Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is among the most popular anti-aging techniques to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, pore size, and scars as well as treat discolored areas of the skin. Lasers also can stimulate collagen production, which increases the elasticity of skin. Advanced laser techniques make it possible for plastic surgeons to improve small and large areas of the skin. In addition, modern laser technology has made the procedures gentler and safer, which is why they are often preferable to chemical peels and dermabrasion.

Consultation
Consultation for laser skin resurfacing includes a discussion about your expectations and concerns as well as limits and risks of the procedure. The surgeon also will review your medical history, carefully examine your skin, and take pictures of the areas that will be treated. He or she will discuss laser options and recommend what would be most suitable for you.

Candidates
Not everyone is a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing. People with darker skin, including olive, suntanned, or black skin, often need 6 to 9 months to regain their normal pigmentation after treatment. In addition, people who are prone to scarring, have a skin disorder such as psoriasis, and who take certain medications also are not always good candidates for the procedure. Once your surgeon has evaluated your skin, he or she will tell you if you are a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing.

The Procedure
Before your procedure, your surgeon may prescribe special creams, lotions, or gels to prepare your skin for treatment. You also might be given an oral antiviral, antibacterial, or antiyeast medication to prevent complications.

Laser skin resurfacing is performed in our ambulatory surgery center. The type of laser that will be used depends on your skin type and the problem that must be treated. Depending on your condition, your surgeon may use more than 1 type of laser to achieve the best results.

To ensure your comfort, topical anesthesia, local anesthesia, or intravenous sedation will be used during laser skin resurfacing. If you are going to receive treatment for deep layers of the skin, you might be given a general anesthesia. The anesthesia you receive is based on the type of laser that is used and level of treatment.

Laser skin resurfacing can last a few minutes to 2 hours, depending on the amount of resurfacing you need. Although 1 procedure often is enough, 2 or more sessions are sometimes needed to penetrate deeper areas and achieve the best results.

The laser will be directed precisely over the treatment area and repeated as necessary. Superficial and deep layers of skin are targeted to remove old skin and generate the growth of new skin. Many patients describe laser treatment as a rubber band being gently snapped against the skin.

Recovery and Results
After the procedure, your doctor will likely coat your skin with a protective, antibiotic ointment. Sometimes, a dressing or bandage is needed to protect the treated area.

Some patients experience swelling and mild discomfort that resolves within days after laser skin resurfacing.
There is rarely any bleeding. Your skin might, however, develop a red, crusty appearance that could last 10 or fewer days. To prevent scars, you should not peel the crusty skin, but rather let it slough off on its own. As new skin grows in, it is likely to look bright pink and slightly shiny for several weeks.

After laser resurfacing, avoid:

• Exposure to the sun (always use a sunscreen when you go outside)
• Harsh cleansers, astringents, gritty exfoliant scrubs, excessively hot water, scrubbing

The results of laser skin resurfacing usually last for years and often are permanent. Because the treated area is replaced with a new layer of skin, it is typically smooth and glowing. Most patient express great satisfaction with the improved, rejuvenated look of their skin after the procedure.