Skin Resurfacing for wrinkle or acne scar
Laser Skin Resurfacing
One of the most recent innovations in anti-aging remedies has been laser skin
resurfacing, which improves the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, scars, and
hyper-pigmentation (discolored areas of the skin), primarily around the eyes and
mouth. It can also be used to treat large areas of the face.
Laser skin resurfacing has gained popularity recently because of its advantages over
alternative approaches that may cause discomfort, bleeding, and bruising, all of which
mean a longer recovery time. The result of more youthful-looking skin means laser
skin resurfacing can be psychologically rejuvenating as well.
Laser Skin Resurfacing Vs. Other Skin
Treatments
For acne scars, a recently developed third-generation Erbium/YAG-CO2 combination
laser is very effective, without the side effects of older laser types. In addition, the
Fraxel laser was introduced recently for the improvement of acne scars, brown age
spots, melasma (patchy or generalized dark or tan areas), fine lines, and large pores; it
is proving to be very effective. During your consultation with your doctor, he or she
will select the right laser for your particular scar removal procedure.
The Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure
Your doctor may perform laser skin resurfacing in the office, an outpatient surgery
center, or a hospital. Typically you would receive local anesthesia, while you are
sedated but awake; however, you might receive general anesthesia for treatment of
deeper layers of the skin.
Treatment time ranges from a few minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the
amount of resurfacing you need.
The doctor moves the laser precisely over the area of skin requiring treatment.
Depending on the depth of the wrinkle, scar, or discoloration, the laser may be moved
over the area repeatedly. The laser penetrates and removes the number of outer skin
layers necessary to uncover the layer not affected by imperfections. Once that layer is
exposed, healing can begin to rebuild new skin that looks younger and does not have
the imperfections.
The procedure may be performed in two or more sessions to penetrate deeper areas,
but one procedure is usually enough.
Aftercare for Laser Skin Resurfacing
You will probably experience some mild swelling and discomfort after laser
resurfacing. This can be controlled with ice packs and medications prescribed by your
surgeon. There may be a red, crusted appearance for 10 or more days.
If a bandage was applied after your procedure, it may be replaced with a fresh one
after a day or two. After about a week, your bandage will be removed, and a thin layer
of ointment may be applied to your skin. At this stage your surgeon will provide
instructions on how to gently wash and care for your healing skin.
During this phase of healing, it is very important that you not pick the crusts off the
treated area, or scarring may result. Most patients are free of crusts after 10 days, but
redness may persist for several weeks.
Complications and Risks of Laser Skin Resurfacing
Complications in this procedure are rare, but when they occur they may include skin
discoloration, burning, or scarring. In rare cases, dormant viruses or infections can be
triggered. Laser skin resurfacing does not stop the aging process. Wrinkles,
discoloration, and other imperfections can reappear throughout your lifetime.
Consult a Qualified Doctor
Consult a plastic surgeon and a dermatologist who have extensive experience using a
laser. There's a lot to know. For example, acne scars may be best treated with a CO2
laser, while other lasers may be preferred for other types of scars. A variety of lasers
are also available for anti-aging skin care, including the Ultra-Pulse, Silk-Touch, and
erbium. The intense pulsed light system or IPL, also known as the Spectra-Pulse light
system, removes facial veins, brown spots, and benign lesions. Only experienced and
knowledgeable doctors will know which laser is most appropriate for each condition
and will have received appropriate training on the device. Using a qualified doctor
will increase your odds of success and reduce the risk of complications.