Laser Skin Surgery Information
Laser skin surgery is a relatively new way of treating a wide variety of skin issues. Using extremely precise instruments plastic surgeons can rejuvenate skin, fight signs of aging, diminish the appearance of scars, correct pigmentation problems, remove hair, and correct other problems and blemishes. There are a variety of procedures available for a wide range of issues.
One of the advantages of laser skin surgery is its precision and the laser's ability to cut without causing excessive bleeding. This can result in a quick recovery time and carefully targeted results. However, caring for treated areas during the healing process can require special attention and vigilance. Patients must be careful not to abuse their skin or expose themselves to excessive sunlight after treatment because healed areas are extremely sensitive.
If you have been considering any form of laser skin surgery, the time has come to speak with your plastic surgeon. Modern technology has made today's procedures safer than ever before and more effective than in the past. The results of laser skin surgery can help counter the aging process and help you regain your youthful appearance. Schedule an appointment with your plastic surgeon and rejuvenate yourself. You deserve it.
Methods: Laser Skin Surgery Procedures
Types of Laser Skin SurgeryThere are two types of laser skin surgery-ablative and non-ablative. Ablative lasers vaporize the surface layers of the skin, revealing a fresh new layer of skin upon healing. However, ablative lasers form wounds that require downtime and post-treatment attention. Contrarily, non-ablative lasers leave the upper layers of the skin intact and generate heat to stimulate collagen production and improve the tone and texture of the skin. Non-ablative treatments involve a topical anesthetic and are less intrusive, resulting in less downtime. Discuss your goals with your plastic surgeon to determine which form of treatment best fits your needs.
Ablative
Co2 - The ablative Co2 laser procedure can help treat lines and wrinkles, irregular pigmentation, acne scars, and scarring from previous laser treatments. Results are seen in as little as two weeks and the procedure needs to be done only once.
Erbium - The ablative erbium operation is designed to treat fine wrinkles and other skin surface irregularities including acne scars and irregular pigmentation. Results can be seen in as little as two weeks and the procedure can be repeated if desired.
Non-Ablative
Cooltouch
- The cooltouch procedure can improve skin tone and boost collagen in all skin types and colors to treat acne scars and large pores. Results are usually seen after two or three treatments, and the cootouch treatment typically takes three to seven sessions.
Q-Switched - The Q-switched laser is particularly effective for removing blue and black tattoos and for patients with dark pigmentation. Results can be sign within two to four weeks after surgery, and often requires somewhere from eight to twelve treatments.
Smoothbeam®
- The non-ablative smoothbeam is used to treat acne, acne scars, and fine wrinkles. Results from the procedure can be scene within one month after treatment, and the entire process only requires three to six treatments.
Pulsed Dye - Pulsed dye is a laser procedure that can treat spider veins and broken capillaries, birthmarks, dark scars, fine lines around the eyes, and rejuvenate collagen. Through this technique, spider veins are erased instantly, and other conditions may take as little as several weeks after treatment to see results.
Diode - The diode laser procedure can be helpful for broken blood vessels, pigmented lesions, and hair removal. Results can be seen within one to two weeks after treatment, and only two to four treatments are required to benefit from the procedure.
Clearlight - Clearlight laser treatment specifically targets acne and provides fast results. A noticeable difference can be seen after one treatment, and only two to four initial treatments followed by appointments twice a year for maintenance are suggested. Furthermore, there are no major risks with clearlight laser surgery.
IPL - IPL is an acronym for Intense Pulsed Light technology, which is not the same thing as a laser but is based on similar principles. IPL treatment can be used for hair removal, broken capillaries, pigmentation changes, and acne. Results are seen after one visit, and the entire course of treatment typically lasts from one to six operations, depending on the condition.
Fraxel
SR - The Fraxel SR laser offers the results of an ablative laser with the low downtime of a non-ablative laser. This unique hybrid devise treats a fraction of the skin's surface at a time and is engineered to help fine lines and irregular pigmentation. Results can be seen after two to three treatments, and the operation typically takes anywhere from three to six visits.
Photodynamic Therapy - Photodynamic therapy involves the application of a special medicine to the skin followed by exposure to a light source to activate the medicine. There are practically no risks involved, and results are seen immediately after one treatment. Photodynamic therapy is helpful for removing precancerous spots, acne, fine lines, and irregular pigmentation.
Laser Skin Surgery Statistics
-Laser hair removal was the second most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in 2004, with nearly 1.5 million procedures conducted in the United States.
-Over 500,000 laser skin resurfacing operations took place in the United States in 2004. This is a 283% increase from the numbers in 1997.
-Laser treatment of leg veins in the United States jumped to over 200,000 cases in 2004.
Laser Skin Surgery Questions and Answers
How can I determine if I'm a good candidate for laser skin surgery?Most people are good candidates for last skin surgery. However, certain skin characteristics and medications are less likely to experience the full benefits laser treatment has to offer. Discuss your goals with a plastic surgeon to determine if you can enhance your look through laser skin surgery.
Will my insurance help supplement the cost of treatment?
Unfortunately, most forms of laser skin surgery are purely cosmetic in nature. This means that obtaining insurance coverage for your laser treatment might be challenging. However, there may be circumstances where your insurance policy may supplement some laser surgery costs. Speak with your plastic surgeon about insurance coverage for laser skin surgery during your consultation.
What are some variations to the common laser skin surgery techniques?
There are several different laser skin surgery procedures that are commonly practiced. Each procedure has positive and negative aspects associated with it, and the wide range of methods to choose from means that your plastic surgeon can help you choose a treatment that will comfortably provide you with the results you desire.
What are some of the risks involved with laser skin surgery?
When compared to more invasive forms of plastic surgery, the risks involved with laser skin surgery are minimal. However, all forms of surgery have some risk. It is important to address any concerns or questions you have about your treatment while meeting with your plastic surgeon.
How should I go about preparing for treatment?
Your doctor will provide you with a set of guidelines to follow prior to your treatment. These may affect your eating, drinking, taking of medications, and applying of topical substance habits. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the best results possible and prevent any complications from occurring.
How will I look and feel immediately following the operation?
With some procedures, you will be able to see results immediately following your first treatment. Other operations require several visits over a period of time before results are noticeable. Your plastic surgeon will be able to inform you about the specifics regarding your laser skin surgery plan.
When can I continue pursuing my normal activities?
Thanks to the non-invasive nature of most laser skin surgeries, your treatment will have little to no effect on your normal activities. However, you may be required to slightly alter your routine as directed by your plastic surgeon.
How long can I expect the results to last?
The duration of results is highly dependent upon the procedure being performed and the post-operative care you apply to the treated area. By following the directions of your plastic surgeon and living a healthy lifestyle, you can benefit from laser skin surgery for years after your operation.