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Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Laser resurfacing, which is alsoknown as laser peeling, is aneffective facial rejuvenationtechnique that can producelong-lasting results. Over time,factors such as sun damage,heredity, diet, and repetitivemuscle movement contribute tothe formation of lines andwrinkles in the face.Additionally, the development ofpigmentation anomalies, suchas “age spots,” or acne scarscan cause skin to lose itssmooth, youthful appearance.

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Laser Resurfacing IntroductionLaser resurfacing, which is also known as laser peeling, is aneffective facial rejuvenation technique that can produce long-lasting results. Over time, factors such as sun damage, heredity,diet, and repetitive muscle movement contribute to the formation oflines and wrinkles in the face. Additionally, the development ofpigmentation anomalies, such as “age spots,” or acne scars cancause skin to lose its smooth, youthful appearance.

Laser Resurfacing Treatment AreasLaser resurfacing can be used successfully to reduce theappearance of facial lines such as forehead lines, crow’s feet,smile lines, and vertical lines around the mouth, as well as otherinconsistencies on the face. Furthermore, laser resurfacing is oftenused in conjunction with other procedures such as eyelid surgeryor a facelift.



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How Does Laser Resurfacing Work?During laser resurfacing, a high-energy beam of light is used toheat the dermis, which primarily stimulates the formation of newcollagen, a protein responsible for providing structure and supportin the dermis. The intense heat from the laser also causes theouter layers of the epidermis to peel away. As your skin healsfollowing treatment, new skin cells develop, giving the face asmoother, firmer, more youthful appearance.

It is important to realize that laser resurfacing should not beconsidered as a substitute for a facelift nor can it be used toremove excess facial skin. Laser resurfacing can be performed onindividuals of any age; however it is most successful on individualswith healthy skin and fair complexions.

Procedure PreparationThe length of a laser resurfacing procedure varies depending onthe extent of treatment, usually lasting one to two hours. You maybe given eyewear that will protect your eyes from the intense lightproduced by the laser.

Prior to the start of your laser resurfacing procedure, the treatmentarea will be thoroughly cleansed. Typically, a topical or localanesthetic will be administered. A sedative may also be providedto help you stay relaxed and comfortable for your procedure.General anesthesia may be administered if the laser treatment willbe extensive or if it is being performed in conjunction with anotherprocedure.



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Laser Resurfacing TechniqueAlthough there are several different types of lasers used in laserresurfacing, the most commonly used laser is known as a pulsedCO2 laser. Pulsed CO2 lasers work by producing short bursts ofintense light. The beam of light is emitted from a small wand-likedevice that the physician waves across the treatment area.

CO2 pulsed lasers are accurate and precise, which gives thephysician control over how deep the laser beam penetrates intothe skin. This allows the physician to customize the treatmentbased on the extent of wrinkle formation or skin damage in thearea.

Laser Resurfacing TreatmentAs the physician guides the wand over the face, the high-energylaser damages the outermost layers of the epidermis, which peelaway as you heal. During this process, you will most likely feel aslight burning sensation. When switched to low-power, the laserheats the dermis, which stimulates new collagen production overtime. This new collagen will improve the structure and elasticity ofthe skin.

Deeper wrinkles or scars may require multiple passes over thetreatment area, whereas fine lines and other minimal skinirregularities may be treated with as few as a single pass.Additionally, some newer CO2 lasers emit lower energy which canimprove the appearance of the skin without affecting the dermis,and thereby shortening recovery time.



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What to Expect in the Short TermFollowing the laser resurfacing procedure, an ointment may beapplied to your face to protect it during the initial healing stages. Inthis case, you will need to continue to apply the ointment forapproximately one week. You can begin to apply cosmetics inapproximately ten to fourteen days following the procedure.

What to Expect in the Long TermYou may experience minor pain and swelling for the first few daysfollowing the procedure. Your face may have a fine crust and areddish appearance that lasts for approximately two to threeweeks, respectively. It is important to realize that the rednessindicates healing is taking place and new collagen is being formedin the dermis. While the majority of the redness will begin to fade inapproximately one month, the healing process is gradual.Therefore, it is not uncommon for your skin to be slightly red for upto three or four months. While your skin remains red, it is importantto protect it from sun exposure by using sunscreen with SPF 15 orgreater.



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Laser Resurfacing ResultsYou will most likely notice an improvement in your skin tone andtexture as the redness begins to fade, but the final results fromyour procedure may not be evident for several months. It isimportant to realize that laser resurfacing does not prevent yourskin from continuing to age, and new lines and wrinkles will slowlyform over time. However, depending on factors such as the type oftreatment, your skin type, and the condition being treated, theresults from a laser resurfacing procedure may last for severalyears.



laser skin rejuvenation - ocean clinic · laser skin rejuvenation laser resurfacing, which is also...

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