Laser resurfacing is a treatment to reduce facial wrinkles and skin irregularities, such as blemishes or acne scars.
The technique directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin, precisely removing skin layer by layer. This popular procedure is also called lasabrasion, laser peel, or laser vaporization.
Who Is a Good Candidate For Laser Resurfacing?
If you have fine lines or wrinkles around your eyes or mouth or on your forehead, shallow scars from acne, or non-responsive skin after a facelift, then you may be a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing.
If you have acne or if you have very dark skin, you may not be a candidate. This technique is also not recommended for stretch marks. You should discuss whether laser resurfacing is right for you by consulting with the doctor before having the procedure done.
Laser resurfacing is a procedure that uses a wand-like laser instrument to remove the upper layers of skin. It is sometimes referred to as “laser peeling” since it removes old skin cells in order to reveal newer, more youthful cells. Since the technique uses a laser, an ASDS dermatologist has precise control over the depth of treatment, lessening complications to surrounding tissue.
Why choose laser resurfacing for wrinkles
Laser resurfacing works primarily by removing the top layer of wrinkled skin. It also heats the layers underneath to promote collagen production, which stimulates skin in the treatment area to heal in a smoother, more even appearance.
What you should know about laser resurfacing for wrinkles
The technique directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at wrinkled skin, precisely removing skin layer by layer. In this way, wrinkles can be removed in a very precise manner, one layer at a time. Laser resurfacing results in fewer problems with hypopigmentation, or lightening of skin. An antibiotic or antiviral medication is sometimes prescribed prior to the procedure.
Possible Risks
As with any treatment, there are risks associated it, though they are minimized in the hands of a qualified ASDS dermatologist. These include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Crusting
- Discoloration