Laser Skin Resurfacing For Wrinkle Removal.

Laser skin resurfacing can be performed for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. In this procedure, a specially designed laser is used to remove skin that is wrinkled or sun damaged.  Laser resurfacing can eliminate acne scars, uneven pigmentation, stretch marks, wrinkles and fine lines.  Enlarged pores can also be minimized with laser resurfacing.  This technique treats the skin layer by layer.  In some cases it may be appropriate to remove pre-cancerous skin lesions.

The Procedure

Laser  resurfacing is similar to dermabrasion or microdermabrassion in the way that it works.  This method uses a specially designed laser to remove a thin layer of skin.  The skin removal is very precise and it easier to control the results than it is with, for instance, deep chemical peels.  Laser resurfacing is typically performed as an out patient procedure.  Laser resurfacing will not correct deep creases or wrinkles in the skin.

Laser resurfacing surgery can be used to reduce the appearance of facial scars.  If the skin has uneven pigmentation due to sun damage or age, laser resurfacing treatment will restore an even pigmentation to the skin.  In some cases, laser resurfacing can be used to remove pre-cancerous or benign skin lesions.

Laser skin resurfacing will produce results similar to those from dermabrasion or deep chemical peel.  It will not replace other surgical treatments for the removal of deep wrinkles or sagging skin.  Although there may be improvement in the appearance of deep wrinkles, laser resurfacing will not eliminate them.

Therapeutic Applications

Although laser resurfacing is used most often  as a cosmetic procedure, there are several medical conditions which can be  treated effectively with this technique.  If you suffer from a chronic skin disorder, you may want to ask your doctor if you condition can be alleviated with laser treatment.  Laser skin resurfacing may also be used as a  treatment for pre-cancerous skin lesions on the face and other areas of the body.

Consulting A Surgeon

Laser skin resurfacing should only be performed by a boar certified dermatological or cosmetic surgeon.  The procedure can include the total face or targeted areas.  Results will vary by individual.  Laser resurfacing can be combined with other cosmetic procedures.  You should discuss your options, expectations and probable results with your doctor and consider his recommendations.  You may be a better candidate for an alternative treatment.

Your surgeon will examine your skin and review you medical history.  There are few barriers or contraindications for this surgery as it is non invasive.  Your doctor should be aware of any skin care treatments you have received within the six months proceeding you consultation, any viral skin infections  and allergies or sensitivity to sunlight.  If you have had a chemical peel, accutane treatment or microdermabrasion within six months, you will not be considered a candidate for laser resurfacing.

While laser resurfacing can reduce the appearance of acne scars, it is not recommended for use on skin that has active acne.  Treatment with accutane is a contraindication for laser resurfacing and some other cosmetic procedures.  This surgery can produce hyperpigmentation.  People with dark complexions are at higher risk for hyperpigmentation.  Individuals who are likely to form keloid scars probably should not have laser resurfacing.  Any infection or inflammation of a patient's skin is a barrier to laser resurfacing.

Treatment and Post Operative Care

The laser for skin resurfacing is specially designed laser. It uses carbon dioxide and  heats  water trapped in the outer layer of the skin.  The skin is gently rubbed, which prompts peeling.  The laser is very precise and is used to remove the skin in layers.  Following the surgery the skin will appear red and crusting can occur if the area is not kept moist.  Dressings will be applied to the skin because the area must be kept moist, and the patient will be instructed on how to apply  ointment and change the dressings.  Recovery periods vary and are largely dependent on the extent of the surgery.  Full face treatments will have longer recovery periods than treatment of a small area.

The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient surgery.  Proper follow up care by the patient is essential to prevent infection and avoid other complications.  If any adverse symptoms occur, contact your surgeon immediately.

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