Laser skin rejuvenation is a cosmetic procedure for diminishing the appearance of imperfections on the skin’s surface. During the treatment, a laser is used to dissolve the molecular bonds of the damaged skin cells layer by layer, until a smoother, more even skin tone is achieved. This procedure is also referred to as laser skin resurfacing or laser peel because the damaged layers of skin are peeled away.
Laser skin rejuvenation is an effective treatment for those patients with fine lines, wrinkles, uneven pigmentation, or superficial facial scars, such as acne scarring that does not respond to gentler procedures.
Different Types of Lasers
CO2 Laser
The CO2 laser is the highest intensity laser currently available. The CO2 laser uses heat to restrict the collagen bands found in the lower layers of skin. It accomplishes this by actually perforating the skin, resulting in a tighter, firmer appearance. This treatment can eliminate or diminish the appearance of fine wrinkles, scars, uneven pigment and birthmarks. Some patients with early stages of skin cancer have been treated with the CO2 laser, with excellent results. As the skin is perforated, there is about 1-2 weeks of downtime, while your skin heals. The skin may look red, swollen and irritated for the first week, but the results are quick and significant, making this a popular treatment for those patients looking for a more dramatic result.
Erbium Laser
The erbium laser is a very precise laser, used to remove thinner layers of skin. This laser is often the optimum choice for those patients with darker skin, as there is less chance of permanent changes to skin pigmentation. As the erbium laser uses a cool light to treat the skin, there is less burning of the skin, resulting in a shorter recovery. With a shorter healing time of generally 1 week, the erbium laser is also better for patients with healthy skin who wish to treat only minimal fine lines and wrinkles.
Fraxel Laser
The Fraxel® laser is distinct from other laser rejuvenation treatments, as it is non-invasive and there is virtually no down time. There is no skin tenderness or pain after undergoing treatment, and no recovery time is required after the procedure. It should be noted, however, that this is not a single session treatment. Improvements to the skin’s appearance will appear gradually over the course of weeks or months. This procedure is very popular for patients who need to work and do not have the time for a recovery process. The Fraxel laser has proven to be very effective on those patients with mild to moderate acne scars.
The Procedure
Depending on the size of the area being treated, the type of laser being used and each patient’s skin type, laser skin rejuvenation typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours. A topical anesthesia will be applied to the skin before the procedure begins to eliminate any discomfort or pain.
Using a precise and controlled light beam, Dr. Repta or his staff will gently vaporize the outer layers of skin. As the old layers of skin are removed, the growth of new skin cells is stimulated, revealing the smoother, younger-looking skin beneath.
Ready for rejuvenated skin?
With many years of experience improving faces, Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Repta is happy to help achieve your aesthetic goals. If you dislike the effect that the aging process is having and are looking for options, laser skin rejuvenation may be just the procedure you’re looking for. Dr. Repta and his caring staff are here to help you answer any questions or concerns you may have.