LASER RESURFACING

Lasers have given us computer controlled instruments to rejuvenate the face. Prior to lasers, doctors used harsh, unforgiving chemicals or painful dermabrasion to treat the face. The laser can precisely vaporize unwanted wrinkles, pigmentation, and sun-damaged areas of the skin. The laser energy is applied thoughtfully and artistically to alleviate the problems presented.

The laser has an Erbium wavelength which removes extremely thin layers of tissue, and a CO2 wavelength which heats and tightens tissue. Laser facial resurfacing is performed with little discomfort using  topical and injection anesthesia. An entire face can be treated in 40 minutes. There is residual redness which may last up to 6 weeks. Make-up can be applied to the face in as few as five days after the procedure. See before and after photos.

Here are some commonly asked questions:

I only want the area around my mouth treated. Will the laser leave me with two-toned skin?

Lines of demarcation or two-toned skin can develop. The dual wavelength laser allows me to feather edges as if I were water coloring. This makes for a fine blend of color. Make-up covers these areas very well if needed.

When can I put on make-up?

As with all procedures this answer depends upon the degree of sun-damage, the depth of wrinkles, and the age of the patient. An individual in her late 60's with deep wrinkles, furrows, and marked pigmented irregularities will put make-up on in 10-12 days. A 35 year old with mild wrinkling and pigment damage will usually be back to work with make-up in 5-7 days. See before and after photos.

Does it hurt?

During the procedure there should be little if any discomfort. Most of my patients use Tylenol or Vicodin ES™ (a mild prescriptive pain reliever) for 2-3 days after the treatment.

How long will I be red?

This depends, as the answer above, on the variables listed. Using the laser, the majority of my patients are back to a normal clear complexion with little or no redness in 3-6 weeks.

Will I hyperpigment (excessive pigmentation)?

It takes about 12 weeks to renew the full thickness of skin after laser resurfacing. During that time, I ask my patients to wear hats, sun block, and sunglasses to prevent sun exposure. If you get sun exposure you will irregularly pigment. I prescribe bleaching agents to regain an even complexion.

Do I have to be pre-treated with RETIN-A™ and HYDRAQUINONE?

The only patients I pre-treat are those who heal with pigmented scars.

How long will this last?

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

Do you re-treat? When?

My patients know in advance if their wrinkles are too deep to be completely removed with one treatment. If they need to be re-treated I wait 9-12 months to do so.

How much does it cost?

I discuss cost with each patient individually, but laser treatment ranges from $1500.00 to $5000.00.

Is laser skin rejuvenation for me?

Everyone with sun-damaged, sagging or wrinkled skin, desiring to look younger and more refreshed, is a candidate for dual wavelength laser facial resurfacing. See before and after photos. PLEASE NOTE THAT MOST ALL COSMETIC SURGEONS RECOMMEND LASER RESURFACING PRIOR TO SURGICAL FACE LIFT.

Aftercare:

Aftercare is very important for a successful laser facial resurfacing outcome. I see my patients one day after treatment and daily thereafter if necessary. See Skin Care.

Products:

Your new skin can be sensitive to any skincare product. Even to your favorite cosmetics that you have used for a long time. I have my patients use FDA approved skin care products after laser facial resurfacing. These products are used for the 3 months after treatment. If you prefer to return to your old standbys after that time, it is OK.

See Skin Care.

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