It's also important to consider the length of
recovery when choosing among the Skin-Resurfacing
alternatives. In general, the more aggressive the
Resurfacing Procedure is, the more prolonged the
recovery is likely to be.
Who is best for Laser Resurfacing?
In many cases, facial wrinkles form in localized
areas, such as near the eyes or around the mouth.
The laser can be precisely controlled so that only
these specific areas are treated.
Your skin characteristics will be evaluated in
order to make recommendations about the most appropriate
Skin Resurfacing procedure for your case.
Remember, having Laser Resurfacing can help enhance
your appearance and your self-confidence, but it
won't completely remove all facial flaws or prevent
you from aging. Lines that occur as a result of
natural movements of the face such as smiling,
squinting, blinking, talking and chewing will inevitably
recur. We can suggest ways to help you preserve
your results by protecting yourself from sun exposure
or using maintenance treatments. Before you decide
to have Laser Resurfacing, think carefully about
your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.
Anesthesia
Laser Resurfacing is most commonly performed under
local or topical Anesthesia with sedation, especially
when it is used to treat localized areas of the
face. You'll be awake but relaxed. For more extensive
resurfacing, general Anesthesia may be used, in
which case you will sleep through the procedure.
The procedure
Laser Resurfacing is a relatively quick procedure.
It usually takes anywhere from a few minutes to
one and a half hours, depending on how large of
an area is involved. When the imperfections are
especially deep, the Resurfacing may be performed
in two or more stages.
During the procedure, the activated laser is carefully
passed back and forth over the skin until the level
that will make the wrinkle or scar less visible
is reached.
Your new Appearance
It may take several months before the final result
from Laser Resurfacing is obtained. However, once
the pinkness fades, patients usually notice an
improvement in the quality of their skin and a
fresher, smoother appearance.
It is important to understand that your results
are not permanent. Remember, your new skin is not
immune to the effects of aging. In the months and
years following your laser treatment, your natural
facial movements and the exposure to the sun will
eventually cause any "expression" lines
to recur.
As with other methods of skin rejuvenation, laser
treatments can usually be repeated. However, by
protecting yourself from the sun and following
a skin-care regimen, you can help maintain your
rejuvenated look.