Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing is one of the many methods of facial skin rejuvenation. Although aging cannot be stopped, delaying it by temporary removal of fine facial lines can be achieved by laser resurfacing.

Laser resurfacing is an outpatient type of procedure and the treatment is done at the doctor's clinic.

The procedure employs the usage of laser light to treat the outer layer of the skin. The underlying skin is also treated by the heat from the laser beams. The laser beams also stimulate collagen production as well as new skin. During the healing process, a smoother and tighter skin forms.

What facial flaws can laser resurfacing treat?

• Fine age lines or wrinkles
• Age spots
• Irregular skin tones
• Sun-damaged facial skin
• Chicken pox and acne scars

Pre-laser resurfacing consultation

An integral part of laser resurfacing (or any cosmetic procedure for that matter) is the pre-procedure consultation. At this stage you can discuss with your plastic surgeon everything that there is to know about the procedure, after care, risks and FAQs.

During this phase you are also asked to undergo the following preparations:

• Checking and discussion of your medical history - Your current health condition, medications and other past medical history will be checked and assessed if you are qualified for the procedure.
• Physical examination - This is to check the condition of your skin.
• Before and after photos - Your surgeon will use these photos to assess your condition and to document your condition for further reviews.
• Discussion of expectations - You should always have realistic expectations when it comes to cosmetic surgical procedures. You will be informed about what the procedure can and cannot do for you, so it is safe not expect a perfect result for every procedure.
• You will be asked to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen several days prior to and after your laser resurfacing. These medicines can cause excessive bleeding.
• You will be advised to avoid sun exposure 2 months prior and 6 moths after the procedure to prevent irregular facial coloration.
• Avoid make-up and other cosmetics, as well as facial creams on the morning of your scheduled laser treatment.

What to expect after the procedure

Your facial skin will be treated with ointment and dressing. A bandage will be wrapped on your face for a few days. If only a small area was treated, a piece of bandage will be used to cover that specific area.

After 2 to 3 days, the bandage will be removed. Assessment will be done at the doctor's clinic.

Risks

• Hyperpigmentation - usually common for darker skinned patients
• Hypopigmentation
• Herpes virus infection
• Acne flares
• Dermatitis
• Burns due to high temperature frequencies from the laser

Recovering from Laser Resurfacing treatment

• Expect 3 days to 3 weeks of swelling after your treatment.
• Expect your skin to heal after 4-6 days after to erbium laser resurfacing and 5-14 days after CO2 laser resurfacing
• Your skin will look sunburned and it may last for up to 4 months after treatment
• You may use makeup 7-14 days after the treatment
• During your recovery it is advisable to use sun screen with SPF 15 or higher for 3-6 months.

Click here to read more on Laser Resurfacing

Laser Resurfacing Recommended Resources:

The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center

University of Michigan Health System