In laser skin resurfacing a laser is used to remove areas of damaged or wrinkled skin layer by layer. Laser resurfacing may be performed on the whole face or in specific regions. Often the procedure is done in conjunction with another cosmetic operation such as a facelift or eyelid surgery.

Laser resurfacing can enhance your appearance and your self confidence, but it won’t necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.


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How Does It Work?

The Ultrapulse CO2 laser emits a high- energy light beam in millisecond bursts. These pulses control the laser's effects so that only a precise layer of skin is vaporized with each pass. The laser energy is delivered by a computerized scanner that can smooth the skin surface and vaporize down the highly wrinkled areas. During the healing phase, the body remodels the skin's natural tollagen and new healthy skin is formed. Skin tightening and firming also results during the recovery phase.

Expectations

C02 laser skin resurfacing offers numerous advantages in producing a smoother skin tone and texture. However, this procedure will not remove all wrinkles. Usually a 50 to 70 percent reduction of wrinkles and blemishes can be achieved with a single procedure. The procedure can be repeated safely within a three- to six-month period.

Preparing for your surgery

Do not become sunburned or overexposed to the sun's rays within two weeks prior to your treatment. Check with your doctor concerning any medications that you should take before your procedure. The Providence St. Peter Hospital fee must be paid at the cashier's office three days prior to treatment. Please discuss professional fee arrangements directly with your doctor.

Types of anesthesia

For your comfort, the area to be treated needs to be anesthetized during the procedure. Local injection of an anesthetic is all that is required for small treated areas. However, for larger areas or extensive full face laser resurfacing, sedation or general anesthesia may be employed.

The Day of Your Laser Procedure

Please arrive at Providence St. Peter Hospital Outpatient Surge Center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled treatment. Please refrain from a food or fluid for eight hours prior to treatment, if indicated by your doctor. Thoroughly cleanse your face with soap and water the day of your treatment. Do not use hair sprays or apply make-up. Please make arrangements to have transportation home following the procedure.

How Will I Look Afterwards?

You will have swelling for two to seven days after your treatment. Depending on the ointinent or dressing used, scab formation and some crusting can occur during the first week. The area can also ooze clear fluids for three to seven days. After seven to 14 days, most patients can return to work or social engagements. Moderate redness is expected for at least one to two weeks and will gradually fade over a one- to three-month period. Cosmetics can be applied seven to 10 days after treatment, once the initial healing is complete.

Is Laser Treatment Right For Me?

A consultation with your plastic surgeon or dermatologist will be necessary to determine if you are a candidate, or call Dr. Foley for additional information: (360) 459-8000