Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing goes by many names: laser peel, laser vaporization and even some weird ones like labrasion, but regardless of what it is being called, laser skin resurfacing has solidified its place as one of the most popular ways to address cosmetic concerns on the face. In fact, through all of the obstacles in 2020, close to 1 million laser skin resurfacing treatments were performed, according to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 

This makes it the third-most-popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure on the market, beaten only by filler and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections. But what makes this procedure stand out from the numerous other resurfacing treatments? The answer is pretty simple: it works, and it works well. 

What Is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

To understand how laser skin surfacing works, you need to know the two different types that exist: ablative and nonablative. 

Ablative

Ablative laser skin resurfacing, at its core, is a method of removing surface layers of damaged and unhealthy skin to address a host of different textural and color concerns. Ablative refers to the “destruction” of that skin. Concentrated pulses of light are sent directly into the problematic areas. Once this light comes into contact with the skin, it is transformed into heat, causing controlled “damage” to your epidermis that will trigger the body’s natural healing response. 

Part of this response is the increase of essential proteins like collagen and elastin. These two proteins are critical to maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance. Collagen alone is the most abundant protein in our bodies, and it is also directly responsible for keeping our skin taut. Other healing factors also flood the “damaged” area, increasing the benefits and improving our appearance even further.  

Nonablative

The mechanisms behind nonablative laser skin resurfacing are nearly identical to the ablative approach. The only difference between the two is that nonablative does not destroy any skin in the process. Instead, it uses specialized technology to target skin deeper in the facial tissues to avoid external damage. While this technique works well for textural concerns caused by deeper issues, it is generally not as effective at treating surface conditions. 

What Laser Devices Does South Shore Plastic Surgery Use? 

We have chosen to use the Laser Genesis and Limelight Facial at our office for nonablative procedures. If a patient is better suited for ablative procedures, our go-to device is the Cutera Pearl. We are always looking to give our clients the best experience possible, and we believe that these devices are the most effective at providing reliable results and dramatic improvements.

What Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Treat?

Laser skin resurfacing at South Shore Plastic Surgery can treat many different facial skin conditions, such as:

• – Fine lines
• – Wrinkles
• – Skin folds
• – Acne scars
• – Trauma scars
• – Chickenpox scars
• – Sun damage
• – Liver spots
• – Warts
• – Birthmarks
• – Poor complexion
• – Enlarged oil glands
• – Overly large pores
• – Acne

Even if you do not see your specific conditions listed, it is possible that laser skin resurfacing can be a solution to your aesthetic concerns. The only way to know for sure is to schedule a consultation with our office to speak to our expert medical team. 

Why Do We Need Laser Skin Resurfacing?

There are many different reasons people turn to this procedure. For issues like fine lines and wrinkles, there is very little that can be done to reliably prevent them from developing or treat them once they have arrived. Our bodies go through a natural aging process, which includes the degradation of our skin and protein production.

Overly large pores, enlarged oil glands and acne are also largely out of the control of people who suffer from chronic forms of these conditions. Often, medications do not work on these blemishes, leaving the person who has them feeling like there is no way to solve the problem. The same goes for scarring and other textural issues. Fortunately, laser skin resurfacing can help people with those conditions if they know the option exists.

Am I a Candidate for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

If you are looking to address any of the conditions listed above or similar conditions not listed, then laser skin resurfacing is likely going to be a good option for you. However, it is essential to remember that some lasers will not be viable for darker skin tones. This is because darker surface skin is much more efficient at absorbing heat, which can cause severe damage to the top layers of skin. 

To find out whether you are a good fit for laser skin resurfacing, you will need to schedule a consultation with our office. 

How Should I Prepare for Laser Skin Resurfacing?

There are no serious precautions or preparations you need to make for laser skin resurfacing since it is a noninvasive procedure. Just do your best to avoid excessive sun exposure, alcohol consumption and cigarettes before having your treatment. 

What Should I Expect from a Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure?

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

What Should I Expect During Laser Skin Resurfacing Recovery?

Generally, post-operative instructions call for minimal downtime. Antibiotic cream and water-based moisturizers are applied to the affected area immediately following surgery in order to aid with the healing process, minimize swelling and control the risk of infection. The skin will be red and dry for a few days. Some minor discomfort should also be expected.

Any pain associated with the procedure 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.

What Kind of Results Can I Expect from Laser Skin Resurfacing?

You can expect to see a noticeable improvement in the appearance of your face, whether that be clearer skin, less impactful wrinkles or a smoother texture. Your results will be long-lasting, around three to five years when maintained properly. We can work with you during your consultation to develop an appropriate treatment plan to ensure your results remain optimal.

Can I Combine Laser Skin Resurfacing with Other Procedures?

Laser skin resurfacing can be combined with many other procedures as part of an overall treatment plan. Let our staff know you are interested in more than one technique, and we will be happy to let you know what the most effective and successful combinations are. 

Professional Laser Skin Resurfacing in Voorhees, NJ

If you are ready to move forward with laser skin resurfacing or if you would like the opportunity to learn more about the treatment, give our office a call at (856) 784-2639. You can also fill out our online contact form to have a team member reach out to you at a more convenient time.  

 

Julie Heckman from Precision Media on Vimeo.