Laser Skin Tightening

Collagen is the most abundant skin protein, contributing to its structural support and an overall more youthful appearance. Collagen levels naturally deplete over time, leading to various signs of aging, including loose skin. Laser skin tightening is a type of noninvasive cosmetic procedure performed by a board-certified dermatologist that stimulates new collagen and elastin production, resulting in a smoother, tighter, firmer skin texture without downtime or discomfort. Due to the ease and accessibility of getting a noninvasive cosmetic procedure and the consistently stunning facial rejuvenation or body contouring results provided by laser treatments, it is no wonder that they are among the most popular cosmetic procedures offered at Dr Michele Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighbourhood.

The field of cosmetic dermatology is constantly evolving, with some of the most significant advancements made being innovations in laser technology. Before, patients interested in facial rejuvenation had limited options and were forced to rely on cosmetic surgery as the only means to safely and effectively achieve a more youthful appearance. Now, thanks to laser skin tightening treatments like Thermage, a facelift isn’t the only way to get a smoother, tighter, firmer skin texture and rewind the clock. Thermage is the gold standard in noninvasive laser skin tightening, safe for all skin tones and skin types. It uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate the production of collagen in a single treatment session. Although it is easier than ever to access these body contouring and facial rejuvenation procedures, it remains critical to seek treatment from an experienced medical professional. Working with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York is the best way to guarantee that your cosmetic procedure is safe, effective, and provides optimal rejuvenation results. In addition to Thermage, Dr Green offers laser treatments like Vivace radiofrequency microneedling, BBL Broadband, Fraxel laser skin resurfacing, AlexTrivantage, Intense Pulsed Light therapy, eMatrix, laser hair removal, Clear + Brilliant, and VBEAM.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning men and women with the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures available, including laser skin tightening treatments. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment protocol to include a combination of specially formulated skin care products and in-office cosmetic procedures that are best suited to addressing their skin type, particular skin concerns, and skin tone, and achieving their unique aesthetic goals. She is consistently awarded the title of one of NYC’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Whether you are interested in treating acne scars, fine lines, loose skin, stretch marks, or other signs of aging or seeking simple skin rejuvenation, Dr. Green is here to help.

What is Laser Skin Tightening Treatment?

Most types of laser skin tightening treatments work by stimulating the production of new collagen and elastin in the treatment area. Collagen and elastin are skin proteins that contribute to its elasticity and a firm, smooth skin texture. Over time, collagen and elastin levels naturally deplete due to the natural aging process and cumulative sun exposure. As levels of these proteins are diminished, various signs of aging develop, including fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin.

Laser skin tightening can be an excellent alternative to cosmetic surgery or a facelift as it offers patients a safe and effective means for achieving a more youthful appearance without downtime or discomfort. Laser skin tightening procedures are relatively quick and provide consistently stunning facial rejuvenation results. Compared to surgical procedures, laser treatments for skin tightening are associated with far fewer side effects. There are many types of laser skin tightening treatments, several of which are available at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in New York City, including the gold standard- Thermage. Thermage utilizes radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermis, where it stimulates new collagen production and causes existing collagen fibers to contract. There is zero preparation required, no discomfort associated with the treatment, and no downtime involved afterward, meaning patients can immediately resume their normal daily activities once the treatment is complete. Some skin rejuvenation benefits may be observable immediately following treatment but will continue to improve for up to six months as new collagen is formed.

Laser skin tightening treatment has been FDA-approved for reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity. While the results of a plastic surgery procedure, such as a facelift, might be more dramatic, most patients want to achieve optimal skin-tightening results without the downtime, discomfort, and high costs associated with cosmetic surgery. Laser skin tightening is the best nonsurgical way to restore a more youthful appearance to the face and rejuvenate skin almost anywhere on the body.

Can Laser Skin Tightening be combined with Laser Skin Resurfacing or Facial Injections?

Dr. Green utilizes the Thermage™ laser, Vivace RF Microneedling, Intense Pulsed Light, and BBL™ Broadband Laser for noninvasive laser skin tightening. These laser skin tightening treatments can easily be combined with chemical peels or other laser treatments for pigmentation, sun damage, and fine lines, such as the Fraxel® or Alex-Trivantage® after your skin tightening procedure. While laser skin tightening treatments stimulate new collagen production in the deeper layers of the dermis, the Fraxel and Vbeam lasers target concerns such as irregular pigmentation in the skin, helping to remove issues such as age spots and facial redness. Many patients with skin laxity choose to combine their laser skin tightening treatment with Botox and dermal fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, to provide pan-facial rejuvenation in a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure often referred to as a “liquid facelift.” When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in New York, she will work with you to create a customized skin rejuvenation treatment plan that combines a unique combination of the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures suited to your concerns and goals.

Before & After – Thermage with Voluma & Lyft

Which Skin Tightening Laser Treatment is Best for Me?

Thermage and Vivace RF Microneedling are some of the most popular noninvasive skin tightening laser treatments offered at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office that stimulate the generation of healthy, new skin cells and increase collagen production. When considering the best laser skin tightening treatments, it’s important to note that there’s no one “best” skin tightening treatment for all patients. Rather, the best skin-tightening laser treatment for you will be based on your needs and goals. The best laser for tightening your skin will be determined by an in-office consultation with Dr. Michele Green at her private, New York-based office. There have been many advances in dermatology and laser technology in the last decade. Selecting the right type of laser treatment for a given patient is based on such factors as the area(s) of the body being treated, the time needed for the procedures, the number of treatment sessions, the recovery time, and the desired results.

How Does a Thermage Laser Skin Tightening Procedure Work?

Before the laser skin tightening session, all your makeup, sunscreen, and skincare products are removed from the skin with a gentle cleanser. Goggles are applied over the eyes to shield them from the effects of the laser. With Thermage radiofrequency, no topical numbing cream is required since the procedure is painless. It is also important not to numb the skin, as the heat and its effect must be gauged during the procedure. No over-the-counter or prescription pain medication should be taken before the procedure. Suppose the procedure feels too warm or uncomfortable. In that case, the settings are continuously adjusted during the procedure to maximize the comfort level while still delivering the energy for the best possible results.

During the Thermage skin tightening procedure, a grid is applied to the skin in the treatment area. Using radiofrequency laser technology, heat is delivered in pulses to the dermis, where the underlying collagen fibers tighten the skin uniformly, and new collagen production is stimulated. Each pulse takes several seconds to deliver the needed energy to heat the skin. Each pulse covers approximately one square inch of skin, and it typically takes just over one hour to complete the treatment. Recent innovations in Thermage devices have led to the creation of Thermage FLX. Thermage FLX is equipped with even more advanced laser technology, the AccuRep system, which builds on the foundation of effective skin tightening treatment while improving patient comfort, speed, and precision accuracy. Thermage FLX has a larger treatment tip, which offers both improved comfort and faster treatment time, meaning that patients can complete a full Thermage FLX treatment session in 45 minutes or less (rather than 90 minutes with the original Thermage device). Thermage FLX is also at the forefront of technological advancement with its patented AccuREP™ algorithmic precision. With AccuREP™, Thermage FLX can adjust treatment on a per-pulse basis, leading to a more comfortable and impressive skin-tightening treatment experience. Dr. Green is delighted to offer this revolutionary skin-tightening laser treatment to her patients.

Ultherapy and Skin Tightening

Ultherapy is an FDA-approved skin tightening treatment that uses ultrasound energy (rather than radiofrequency energy) to heat the deepest layers of the dermis. Ultherapy can offer effective treatment to patients, as ultrasound energy stimulates collagen production, and dermatologists can actually use the device to see the tissues in the treatment area while carrying out the procedure. However, Ultherapy is considered a rather uncomfortable treatment compared to Thermage FLX, and it is not always effective in treating loose skin. Due to the depth of the ultrasound, energy penetrates the skin, and one of the potential unwanted side effects of Ultherapy is fat loss in the treatment area. This is because the heat can destroy subcutaneous fat cells, which can cause poor cosmetic results. For this reason, Dr. Green recommends either Thermage FLX, BBL Broadband Laser, or Vivace radiofrequency microneedling as an alternative and preferred skin-tightening laser treatment.

Vivace Radiofrequency Microneedling for Skin Tightening

An exciting innovation in the use of radiofrequency laser technology, Vivace combines two highly effective cosmetic procedures–radiofrequency laser treatment and microneedling–to improve skin elasticity and create a more youthful appearance. It’s a minimally invasive treatment that requires no downtime, offers safe and effective skin rejuvenation for patients with all skin tones, and helps reduce the appearance of skin laxity. Vivace is one of the newest FDA-approved cosmetic procedures that safely improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, and stretch marks, and tightens skin. Vivace’s combined use of targeted radiofrequency energy and microneedling offers patients the best of both worlds. Radiofrequency laser skin tightening has been used frequently to improve collagen and elastin production in the body.

Radiofrequency stimulates collagen production in the deeper layers of the dermis. Microneedling, also known as collagen induction therapy, involves the application of a handheld device containing tiny, sterile needles to the skin’s surface in the treatment area. This creates thousands of microscopic injuries in the epidermis to activate the natural wound-healing properties of the body to rejuvenate the surface of the skin, as well as reduce the appearance of scar tissue and other imperfections by stimulating new collagen production. When these two techniques are combined, both the surface and the deeper layers of skin are enhanced, creating pan-facial rejuvenation. Most patients need a short series of three treatment sessions, each spaced about four weeks apart, to achieve their final desired results.

Benefits of Fractional laser

Another excellent skin rejuvenation technique is Fractional laser skin resurfacing. The Fraxel Dual laser skin resurfacing treatment is considered the gold standard and uses two wavelengths to offer fractionated laser skin resurfacing in a highly precise manner. The 1927 wavelength offers patients a noninvasive method to treat pigmentation, discoloration, age spots, and sun spots, while the 1550 wavelength improves the appearance of skin texture, fine lines, stretch marks, wrinkles, and acne scars. With the flexibility of the Fraxel Dual, patients can receive custom-tailored laser skin resurfacing treatment without downtime or invasive procedures. Most patients require a short series of three Fraxel laser treatment sessions to achieve their final desired results. The rejuvenation results are considered permanent; however, this does not mean that it can combat future signs of aging that continue to develop over time. Many patients will engage in an annual maintenance treatment session to keep up the best results.

Fraxel Dual skin resurfacing treatment can be combined with Thermage FLX and other skin tightening treatments to maximize skin rejuvenation. Thermage FLX is a very gentle treatment for skin tightening and can be combined with a variety of other revitalizing skin treatments during a treatment plan to maximize patient satisfaction. Patients can prolong the rejuvenation benefits of their treatment by wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 daily.

Does Laser Skin Tightening Treatment Hurt?

Laser skin tightening treatment should not be painful. There may be some heat and mild discomfort, but the procedure is generally painless. Many patients compare the heat applied during laser skin tightening to a hot stone massage, and the warmth from the laser is all you will feel in terms of sensation. Dr. Green uses Thermage and BBL for laser skin tightening, which has virtually no discomfort. Because the laser doesn’t affect the top layers of skin, there is no epidermal damage, peeling, pain, or recovery time. Dr. Green doesn’t utilize Ultherapy because it is a painful procedure without comparable results.

Who is a Good Candidate for Nonsurgical Skin Tightening?

Laser Skin Tightening, such as Thermage®, is designed for patients who notice the first visible signs of aging, such as loose skin, sagging jowls, brows, eyelids, cheeks, or deep nasolabial folds. One of the first signs of aging is the loss of the definition of one’s jawline. A good candidate for this procedure is someone who wants to “get ahead” of the aging process, tighten the skin, improve skin tone, and tighten the jawline. Laser skin tightening treatments are like having a “collagen bank” and producing new collagen to decrease fine lines and wrinkles. It is also ideal for patients with a prior facelift who want further skin tightening without more surgery. Poor candidates for Thermage® would be those patients who have an excess amount of skin and sagging and need results that can only be achieved through a surgical facelift. Suppose you are not a good candidate for noninvasive laser skin tightening with Thermage. In that case, Dr. Green will refer you to an experienced, trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon for a cosmetic surgery consultation.

For patients who are just beginning to notice skin laxity, treatments such as Thermage FLX and BBL Broadband Laser can be excellent options. Patients experiencing sagging skin around the jawline or submental fat (double chin) may explore additional facial contouring options such as dermal fillers for a chin or cheek enhancement or CoolSculpting for fat reduction. If you are dealing with a large amount of skin laxity, you may need to engage with surgical solutions to achieve the best results. However, for many patients, noninvasive laser skin tightening techniques offer a wonderful solution to loose skin issues along the face and body.

How Long Does Laser Skin Tightening Last?

The effect of a skin tightening procedure will last up to two years. Some patients opt to have Thermage® repeated annually to stimulate the production of new collagen and maintain an overall more youthful appearance. The BBL Forever Young ™ procedure takes five treatments spaced one month apart and requires maintenance twice a year for the best results. A facelift is a more permanent solution, and the results can last more than ten years, but this surgical procedure requires general anesthesia, incisions, and downtime for recovery. Most patients prefer to repeat Thermage® treatment for noninvasive skin tightening every two years instead of a surgical facelift.

What are the Potential Side Effects of Laser Skin Tightening?

One of the greatest benefits of noninvasive laser skin tightening is that there are very few

if any, side effects encountered. In general, laser skin tightening has virtually no side effects and no recovery time. Patients can resume normal activities immediately after a laser treatment session. Some patients have slight redness in the treatment area immediately after the procedure, which resolves in one hour. Though side effects from laser skin tightening are extremely rare, some patients can experience a mild amount of redness or swelling for an extended period, up to a few weeks. Additionally, though extremely uncommon, some patients have reported a burning sensation in the treatment area after treatment. In less than 0.1% of patients, patients can experience surface irregularity along the treatment area. Overall, for most patients, the potential benefits from laser skin tightening far outweigh the potential risks.

Can laser skin tightening cause cancer?

No! Laser skin tightening with Thermage, Vivace RF Microneedling, IPL, and BBL are safe, FDA-approved methods to tighten skin and do not have any correlation or causative relation to cancer. Of all cosmetic laser skin treatments, only ultraviolet rays–such as those used in tanning beds–have a risk of rapid skin aging and increased likelihood of cancer. Nevertheless, when engaging in any laser skin tightening or laser skin resurfacing treatment, you must work with a board-certified medical professional, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York City, to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What other areas of the body can laser skin tightening be performed in?

Laser skin tightening is most popular for the face and especially for treating the jawline, jowls, and neck. However, laser skin tightening, such as Thermage®, is commonly performed on other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, arms, and thighs, as well as the face and neck. The laser skin tightening treatment is often combined with other cosmetic procedures, as well such as Coolsculpting, which is a noninvasive method to reduce stubborn pockets of fat in the neck, abdomen, thighs, arms, buttocks, knees, or back. Kybella® is another modality Dr. Michele Green uses to reduce fat in the chin/neck area (submental fat), and she commonly combines these injections with Thermage®. This ideal synergy of noninvasive fat removal and laser skin tightening can be performed in the office with no downtime and no anesthesia.

Before & After – Thermage in abdomen area

Laser skin tightening treatments are exciting as they complement a variety of noninvasive methods to revitalize the appearance of the skin. Thermage FLX can be combined in a treatment plan with dermal fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse to boost volume in targeted areas of the body, including the arms, décolletage, hips, and buttocks. This creates a comprehensive body contouring that can help patients look and feel like their best selves.

Does laser skin tightening work for the neck?

Laser skin tightening is a highly effective cosmetic procedure to revitalize the neck, helping to reduce skin laxity and improve skin texture. To further improve the appearance of the neck and jawline area, laser skin tightening can be combined with dermal fillers for chin enhancement, as well as fat-eliminating technologies like Kybella and CoolSculpting to reduce the appearance of a double chin or jowls. Additionally, Botox can be applied to the neck muscles to reduce the appearance of chords along the neck. Dr. Green often combines Thermage FLX treatment, Fraxel Dual laser, and Botox to create a noninvasive neck lift. If you are interested in a nonsurgical approach to neck rejuvenation, Dr. Green will work with you to determine which noninvasive cosmetic procedures will provide optimal results.

Does laser skin tightening treatment work on the stomach?

Many patients choose to have Thermage® to tighten the loose skin on the tummy after delivering a baby instead of having an invasive cosmetic surgery like a “tummy tuck.” Additionally, after dramatic weight loss, there may be loose skin that needs to be tightened. Laser skin tightening treatment is the perfect solution for loose skin on the abdomen; for patients struggling with both skin laxity and stubborn deposits of excess fat, laser skin tightening can be combined with CoolSculpting on the abdomen for optimal body contouring. CoolSculpting is a fat reduction treatment that destroys fat cells with a controlled cold temperature.

Does laser skin tightening treatment work on the face?

Laser skin tightening treatment is safe to use on all areas of the face, helping to boost collagen production in the skin and create a firmer, smoother overall skin texture. Laser skin tightening is also often used during a cosmetic procedure called the nonsurgical- eye lift. During a nonsurgical- eye lift, the laser skin tightening device tights skin in the area around the eye. A noninvasive eye lift can be performed with Thermage® radiofrequency. This treatment can be combined with hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to help restore age-related volume loss along the midface, as well as Botox to reduce the appearance of dynamic wrinkles around the eye. Dr. Michele Green often combines this noninvasive eye lift with eMatrix® for eyes, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles under the eyes. Dr. Green will work with you to determine which laser skin tightening treatments will provide you with your desired skin rejuvenation results.

Can laser treatment tighten jowls?

Laser skin tightening treatments like Thermage radiofrequency and Vivace RF Microneedling can be a successful way to enhance the definition and contour of the jawline and reduce the appearance of jowls. Additionally, for some patients, jowls can be caused by a natural volume loss in the midface, which can be corrected using dermal fillers. When you work with Dr. Green, she can create a custom treatment plan that best targets your needs, including laser skin tightening for jowls.

How much is laser skin tightening?

The cost of laser skin tightening treatment will ultimately depend on several factors. The total cost of treatment varies by the treatment option selected, the total number of treatment sessions required, the geographic location of the facility in which you are treated, and whether a board-certified dermatologist or a technician at a medspa is performing this cosmetic procedure. Certain laser skin tightening treatments require only one session, such as Thermage, though some require multiple sessions, like BBL. The cost differs depending on the type of laser treatment, the area of the body being treated, and the desired aesthetic result. When you consult with Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in New York, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that caters to your specific concerns and goals. At that time, the cost of your laser skin tightening treatment will be estimated.

Does laser skin tightening treatment work?

Yes! Laser skin tightening works extremely well for patients of all skin types and skin tones. Laser skin tightening treatment with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York, is safe and effective for skin rejuvenation on the face, as well as the skin in other areas of the body, such as the arms, neck, chest, decolletage, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks. Laser skin tightening treatments deliver heat to the collagen-rich layers of skin in the dermis, stimulating new collagen production and making the skin firmer and tighter. Nonsurgical- skin tightening promotes long-lasting new collagen and elastin production in the treatment area, with skin rejuvenation results improving for up to six months after treatment and lasting up to two years. Laser skin tightening treatment is very popular and successful, with multiple clinical studies indicating improved collagen production and elasticity in the skin. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will help you determine which laser skin rejuvenation treatments will work best for your skin type, skin tone, skin condition, and aesthetic goals.

Is laser skin tightening permanent?

As part of the natural aging process, the skin proteins collagen and elastin are depleted over time. Collagen and elastin are proteins that provide the skin with structural support and elasticity. While laser skin tightening treatment can help replenish collagen levels, it can not prevent its future depletion that inevitably occurs with the ongoing aging process. Thus, laser skin tightening treatment cannot produce entirely permanent cosmetic results because our bodies continue to lose collagen. However, engaging in maintenance treatment sessions of laser skin tightening continually encourages new collagen production and will help replace the collagen we lose from aging. Through the use of maintenance laser treatments performed annually, patients can enjoy continued skin rejuvenation benefits without the need for invasive surgical procedures, which can be associated with a number of dangerous side effects and significant recovery time. When you consult with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will work with you to create a customized treatment plan and timeline that works best for you and your needs and goals.

Does laser skin tightening improve cellulite?

Cellulite is created by the tension between fibrous bands and fat cells across the skin’s surface, which causes the appearance of a lumpy, rippling, or dimpled skin texture. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, cellulite affects ninety percent of adult women in the United States. Cellulite is a very difficult skin condition to get rid of and, for many, induces feelings of self-consciousness or low self-esteem. Even embracing certain lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and eating healthy, may not be enough to see a visible cellulite reduction. Luckily, recent innovations in dermatology have made it possible to reduce the appearance of cellulite through several treatment methods, including Velashape body contouring and Thermage laser skin tightening.

Laser skin tightening with Thermage radiofrequency improves the appearance of cellulite on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and upper arms. Not only does laser skin tightening offer skin rejuvenation results, but it also temporarily improves the appearance of cellulite on the body. Thermage FLX laser skin tightening treatment can also be combined with Sculptra or Juvederm dermal fillers to replenish lost volume in specific treatment areas. One of the most popular cosmetic procedures to improve cellulite is a noninvasive butt lift, which boosts volume using long-lasting dermal filler injectable treatment. When combined with Thermage radiofrequency laser skin tightening treatment, patients can see a reduction in the appearance of cellulite along the upper thighs and buttocks and smoother, firmer buttocks.

Various biological factors cause cellulite, but the primary ones are fat cells, skin laxity, and the thickening of fibrous bands. When treating cellulite, Thermage can improve one of these biological factors: loose skin. However, several other noninvasive cosmetic procedures can complement Thermage and help further reduce the appearance of cellulite on the skin.

VelaShape is a noninvasive body contouring procedure that is FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of cellulite. VelaShape treatment uses a combination of infrared light and bi-polar radiofrequency energy, administered in tandem with vacuum suction and deep-tissue massage, to heat the fat cells and massage thickened fibrous septae within the layers of the skin. This, in turn, can create new collagen and elastin production, improve the flexibility of the fibrous bands, shrink fat cells, and tighten the skin, thus reducing the appearance of cellulite.

QWO (aka collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes) was the first injectable treatment designed to reduce the thickness of the fibrous septae and reduce cellulite on the skin’s surface. Although QWO injections were an effective injectable treatment for cellulite reduction, this cellulite treatment is no longer available to patients as of January 2023. QWO injections, although FDA-approved as a safe and effective cellulite reduction treatment, have been discontinued due to concerns about the unwanted side effects of prolonged bruising in the treatment area.

What is the recovery time for laser skin tightening?

One of the greatest benefits of laser skin tightening treatments is the noninvasive nature of these cosmetic procedures. Since Thermage®, Vivace RF Microneedling, and the BBL® are noninvasive treatment options, there is essentially no downtime involved with these procedures. Plastic surgery procedures for skin tightening, such as a facelift, typically require a significant amount of recovery time. This is one of the many reasons many patients interested in skin rejuvenation prefer laser skin tightening treatments. In addition, with many of the noninvasive laser skin tightening treatments, some initial results are observable immediately after the procedure. Your skin will appear tighter and firmer in the treatment area, and the results will build over the following four months to gradually tighten the skin. In addition, since only one procedure is necessary with Thermage®, it is also more cost-effective than multiple repeat laser skin tightening procedures. The lack of downtime associated with laser skin tightening treatments means you can return to your normal activities immediately after your procedure. When you have your laser skin tightening treatments with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York City, she will provide you with any pertinent aftercare information relevant to your recovery time and treatment.

How many treatment sessions do you need for laser skin tightening?

When determining the number of laser skin tightening treatment sessions needed, the answer will vary depending on the specific type of laser treatment option used. Thermage FLX is the newest generation of Thermage, the gold-standard laser skin tightening treatment. The laser technology incorporated into Thermage FLX, AccuRep technology, allows for even more precise delivery of radiofrequency energy, which equates to consistently stunning rejuvenation results. Thermage provides skin tightening results in a single treatment session. The skin tightening results of Thermage can last for up to two years or more, although the majority of patients opt to engage in regular “touch-up” treatment sessions on an annual basis. For BBL, multiple treatment sessions are needed to produce optimal skin rejuvenation results. Typically, a series of six BBL sessions, each spaced a month apart, will guarantee optimal results. Regarding Vivace radiofrequency microneedling, a series of three treatment sessions spaced four weeks apart is recommended. Vivace radiofrequency microneedling can also be used to improve the appearance of skin conditions like acne scars, fine lines, stretch marks, and dullness. Many patients opt for maintenance sessions about once a year after their initial Vivace treatments.

When you consult with internationally renowned, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green at her private dermatology office in New York City, she will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan for skin rejuvenation that incorporates the noninvasive cosmetic procedures and specially formulated skincare products best suited to addressing your skin concerns and achieving your aesthetic goals. At that time, she will physically assess your skin condition, and it can be estimated approximately how many treatment sessions will be required.

What is the difference between laser skin tightening and laser skin resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing and laser skin tightening treatments are complementary cosmetic procedures that many of Dr. Green’s patients take advantage of in combination in the interest of achieving pan-facial skin rejuvenation. Laser skin tightening treatments, such as Thermage radiofrequency laser treatment, heat the deeper layers of skin in the dermis to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment areas, resulting in a smoother, firmer, tighter skin texture with no downtime. Laser skin resurfacing treatments, on the other hand, are used to address skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores, acne scars, stretch marks, and uneven skin tone or other irregularities in skin texture. Laser skin resurfacing treatments include ablative laser treatments, like the CO2 laser, and nonablative laser treatments, such as Fraxel Dual.

Ablative laser treatments work by removing the outermost layers of the skin’s surface, the epidermis, to stimulate the wound-healing process of the skin, increasing levels of collagen and elastin. Nonablative laser treatments deliver energy to the dermis to stimulate new collagen and elastin production while leaving the epidermis intact. This aspect of nonablative laser treatments means that they typically require significantly less downtime than ablative laser skin resurfacing treatments. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green often combines laser skin resurfacing with laser skin tightening treatments, such as Fraxel and Thermage, to remove sun damage and improve elasticity. These skin rejuvenation treatments work together to combat various signs of aging. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in New York, she will work with you to select the unique combination of cosmetic procedures that are best suited to you depending on your skin type, the particular signs of aging you want to address, your skin tone, and overall aesthetic goals.

Will laser resurfacing tighten skin?

Yes! Laser skin resurfacing treatments, such as the Fraxel Dual laser, CO2 laser, and Erbium laser, can help create smoother, tighter skin texture and an improved skin tone in the treatment area. Laser skin resurfacing procedures fall into two categories: ablative and nonablative. Nonablative laser skin resurfacing treatments like Fraxel use laser energy to stimulate new collagen production in the dermis while keeping the skin’s surface intact, which significantly reduces the amount of downtime required. Ablative laser treatments, like the CO2 laser, also stimulate new collagen production but involve the removal of the outermost layers of skin, requiring more downtime and discomfort.

Dr. Green specializes in noninvasive cosmetic procedures that involve minimal downtime and discomfort and often recommend the Fraxel laser to patients interested in improving their overall skin tone, texture, and radiance. Dr. Green refers to the Fraxel laser treatment as the “magic eraser” for its unique ability to target an array of skin concerns, including hyperpigmentation, sun damage, acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, and more. Fraxel uses fractionated laser technology to create controlled, microscopic injuries in the dermal layers of skin, stimulating new collagen production in the treatment area. While the increased amount of collagen produced by Fraxel does offer some improvement in skin elasticity, tightness, and firmness, other noninvasive laser treatments are specifically designed for optimal skin tightening, such as Thermage. Many patients interested in achieving pan-facial skin rejuvenation without cosmetic surgery choose to take advantage of the benefits of both Thermage and Fraxel. This combination is often referred to as a “nonsurgical facelift.”

Nonsurgical facelifts typically incorporate skin tightening treatments, such as Thermage and Vivace, cosmetic injectables, such as Botox or dermal fillers, resurfacing laser treatments, and other collagen induction treatments like PRP with microneedling. Many patients prefer nonsurgical facelift procedures due to their completely customizable nature and the fact that there is very little involved regarding downtime and discomfort. During your consultation with Dr. Green in her private New York City dermatology office, she will work with you to determine the best combination of noninvasive cosmetic procedures for your nonsurgical facelift treatment plan.

Is laser good for skin tightening? Is laser skin tightening effective?

Yes! In fact, laser skin tightening treatment is one of the most popular noninvasive cosmetic procedures offered at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office in the Upper East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, New York. Most patients prefer the noninvasive nature of laser skin tightening treatments to an invasive cosmetic surgery procedure like a facelift, as there are fewer potential side effects and significantly less downtime involved. Laser skin tightening is an excellent skin rejuvenation option for patients struggling with a mild to moderate degree of skin laxity and who have realistic expectations regarding the cosmetic results that are achievable with noninvasive laser treatment.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green in New York offers several noninvasive and laser skin tightening treatments at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, including Thermage CPT, Thermage FLX, Intense Pulsed Light, Vivace RF Microneedling, and Broadband Light Therapy. When you consult with Dr. Green for skin rejuvenation at her New York City dermatology office, she will work with you to determine which skin-tightening cosmetic procedure best suits your specific concerns and ideal aesthetic goals.

If you have severe skin laxity or too much loose skin, you may not be able to effectively treat it with a nonsurgical laser skin tightening treatment. In this case, Dr. Green may refer you to a plastic surgeon.

How Does laser skin tightening work?

Laser skin tightening treatments work by inducing the generation of new collagen in the treatment areas. Collagen is the most abundant skin protein that provides it with enhanced structural support and a firm, tight, smooth skin texture. As we age, collagen levels naturally deplete, leading to signs of aging, including loose skin. Although various laser skin tightening treatments, such as Thermage, Ultherapy, and Vivace radiofrequency microneedling, utilize different types of laser technology, these cosmetic procedures deliver controlled energy to the dermal layers of skin to stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area. By replenishing collagen levels, laser skin tightening treatments gradually produce a firmer, smoother, tighter skin texture and a more youthful appearance that is natural-looking and long-lasting.

What cosmetic procedure is best for skin tightening?

Ultimately, the cosmetic procedure that is best for skin tightening may depend on the specific needs, the type and severity of the signs of aging present, and the overall aesthetic goals of an individual. As a nonsurgical procedure, Thermage laser skin tightening is ideal for individuals with a mild to moderate degree of skin laxity, are in good overall health, have realistic expectations about their achievable cosmetic results, and prefer subtle, gradual rejuvenation rather than the more dramatic results typically seen with cosmetic plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgery, such as a surgical facelift, will provide more dramatic skin tightening results and may be recommended for patients with severe skin laxity. With invasive plastic surgery procedures, significant downtime is often required, and there is a substantial risk of experiencing serious side effects.

Thermage radiofrequency can achieve stunning skin rejuvenation results without needing recovery time. There are benefits and risks associated with any cosmetic procedure for skin tightening. The best way to determine which skin tightening treatment is right for you is to consult an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in New York City. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will physically assess the treatment area to ensure the recommended laser skin tightening treatment will yield the best cosmetic results. Dr. Green may refer patients with a significant amount of loose skin to a trusted plastic surgeon for cosmetic surgery.

Which type of laser is best for skin tightening?

Thermage is the gold standard for nonsurgical laser skin tightening. Thermage is an FDA-approved laser skin-tightening treatment that relies on radiofrequency energy to deliver heat to the dermis, where it stimulates new collagen production and causes existing collagen fibers to contract. Collagen is the most abundant skin protein, providing a firm, smooth skin texture, enhanced structural support, and an overall youthful appearance. As part of the aging process, collagen levels are depleted over time. For many, this process is accelerated due to cumulative sun exposure. By replenishing collagen, Thermage creates a firmer, tighter, smoother skin texture in the treatment area, improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of other skin conditions such as cellulite dimples, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Thermage can be used on the face, neck, chest, decolletage, abdomen, upper, arms, thighs, and buttocks. Since the skin’s surface is undisturbed by Thermage treatment, there is zero downtime, meaning patients can resume their usual daily activities immediately and schedule their treatments with ease. A single treatment session typically takes just over an hour to complete. It can provide cosmetic effects lasting up to two years or more, with most patients engaging in an annual maintenance session to keep up the best results. Thermage is a safe and effective laser skin tightening treatment for patients of all skin types and skin tones. Thermage treatment is an excellent cosmetic procedure for skin rejuvenation and can be complemented by many other noninvasive cosmetic procedures, including Botox, fillers, and laser skin resurfacing treatments. When you consult with board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will work with you to develop a treatment plan best suited to your unique needs and goals.

Is laser skin tightening safe?

When you have laser skin tightening with an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in New York City, it is a safe and effective treatment for achieving a natural-looking, more youthful appearance. It is important to always consult with an expert, as some potential unwanted side effects of laser treatment when improperly performed include hypopigmentation, hyperpigmentation, and scarring. These side effects are more likely to be encountered when you have laser treatment with an inexperienced or unqualified provider, such as in a medical spa setting. A board-certified dermatologist has the expertise to select the type of laser treatments and settings that are safe and appropriate for the skin tone, particular concerns, and skin type of a given patient, guaranteeing safety, efficacy, and optimal rejuvenation results.

Dr. Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning men and women with the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures, including laser skin tightening treatments. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will work with you to determine a personalized treatment plan to combat skin laxity and other signs of aging. Dr. Green will recommend the laser treatments best suited to your skin tone, skin type, and skin condition to guarantee safety and optimal rejuvenation results.

Where to go for personalized skincare and cosmetic procedures

The field of cosmetic dermatology is constantly evolving. Some of the most significant advancements made have been the innovations in laser technology. Before, patients interested in facial rejuvenation and body contouring had limited options, often forced to rely on cosmetic surgery as the only means to safely and effectively achieve a more youthful appearance. Now, thanks to laser skin tightening devices like Thermage, a facelift isn’t the only way to get a smoother, tighter, firmer skin texture and rewind the clock to eliminate various signs of aging. Thermage is a quick, painless cosmetic procedure that can result in a smoother, tighter, firmer skin texture in as little as one treatment session.

Although it is easier than ever to access these body contouring and facial rejuvenation procedures, it remains critical to seek treatment from an experienced, board-certified medical professional. Working with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green in New York City is the best way to guarantee that your cosmetic procedure is safe, effective, and provides optimal rejuvenation results. Suppose an inexperienced or unqualified provider performs your laser treatment, such as can occur in a medical spa setting. In that case, some of the potential side effects can include permanent changes in skin pigmentation, burning, or even scarring. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning men and women with the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures. She is consistently recognized as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise.

Will laser lipo tighten skin?

Laser liposuction is a cosmetic procedure designed for the removal of stubborn pockets of excess fat in different areas of the body. Some of the most commonly treated areas of the body include the abdomen, upper arms, love handles/ flanks, thighs, and buttocks. Depending on the type of laser used for your laser liposuction, the cosmetic procedure may be minimally invasive or noninvasive, with little downtime required. In a minimally invasive laser liposuction procedure, a plastic surgeon creates an incision to insert the laser applicator, which heats the excess fat cells to destroy them. In a noninvasive laser liposuction procedure, the laser applicator is placed on top of the skin in the treatment area and no incisions are involved. In either case, it can take up to three months to observe the final results, which are permanent unless there is additional weight gain following the procedure. Usually, one to two treatment sessions are all that’s required for patients to achieve their final desired results. While laser liposuction is considered a safe and effective treatment option for fat reduction, you may not be a good candidate if you are obese, have a medical heart condition or diabetes, or have too much loose skin in the treatment area.

Laser liposuction is designed for, and is much more effective in, treating patients with good skin elasticity in the treatment area. Many patients choose to incorporate both a fat reduction procedure and a laser skin tightening treatment into their treatment plans to target each concern effectively. However, if your primary concern is skin laxity, you will likely benefit more from a laser skin tightening treatment, like Thermage, instead. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side, she will work with you to determine which cosmetic procedures are appropriate for your plan, depending on your particular concerns and goals.

What is the cost of laser skin tightening?

The total cost of laser skin tightening can ultimately vary depending on several contributing factors, including the geographic location of the office in which you’re treated, the experience level of the healthcare provider performing your treatment, the type of laser used in your treatment plan, and the total number of treatment sessions required to attain your ideal rejuvenation results. These factors differ on a case-by-case basis depending on the severity of the signs of aging present and the personal aesthetic goals of the patient. The best way to develop a treatment plan that is guaranteed to be safe, effective, and provide optimal results is by consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, in NYC. Dr. Green has over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures, including laser skin resurfacing, laser hair removal, and laser skin tightening treatments. When you meet with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood office, she will collect a thorough medical and family history, review your aesthetic goals with you, and physically evaluate the treatment area to determine which cosmetic procedures you are a good candidate for. At this time, the estimated cost of your laser skin tightening treatment will be determined.

Is laser skin tightening worth it?

With zero downtime, few potential side effects, and consistently stunning rejuvenation results, patients of Dr. Green’s agree that laser skin tightening with Thermage is worth it! In a single treatment session, Thermage can create a smoother, firmer, tighter skin texture in the treatment area with natural-looking results that last up to two years or more. Since Thermage is a completely noninvasive laser treatment, little preparation is required, and patients do not even need to use a numbing cream beforehand. There are few potential side effects, with most patients experiencing a mild amount of redness or swelling in the treatment area. These side effects resolve on their own, usually within several hours of having the procedure. There is no recovery time involved with Thermage, meaning patients can resume all of their usual daily activities immediately upon completion of the treatment. Patients appreciate the customizability and ease of having treatment compared to plastic surgery and other nonsurgical skin tightening procedures, which can be associated with more serious side effects and less downtime.

During your initial consultation with Dr. Green regarding skin rejuvenation, she will collect a thorough medical and family history, review any previous cosmetic procedures you may have had, and physically assess the treatment area. You will have the opportunity to discuss your particular skin concerns and personal aesthetic goals. Dr. Green will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan depending on your unique needs and which cosmetic treatments you are a good candidate for. If you are not a good candidate for Thermage, she may recommend an alternative skin tightening procedure or cosmetic surgery. If you are better suited to a surgical procedure for skin tightening, Dr. Green will refer you to an experienced and trusted board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.

How do I get started with laser skin tightening?

Thanks to laser skin tightening treatments, patients can achieve a smoother, firmer, tighter skin texture and an overall more youthful appearance without downtime or discomfort. Utilizing innovative laser technology, laser skin tightening treatments stimulate new collagen production in the treatment area. Replenishing collagen levels that have been depleted due to aging and sun exposure can correct the appearance of loose skin and other signs of aging. Due to the ease and accessibility of getting a noninvasive cosmetic procedure and the consistently stunning facial rejuvenation or body contouring results provided by laser skin tightening treatments, it is no wonder that they are among the most popular cosmetic treatments offered at Dr. Michele Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with the best noninvasive cosmetic procedures, including various types of laser treatments for skin tightening, hair removal, and skin resurfacing. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach and embraces a less-is-more philosophy regarding facial rejuvenation, customizing each patient’s treatment protocol to incorporate a combination of specially formulated skincare products and nonsurgical procedures that are best suited to addressing their particular skin concerns and achieving their ideal aesthetic goals. She is consistently identified as one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, Super Doctors, and the New York Times for her dedication to her patients and expertise. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, call 212-535-3088 or contact us online today.