Laser Skin Resurfacing
     
 

Laser Resurfacing, sometimes called "Laser Peel," involves using a laser to remove damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. The procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines of expression, especially around the mouth and the eyes. It may also be used to treat facial scars or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser Resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. Often, the procedure is done to complement another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.

Laser Resurfacing is performed using a beam of laser energy, which vaporizes the upper layers of damaged skin at specific and controlled levels of penetration.

Laser Resurfacing may offer advantages over other Resurfacing methods in selected cases. However, Laser Resurfacing isn't for everyone. In some cases, an alternative Skin Resurfacing Treatment, such as Dermabrasion or Chemical Peel, may still be a better choice.

All Resurfacing treatments work essentially the same way. First, the outer layers of damaged skin are removed. Then, as new cells form during the healing process, a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface is produced. Laser Resurfacing is a new method being used by Plastic Surgeons to remove damaged skin. For Superficial or Medium Resurfacing, the laser can be limited to the epidermis (the most superficial layer of the skin) and papillary dermis (the intermediate layer of the skin). For Deeper Resurfacing, the upper levels of the reticulas dermis (the deepest layer of the skin) can also be removed. Varied penetration allows treatment of specific spots or wrinkles.

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.