Laser Resurfacing

Lasers have given us the first thoroughly scientific and computer controlled instrument for face and neck resurfacing. Prior to lasers, chemicals or dermabrasion were used to resurface the face, these procedures do not have control over the thickness of skin and wrinkles removed. The laser can precisely vaporize unwanted wrinkles, pigmentation, and sun-damaged areas of the face. The laser energy is applied to the necessary depth to alleviate the problems presented.

The new dual wavelength laser has an Erbium wavelength which removes extremely thin layers of tissue, and a CO2 wavelength which provides the beneficial heating to deeper tissue. The procedure is performed with little discomfort. An entire face can be treated within an hour. Rapid healing is insured using medicines for accelerated healing. There is little residual redness and make-up can be applied to the face in as few as five days after the procedure.

Rarely will there be any line of demarcation. The dual wavelength laser allows us to feather edges. Make-up covers these areas very well.

As with all procedures this answer depends upon the degree of sun-damage, the depth of wrinkles, and the age of the patient being treated. An individual in her late 60’s with deep wrinkles, furrows, and marked pigmented irregularities will put make-up on in 7-10 days. A 35- year-old with mild wrinkling and pigment damage will usually be back to work with make-up in 5-7 days.

During the procedure there should be a little, if any discomfort. Most of the patients use Tylenol or Lortab (a mild prescriptive pain reliever) for 2-3 days.

This depends, as the answer to the last two questions, on all the variables listed. Using the new dual wavelength laser, the majority of the patients are back to a normal clear complexion with little or no redness in 3-6 weeks.

It takes about 12 weeks to regrow the full thickness of your outer layer of skin, the epidermis. During that time, patients are asked to wear hats, sunblock, and sunglasses to prevent sun exposure. If you get too much sun you will irregularly pigment. Some patients use hydrquinone (a medication which decreases pigmentation) to maintain an even complexion.

Some of the patients are pre-treated with Hydroquinone (reduce pigmentation) & Retin-A (accelerate the healing process) to get faster and even complexion.

The latest histologic evaluation of lasered skin reveals a "zone of mummification" which maintains the excellent results for many years.

Only those patients, whose wrinkles are two deep to be removed on the first pass will need re-treatment, this will be done in 9-12 months time.

Each patient is evaluated before the price is quoted, depending on the area to be resurfaced.

Everyone with sun-damaged, sagging or wrinkled skin, desiring to look younger and more refreshed, is a candidate for dual wavelength laser facial resurfacing. Only people who have history of Keloid or Hypertrophic scar formation are not good candidates. Certain uncontrolled medical conditions might prevent the patient from having this resurfacing done.

Aftercare

Aftercare is a very important aspect of a successful laser resurfacing. Patients are seen one day after treatment and daily thereafter if necessary. The treated areas are not bandaged. Medications are used to promote healing, reduce redness and swelling.

Products

Your new skin can be sensitive to any products you have used in the past. Patients are advised to use FDA approved skin care products after laser facial resurfacing in conjunction with other medications.