What is Laser resurfacing used for?
Laser resurfacing is a facial rejuvenation procedure that uses a laser to improve the skin's appearance or treat minor facial flaws. It is commonly used to lessen the appearance of fine lines, age spots, uneven skin tone or texture, sun-damaged skin, and mild to moderate acne scars. Laser resurfacing cannot eliminate excessive or sagging skin.
How to prepare for Laser resurfacing?
Before undergoing laser resurfacing, patients typically need to:
- Stop smoking: Patients are advised to quit smoking at least two weeks before and after the treatment to reduce the risk of complications and improve the healing process.
- Arrange for a ride home: If sedation is involved during the procedure, patients will need assistance getting home safely.
- Discuss expectations and potential risks with their doctor: Patients should discuss their motivations, expectations, and the potential risks of the procedure with their doctor to ensure laser resurfacing is appropriate for them and to understand the recovery process and potential outcomes.
- Take medication to prevent complications: Patients may need to take antiviral medication before and after treatment to prevent viral infections, depending on their medical history.
- Avoid unprotected sun exposure: Patients should protect their skin from excessive sun exposure for at least two months before the procedure to prevent permanent irregular pigmentation in treated areas.
These preparations are important to ensure a safe and successful laser resurfacing procedure.
How are Laser resurfacing results reported?
Laser resurfacing results are reported as improvements in skin quality and appearance. The procedure can lessen the appearance of fine lines, age spots, uneven skin tone or texture, sun-damaged skin, and mild to moderate acne scars. Ablative laser resurfacing provides more dramatic and immediate results, while nonablative laser resurfacing offers gradual and progressive improvements in skin texture and pigment.
It's important to note that laser resurfacing cannot eliminate excessive or sagging skin. Results vary depending on the individual and the specific concerns being addressed. To maintain the desired outcomes, it's crucial to use sun protection, moisturizer, and a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily.
Understanding the report
Laser resurfacing results are interpreted based on the improvement in the skin's appearance, such as reduction in fine wrinkles, age spots, uneven skin tone, and texture, and the treatment of mild to moderate acne scars. The results can be immediate for some people, while for others, it may take several months to see the full effect, depending on the type of laser used. The results can last for years, but it's important to follow aftercare instructions, use sun protection, and maintain a healthy skincare routine to help prolong the effects.
Limitations and Considerations
Limitations of laser resurfacing include:
- Limited effect on excessive or sagging skin: Laser resurfacing primarily targets fine lines, age spots, uneven skin tone, texture, and mild to moderate acne scars. It does not significantly improve or eliminate excessive or sagging skin.
- Temporary side effects: The procedure can cause redness, swelling, itching, pain, and acne. It may also lead to infection, changes in skin color, and scarring, particularly with ablative laser resurfacing.
- Not suitable for everyone: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as a history of isotretinoin use, connective tissue or autoimmune diseases, weak immune systems, or a tendency to develop keloid scars, may not be good candidates for laser resurfacing. Additionally, pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with darker skin tones may be at higher risk for side effects or complications.
- Recovery time: Laser resurfacing can have a significant recovery period, especially with ablative laser therapy, which may require several days to a few weeks for the skin to heal.
- Limited improvement in deeper acne scars: While laser resurfacing can improve the appearance of mild to moderate acne scars, it may not be as effective for deeper scars or extensive scarring.