Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Advances in laser technology have benefited the plastic surgery industry, particularly over the last decade. Until recently, surgeons have relied mainly on chemical peels, dermabrasion, and surgical scar revision for skin resurfacing procedures. More and more surgeons are now turning towards lasers as their tool of choice to correct scars, wrinkles, melasmas, and acne.

In Laser Resurfacing, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin, layer by layer. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. The benefits of laser resurfacing include:

Reduces acne scars
Reduces wrinkles
Reduces aged and sun damaged skin
Reduces the risk of skin cancer
Reduces or eliminate brown spots and discoloration
Improves skin tone
Regenerates new collagen

Laser resurfacing treatment relies on the principles of selective photothermolysis. Here, the laser is controlled to shine a specific wavelength onto a specific area of the skin. The flawed outer skin layer then absorbs the light from the laser beam, resulting in its vaporization. Removal of the outer layer(s) will thereby reveal the newer, healthier underlying skin.

Laser resurfacing is still a relatively new procedure, but it possesses a tremendous upside. When used proficiently, it has been shown to be significantly more precise in control, while producing less bleeding, bruising and post-operative discomfort compared to other skin resurfacing methods. In addition, although results are not permanent, they will last for a surprisingly long time - up to 10 years.

Currently, physicians employ 4 laser modalities for skin resurfacing:

Scanned carbon dioxide (CO2) laser
Pulsed carbon dioxide laser
Pulsed erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) laser
Combination carbon dioxide and Er:YAG lasers

Laser Skin Resurfacing Information

If you're considering laser skin resurfacing treatment, this website will give you comprehensive information on all aspects of laser resurfacing - the procedure, cost, results, risk, recovery, and its application to melasma, acne, and chicken pox.

Laser resurfacing is highly successful in eliminating wrinkles in comparison to other skin resurfacing methods. Not only does the laser exfoliate the skin, but they also tighten the skin's collagen fibers, restoring some of the skin's elasticity. It has produced dramatic results, as some older patients look 10 to 20 years younger following the procedure.

It is not surprising that an increasing amount of men and women are realizing the benefits of laser skin resurfacing. Laser Resurfacing can help enhance your appearance and restore your self-esteem and confidence. Consult a plastic surgeon or specialist to see if you are a good candidate for this amazing cosmetic procedure.