Resurfacing…
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that
will provide similar results as a chemical
peel or dermabrasion. This type of
procedure offers overall tightening
of the skin in a very predictable fashion.
Laser treatments remove age spots,
tattoos, broken capillaries, spider
veins, vascular lesions and birthmarks.
What does the Laser actually do?
The
word laser is an abbreviation for
light amplification by stimulated
emission of radiation. Inside the
skin cell, a water molecule is targeted
by light energy and vaporized, causing
it to burst. This allows for the
removal of skin cells very similar
in nature to a chemical peel or dermabrasion.
This treatment allows for the collagen
in the dermis layer of the skin to
realign and tighten reducing sagging
and wrinkled skin.
How is the Laser resurfacing procedure
performed?
Most
patients prefer to have IV or general
anesthesia and the surgery usually
lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Your doctor
will guide the laser over the areas
you have identified as a concern followed
by the application of an ointment and
occlusive dressing.
How long is the recovery?
After
the dressing is removed, usually
a day or two following surgery, patients
begin taking 6 showers per day until
all of the coagulum (crusting skin)
is gone and the new skin develops.
Most patients experience swelling
that lasts for 24 to 36 hours before
subsiding. During the first week
the skin will be very red and can
remain this way for 6 weeks to 3
months. Once the new skin is in place
makeup can be applied to camouflage
the redness. Your doctor will direct
you to apply sunblock at all times
when exposed to both direct and reflective
sunlight to avoid pigmentation changes.
Is laser resurfacing the right treatment
for me?
Skin
type and pigmentation can be a determining
factor whether this treatment is right
for you. It is highly recommended to
schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation
with your doctor to learn more about
your options and to see if you are
a candidate for this type of procedure.