A quick search for vaginal laser treatment turns up more than one name. MonaLisa Touch, ThermiVa, FemTouch, and a handful of other devices all show up in the same conversation, and without a medical background it is genuinely hard to tell what actually separates them or whether the differences matter for your specific situation.
Surfside women researching their options deserve a clear-eyed comparison, not marketing language recycled across every provider’s website.
The Two Main Categories of Devices
Most vaginal rejuvenation treatments fall into one of two broad categories based on their energy source, and understanding this distinction is the most useful starting point.
CO2 fractional lasers, which include MonaLisa Touch. These devices use focused laser light to create controlled micro-injuries in the vaginal tissue, triggering the body’s natural collagen production as it heals.
Radiofrequency devices, which include options like ThermiVa. These use heat generated by radiofrequency energy rather than laser light to stimulate tissue, generally with a gentler mechanism and correspondingly gentler results for some patients.
Neither category is universally “better.” The right choice depends on symptom severity, tissue condition, and individual goals, which is exactly why this decision benefits from a real conversation with a provider rather than a device comparison chart alone.
What Sets MonaLisa Touch Apart Specifically
It has one of the longer clinical track records among vaginal laser devices. MonaLisa Touch has been used and studied for treating vaginal atrophy symptoms for a significant period, giving both providers and researchers a substantial body of clinical experience to draw from.
The CO2 laser mechanism tends to produce more pronounced tissue remodeling. For women with more significant tissue thinning, this can translate to more noticeable improvement compared to gentler radiofrequency alternatives.
It is FDA-cleared specifically for treating vaginal tissue. This regulatory clearance reflects a level of review specific to this use case rather than a general-purpose device being applied to a new area.
Treatment protocols are well established. Because of how widely it has been used, providers have a clear, well-tested framework for session spacing and follow-up care.
Why Provider Experience Matters More Than Brand Name
Any device is only as good as the provider using it. A CO2 laser used with poor technique or an inaccurate diagnosis will not outperform a well-administered alternative device.
Not every provider offers every device. Some practices specialize in one specific technology, which is worth knowing before assuming all providers offer the same options.
The underlying diagnosis matters more than the device choice. Whether the issue is primarily dryness, laxity, mild incontinence, or a combination, an accurate diagnosis should drive the treatment plan, not the other way around.
Questions Worth Asking When Comparing Options
Which device do you use, and why did you choose it for my specific symptoms? A thoughtful answer explains the reasoning, not just the brand name.
How does this device’s mechanism relate to my particular symptoms? Different mechanisms can be better suited to different symptom profiles.
What is your experience level with this specific device? Volume and familiarity with a specific device matter for consistent results.
Dr. Krinsky’s Approach
Dr. Andrew Krinsky uses MonaLisa Touch based on its clinical track record and his own extensive procedural experience, having performed well over a thousand procedures with this specific device. As a board-certified gynecologist and Certified Menopause Specialist, his recommendations are grounded in matching the treatment to the specific diagnosis rather than defaulting to a single tool for every situation.
Get a Direct Answer for Your Situation
Rather than trying to sort through device comparisons alone, Surfside women can get a direct, personalized answer from a consultation. Dr. Krinsky’s practice serves patients throughout North Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties. Call (954) 980-6337 to schedule a consultation, or visit the MonaLisa Touch services page to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CO2 laser treatment more painful than radiofrequency options?
Both are generally well tolerated, with most patients describing mild warmth rather than significant discomfort. Individual sensitivity varies.
Can I switch treatment types if one doesn’t work for me?
This is worth discussing directly with your provider, since switching approaches depends on your specific symptoms and prior response to treatment.
Is one type of device safer than the other?
Both CO2 laser and radiofrequency devices used for this purpose have established safety profiles when performed by an experienced provider. Safety depends heavily on proper patient selection and technique.
Does MonaLisa Touch work for severe symptoms, or only mild ones?
It has been used across a range of symptom severity, though very severe cases should be evaluated individually to confirm it is the appropriate treatment.
How do I know which device is right for me without a medical background?
This is exactly the purpose of a consultation. A qualified provider will match the treatment recommendation to your specific diagnosis rather than expecting you to make that call alone.


