Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser Skin Resurfacing is a cosmetic surgical procedure in which we remove the outermost layers of your skin with the CO2 laser. The laser vaporizes these layers of skin to a controlled depth. Directly underneath, in the deeper layers of that skin burned by the CO2 laser, a protein known as collagen is stimulated to form. It is collagen that gives our skin its smooth texture and consistency. As we age and are exposed to the damaging rays of the sun, or if we smoke, the collagen in our skin degenerates and wrinkles form. New collagen formation resulting from the laser burn fills in the wrinkles restoring a youthful appearance to our skin as it heals. Years of age-related changes and sun damage can literally be wiped away with laser skin resurfacing.

For What Conditions Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Performed?

Laser skin resurfacing is particularly effectively in smoothing out fine wrinkles around the outer edge of the eyes or “crow’s feet,” wrinkles in the lower eyelid skin, and unsightly vertical wrinkles above and below the lips. We use laser skin resurfacing for acne scars over the cheeks and temples. Additionally, this procedure can remove areas of pigmentation, age spots, traumatic scars, and a wide variety of other skin blemishes with very pleasing results. In our practice, we often combine laser skin resurfacing of the lips with our facelifts when wrinkles around the mouth are prominent; eyelid surgery when lower eyelid skin wrinkles are a problem; or with a TCA peel of the face for total facial skin rejuvenation.

How And Where Is Cosmetic Skin Resurfacing Done?

Laser skin resurfacing is done in our office under local anesthetic with additional conscious sedation if necessary. Our patients are awake and comfortable throughout the procedure.

What Happens After Cosmetic Skin Resurfacing? How Long To Heal?

For the first few days after the procedure, there is mild to moderate pain and swelling in the burned area, similar to a deep sunburn. We advise our patients to remain home during this time after which they can resume their normal activities. During the first week until new skin appears, patients are instructed to keep the resurfaced area coated with an ointment such as Vaseline to keep it moist and prevent crusting. Usually after a week, the ointment can be dispensed with and make-up can be applied over the treated area. Post-operative redness in the treated area generally persists for four to six weeks after surgery, although it can last up to three months. Any tendency for the treated skin to darken can be prevented with our skin bleaching creams. It takes about three months to see the final results of the procedure.

Are There Any Complications Of Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Laser skin resurfacing is a very safe and complication-free procedure when done properly. Infection and scarring are exceedingly rare. Abnormal darkening (hyperpigmentation) of the treated skin or persistence of redness for several months are the most common postoperative problems. The former can be treated as mentioned above and the latter will eventually resolve on its own.

Can Persistent Or Deeper Wrinkles Be Retreated?

Any wrinkles that are too deep to be satisfactorily improved with the initial procedure can be retreated after about four to six months.

How Long Do The Effects of Cosmetic Skin Resurfacing Last?

The beneficial results of laser skin resurfacing can last for many years providing you institute simple measures to protect your skin from the damaging effects of overexposure to the sun.