NONSURGICAL LASER SKIN RESURFACING

Non-Surgical Procedures

Laser Skin Resurfacing

The highly-skilled cosmetic surgeon of STARS Plastic Surgery uses the Lumenis Fractionated CO2 Laser to perform laser skin resurfacing to rejuvenate damaged skin.

With this laser, the top layers of skin are removed in a fractionated technique, where columns of damaged skin are removed, leaving non-treated skin intact. The damage to the skin causes it to self-generate to produce healthier, fresher, younger-looking skin. This treatment works ideally on aged, sun damaged and discolored skin. It is also effective in treating acne, burn and traumatic scars.

PROCEDURE TECHNIQUE

Laser skin resurfacing uses controlled light beams with high intensity to vaporize and remove the upper layer of the skin. When the damaged, superficial skin is removed, it gives way for new skin to grow, which masks the face with a new layer of epidermis. Any pain during the procedure is managed with local anesthesia and/or sedatives to help the patient relax. The eyes will also be protected since lasers can be harmful to the patient’s vision. Laser skin resurfacing’s advanced technology allows accurate targeting of smaller areas so the surrounding skin is not affected. A session may take up to 2 hours depending on the patient’s skin conditions.

ABLATION VS. NON-ABLATION

Laser skin resurfacing may be aggressive, depending on the patient’s aesthetic goals. The more aggressive the treatment (which is referred to as an ablative procedure) the more it wears away the epidermis to let new skin regeneration begin. Recovery with this technique may take up to 3 weeks. The lighter treatment, or non-ablative laser, does not remove any skin. It stimulates deeper layers of the skin to initiate an increased growth of collagen. With this treatment, there will be no downtime for the patient. Both techniques help the skin regenerate. As new layers of skin are developed, skin problems such as wrinkles, mild scars and discoloration are minimized.

TECHNICAL VARIATIONS

There are two types of laser skin resurfacing: the CO2 and Erbium lasers. CO2 is the most popular type in this procedure. It is an ablative method which wounds the epidermis to give way for new skin growth and improve collagen development. The intensity of the laser beams with CO2 is high. Erbium, on the other hand, is a more gentle procedure that only removes superficial skin layers so the recovery period is quicker. Depending on the patient’s skin condition and aesthetic goals, the doctor will recommend the laser that is more suitable for the patient to render better results.

DURING/AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Laser resurfacing is an outpatient procedure. There may be pain during treatment, so local anesthesia can be used to minimize the patient’s discomfort. The doctor may also prescribe the patient a pain reliever after the procedure. The face may be bandaged after treatment. Since the epidermis is peeled away, the skin may appear red for several weeks. As it heals, crusting may be present. It is very important to follow the doctor’s advice on skin care to prevent any scarring. It may take a few days before the patient can resume normal activities. It may also be beneficial to use an extra pillow when sleeping to ease any discomfort.

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Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs

Can Laser Resurfacing Cause Scars?

Although the procedure will wear the skin surface away, there is a minimal risk of scarring, especially when post-treatment care is implemented. It is critical to find a reputable doctor or technician with comprehensive experience with laser skin treatments. It’s important for the surgeon to understand different technologies that affect different skin types. When done correctly, the result is a long-lasting healthy skin effective in combating signs of aging and skin damage.

How Long Does Laser Rejuvenation Last?

Aside from the natural effects of aging, personal habits and environmental factors, results can be long lasting. Maintenance treatments may be considered as signs of aging getting more and more significant over time.

Ablative vs Non Ablative Laser - Which Is Better?

It depends mainly on the patient’s skin condition and cosmetic goals. Another factor to consider is how quick the recovery period should be or if there should be no downtime for the patient. The doctor will discuss each treatment in detail and recommend the best approach that matches the patient’s circumstances.

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Why STARS?

Various Procedures

From facelifts and breast work to Botox and laser treatments, we have the staff and technology to make you look and feel your best through every decade of life.

Plastic Surgery Experts

Our seasoned and skilled board-certified plastic surgeons perform the latest treatments, all in certified ambulatory surgi-centers and hospitals with board-certified anesthesiologists.

Affordable Pricing

Enhance your looks and bring out your best features without breaking the bank. Your STARS plastic surgeon will work with you to give you that natural look that you can afford.

Modern Facilities

We provide the latest techniques and procedures, assisted with state-of-the-art tools and technologies for consistent, natural and gorgeous results.