Laser Skin Resurfacing (Laser Skin Treatments)

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Description
Laser resurfacing is a skin resurfacing modality which employs laser energy to exfoliate and rejuvenate the facial and neck skin. Laser resurfacing may improve the appearance of fine lines and certain age-related skin discolorations. A wide array of lasers are available for consideration. Facial applications of laser treatments include improvement in the appearance of melasma, facial redness, vascular malformations, acne, scars, other dyschromias (commonly called  'age spots,' 'sun spots' or 'liver spots') and more.

The Aging Process
Cumulative sun damage is thought to contributes primarily to age-related skin changes. Collagen, which forms the substance of the skin, is degraded and lost. Fine lines and wrinkles may develop. Pores may appear to enlarge. Age spots or discolorations may become increasingly visible. Together, these sun and age-related skin surface changes detract from the smooth, full, and uniform qualities of youthful skin.

Candidates for Laser Skin Treatments
You may be a candidate for a laser skin resurfacing if you have findings of sun-damaged skin including fine lines and wrinkles, enlarged pores, skin discolorations, superficial vascular lesions, or facial scarring.

Complementary Procedures
Laser skin resurfacing may be performed in the office or in the operating suite in conjunction with most types of facial surgery. Minimally invasive treatments which may be undertaken concurrently with laser skin resurfacing include wrinkle relaxers (such as Botox or Dysport) or injectable dermal fillers and volumizers (such as Juvederm, Perlane, Radiesse and/or Restylane). Other resurfacing procedures such as chemical peeling or dermabrasion may be employed depending on the particular needs of a given patient.

Recovery after Laser Skin Treatments
Recovery depends upon the type of laser and depth of the treatment employed.