Laser resurfacing, or ‘laser peel,’ is a therapy in which the physician uses a ultrapulse-carbon-dioxide-(CO₂)-laser to remove the patient’s fine lines, discoloration, age-spots, or sun-damaged-skin-sun-damaged-skin.  It is a particularly effective treatment around the mouth and eyes.  Also, the laser is frequently used therapeutically to treat facial scars, areas of uneven pigmentation, or wrinkles.

Resurfacing treatments work in much the same way.  Stripping away outer layers of damaged skin, new cells form in the course of the healing process, and a smoother skin surface appears.  While the novelty of this treatment means there are not long-term studies on this technique yet, in general laser resurfacing is considered a safer, less invasive procedure than TCA peels and/or dermabrasion.  It’s more precise, there’s less bleeding, and patients report less post-operative discomfort. 

Keep in mind that laser resurfacing isn't always appropriate for every patient.  Patients with olive, brown, or black skin are at increased risk of pigmentation changes, regardless of the resurfacing method.  Anyone who has taken Accutane in the past year to a year and a half, or is prone to keloid-lke scarring, or has active skin infections within the treatment area, would not be an appropriate candidate for the procedure. 

Like any surgery, complications from laser resurfacing are infrequent and minor when the intervention is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Minor complications include burns or other forms of injury from the laser itself, scarring, and lightening or darkening of the treated skin. 

If you have been wanting to get the benefits of laser resurfacing, call us at 800-506-8084, and we will be happy to provide you a free consultation.