What can Laser Skin Resurfacing do for you?

Laser Skin Resurfacing is an extremely popular, effective and convenient cosmetic procedure for improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles due to aging or sun exposure and scars due to acne, injury or previous surgeries

Laser Skin Resurfacing is also used to address the effects of pigmentation disorders, warts and birthmarks and has been medically used to treat skin cancer and facial skin disorders such as rhinophyma. Laser Skin Resurfacing is commonly referred to as “Laser Skin Rejuvenation” and is also called the “Laser Peel.”

Laser Skin Resurfacing is a safe treatment with a minimal price tag when compared to other treatment options and is a common alternative to Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion and the far more invasive process of Dermabrasion. This procedure is not recommended for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Laser Skin Resurfacing diminishes the appearance of blemishes and imperfections by removing the damaged outer layers of skin. The procedure also stimulates the production of collagen and the production of new skin cells in the underlying layers. This can result in a healthier looking complexion that is smoother, younger and more uniform in appearance.

What to discuss with your doctor

You’ll want to consult with a qualified cosmetic dermatologist or plastic surgeon experienced with Laser Skin Resurfacing and skin rejuvenation techniques. You should ask about the doctor’s experience and training and inquire about the equipment and facilities the doctor will be using. Ask to see Before-and-After photos of previous patients. During your consultation, your doctor will examine your skin and determine if you are a candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing. He or she may also take photographs. After your exam, your doctor will recommend a treatment plan and inform you of your estimated recovery time.

Depending on your needs and the condition of your skin, your doctor may recommend other procedures such as a facelift or liposuction procedure. Severe scarring may require additional scar revision procedures. Your doctor may also recommend a chemical peel, injectable filler, BOTOX Cosmetic treatment or combination thereof to help achieve the desired results. During your consultation, your doctor will also discuss the various laser types and recommend the appropriate laser for your individual needs and skin type.

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When considering Laser Skin Resurfacing, it’s important to note this procedure is not for everyone. Skin complexion plays an important part in the outcome of treatment. Patients with tanned skin, olive or dark complexions or dark skin can go several months before regaining their natural pigmentation in the treated area.

Individuals prone to scarring and patients taking certain medications and those with an underlying skin disorder may not be candidates for Laser Skin Resurfacing. Your doctor will discuss the risks associated with laser skin resurfacing with you before deciding on the procedure.

What happens after your consultation

Prior to treatment, your doctor may suggest a regimen of special creams, lotions or gels to prepare your skin for treatment. In some cases oral antibacterial, antiviral or anti-yeast medication may be prescribed to prevent certain complications. You’ll be asked to discontinue the use of Retin-A and any Glycolic acid products.

Laser Skin Resurfacing is an outpatient procedure, and is commonly performed by your doctor at the doctor’s office, an outpatient surgery center, hospital or accredited laser center. The length of the procedure varies depending upon the extent of the treatment.  A partial-face treatment takes approximately 30-45 minutes to perform, while a full-face treatment generally takes 2 hours to perform.

During the procedure, the skin is treated with a topical anesthetic. The patient is placed under local anesthesia and may be given a sedative medication. The type and amount of anesthesia given is based upon the extent of treatment and the type of laser being used. In the case of extensive Laser Skin Resurfacing, intravenous sedation or general anesthesia may be suggested. The patient’s eyes are always covered to protect them from the laser.

When performing Laser Skin Resurfacing, the doctor skillfully passes the laser over the skin. A computer is used to control the laser. By adjusting the depth, wavelength (color) and intensity of the laser light, the computer helps ensure accuracy. The laser feels like an elastic band snapping gently against the skin as it vaporizes the upper skin layers. Depending on the imperfection being treated, the laser may need to be moved over the area repeatedly.

If there is anesthesia and sedation involved, you should always arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you to assist you for one to days following the procedure.

What to expect following treatment

The recovery time from Laser Skin Resurfacing depends greatly upon the size of the treated and the type of laser used during the procedure. While more invasive and deeper laser treatments yield dramatic results, you can expect an extended recovery time lasting a few weeks. Less invasive Laser Skin Resurfacing treatments and gentler lasers still offer impressive results, and generally require little downtime.

Your doctor will give you specific post-op instructions based on your skin and the choice of laser. It is important to follow these instructions and to follow treatment with any oral medications your doctor may prescribe.

Following Laser Skin Resurfacing, your doctor may apply a sterile dressing and protective ointment to the treated area. This dressing is typically replaced or removed and a thin layer of ointment applied after 1-3 days. Swelling and redness of the treated area may persist for 1-3 days following the procedure. Mild discomfort, itching, or stinging similar to a sunburn is typically experienced. Ice packs, wraps and medication are normally used to help relieve any discomfort.

Following the removal of any dressings, a regimen of gentle cleansing several times a day and the continued application of ointment will need to be followed to help promote healing and prevent the formation of scabs. The treated area will begin to dry and peel, and you may develop a red crusted appearance during the first 5-10 days following the procedure. It’s important not to pick at or peel the skin, as this can result in unwanted scarring. Treated skin typically heals within 2-3 weeks. This healing time is affected by the extent of treatment and the type of laser used.

Following healing, your skin may appear bright pink for several weeks. This redness typically fades in 2-3 months, but may take longer depending on your skin tone and complexion. Oil-free and green-based make-ups for correcting redness can be used to conceal the effects of Laser Skin Resurfacing after 1-3 weeks. The use of recommended moisturizer is also recommended.

You should avoid sun exposure until your skin color returns to normal. The daily use of sunscreen formulated for facial use with an SPF of 15-30 will be necessary. It’s important that the sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Complications resulting from Laser Skin Resurfacing are infrequent, but there are always risks. Complications can include injury, activation of cold sores, hyper or hypo-pigmentation (discoloration), and in rare cases scarring or infection.

Cosmetic Laser Skin Resurfacing can improve the appearance and restore youthfulness to the skin.  While cost-effective, “Laser Peels” are normally considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance. The cost of a "Laser Peel" will vary depending on any additional fees, like anesthesia or surgical facility fees. Your doctor will be able to provide you a detailed estimate and may have payment plans or financing options available.