You are still active and you feel great. But, the effects of time, sun, wind and toxins in our air have taken their toll on the appearance of your skin. It's not as smooth as it was when you were younger. You would like your friends and family to see you the way you feel inside. For many of us, this requires reversing the visible signs of aging, those years of fun in the sun.
What is laser skin resurfacing?
In the past your options included chemical peels, dermabrasion or the use of temporary fillers. Now, CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing is performed by our doctor for patients in our region to remove superficial wrinkles around the eyes, lips, forehead and cheeks seen in aging skin. Facial scars and sun-damaged skin are also excellent candidates for this treatment.
Choosing laser skin resurfacing surgery
You will want to explain to our physician the level of skin improvement you hope to achieve. The doctor will then review your medical history and examine your skin type and pigmentation to determine if you are a good candidate for laser skin surgery. Don't forget to mention any history of viral infections, sensitivity to the sun, or prior skin treatments such as skin peels, dermabrasion or Accutane treatments within the past six months.
Together you can discuss your options, evaluate your expectations and determine the best treatment for you.
What kind of results can I expect from laser skin resurfacing?
Fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth are removed, while the deeper frown lines and grooves are softened. Once the outer layer of skin has been removed, the new skin beneath reveals a softer, smoother, more youthful appearance. Many patients say our laser can erase up to ten years in a little more than an hour.
Benefits of laser skin resurfacing over chemical peels and dermabrasion:
- The laser causes less scarring, bleeding and bruising.
- Laser surgery requires shorter recovery time than traditional treatments.
- A level of control can be achieved that is difficult with other treatments.
- Your physician can visually judge the effect of the treatment as it is performed.
- The treatment seems to be more predictable and safer.
The laser skin resurfacing treatment
The laser gives your physician precise control over the natural exfoliation process as it gently vaporizes the outer layer of sun-damaged or acne-scarred skin to reveal the smooth, fresh skin underneath. Lines are removed in a precise, rapid, bloodless fashion, achieving excellent results.
Our doctor performs laser skin resurfacing with local anesthesia if limited areas are treated, while full face resurfacing is usually performed with the administration of intravenous sedation by an anesthesiologist. Both procedures may be performed in our doctor's office. With this new technology, treatment can be tailored to achieve our patients' expectations.
Recovery from laser skin resurfacing
Generally, recovery time with laser skin resurfacing is rapid and gentle.
During the first few days after your procedure, your skin will weep, as new collagen is formed to rebuild the skin from the bottom up. Some crusting may develop as a new skin surface is formed. We will prescribe ointment to keep the treated areas moist, and in most cases, bandages will be required during the first 48 hours. Your new skin will have a reddish quality which fades in a few weeks. This redness can be covered with cosmetics until it completely disappears. Some temporary swelling may occur around the eyes, and there is some risk of pigmentation disturbance with darker skin types.
The full effect of your treatment develops over a few months following the procedure and can be expected to last for several years. As with any cosmetic procedure, the results can be expected to fade over time, at which time the procedure can be repeated.