OverviewLaser resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a laser to improve the skin's appearance or treat minor facial flaws. It can be done with: Show
Both methods can be delivered with a fractional laser, which leaves microscopic columns of untreated tissue throughout the treatment area. Fractional lasers were developed to shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of side effects. Laser resurfacing can lessen the appearance of fine lines in the face. It can also treat loss of skin tone and improve your complexion. Laser resurfacing can't eliminate excessive or sagging skin. Why it's doneLaser resurfacing can be used to treat:
RisksLaser resurfacing can cause side effects. Side effects are milder and less likely with nonablative approaches than with ablative laser resurfacing.
Laser resurfacing isn't for everyone. Your doctor might caution against laser resurfacing if you:
How you prepareBefore you have laser resurfacing, your doctor will likely:
Before laser resurfacing, you might also need to:
What you can expectDuring the procedureYour doctor may do laser resurfacing as an outpatient procedure. Your care team will numb skin with medication. For extensive resurfacing, such as treatment to your whole face, you might be sedated. During ablative laser resurfacing, an intense beam of light energy (laser) is directed at your skin. The laser beam destroys the outer layer of skin (epidermis). At the same time, the laser heats the underlying skin (dermis), which stimulates collagen production over time, resulting in better skin tone and texture. Ablative laser resurfacing typically takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the technique used and the size of the area treated. This approach usually needs only one treatment. If you're undergoing nonablative laser treatment or fractional Er:YAG laser resurfacing, you'll likely need 1 to 3 treatments scheduled over weeks or months to get the results you're looking for. After the procedureAfter ablative laser resurfacing, the treated skin will be raw, swollen and itchy. Your doctor will apply a thick ointment to the treated skin and might cover the area with an airtight and watertight dressing. You may take a pain reliever and use ice packs. New skin usually covers the area in one or two weeks and full recovery takes at least a month. During this time do not use products that may irritate your face, such as cosmetics. And avoid situations that increase your risk of infection, such as public whirlpools. Always use sun protection following laser resurfacing. After nonablative laser resurfacing, recovery time is minimal. Your skin might be swollen or inflamed for a few hours. Use ice packs as needed. Typically, you can resume your usual activities and skin routine immediately. ResultsAfter ablative laser resurfacing, your skin might stay inflamed for up to several months. But once the treatment area begins to heal, you'll notice a difference in your skin quality and appearance. The effects can last for years. Results after nonablative laser resurfacing tend to be gradual and progressive. You're more likely to notice improvements in skin texture and pigment than in wrinkles. After laser resurfacing, always use sun protection. As you age, you'll continue to get lines by squinting and smiling. New sun damage also can reverse your results. Every day, use a moisturizer and a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Can wrinkles be removed by laser?Yes. Laser skin treatments for resurfacing skin will remove wrinkles. Depending on the type of laser system being used and how well your body responds to treatment, laser treatments can reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, smooth out moderate wrinkles, and eliminate mild wrinkles.
How many laser sessions are needed for wrinkles?Wrinkles and acne scars need more treatments and therefore require three to five sessions. And patients with photodamage will need to space their sessions six to eight weeks apart.
What is the best laser treatment for wrinkles?The best in class for wrinkle removal, treatment of crow's feet, sun damage removal and overall skin rejuvenation is the Fraxel Re:pair laser. Yes, there is some downtime with Fraxel, but after a couple days looking like you have a sunburn, your skin will look 10 years younger, tighter and completely refreshed.
What is the newest skin tightening procedure 2022?What is Sofwave? The Aivee Clinic's Sofwave treatment is the latest, most advanced, and non-invasive treatment using a 3D ultrasound technology that works best for skin tightening and lifting. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, and saggy skin usually found in the jowl, jawline, neck, eyelids, and brows.
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