Skin Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing, also called skin resurfacing, is done to:

• Erase fine lines and wrinkles on the face
• Smooth and tighten eyelid skin
• Improve "smokers lines" around the mouth
• Remove brown spots and splotchy, uneven skin color
• Improve the look of and/or flatten scars
• Improve skin tone and texture

Am I a candidate for laser resurfacing?

Treatment indicated for people with:

• Deeper wrinkles
• Acne scars
• Sun or age spots

Treatment may be less successful for people with:

• With very dark skin
• Who are prone to scarring
• Are taking certain medications
• A skin disorder

What to Expect During the Procedure

During a skin resurfacing, the laser beam is directed to the area that is to be treated and ablates, or removes, the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). At the same time, the laser heats the underlying skin (the dermis) which stimulates the growth of new collagen fibers. As the wound heals, new, smoother and tighter skin forms in the treated area.

Treatment time ranges from a few minutes to an hour and a half, depending on the amount of resurfacing you need.

Typical Results

The results of laser resurfacing are variable depending on the technology or treatment prescribed for you.

You may feel like you have moderate sunburn. There will be swelling and redness of the skin. You may experience itching or stinging for 12 to 72 hours after the procedure. Five to seven days after laser resurfacing, your skin will become dry and peel. Your skin may be red for a few months following the procedure, but make-up can conceal any redness.

The full effect develops over a few months and can last for several years.