Laser for Tightening the Skin in the Abdominal Area

The good news is that you don't need a tummy tuck, the bad news is that there are very limited options for tightening the skin in the central abdomen. Laser treatments tend to work best in the face, but Thermage has some success for abdominal skin if it isn't too loose.

Despite the promise of this technology, I have not been impressed with the limited skin tightening achieved by these lasers or radiofrequency technology devices. It may work for minor cases such as yours and I would discuss realistic expectations with your laser practitioner.

Cheri,

Lasers have enjoyed broad applications within the field of cosmetic surgery.  They are frequently used in facial skin resurfacing, hair removal, and the treatment of vascular lesions.  As far as laser efficacy in tightening abdominal skin, I have been unimpressed.  Laser liposuction marketers claim that this treatment removes fat and tightens skin where applied.  I have found that laser lipo often leads to less bruising and a faster recovery than tradtional liposuction.  As far as skin tightening, however, this effect is subtle at best.  Additionally, laser treatments are generally expensive and outcomes are variablie depending on skin tone and elasticity.  It's never a bad idea to seek additional opinions.  In short, if your skin laxity is very mild, one or multiple laser treatments may help, but the cost will probably outweigh the benefits.

Good luck!

There are many lasers and devices out there proclaiming to tighten skin. The outcomes can be quite variable from person to person. Some patients may see a subtle tightening effect and they are pleased, others may not have much of a result. It is also a function of having realistic expectations. Laser tightening will never get close to results from surgical skin tightening. I would check into it. Make sure you go to a board certified physician and are able to view consistent before and after photos. 

Laser treatment either externally or internally via Smartlipo or any other brand laser can help with mild skin tightening.  However, if you have loose or hangning skin, then there is no way to achieve a tight appearance short of a surgical procedure such as abdominoplasty / tummy tuck.

Smartlipo or other non-invasive methods to tighten the skin just do not work with any certainty.  There are some newer RF modalities such as Elixis that show some promise but at this point it is wait and see. 

A posted photo sure would have helped determine if you are a candidate for external laser or internal laser (Smart Lipo). My recommendation is to try the Thermage with the understanding it is MANY sessions and could be a failure and waste of $'s. As for Smart Lipo or any laser lipo the results maybe better. Seek opinions.