Laser Skin Resurfacing
Smoothing and softening your face

Plastic Surgery Associates uses a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser to restore wrinkled, blemished, unevely pigmented,or sun-damaged skin using a laser light to peel away the skin's top layers.  The new cells that form during the healing process produce a smoother, tighter, younger-looking skin surface.  With facial resurfacing, a high-energy beam of CO2  light is used to vaporize lines, wrinkles, scars, dark spots and other irregularities, layer by layer.  This process also stimulates the formation over time of new, underlying collagen to provide better elasticity and support for the skin.  The CO2 laser can be used on the full face or on specific regions of the face.  Skin resurfacing, as the procedure is known, often delays the need for a comprehensive, invasive facelift. Or it can be used after a facelift or eyelid surgery to smooth any fine lines that remain.

The procedure is an alternative to chemical peels, which are typically used for finer wrinkles and creases, and Microdermabrasion, a non-chemical skin renewal process. Laser treatment is often more effective if the lines in your face are more pronounced. Ask your doctor whether a chemical peel, microdermabrasion or the CO2 Laser is best for you.

The doctor can tailor the skin resurfacing procedure to your individual needs:

• Lines and wrinkles around your eyes and mouth can be smoothed.
• Deep laugh and frown creases can be softened.
• Some acne and surgical scars can be minimized.

The CO2 Laser is delicate enough that even sensitive areas on your lips and around your eyes can be resurfaced safely, without bleeding.

What can I expect after skin resurfacing?
Your recovery time after skin resurfacing varies, but usually all areas are healed in 7-10 days. The initial redness fades to light pink in a few weeks. This discoloration is easily camouflaged with cosmetics and usually disappears in one to three months.