The best way to get complete answers to specific questions that relate to your individual needs is to have a personal consultation with a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Is laser resurfacing right for me?
Men and Women of all ages may benefit from laser resurfacing. The best results from the procedure are typically seen in individuals with fair, healthy, non-oily skin.
You may be a good candidate for laser resurfacing if you have any of the following conditions:
* fine lines, especially around the eyes
* vertical lines around the mouth
* facial scars caused by injury or accident
* scars caused by acne
* areas of uneven pigmentation, such as "age spots"
* lines on the cheeks caused by sun damage
You may wish to discuss other resurfacing options with your plastic surgeon if any of the following applies to you:
* you have skin that is olive, brown or black
* you have taken Accutane® during the past 18 months
* you are prone to abnormal (keloid-like) scarring
* you have an active skin infection
What should I expect from the consultation?
A personal consultation is the first step for every patient considering laser resurfacing. During this meeting, your surgeon will assess your physical health and discuss your specific cosmetic goals for the procedure.
You should arrive at the consultation prepared to provide complete information about:
* previous surgical procedures, including cosmetic facial peels or dermabrasion
* any abnormal skin condition that has been diagnosed or previously treated
* medications you are taking or have taken previously, including nutritional supplements and herbal remedies
* skin allergies, acne or facial injuries you have had
During your physical evaluation, your plastic surgeon will evaluate the quality, thickness and color of your skin and perhaps take photographs for your medical record.
Often, people who undergo laser resurfacing choose to have other facial-rejuvenation procedures at the same time, such as a facelift, browlift, or eyelid surgery. Be sure to let your surgeon know if you are planning to have any other cosmetic procedure in the future.
How is laser resurfacing performed?
In laser resurfacing, a beam of laser energy is used to vaporize the upper layers of damaged skin with accurate precision. As new cells form during the healing process, a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface appears.
During the procedure, the activated laser is carefully passed back and forth over the skin until the surgeon reaches the safest level that will make the wrinkle or scar less visible. When imperfections are deep, your surgeon may recommend that the resurfacing be performed in two or more stages.
After your surgery:
When the procedure is over, your surgeon will choose one of two ways to protect your healing skin. One option is to apply a bandage which will be changed one or more times during the first 10 days. The other option is to cover your face with protective ointment and give you more ointment to use at home for the first week of healing. Your surgeon will select the method that best meets your needs.
You are likely to experience some mild to moderate swelling. However, ice packs and medication prescribed by your surgeon can help you stay comfortable
Your new look:
If you're like most patients, you will notice a significant improvement in the tone and texture of your skin. Many say that their fresher, younger-looking complexion makes them feel more confident at work and in social situations.
You should be aware that even though your results will be long-lasting, your face will continue to age. Following your treatment, your natural facial movements will eventually cause any "expresssion" lines to recur. Using sun protection and a skin-care regimen recommended by your surgeon will help to maintain your results. However, some patients decide to repeat the treatment after several years to restore their rejuvenated look.
