The Face of Health Series - Laser Skin Rejuvenation

Traditional Laser Treatments

Lasers have been used for rejuvenating the skin for many years. Traditional treatments have included chemical peels and carbon dioxide lasers (CO2). These treatments are excellent in providing dramatic results with one treatment session. Patients who are selected appropriately with regard to their skin types can benefit from the marked reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, discolorations, uneven skin texture, and scarring. Although technology has come a long way, nothing has matched the efficacy of these traditional modalities.

However, the CO2 laser and chemical peels have several risks associated with them that make them difficult to use in untrained hands. Some of these include pigmentation changes, lines of demarcation, redness, long recovery periods and, in rare cases, scar formation. It is important to select a facial surgeon who is highly experienced with these techniques to avoid or minimize these complications.

Exciting New Laser Technology

As laser technology has evolved over the past 5-10 years, exciting new modalities have become available. The latest laser technology uses fractionated patterns of ablation which allow the skin to heal much faster than traditional full ablative resurfacing. There is also much less risk of developing lines of demarcation or prolonged redness. The fractionated laser works by creating small microscopic pinholes in the skin while leaving some normal tissue in between. As the deep collagen layer heals, the skin becomes more firm and youthful and fine lines disappear. Sun spots and pigmented areas are also improved dramatically improved.

Although not quite as effective as the traditional CO2 laser or chemical peels, these new lasers offer outstanding results over one to three treatment sessions, each with little to no downtime. Even the more aggressive resurfacing procedures will heal almost completely in less than 5-7 days. These procedures can be performed in an office setting without requiring sedation. Topical numbing cream is usually sufficient.
It is important that you discuss your concerns with your facial plastic surgeon so that a precise treatment plan can be formulated. Your surgeon should give you detailed information about the specific laser treatment being offered including the risks and benefits associated with it. After the procedure, you should be seen about every other day for the first week to ensure optimized and rapid healing.