Procedures

Laser Skin Resurfacing

Traditional 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 surgeon who is highly experienced with these techniques to avoid or minimize these complications.

New Treatments

As laser technology has continued to evolve, exciting treatment modalities have been made available. It is becoming easier to treat brown spots (lentigines), fine lines and wrinkles, redness, vascular areas (telangiectasias), and texture with less risk and minimal downtime. Although not quite as effective as the traditional CO2 laser or chemical peels, these new lasers offer results over several treatment sessions, each with little to no downtime. Even the more aggressive treatment will heal almost completely in less than 4-7 days. These treatments can also be performed in the office without requiring an anesthesiologist. Topical numbing cream is usually sufficient.

There are many different companies marketing different types of lasers and technology. It is very difficult to discern what works and what doesn't. Some laser platforms are more useful in the medical spa or salon setting. These treatments are generally very superficial and require little skill or knowledge to perform. Some of these are good at refreshing the skin similar to micodermabrasion or light skin peels. They are usually ineffective at achieving sustainable, long-term results when it comes to skin tightening and rejuvenation, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing skin texture, and improving sun damaged skin.

The Sandel Center for Facial Plastic Surgery, LLC in Annapolis is dedicated to providing patients with results. It is Dr. Sandel's intention to only use or recommend laser treatments that will give his patients the best possible outcome. He has continued to research new technologies and "try out" all different types of laser platforms to determine what delivers the best quality and most consistent result.

Contact Us at 410-266-7120, fill out the form on the right or email us at carol@sandelcenter.com to request a consultation.