Overview
Our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Holden and Dr. Tsujimura often recommend laser skin resurfacing(LSR) to their patients to improve the health and appearance of the skin. This nonsurgical procedure uses laser beams of light and heat to target localized trouble areas on the face, and LSR is an advanced skin rejuvenation treatment that treats sun damaged skin, improves fine lines and lightens skin pigmentations and blotchiness. With controlled precision, layer-by-layer the skin will be stripped of sun damage and skin lesions. In our Scottsdale office, we customized a treatment plan for your particular skin type to minimize complications and obtain the best result.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing?
At Scottsdale Plastic Surgeons, we understand that with age, the skin may become increasingly dehydrated, flat, and expressionless. With laser skin resurfacing treatments, we can provide our Scottsdale, AZ individuals an opportunity at new skin with a procedure that yields many amazing benefits:
- Reduced look of wrinkles and aging
- Reduction of pores and inconsistent skin texture
- Decreased visibility of scars and sun damage
- Improved confidence and self-efficacy about your skin's appearance
Laser Skin Resurfacing Reviews
Procedure Technique
Laser skin resurfacing removes the outer layer of skin and heats the underlying layer to stimulate growth of new collagen fibers. During this process, damaged skin cells on the outer layer are stripped away. The underlying dermis is stimulated to grow new skin cells revealing softer, brighter and healthy skin. If small sections of the face are being addressed, the procedure will typically take about 45 minutes. A full-face treatment, or larger areas of skin, can take up to 1 hour. Our surgeons require sedation for their LSR treatments because they are deeper treatments. LSR with our surgeons will provide more dramatic results than a technician or an esthetician can perform. One treatment is usually all that is required.
Ablation vs. Non-Ablation
Laser skin resurfacing is either ablative or non-ablative. During an ablative procedure, an intense beam of laser light energy is directed at the skin, removing the outer thin layers. This process generally results in a longer recovery. The results, however, can be a bit more dramatic. A non-ablative laser does not remove any layers of skin. Instead, it stimulates the growth of collagen, which helps tighten underlying skin. This process offers a lighter recovery. Results will not be immediate, but will appear over the course of multiple appointments.
Technical Variations
Considered the gold standard among many practitioners is CO2 (carbon dioxide) laser resurfacing. This is an ablative method, which removes both the epidermis and some of the underlying dermis to promote collagen growth so new, healthy skin can thrive. Examples include the UltraPulse C02 laser, the Sciton Laser Skin Resurfacing System, and the Fraxel repair (fractional CO2) lasers. Our surgeons use the newer generation ablative laser. The UltraPulse CO2 laser provides the deepest reach with the minimum level of energy. This provides the greatest effects with the widest margin of safety and minimizes side effects better than any other C02 laser on the market. These are newer generation lasers that deliver short-pulse light energy as well as continuous light beams to produce customized results for each patient’s specific needs.
During/After the Procedure
Some mild swelling will occur after a laser resurfacing treatment. It is common for the face to have crust and scaling as it heals. The treated area may appear red or pink for several weeks. Normal activities can usually resume within a couple of weeks. Patients who have sensitive skin or who have had adverse reactions to facial products may have increased side effects. Laser skin resurfacing will leave the face exposed with a new layer of healthy, yet sensitive, skin. It’s advised to wear sunscreen every day and limit sun exposure as much as possible.
Laser Skin Resurfacing FAQs
Can it Damage Your Skin?
This procedure was created to improve the appearance of the skin. However, an inexperienced individual can damage the skin unintentionally. It is important to find a laser skin resurfacing professional who understands how the various laser technologies interact with different skin types. If done correctly, the results can be effective and long-lasting.
Lasting Results?
While laser skin resurfacing does not stop the aging process, the results can still be long-lasting. As patients continue to age, they may consider additional treatments.
Ablative or Non-Ablative?
While one is not better than the other, they have varying degrees of intensity and recovery. Both techniques provide nice results. During your initial consultation, we will discuss which is best for you. Factors include the patient’s aesthetic goals, skin type and how much downtime can be tolerated.
