Lasers Skin Resurfacing

As old and damaged skin builds up it accentuates wrinkles, leaving our faces looking aged and tired. Lasers can remove this skin and reveal a fresher layer through a process called laser skin resurfacing, or a “laser peel.” This can also be used on specific areas to diminish the appearance of scars and treat uneven pigmentation. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.

Ideal Candidates

The best patients for laser skin resurfacing are those who have moderate lines and wrinkles localized in specific areas, and who are free of skin infections. Poor candidates, however, are those who have taken accutane (acne treatment) in the past 12 to 18 months or are prone to keloid-like scarring. As with any cosmetic procedure it is important that the person be in good physical and mental health, and maintain realistic expectations.

If you have a medium to darker complexion, Dr. David Kim will help you understand if laser skin resurfacing is appropriate for your condition. A pretreatment regimen may be necessary.

What to Expect From This Procedure

The procedure will take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, which will require a local anesthetic and a sedative (to relax you). If your face is being treated, it is likely that your eyes will be covered for protection.

A laser is a high-powered beam of light. Essentially, the laser vaporizes the top layer of damaged skin, allowing new skin to form during healing. The laser will be passed over the treated area until the desired results are obtained. A cream or ointment may be applied following the procedure, and for deeper laser treatments, a bandage may be used.

Possible Risks

There is potential for burning, infection, and subsequent scarring. The pigment of the skin may differ in the treated area compared to the untreated areas. Lasers have also been found to activate the herpes virus, and cold sores may appear. However the benefits of laser skin resurfacing is that there is generally little bleeding, bruising, and complications.

Recovery

Initially, your skin may be bright pink or red. Dr. Kim will probably prescribe a medication to minimize discomfort and aid in healing. However you may not be able to wear makeup for up to two weeks. Your skin will also be especially sensitive to the sun; therefore, it will be necessary for you to consistently apply sunblock to your face. For laser treatment around the eyes, you may be encouraged to purchases sunglasses that are both 100 percent UVA and UVB filters. Finally, it may take several weeks for the true improvement to become evident.
It is important to note that because the skin continues to grow, lines and wrinkles will reform and may require additional or alternative treatments.