| LASER
RESURFACING
For the reduction of wrinkles and acne scars
Laser resurfacing, which is also sometimes
called "laser peel" or "lasabrasion" is
the most common procedure to treat acne scars, wrinkles, and
uneven skin tone. It improves the complexion by creating a
fresher, smoother texture.
Laser resurfacing removes the top layer of damaged skin to
make way for the newer, younger looking skin underneath. Wrinkles
and acne scars are lower than the other surface areas of your
skin. Laser resurfacing evens out the texture of your skin,
eliminating the shadows caused by scar or wrinkle depressions.
The laser affords the doctor the opportunity to focus very
specifically on only the problem areas.
Laser resurfacing is similar to photo rejuvenation but is
a more intense laser light which requires a slightly longer
recovery period than photo rejuvenation. The doctor will assist
you in determining which procedure will best produce your
desired results.
* If you have fine lines, they can often be temporarily eliminated
through laser resurfacing.
* The appearance of deeper wrinkles can be significantly reduced
with laser resurfacing.
* Laser resurfacing can dramatically diminish the appearance
of acne scars.
* If you have uneven skin tone, laser resurfacing can often
create even pigmentation.
* You will be given a local anesthetic during the procedure
to prevent pain, but you will remain awake. On occasion, a
sedative or general anesthetic is used, in which case you
would be asleep for the procedure.
* Laser resurfacing feels like a burn, so there will be some
degree of pain after the anesthetic wears off. You will be
given a prescription to alleviate the discomfort.
* The surgery can take as little as 15 minutes or as long
as 90 minutes depending upon the size of the areas being treated.
* Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure, and you may
go home the same day. If you are sedated or under general
anesthetic, however, you will need someone to drive you home.
* You will probably need to stay home from work for one to
two weeks while your skin is healing.
* Most patients experience some minor pain for a few days
after the treatment, and the doctor will give you a prescription
for medication.
* Swelling is expected after laser resurfacing, which lasts
for a few days or weeks. Cold compresses and ice packs will
help to diminish swelling.
* The skin will ooze for a week or two after the procedure,
and you will appear red similar to a sunburn. Depending upon
the type of laser used, the redness can last for a period
of weeks or months. Ironically, the ultimate outcome is often
better when the redness lasts longer.
* When the skin has ceased oozing (usually within a week or
two), you will be able to wear make-up to cover any remaining
redness.
* You may need to treat the skin with an ointment and periodic
clean dressings until the areas have healed.
* As the skin heels and the redness fades, you will gradually
see a fresher layer of skin revealed and may continue to see
improvement for up to six months.
* You may need several treatments to achieve your desired
results, but treatments should be about six months apart.
* Your skin will be more vulnerable to sun damage following
laser resurfacing, and special care should be taken to protect
it for at least six months.
* The effects of laser resurfacing can last for years, but
results are not permanent. Any wrinkles that are formed as
a result of repeated facial expressions will eventually come
back.
Complications from laser resurfacing are rare, but burns,
scars, and herpes infections have occurred on occasion, all
of which can be treated. Skin discoloration arises in a small
percentage of patients, and those with darker skin are more
susceptible to this problem. This can be corrected through
bleaching or other methods. Laser resurfacing can cause facial
spider veins, especially in those who already have spider
veins on the face.
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