Laser resurfacing surgery procedure for facial scar removal.

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Laser Resurfacing Surgery

Laser Resurfacing Surgery - Definition

Laser resurfacing surgery improves the looks affected by aging. Also called laser dermabrasion or laser peel, it is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by the use of a carbon dioxide laser. It works by removing the damaged skin to reveal new skin that is tighter and fresher.

Laser Resurfacing Surgery - Procedure & Application

Although it is primarily used to effect age related issues, laser dermabrasion can also be used to help the appearance of uneven pigmentation and facial scars. It can be used for specific areas or the entire face. Often, when a patient is undergoing additional cosmetic procedures, laser dermabrasion is done at the same time.

Much like the microdermabrasion, laser dermabrasion is a fairly new method of cosmetic work. And also like microdermabrasion, it is less invasive and does not produce the side effects that more invasive techniques do. Since it includes the use of a laser, the techniques are much more precise and do not harm skin that is not being treated and that leads to less post-operative bleeding and tenderness. However, it should be noted that as laser dermabrasion is a new technique, there isn’t a lot of data that reflects the long term outcomes of having laser resurfacing done. That said, the studies that have been done have shown that laser dermabrasion produces the same results as a chemical peel or regular dermabrasion.

Unlike microdermabrasion which can only help to correct superficial lines and wrinkles, laser dermabrasion can also work on deeper skin issues. The laser can be adjusted to different layers of the skin, making it possible to affect specific wrinkles or age related spots. And as laser dermabrasion can go to different levels, different after effects can be felt. When the laser resurfacing is done on the outermost level of the skin, then the recovery time is quick, but the deeper levels of the skin might need more time to heal after laser dermabrasion.

Laser Resurfacing Surgery - Consultation

Look into the laser dermabrasion physician’s background, ask other people that you know for referrals. If someone had a bad experience with a laser resurfacing procedure--word will spread. However, the patient may not find out if the patient doesn’t try. If the doctor has privileges at the location that the surgery is to be performed—that’s even better. This means that the hospital or surgery center has reviewed the physician’s laser dermabrasion techniques and found them to be acceptable.

Having an open dialogue with the laser dermabrasion physician will be very helpful. Ask every question that could be asked. No patient should go into a surgery without knowing the laser resurfacing surgery as well as the doctor performing it. The patient should also be aware of any pre-operative work that needs to be done before the laser dermabrasion.

As with the other dermabrasion techniques, anesthesia is determined by the patient’s comfort level. If the procedure is going to be extensive, the patient can opt to be ‘put to sleep’ with a general anesthetic. If the laser dermabrasion is more localized—like the face, for instance—then the patient may be given a local anesthetic along with a sedative. This will ensure that the laser resurfacing is being done on a relaxed and pain-free patient.

Suitable Candidates for Laser Resurfacing Surgery

Not everyone is well-suited for laser dermabrasion. Patients with darker complexions are at a higher risk for changes in their pigmentation when undergoing any dermabrasion procedure and will thus have to discuss this possible effect with their doctor. Accutane is a prescription that can cause abnormal scarring if taken within twelve to eighteen months of the procedure. Clients with active skin infections may not be ideal candidates for laser dermabrasion.

Laser Resurfacing Surgery - Complications

Because laser dermabrasion involves a laser, there is a risk for complications. Under the care of an experienced physician, laser resurfacing will rarely cause problems. However, it is good for a patient to be aware prior to laser dermabrasion that there is a possibility of burning form the laser. There can also be scarring or a change in skin pigmentation. If a patient is prone to herpes simplex, a.k.a. cold sores, then the laser dermabrasion can induce that, and rarely, other infections.

Laser Resurfacing Surgery - Aftereffect & Care

After the laser resurfacing, the patient may need to wear a bandage over the treated area, along with a prescribed ointment. Because the skin was treated with a laser, there may be swelling and some minor discomfort. Again, depending on the situation, the bandage may need to be changed a few days after surgery, and then again at a follow up appointment with the laser dermabrasion physician. Depending on the speed of the healing, the physician may suggest ways to care for and clean the affected area.

Although the skin may appear red or pink after the laser dermabrasion, this is a good sign. That color change is the appearance of new, tight skin on the area. After a few months, the redness will diminish and the full effects of the procedure will be seen. If careful attention is given to this new skin—sunscreen, hats, etc.—then the effects can last quite a long time. The laser dermabrasion probably corrected a lot of bad habits, so starting some new ones will help the skin stay in good shape.