Key Takeaways

J-Plasma, also known as Renuvion, is a minimally invasive treatment that leverages helium plasma energy to tighten lax skin. It is extremely effective for treating upper-back “buffalo hump” issues!
The non-invasive procedure stimulates collagen production. This increases skin firmness and elasticity gradually, resulting in a smoother and more contoured upper-back profile.
J-Plasma provides a quicker recovery time and less risk of side effects than traditional skin tightening surgical procedures. This is what makes it so appealing for patients in the United States who want to avoid surgery.
Ideal candidates for J-Plasma are those with mild to moderate skin laxity and good overall health, but a consultation with a qualified cosmetic surgeon is essential to determine suitability.
Better yet, pairing J-Plasma with liposuction provides even more complete results. It melts away unwanted fat and tightens skin afterward for the most beautiful body contouring!
By adhering to post-treatment care advice—such as wearing compression garments and showing up for follow-up appointments—you’ll help ensure a smooth recovery and long-lasting outcome.

J plasma is a new cosmetic treatment to tighten the upper-back “buffalo hump” skin. This cosmetic treatment referred to as J-Plasma utilizes cold plasma energy to tighten and contour loose skin on the upper back.

In LA, patients will typically elect to have J plasma for its less invasive approach and as an alternative to surgery. The recovery time is faster, too, and the skin can appear tighter immediately!

Local clinics have been using J plasma for anyone with loose skin from significant weight loss. They’re the ones who end up treating the people who first see a small mound—frequently called a “buffalo hump”—at the nape of the neck.

Doctors perform it with local numbing and can do it in a doctor’s office or clinic. Our following sections discuss how J plasma works, who it’s best suited for, and what to expect following the procedure.

What Causes a Buffalo Hump?

A buffalo hump, or dorsocervical fat pad, looks like a large mound of fat. This bulge appears at the very base of the neck, where it meets the top of the back. Although this might appear like a minor cosmetic change, it usually indicates more serious underlying health issues. Knowing what leads to a buffalo hump helps people spot concerns early and talk to their doctor about the right treatment.

Unpacking Common Hump Triggers

Hormonal imbalances are one of the major causes. Medical conditions such as Cushing’s syndrome or lipodystrophy can alter the body’s fat distribution. This can lead to greater fat deposition to the area of the upper back.

Individuals living with HIV have historically developed a buffalo hump as a feature of lipodystrophy. Some drugs, including steroids or some antiretroviral medications, can cause fat redistribution in the body.

Weight gain and obesity are the first two most common identified reasons. When there is decreased mobility or positioning, more fat tends to gravitate to the base of the neck. Add stress into the mix, which alters hormone levels and subsequently alters where fat gets deposited.

As we age, skin becomes less elastic and muscle atrophies, both of which increase the odds of developing a hump.

The Skin Laxity Connection

The role of skin stretch and sag is important as well. As we age, skin produces less collagen and elastin, and it’s unable to bounce back like it once was. If an individual additionally has excess fat in the upper back, loose skin further accentuates the hump.

Indicators such as creasing, folding, or other anatomical changes around the neck region can be early signs that skin has begun to lose its integrity and requires intervention.

How It Affects Your Profile

A buffalo hump can alter the appearance of the back and neck—often causing clothing to fit irregularly or resulting in a hunchbacked appearance. It can erode one’s self-esteem.

In my experience, in some cases improved posture resolves symptoms, though not always or permanently. This often requires a combination of healthy lifestyle changes and, in some instances, medical intervention.

What Is J-Plasma Skin Tightening?

Widely referred to as Renuvion, J-Plasma provides a new drastically different option in cosmetic medicine. It’s an ideal procedure for anyone looking to tighten loose or sagging skin. What makes this treatment unique is how it utilizes plasma energy, namely helium plasma, to penetrate deeper layers of skin.

The procedure works by inserting a small cannula under the skin that emits a patented energy called plasma. In Los Angeles, where looking and feeling your best is important, J-Plasma is gaining attention for its ability to tighten areas like the upper back, often called the “buffalo hump,” without the need for big surgery.

Though still relatively new, J-Plasma is considered a minimally invasive procedure. Unlike traditional surgical lifts, it requires no major incisions or extended recovery periods. Patients are increasingly electing to have the procedure performed on body areas such as the abdomen, arms, thighs, and even the upper back.

It’s highly effective on its own or in combination with liposuction to address and remove excess fat and tighten loose, sagging skin. Typically, patients achieve noticeably tighter skin following a single session, with results lasting for years. Mild swelling or bruising may occur, but these side effects typically resolve in about a week or two.

Plasma Energy: The Science

How Plasma Energy Works Plasma energy heats the underlying tissue to promote new collagen production. This process, known as thermal coagulation, allows skin to become tighter as new collagen forms. The helium plasma is safe and cools quickly, reducing the risk of burns.

That “cold” plasma energy enables physicians to carry out highly delicate procedures. As a result, the skin looks and feels better over time.

How J-Plasma Shrinks Skin

The cooling energy from J-Plasma immediately begins to create the contraction of skin fibers. As time goes on, additional collagen is produced, resulting in a more enduring tightening effect. You can typically notice a difference immediately following your treatment, but optimal results accrue over time with maximum benefits taking place within a few months.

There’s minimal downtime, so everyone is back to their normal schedule quickly.

J-Plasma’s Edge Over Lasers

Unlike laser treatments that solely work on the surface of the skin, J-Plasma penetrates deeper without damaging the epidermis. That translates to less risk and more consistent outcomes, including for darker skin tones.

There is less risk of burns or pigment changes, making it a safe option for most.

How J-Plasma Smooths Buffalo Humps

J-Plasma offers a more contemporary and cutting-edge approach to smoothing large buffalo humps and tightens loose skin of the upper back. It works particularly well for addressing the notorious buffalo hump. This method uses a customized saline solution.

When it is injected directly into the fatty area, it can dissolve the fat as well as tighten the skin. Every step is precisely customized to your skin thickness, fat level, and body contouring objectives. This really helps to bring the process home and hands-on!

1. Pinpointing Loose Upper Back Skin

J-Plasma begins with a thorough examination of the upper back. Once the locations are noted, doctors use a 30-gauge needle to inject the solution into these marked target spots. For smaller areas (< 3 cm pinch), 1-2 vials suffices.

For bigger humps you would likely use 1.5 vials or even more. The amount selected is based on the size and depth of the fat. Today, a detailed blueprint is sketched for each individual patient, taking into consideration the thickness of the skin, the pockets of fat, and the overall state of health.

Such precise targeting is what makes this treatment not only safe, but effective.

2. Boosting Collagen for Lasting Firmness

Collagen works by keeping skin smooth and firm. J-Plasma encourages the skin to produce additional collagen, which helps to naturally firm and tone the area in the months after the procedure.

Most patients notice progressively tighter, firmer skin over the first few months. Since the natural process stimulating collagen growth continues for months after your treatment, the results actually get better over time.

3. Why J-Plasma Excels Here

J-Plasma allows surgeons unprecedented control over where and how much energy is delivered. Compared to surgery, it is less invasive, making it ideal for a variety of skin types.

Post-treatment effects may include temporary mild swelling or bruising, which resolves quickly—generally within 7-10 days.

4. Pairing with Liposuction (Optional)

Pairing with Liposuction (Optional) The area fat is suctioned out first, and then J-Plasma is used to tighten the area’s skin. This duo creates great definition in the back and takes away skin laxity.

5. Envisioning Your Smoother Back

Most patients do see a smoother, more contoured upper back once healed. Setting realistic expectations is key, and the majority of people start seeing results within three months.

J-Plasma: Is It Your Solution?

J-Plasma, or Renuvion, is a new, minimally-invasive skin tightening technique that combines cold helium plasma with radiofrequency energy. For people dealing with an upper-back “buffalo hump,” it can help tighten loose skin and remove stubborn fat in the same session.

The entire surgical procedure lasts approximately one to two hours. Many people require a full week of recovery time before going back to work. Swelling, bruising, and tightness are common and typically resolve within 2 weeks.

Who Makes a Great Candidate?

Good candidates have localized areas of fat and sagging skin on the upper back. Most have few comorbidities, are in overall good health and maintain a stable weight. Those with healthy and elastic skin tend to see the best possible results.

Assuming they have the same clinical indications, motivation is key. Patients who are committed to a healthy lifestyle and have realistic expectations are most likely to achieve their desired results.

It’s important to maintain realistic expectations. While J-Plasma may be able to tighten skin, it likely won’t address significant skin sagging or serve as a substitute for weight loss.

Skin Quality & Other Influences

Skin quality makes a significant difference. People who have a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and no tobacco habits usually have quicker healing and better outcomes with fewer irregularities.

A proper skincare regimen both leading up to and following the procedure is key. Considering everyone heals differently, the end result can be different.

Weighing Risks and Rewards

Risks involve swelling, bruising, and mild pain. These tend to go away in a few weeks. The primary benefit is noticeably firmer, smoother skin, with results extending more than two years on average.

Consulting with an experienced cosmetic surgeon prior to the procedure can greatly reduce your risks.

Realistic Results: Picture This

People will notice initial results as the swelling decreases, but final results are apparent in three to six months. Consistent follow-up appointments with your provider are key to monitoring your progress.

Each individual is unique, so results vary from person to person depending on overall health and lifestyle.

Your J-Plasma Treatment & Recovery

Upper-back “buffalo hump” skin can be tightened with a more limited J-Plasma option. During the procedure, the cold plasma energy is combined with cold gas to accurately and effectively target the loose skin. Patients have been drawn to this technique because of the faster recovery time and lesser scarring.

Here’s what you can expect every step of the way—from the procedure to recovery to achieving results.

The Procedure: A Quick Look

Depending on how many areas you’re treating, a J-Plasma session typically only takes one to two hours to complete. The surgeon begins by creating small incisions at the top of the back, then inserts a small tube-like device under the skin.

This wand is what delivers the cold plasma energy, immediately tightening the tissue it comes into contact with. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, there are fewer marks left on the body and a reduced risk of scarring.

Typically, just one session is required and the tightness can increase by as much as 30%. The surgeons are given tools that are extremely advanced, allowing them to operate with a level of precision not yet possible.

Navigating Your Healing Phase

In the days immediately following treatment, your jaw will likely be swollen and sore. Cold packs to mitigate bruising and short walks to stimulate circulation and relieve pressure will do wonders.

In the first 48-72 hours, rest is extremely important, but otherwise, most people are able to return to desk work or light activities relatively quickly. Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact workouts for several weeks.

A compression wrap is maintained to reduce swelling and assist the skin in adhering to the new shape.

Tips for Optimal Recovery

Keep the area clean and dry.
Wear compression wraps as told.
Drink lots of fluids and eat healthy foods.
Skip sun exposure on treated skin.
Go to all follow-up visits as scheduled.

Appropriate hydration, nutritious meal choices, and sun protection go a long way! Consistent follow-up appointments with Dr. O’Neill help monitor your recovery and alert you to any problems.

When Visible Changes Appear

While more toned skin may be immediately noticeable, optimal results develop over the course of 3 to 6 months. Your individual results will vary based on skin type, age and adherence to post-care instructions.

Healing can be a slow process, but the majority of patients start to notice consistent improvement by each passing month.

J-Plasma vs. Other Hump Solutions

When considering treatment of the “buffalo hump,” patients frequently compare various skin tightening and fat melting solutions. Each approach has different advantages, costs, and results.

Check out the chart below to see how J-Plasma compares to other common non-surgical solutions.

Treatment	Invasiveness	Recovery Time	Cost per Session	Skin Tightening	Fat Reduction	Suitable Skin Types	Longevity of Results
J-Plasma (Renuvion)	Minimally invasive	Short	$3,000–$5,000	High	Moderate	All	Years
BodyTite	Minimally invasive	Short	$2,500–$4,500	Good	Moderate	All	Years
Kybella Injections	Non-invasive	None	$1,200–$1,800	Low	Low	All	Months to years
CoolSculpting	Non-invasive	None	$2,000+	None	Moderate	All	Months to years
Laser Resurfacing	Non-invasive	Short	~$2,000	Moderate	None	Lighter skin best	Months

Comparing Non-Surgical Methods

Non-Surgical Alternatives to Reduce Hump

Fortunately, there are alternatives to surgery such as CoolSculpting, Kybella, and BodyTite. While diet and exercise are still effective first steps for most, improving the appearance of the area by slimming is achievable but it doesn’t always tighten the skin.

What makes J-Plasma different is its ability to achieve higher temperatures more rapidly, resulting in tighter skin after a single treatment. Non-surgical paths require multiple treatments.

Though results can last several years, adopting a healthy lifestyle will maintain the improvements, so this solution is a win-win!

When Surgery Is a Better Fit

When Deep Fat Deposits Are Large or Long Established

Surgery is the best solution when fat deposits are massive or have been collected for years. Liposuction, on the other hand, can remove a greater amount of fat in a single procedure but requires longer downtime and increased risks.

An honest consult with a qualified doctor can help you weigh these much larger steps.

J-Plasma’s Unique Tightening Power

Unique to J-Plasma

J-Plasma can be performed on all shades of skin and offers immediate tightening. By combining cool helium plasma with radiofrequency energy, it tightens skin with minimal damage to surrounding tissue.

Most patients will see a significant improvement in texture and tightness of skin immediately following the procedure, with cumulative effects over time that are long-lasting with an ongoing healthy lifestyle.

Cost Considerations for J-Plasma

While J-Plasma has a higher up-front cost compared to some non-invasive alternatives, the overall value is often better due to fewer required sessions.

Check with your clinic, because financing is often available. Considering time off work, surgery is a significant expense in the long run, making J-Plasma a more affordable solution.

Conclusion

J plasma offers an exciting, innovative solution to clear away that upper-back “buffalo hump.” People living in L.A. Are looking for solutions that actually work and work with their fast-paced lifestyles. J plasma tightens loose skin during a short in-office procedure. No large scars, no weeks away from work, etc. Patients love it for the way it makes their skin tight and smooth. Because doctors here treat people of all colors and skin types, they have a better understanding of how to treat each unique case. Interested in giving it a go? Request a meeting with a nearby clinic. Come with your questions and find out if it is right for you. Each back has a unique tale to share—let yours sing the song you wish to hear. Have additional questions or looking for more authentic before-and-afters? Contact a reputable Los Angeles skin care clinic to get started today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a “buffalo hump” on the upper back?

What is a “buffalo hump” on the upper back? It can be painful and interfere with posture or aesthetics.

How does J-Plasma help tighten buffalo hump skin?

How does J-Plasma help tighten buffalo hump skin? It works to smooth and firm the area after excess fat has been removed.

Is J-Plasma safe for upper-back skin tightening?

Right on — you got it! When done by a board-certified provider, J-Plasma is FDA-cleared. Yes, J-Plasma upper-back skin tightening is definitely safe.

How long does recovery take after J-Plasma treatment?

While everyone heals differently, most individuals can expect full recovery in 1–2 weeks. Mild swelling or bruising are the most common side effects, but most patients are back to their regular routine in a few days.

Who is a good candidate for J-Plasma on the buffalo hump?

Ideal candidates are those with excess skin remaining after buffalo hump fat removal and those who are overall healthy. A consult with a local doctor experienced with J-Plasma will ensure that you are a good candidate.

How does J-Plasma compare to traditional surgery?

First and foremost, J-Plasma is minimally invasive. It accomplishes skin tightening without extensive incisions, resulting in less downtime and fewer potential complications compared with traditional surgical procedures.

Will my results from J-Plasma last?

Additionally, results are long-lasting, often for several years, particularly when coupled with a healthy lifestyle. Your results will change due to normal aging and weight fluctuations.