Laser
- Infrared
- Risks and side effects of skin tightening:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- Scarring (rare)
Skin tightening is a safe and effective procedure for most people. However, it is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your individual needs and goals. They can help you choose the right type of procedure and minimize the risk of complications.
Candidate
Maintaining healthy skin is crucial for overall well-being.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants support skin tightening.
Proper hydration and sun protection prevent premature aging and wrinkles.
Exfoliation and topical treatments with ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid encourage collagen production.
Adopting these practices promotes skin health, firmness, and radiance.
Side & After Effects
Skin tightening is a cosmetic procedure that uses heat or energy to shrink the skin and make it appear tighter. While it can be an effective way to improve the appearance of loose or sagging skin, there are some risks and after effects that you should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.
- Pain: Skin tightening can be uncomfortable or painful during the procedure. You may also experience some soreness or tenderness in the treated area for a few days after the procedure.
- Swelling: Skin tightening can cause swelling in the treated area. This swelling typically goes down within a few days, but it may take up to a week or two to resolve completely.
- Bruising: Skin tightening can also cause bruising in the treated area. This bruising typically fades within a few weeks, but it may take longer for some people.
- Redness: Skin tightening can cause redness in the treated area. This redness typically goes away within a few days, but it may take longer for some people.
- Hyperpigmentation: Skin tightening can cause the treated area to become darker in color. This is a rare side effect, but it is more likely to occur in people with darker skin tones.
- Hypopigmentation: Skin tightening can cause the treated area to become lighter in color. This is also a rare side effect, but it is more likely to occur in people with lighter skin tones.
- Scarring: Skin tightening can cause scarring in the treated area. This is a very rare side effect, but it is more likely to occur in people who have a history of scarring.
If you are considering skin tightening, it is important to discuss the risks and after effects with your doctor. They can help you determine if the procedure is right for you and what you can do to minimize the risks.
Things to Know
Procedure Time
2 Hours
Overnight Stay
No
Recovery Time
1-2 days
Surgeon

Heather Levites, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Heather Levites is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a special interest in advanced cosmetic surgery. She earned her undergraduate degree at MIT after attending an arts high school in New York City. She earned her MD from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and completed her plastic surgery training at Duke University. While at Duke, Dr. Levites honed her surgical skills focusing on aesthetic surgery of the face, pediatric plastic surgery, hand surgery, craniofacial trauma reconstruction and oncologic reconstruction. She further bolstered her aesthetic surgery expertise under the guidance of Drs. Hunstad, Kortesis and Bharti in Charlotte, NC. She is the author of multiple peer reviewed publications, has given presentations at many national plastic surgery conferences, and helped launch “The Resident Review”, a podcast aimed at educating plastic surgery trainees around the world. Dr. Levites grew up in New York City studying to be a dancer and fine artist, and still enjoys dance and art in her spare time. Her childhood experiences taught her the value of precision, poise, humility and respect. Like an artist, the human body has become her canvas, and the scalpel the brush. As a mom herself, Dr. Levites understands the value of restoring the body of a mother back to her previous form. She recognizes that each patient’s goals and desires are unique, and tailors her surgical plan to help her patients look and feel their best.
Education & Training
2004 - 2008 MIT BS
2011 - 2015 SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine MD
2015 - 2021 Duke University Hospital Residency
2021 - 2022 H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship
Board Certification(s)
American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
Location
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LevityLifts by Dr. Levites, 5720 Creedmoor Road Suite 101, Raleigh, NC, USA
Questions and Answers
Dr. Levites does not have any Q&A at this time.
Schedule a consultation
Skin Tightening

Heather Levites, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Long Lasting
High Patient Satisfaction
Safe & Reliable
Dr. Heather Levites is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a special interest...
Skin Tightening by Heather Levites, MD.
About the Procedure
Introduction
Introduction
Skin Tightening Overview Skin Tightening Overview
Skin tightening is a non-surgical procedure that uses heat or energy to stimulate collagen production in the skin. This can result in a more youthful appearance by tightening lax skin and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
- Benefits of skin tightening:
- Tightens lax skin
- Reduces wrinkles
- Improves skin tone and texture
- Can be used on the face, neck, body, and hands
- Types of skin tightening procedures:
- Radiofrequency
- Ultrasound
- Laser
- Infrared
- Risks and side effects of skin tightening:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Pain
- Scarring (rare)
Skin tightening is a safe and effective procedure for most people. However, it is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to discuss your individual needs and goals. They can help you choose the right type of procedure and minimize the risk of complications.
Duration
2 Hours
Overnight Stay
No
Recovery Time
2-3 Days
Effective Period
6-8 weeks
Maintaining healthy skin is crucial for overall well-being.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in antioxidants support skin tightening.
Proper hydration and sun protection prevent premature aging and wrinkles.
Exfoliation and topical treatments with ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid encourage collagen production.
Adopting these practices promotes skin health, firmness, and radiance.
- Improved skin elasticity: Skin tightening treatments can help to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which are two proteins that are responsible for giving skin its firmness and elasticity.
- Reduced wrinkles and fine lines: By tightening the skin, these treatments can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Improved skin tone and texture: Skin tightening treatments can also help to improve the overall tone and texture of the skin, making it look more radiant and youthful.
- Reduced sagging skin: As we age, our skin begins to lose its elasticity and can start to sag. Skin tightening treatments can help to tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of sagging.
- Non-invasive: Most skin tightening treatments are non-invasive, which means that they do not require any surgery or downtime.
Risks:
- Burns: Radiofrequency (RF) and laser energy can cause burns if not used properly.
- Hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation: Excessive energy can lead to darkening or lightening of the skin.
- Scarring: If the tissue is damaged during treatment, scarring may occur.
- Pain: Skin tightening procedures can cause some discomfort or pain.
- Nerve damage: In rare cases, nerve damage can result from excessive heat exposure.
- Altered skin texture: The skin may become rough or lumpy in some areas.
- Ineffectiveness: Skin tightening may not be effective for everyone, especially those with loose skin or significant subcutaneous fat.
- Delayed results: It can take several weeks or months to see the full effects of skin tightening.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the materials used in skin tightening procedures.
Safety:
- Board-certified providers: It's essential to choose a qualified and experienced doctor or dermatologist who specializes in skin tightening.
- FDA-approved devices: Ensure that the devices used for skin tightening are FDA-approved for their intended use.
- Proper training: Providers should undergo thorough training to ensure safe and effective use of skin tightening technologies.
- Consultation: Before undergoing any skin tightening procedure, discuss your expectations, risks, and suitability with your provider.
- Follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor progress and address any concerns.
- Sun protection: Avoid sun exposure before and after skin tightening to minimize the risk of hyperpigmentation.
- Moisturize: Keep the treated area well-moisturized to promote healing and prevent dryness.
- No strenuous activity: Avoid strenuous activity for a few days after the procedure to allow the skin to heal.
Overall, skin tightening is a generally safe procedure when performed by qualified providers using appropriate equipment. However, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and to take appropriate precautions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Pre-procedure Preparation for Skin Tightening
1. Medical Assessment:
- Consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine your skin's condition and suitability for the procedure.
- Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or current medications that could impact treatment.
2. Pre-operative Instructions:
- Avoid blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) for several days before the procedure.
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks prior to reduce inflammation and improve healing.
- Maintain a healthy diet and hydration.
3. Skin Care:
- Avoid harsh skin care products or exfoliation for a few days before the procedure.
- Keep your skin clean and moisturized.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen.
4. Treatment Area Preparation:
- Depending on the treatment method, you may need to shave or trim the treatment area.
- Cleanse the area thoroughly with an antiseptic wash.
5. Day of Procedure:
- Arrive at the treatment facility on time.
- Remove all jewelry and loose clothing.
- Inform the technician about any discomfort or concerns.
Additional Considerations:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform the technician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as these conditions may require special precautions.
- Certain Skin Conditions: Individuals with active skin rashes, infections, or severe scarring may not be suitable candidates for all skin tightening procedures.
- Realistic Expectations: Skin tightening results can vary depending on the individual and the treatment used. It is important to have realistic expectations and discuss desired outcomes with your healthcare provider.
- Follow-up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.
Immediate Post-Treatment Care:
- Keep the treatment area clean: Wash the area with mild soap and water and pat it dry. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants.
- Avoid heat and sun exposure: Heat can increase inflammation and sun exposure can damage the skin. Use sunscreen or stay in the shade.
- Apply a cold compress: A cold compress can reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing: Avoid tight clothing that may rub or irritate the skin.
- Elevate the treated area: If possible, prop up the treated area to reduce swelling.
- Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free, oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
- Avoid touching or picking: This can damage the skin and slow healing.
Recovery Timeline and Instructions:
Day 1-3:
- Expect some redness and swelling: These are normal reactions and will gradually subside.
- Take pain medication as needed: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce discomfort.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activity or exercise.
Day 4-7:
- Swelling and bruising should start to fade: However, some mild swelling may persist for a few weeks.
- Continue moisturizing: Keep the skin hydrated to prevent dryness and cracking.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can interfere with healing.
Week 2-4:
- Most swelling and bruising should be gone: However, the skin may still feel a bit sensitive.
- Wear sunscreen: Protect the treated area from sun damage.
- Start gently massaging the skin: This can help improve circulation and reduce any remaining swelling.
Month 1-3:
- The skin should gradually become tighter and firmer: The full results will take several months to appear.
- Continue moisturizing: Keep the skin hydrated to maintain optimal results.
- Protect the skin from further damage: Avoid smoking, excessive sun exposure, and harsh skincare products.
Additional Tips:
- Follow the instructions of your doctor or treatment provider: They will provide specific advice based on the type of skin tightening treatment you received.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can slow healing and increase inflammation.
- Get plenty of rest: Adequate rest allows the body to focus on repairing the skin.
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and supports healing.
- Be patient: Results take time to develop. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.
Things to know before start
Pre-procedure Preparation for Skin Tightening
1. Medical Assessment:
- Consult with a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine your skin's condition and suitability for the procedure.
- Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or current medications that could impact treatment.
2. Pre-operative Instructions:
- Avoid blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen) for several days before the procedure.
- Stop smoking at least 4 weeks prior to reduce inflammation and improve healing.
- Maintain a healthy diet and hydration.
3. Skin Care:
- Avoid harsh skin care products or exfoliation for a few days before the procedure.
- Keep your skin clean and moisturized.
- Protect your skin from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen.
4. Treatment Area Preparation:
- Depending on the treatment method, you may need to shave or trim the treatment area.
- Cleanse the area thoroughly with an antiseptic wash.
5. Day of Procedure:
- Arrive at the treatment facility on time.
- Remove all jewelry and loose clothing.
- Inform the technician about any discomfort or concerns.
Additional Considerations:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform the technician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as these conditions may require special precautions.
- Certain Skin Conditions: Individuals with active skin rashes, infections, or severe scarring may not be suitable candidates for all skin tightening procedures.
- Realistic Expectations: Skin tightening results can vary depending on the individual and the treatment used. It is important to have realistic expectations and discuss desired outcomes with your healthcare provider.
- Follow-up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and ensure optimal results.
Immediate Post-Treatment Care:
- Keep the treatment area clean: Wash the area with mild soap and water and pat it dry. Avoid harsh scrubs or exfoliants.
- Avoid heat and sun exposure: Heat can increase inflammation and sun exposure can damage the skin. Use sunscreen or stay in the shade.
- Apply a cold compress: A cold compress can reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing: Avoid tight clothing that may rub or irritate the skin.
- Elevate the treated area: If possible, prop up the treated area to reduce swelling.
- Moisturize: Apply a fragrance-free, oil-free moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated.
- Avoid touching or picking: This can damage the skin and slow healing.
Recovery Timeline and Instructions:
Day 1-3:
- Expect some redness and swelling: These are normal reactions and will gradually subside.
- Take pain medication as needed: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce discomfort.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activity or exercise.
Day 4-7:
- Swelling and bruising should start to fade: However, some mild swelling may persist for a few weeks.
- Continue moisturizing: Keep the skin hydrated to prevent dryness and cracking.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can interfere with healing.
Week 2-4:
- Most swelling and bruising should be gone: However, the skin may still feel a bit sensitive.
- Wear sunscreen: Protect the treated area from sun damage.
- Start gently massaging the skin: This can help improve circulation and reduce any remaining swelling.
Month 1-3:
- The skin should gradually become tighter and firmer: The full results will take several months to appear.
- Continue moisturizing: Keep the skin hydrated to maintain optimal results.
- Protect the skin from further damage: Avoid smoking, excessive sun exposure, and harsh skincare products.
Additional Tips:
- Follow the instructions of your doctor or treatment provider: They will provide specific advice based on the type of skin tightening treatment you received.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking: These substances can slow healing and increase inflammation.
- Get plenty of rest: Adequate rest allows the body to focus on repairing the skin.
- Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and supports healing.
- Be patient: Results take time to develop. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.
Surgeon

Heather Levites, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Owner at LevityLifts
Raleigh, NC
50 views today
Speaks: English
Dr. Heather Levites is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a special interest in advanced cosmetic surgery. She earned her undergraduate degree at MIT after attending an arts high school in New York City. She earned her MD from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and completed her plastic surgery training at Duke University. While at Duke, Dr. Levites honed her surgical skills focusing on aesthetic surgery of the face, pediatric plastic surgery, hand surgery, craniofacial trauma reconstruction and oncologic reconstruction. She further bolstered her aesthetic surgery expertise under the guidance of Drs. Hunstad, Kortesis and Bharti in Charlotte, NC. She is the author of multiple peer reviewed publications, has given presentations at many national plastic surgery conferences, and helped launch “The Resident Review”, a podcast aimed at educating plastic surgery trainees around the world. Dr. Levites grew up in New York City studying to be a dancer and fine artist, and still enjoys dance and art in her spare time. Her childhood experiences taught her the value of precision, poise, humility and respect. Like an artist, the human body has become her canvas, and the scalpel the brush. As a mom herself, Dr. Levites understands the value of restoring the body of a mother back to her previous form. She recognizes that each patient’s goals and desires are unique, and tailors her surgical plan to help her patients look and feel their best.
Education & Training
- 2004 - 2008 MIT BS
- 2011 - 2015 SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine MD
- 2015 - 2021 Duke University Hospital Residency
- 2021 - 2022 H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship
Board Certification(s)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
LevityLifts by Dr. Levites, 5720 Creedmoor Road Suite 101, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Surgeon

Heather Levites, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Owner at LevityLifts
Raleigh, NC
50 views today
Dr. Heather Levites is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a special interest in advanced cosmetic surgery. She earned her undergraduate degree at MIT after attending an arts high school in New York City. She earned her MD from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and completed her plastic surgery training at Duke University. While at Duke, Dr. Levites honed her surgical skills focusing on aesthetic surgery of the face, pediatric plastic surgery, hand surgery, craniofacial trauma reconstruction and oncologic reconstruction. She further bolstered her aesthetic surgery expertise under the guidance of Drs. Hunstad, Kortesis and Bharti in Charlotte, NC. She is the author of multiple peer reviewed publications, has given presentations at many national plastic surgery conferences, and helped launch “The Resident Review”, a podcast aimed at educating plastic surgery trainees around the world. Dr. Levites grew up in New York City studying to be a dancer and fine artist, and still enjoys dance and art in her spare time. Her childhood experiences taught her the value of precision, poise, humility and respect. Like an artist, the human body has become her canvas, and the scalpel the brush. As a mom herself, Dr. Levites understands the value of restoring the body of a mother back to her previous form. She recognizes that each patient’s goals and desires are unique, and tailors her surgical plan to help her patients look and feel their best.
Education & Training
- 2004 - 2008 MIT BS
- 2011 - 2015 SUNY Stony Brook School of Medicine MD
- 2015 - 2021 Duke University Hospital Residency
- 2021 - 2022 H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship
Board Certification(s)
- American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
LevityLifts by Dr. Levites, 5720 Creedmoor Road Suite 101, Raleigh, NC, USA
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Questions and Answers
Q&A
Dr. Heather Levites does not have any Q&A at this time.
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