Laser Skin Resurfacing
If you’re considering Laser Resurfacing:
When considering laser resurfacing (sometimes called laser peel) it is important to understand exactly what type of treatment is best for you and your face. Laser treatments can vary greatly depending on the type of laser used, the depth of the laser penetration, and of course the treatment goal. Doctor Moose and Doctor Patel use a variable pulse width Erbium:YAG laser that is more precise than the old CO2 units and has a quicker recovery. This type of laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. The procedure is most commonly used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, especially around the mouth and the eyes. However, it is also effective in treating facial scars, acne scars, or areas of uneven pigmentation. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or on specific regions of the face, such as around the eyes or around the mouth. Often, the procedure is done in conjunction with another cosmetic operation, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.
The Best Candidates:
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 targeted. Patients with olive skin, brown skin or black skin may be at increased risk for pigmentation changes after any type of resurfacing procedure. Doctor Moose or Doctor Patel will evaluate your skin characteristics and make recommendations accordingly. Also, individuals who have taken accutane (a drug used in the treatment of acne) in the past 12-18 months or those with active skin infections may not be appropriate candidates for laser resurfacing. 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 future aging. Before you decide to have laser resurfacing, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Doctor Moose or Doctor Patel.
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Preparing For The Laser Procedure:
Depending on your individual needs, Doctor Moose or Doctor Patel may recommend that you begin a pre-treatment skin care plan to prepare your skin for resurfacing. At the time of the procedure, you will be given specific instructions on how to care for your skin immediately following your laser treatment. While you are making plans, be sure to make arrangements for someone to drive you home if you will be given any type of sedation.
After Your Treatment:
You are likely to experience some mild swelling and discomfort after laser resurfacing. However, this can be controlled with ice packs and medications prescribed by Doctor Moose or Doctor Patel. Appropriate healing ointment is applied to the skin over the first couple of days. We will provide you with instructions on how to gently wash and care for your healing skin. Depending upon the depth of treatment, some patient will develop oozing and the subsequent formation of crusts overlying the skin. It is extremely important not to pick at your face or the crusts during healing. Most patients are free of crusts by about 10 days post-operatively. Redness may persist for several weeks.
YOUR NEW LOOK:
The final result from laser resurfacing may take several months to fully appear. However, once the pinkness fades, patients usually notice a significant improvement in the quality of their skin and a fresher, smoother appearance. 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 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 regiment recommended by Doctor Moose or Doctor Patel, you can help maintain your rejuvenated look.
Click here to view before and after images of Laser Skin Resurfacing