What is the best skin tightening laser based on experience?

Question

I've heard of bodytite, J plasma, vaso laser, etc. I want to tighten my arms and stomach.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

As a dermatologist, I always tell patients there is no single “best” skin tightening device—what works best depends on your anatomy, skin quality, and goals. For the arms and abdomen, I think of treatments in tiers.

If you have mild skin laxity, noninvasive options like radiofrequency (e.g., Thermage) or ultrasound (Ultherapy) can stimulate collagen and provide gradual tightening with no downtime. These are subtle but safe and good for early changes.

For moderate laxity, minimally invasive devices tend to give more noticeable results. BodyTite (radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis) is one of the most reliable in my experience for arms and abdomen because it delivers heat both above and below the skin, leading to meaningful contraction and contour improvement. It also allows some fat reduction at the same time.

J-Plasma (Renuvion) can produce impressive tightening, but I approach it more cautiously. While effective in selected patients, it has had safety concerns in the past and outcomes are highly operator-dependent.

VASER is excellent for fat removal, but it is not primarily a skin tightening device.

The key is proper patient selection. If there is significant excess skin, no device will replace surgery. A consultation with an experienced provider is essential to match the right technology to your goals.

Jason T. Miller, MD · Answer

Great question, and this is something I’m asked quite often. Minimally invasive treatments like J-Plasma (Renuvion), BodyTite, and other laser-based systems can be excellent options for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity, providing alternatives to more extensive procedures like tummy tucks or arm lifts. However, it’s important to recognize that these treatments do have limitations.
For those with significant skin laxity, particularly following major weight loss, non-surgical solutions typically can’t fully correct loose or sagging skin. That said, in the right candidates, I’ve seen very satisfying and natural-looking results.
Be cautious of overstated promises regarding skin tightening. The best approach is to consult with a surgeon who has a proven track record, shows real before-and-after results, and provides clear, honest guidance on what you can realistically expect for your unique goals.

Chad Deal, MD · Answer

You are clearly doing your research! The Renuvion and the Bodytite are the two best skin tightening surgical technologies in the world. Our practice has performed more of both than any other practice in North America. We have a study to be released in the plastic surgery journal comparing the technologies. We believe both are great devices and useful for different circumstances. If you want an overall generality, the renuvion is better in areas that you are simultaneously going to liposuction and the bodytite is better in areas that are not being suctioned, but rather just being tightened.

Charles Riccio, MD · Answer

Hi Fantastic750344,
While all of the options you listed can potentially achieve a mild improvement in skin laxity and may be indicated in select candidates, the gold standard for skin tightening is excision of the excess skin. Without seeing any photos, it is not possible to give you a definitive recommendation. I would recommend you reach out to a board eligible or board certified plastic surgeon for an in person consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your particular case.
Hope this helps!Charles Riccio, MD

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each of the options you mentioned has plusses and minuses.  It depends on the individual patient's situation and goals.  For very lax skin, excision is the best tool.  For minimal tightening Morpheus8 may be the right choice.  For fat removal with mild to moderate skin tightening with no general anesthesia required BodyTight can be used.  I encourage you to begin by visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to discuss your concerns and learn more about each option.

What is the best skin tightening laser based on experience?

Answers (6)

More Skin Tightening Questions

Advice on procedures to get rid of my loose skin? (Photo)

What is the best option to treat dynamic under eye wrinkles? 31 y/o (photos)

Can I get laser skin tightening if I am prone to hypertrophic scarring?

I am 18 years old, can I get a HIFU treatment?

What is available for skin tightening on the arms, chest and face? (Photo)

How do I get rid of the bumps around my nose that pop up when I smile? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS