Laser Skin
Resurfacing
As one of the most
exciting and innovative scientific achievements of the
decade, Laser technology is being utilized throughout
the health care community. the Center For Aesthetic
Surgery uses lasers to treat sun-damaged skin, facial
wrinkles and scars in a procedure called laser skin
resurfacing.
What is a laser?
The word "laser" is an
acronym, which stands for Light Amplification by the
Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A surgical laser, such
as the CO2 laser, is a beam of light capable of removing
unwanted tissue, such as scarred, lined, wrinkled, and
otherwise imperfect skin. The laser vaporizes skin cells
by emitting bursts of radiation that are absorbed by
water in these cells. Laser light penetrates to a very
precise, controlled depth, making the procedure safe and
predictable, while reducing the risk of scarring or
pigmentation problems. As a result of this treatment,
you are left with more natural looking skin.
What areas can be
treated through laser resurfacing?
The laser is used to
reduce tiny wrinkles, acne scars and other minor skin
imperfections, especially around the mouth and eyes. It
can improve sun-damaged and acne scarred skin, problems
that often cause concern to both men and women.
Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, the
Center For Aesthetic Surgery and you will discuss the
goals for facial improvement. After determining the
appropriate procedure, we will fully describe the
procedure, what results to expect and the costs. The
skin is usually pretreated prior to surgery to improve
the healing time.
The Procedure
A local anesthetic is
given to ensure that you are comfortable throughout the
procedure. The area is cleansed and draped. Your surgeon
directs the laser beam toward your skin imperfections.
The laser quickly and accurately vaporizes the outermost
layers of skin just four or five cells in thickness.
What can be expected?
In most cases, only one
treatment is needed. The initial redness fades in a few
weeks to a light pink, which can be concealed with
makeup. The discoloration usually disappears in one or
three months. The goal of laser resurfacing is to
enhance facial appearance. Expectations by the patient
must be realistic, and results should be anticipated as
improvements rather than total corrections. Results of
the surgery depend on many factors such as the size,
shape and location of the imperfection and the patient's
heredity, age and general skin condition.
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