Helpful Information About Total Laser Resurfacing For Prospective Patients

By Sharron Cantu


A natural part of the aging process is the development of lines and wrinkles as the skin loses elasticity. Not everyone is comfortable with these changes however, and many look for ways of making them less visible. Total laser resurfacing is one such option that provides a dramatic improvement in the vibrancy and youthfulness of the skin. It is less invasive than many other alternatives and it also heals in less time. This guide will help Cincinnati Ohio patients know what they can expect.

The Erbium laser is fast becoming the instrument of choice for this procedure since it offers optimal results with fewer side effects, although other types of lasers can also be used. The skin's topmost layer, the epidermis is ablated which eliminates many of the imperfections present on it. A fresh, healthy layer of skin is exposed and the skin's collagen production is stimulated which helps tighten and firm up the complexion. The depth of this treatment is variable, and can be tailored to the patient's personal needs.

This procedure is normally a good choice for anyone who is troubled by the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face, neck, chest, back, or hands. If the clinician deems the patient to be an ideal candidate for laser resurfacing, he or she will explain how the treatment works and what to expect. Just about all patients are happy with the results.

Approved by the FDA, laser resurfacing is considered a safe procedure. Side effects related to it are rare and it heals in a considerably shorter time than many other methods which promise similar results. The skin will be tender afterwards, reddened, a bit swollen and eventually crusted where it was treated, but this will fade quickly.

When compared to micro laser peels or microdermabrasion, other techniques used to rejuvenate skin, the Erbium laser method provides more extensive and visible results and with only one application. Several treatments are normally needed with other approaches before the results are apparent. This laser is able to penetrate the epidermis on a deeper level, producing better results.

One treatment is all that's needed in most cases for patients to experience smoother, firmer skin. Sometimes a patient may benefit from additional treatments. The clinician will advise as to how many applications will yield the best possible outcome since each patient is a unique individual with different issues.

Because there is little pain from this procedure, it not usually necessary to administer an anesthetic, although a topical may be applied, and if the patient feels anxious, sedation may be given. The site will not need to be bandaged, but it will require a special care regimen involving the use of prescribed skincare products that will be given to the patient, namely a cleanser, barrier and emollient creams, and a sun block.

Healing times can vary from one patient to another, depending both on how deep the treatment was and the type of skin. It usually takes about three to seven days for most patients to be more or less full recovered. Scheduling the procedure for the end of the work week is recommended so the skin will be healed come the following Monday. Any residual redness is easily camouflaged with mineral-based makeup.




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