Laser Skin Resurfacing

Kathleen Behr, M.D.

 

What is Laser?

The letters in the word LASER stand for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

 

How does the Laser work?

 It delivers short bursts of extremely high energy laser light which vaporizes the undesired skin tissue, thereby exposing fresh skin lying underneath. The heat of the laser beam also causes underlying collagen fibers to contract, giving the skin a smoother and tighter surface.

 

 What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

This exciting medical breakthrough relates to the use of specially designed medical lasers to gently remove unappealing skin surfaces to expose underlying healthy skin and create an improved cosmetic appearance.

 

What conditions does Laser Resurfacing help?

It can smooth and tighten eyelid skin, fine lines and wrinkles of the face, including the upper lip, cheeks, forehead and crow’s feet.  In addition, it can fade brown spots and pigmentation problems, as well as improve scars (including acne scars).

 

What is the advantage of Laser Skin Resurfacing?

The advantage of the laser is that it has an on-board computer precisely controlling the depth of the skin penetration (less than ½ the thickness of a human hair).  This precision allows damaged skin to be gently sculpted away with each pass of the laser.  This decreases the risk of wounding skin too deeply or damaging adjacent healthy skin so that persistent redness is not a problem.

 

How long is the recovery period?

Generally, one to two weeks.  Dressings and ointments speed the process.  Some swelling may occur, particularly during the first few days of healing.  After healing, there will be a pink or red color which will fade over a period of weeks to months.  This can easily be masked with cosmetics.

 

Where are the treatments done and how many will I need?

Treatments are performed in an outpatient surgical facility.  In the majority of cases, one treatment is sufficient.  Additional treatments may be required for deep or persistent wrinkles or scars.  We will be able to discuss this with you after we examine your skin.

 

How much pain will I experience?

During the procedure, there should be no discomfort.  Prior to laser resurfacing the treatment areas will be anesthetized.  Extensive areas of resurfacing may require general anesthesia or I.V. sedation.

 

After the procedure, discomfort is minimal since the laser beam has sealed off the nerve ending.  Mild stinging, much like a sunburn, can be expected for one to two days.

 

What are the benefits of laser skin resurfacing?

Improved treatment results

Bloodless procedure

Precisely controlled treatment

Can be used as an addition to or alternative for other skin rejuvenating treatments

Reduced risk of scarring and pigment changes

Outpatient same day treatment

 

How long will the results last?

This will vary from patient to patient.  Dr. Behr can give you a better estimate after examining your particular skin.  A good maintenance program as suggested by our office will help you maintain the benefit.

 

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions