Laser skin resurfacing is a procedure that uses lasers to create a new, smooth skin appearance.  The laser “ablates”, or destroys, the outer layers of skin which have been damaged by age, sun, acne, wrinkles, or pigmentation problems or spots.  The destruction of the older layers of skin prompts the body to generate a new layer of skin cells which are unaffected by the previous skin condition.  Some lasers may be inappropriate for darker skin complexions.

At the Plastic Surgery Institute, we offer multiple options in the field of skin resurfacing.  While our medical spa offers treatments such as microdermabrasion and intense pulse light therapy, Dr. Smith can perform more intense therapies.  He routinely performs laser skin resurfacing with the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, chemical peels, and dermabrasion. 

 

The CO2 laser is one of the post powerful tools used today to correct the fine lines and wrinkles associated with aging.  While very powerful, this laser causes some discomfort and weeping skin for approximately 10 days after treatment and pinkish discoloration of the skin for several weeks.  As long as these side effects are recognized and accepted, the long term results are a more youthful face with less fine lines and a healthy glow.

 

While there are multiple types of chemical peels, Dr. Smith primarily performs the TCA (tricarboxyacetic acid) type.  This peel causes some skin sensitivity for several days after the procedure and some pinkish skin for several weeks.  This peel aids in correction of fine lines as well as creates smoother and more youthful skin.  This procedure can be performed awake or under light sedation.

 

Dermabrasion is a procedure used to correct facial scarring associated with acne as well as to smooth “rough” skin.  Dr. Smith frequently performs this procedure on younger people who wish to improve the “pits” caused by teenage acne.  This procedure uses a special tool to essentially “sand” the skin which decreases the depths of acne scarring.  As in the aforementioned procedures, the skin will be sensitive and weepy for seven to ten days as well a pink for several weeks. 

 

For all of these procedures, patients can begin wearing make-up within two weeks and return to work as soon as they are comfortable.  It is critical that our patients wear good sunscreen for six months after the procedures in order to prevent darkening of the new skin.  For these and other skin resurfacing options, please call our office to schedule a consultation.

Reasons for Considering Laser Skin Resurfacing:

• Reduce or remove facial wrinkles, creases, and lines.
• Improve sun-damaged skin.
• Correct pigmentation problems and spots.
• Effectively treat scars from acne, birthmarks, moles, and tattoos.
• Tighten skin that has lost elasticity due to aging.

General Procedure

First, the face is cleansed of oils in order to prepare for the laser procedure, and an antibiotic ointment is applied.  The laser is then used to ablate various layers of skin in a controlled manner until the appropriate depth of skin is reached.  This procedure is commonly performed with a local anesthetic, with or without sedation.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  Antibiotic cream and bandages are applied to the affected area immediately following surgery in order to aid with the healing process, to minimize swelling, and to control the risk of infection.  The skin will be red and may ooze.  Some discomfort should also be expected.

Any pain associated with the surgery can be treated with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions.   Recovery time varies with the extent of the resurfacing and the number of procedures completed.