Semiconductor devices and methods of forming the same include forming semiconductor fins on a semiconductor substrate. A bottom source/drain region is formed in the semiconductor substrate. First charged dielectric spacers are formed on sidewalls of the semiconductor fins. A gate stack is formed over the bottom source/drain region. Second charged dielectric spacers are formed on sidewalls of the fin above the gate stack. The fins are recessed to a height below a top level of the second charged dielectric spacers. A top source/drain region is grown from the recessed fins.