Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure

A laser skin resurfacing procedure helps reduce or eliminate the appearance of damaged skin. Skin can be damaged by the sun, pollutants, or even our own natural facial expressions over time, often resulting in wrinkles. The laser skin resurfacing procedure can minimize the appearance of wrinkles while correcting skin irregularities as diverse as uneven pigmentation, acne scars, and birthmarks, among others.

Where Is Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment Usually Performed?

A laser skin resurfacing procedure can be performed either in a hospital or, more likely, in an outpatient surgical facility. This is the case for each laser skin resurfacing procedure, whether performed with a CO 2 or erbium laser.

Is Anesthesia Used During Laser Skin Resurfacing?

A laser skin resurfacing procedure is typically performed with local anesthesia (a numbing injection at the treatment site). An oral sedative may or may not be used as well. More extensive laser skin resurfacing procedures can require intravenous or general anesthesia, although this is less common. A knowledgeable cosmetic surgeon can determine with great accuracy how each laser skin resurfacing patient can best benefit from treatment and the necessary anesthesia needed to provide them adequate comfort.

The Laser Skin Resurfacing Procedure

Once the necessary anesthesia has been administered, the surgeon uses a special laser to perform the skin resurfacing procedure. Using a precise and controlled beam of laser light, the outer layers of skin are vaporized, revealing the smoother, younger-looking skin beneath. While the old layers of skin are removed, the growth of new skin cells is stimulated.

Currently, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers and erbium lasers are the two most common laser technologies used for skin resurfacing. Each provides a unique treatment; the CO2 laser for deep wrinkles and the erbium laser for wrinkles that are more superficial. A partial laser skin resurfacing procedure typically takes 30 to 45 minutes and a full treatment can take up to two hours. Both of these lasers help to minimize the potential for laser skin resurfacing complications by limiting the amount of heat damage to the skin and offering the cosmetic surgeon an extremely high level of precision. Your physician will help you prepare for a beneficial laser skin resurfacing recovery.

Use DocShop to Locate a Dermatologist near You

DocShop is a unique resource providing those interested in the laser skin resurfacing procedures and other cosmetic treatments with the latest information regarding available techniques and technologies. Additionally, the DocShop directory can help you find the doctor that is most qualified to meet your needs. By navigating DocShop and visiting the websites of participating physicians and dermatology professionals in your area, you can learn more about the procedures they provide, their staff, and much more.