Laser resurfacing is used to rejuvenate the skin and remove areas of pigment or freckles to give a more even appearance. The CO2 laser creates mini columns of thermal injury to the skin that ultimately stimulates new collagen growth that results in tighter, smoother, and more plump skin.
This type of procedure might be right for you if you've ever said:
“These look like smoker's lips!”
“I never had this many freckles when I was younger.”
“I wish my skin glowed like it used to.”
Laser resurfacing has a spectrum of how aggressive the treatment can be, from a lunchtime “peel” to full facial resurfacing with weeks of downtime. IPL targets pigmented areas in the skin and will actually make them darker prior to them sloughing over the next few days. What you’re left with is more even, matte, and rejuvenated appearing skin.
Laser treatments can be performed as a standalone procedure or to enhance the results of other facial rejuvenation procedures. Some dermatologists argue that annual or frequent laser sessions started early enough can be just as good as, or keep you from needing a facelift until much further down the road.
Dr. Elston feels very strongly about adding laser resurfacing to someone’s skin rejuvenation plan. The skin is an external reflection of your internal health and signals vitality and youthfulness. Adding this extra procedure doesn’t result in any more downtime, but can act as a nice bow on a birthday gift. It is important to think about having a facelift and neck lift where everything is lifted and saggy skin is removed, but the skin itself still looks older and weathered. The skin quality should match the surgical result and help to create an overall refreshed and rejuvenated look.
If this is done as a stand-alone procedure, the skin is numbed with a topical cream and you will be given laughing gas before further numbing medicine is injected to decrease the pain. The lasering can be on an isolated area like your hands or eyelids, or a full facial resurfacing. Some patients undergoing breast enhancement surgeries elect to have laser resurfacing of the decolletage (cleavage area) to improve how they will look in low-cut tops. The procedure typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If performed in conjunction with another surgery, it is performed at the end after the incisions are all closed.