Last Updated on November 27, 2024 by Aaron Barriga
Laser Skin Resurfacing, also known as a laser peel, laser vaporization, and lasabrasion is a technique to uses laser beams to reduce facial wrinkles, scars, and blemishes. With laser technology, surgeons have a higher level of control and precision around delicate areas, thus offering better results.
What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?
Laser skin resurfacing is a popular cosmetic procedure that helps in rejuvenating the skin through laser technology. Along with facial scars, wrinkles, and blemishes, it reduces the effects of aging, sun, and some facial disorders. It removes the outer, damaged skin and gives way to a smoother, younger, healthier-looking skin.
How Does Laser Skin Resurfacing Work?
The surgeon uses a laser to send short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin. The laser beam removes the epidermis (the outer layer of the skin) and simultaneously heats the underlying skin, which is called the dermis. This stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. After the treated area heals completely, firm and smoother skin is formed.
Ideal Laser Skin Resurfacing Candidates
The ideal candidate for this procedure is someone with elastic, non-oily skin that isn’t prone to scarring after minor injury. Patients with wrinkles, lines, and uneven pigmentation can opt for laser skin resurfacing. Those with superficial facial scars such as acne or chickenpox scarring, birthmarks, enlarged oil glands, etc. can also consider undergoing this procedure.
The person must be free of any medical conditions, including prescription medication and existing health conditions that may cause unnecessary risk during the treatment or recovery period. Before going in for the procedure, the candidate should have realistic expectations of the results.
The Procedure of Laser Skin Resurfacing
A local anesthesia is administered through an injection at the treatment site. If necessary, an oral sedative may also be used. Once the anesthesia is under effect, the surgeon will use a special laser to carry out the procedure. A controlled, pulsated beam of light is given which vaporizes the epidermis and reveals the younger-looking skin that lies underneath. The growth of new skin cells is also stimulated.
The full procedure can take up to 2 hours while a partial procedure doesn’t last longer than 30 to 45 minutes. A concentrated laser beam minimizes the complications by restricting the amount of heat damage done to the skin.
The Benefits of Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Improves the overall texture of the skin that has become rough due to sun damage.
- Enhances the youthfulness of the skin.
- Diminishes the appearance of age spots, wrinkles, skin discoloration, birthmarks, etc.
- Removes skin growths such as moles, and warts.
- Can be used for treating skin cancer in its earliest stages.
- Moderate facial scarring results from injury or surgery can be minimized.
Risks Involved in Laser Skin Resurfacing
- Bacterial infection or abnormal healing.
- Reactivating herpes cold sores.
- Hyperpigmentation or Hypopigmentation.
- Scarring or burns from laser’s heat.
- Smoking increases the duration of the recovery period.
Inform your doctor if you have any medical conditions, drug allergies, or immune disorders before the procedure. This helps them prepare better for the surgery and administer the right medication for recovery without any threat of risks.
Expected Recovery Time & Results of Laser Skin Resurfacing
The recovery period lasts around two weeks. During this time, the treated skin will heal and a new layer of skin will appear. However, the redness of the skin might persist for several months. Depending on the extent of the treatment, patients should take a break of one to two weeks from work immediately after the procedure.
Consult with your eye care doctor to ensure your safety before scheduling Laser Skin Resurfacing.
Aaron Barriga is the online marketing manager for Insight Vision Center. With a knack for understanding medical procedures, and an interest in eye and vision health, Aaron loves to share what he knows and what he learns. He blogs to inform readers about the latest eye care technology and other topics related to eye care, especially LASIK.
