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The laser skin resurfacing procedure is a relatively new alternative to the microdermabrasion and chemical peel alternatives to a face lift. Just like the chemical peel and microdermabrasion, the laser skin resurfacing can be done either as a stand alone procedure or in conjunction with a cosmetic surgery. Because surgeries like the face and neck lifts do not remedy fine lines and wrinkles, your surgeon may even recommend that you undergo a laser skin resurfacing treatment along with your surgery.
As far as the laser skin resurfacing procedure goes, the first 30 minutes of the procedure is generally spent waiting for the anesthetic to kick in. During this time period the surgeon may be out in another office helping with another patient or any number of things. Once the anesthetic has fully kicked in, the surgeon will begin the procedure by applying a lubricant for the laser’s head which will be in contact with the skin. By making sure there is lubrication, the surgeon can ensure that the head of the laser is in constant and even contact with the area of skin that will be treated thus allowing the head to easily slide across the epidermis. Once this is accomplished the surgeon will start up the laser using either a pulsed beam of laser light or a continuous one depending on the area that will be treated.
Upon completion of the laser skin resurfacing procedure you skin will be red and raw since the laser has removed several layers of skin from the treatment area. This redness will also lead to selling and some stinging and itching. All of these side effects are mild and most of them will go away within 72 hours of the procedure. The only side effect that will remain for a month or so is that of the redness. It will basically feel as if you have a sunburn for the entire time followed by a regrowth of the skin. As this new skin starts to regrow it will be pink in color and will lack the ability to protect itself from the sun’s harmful rays so you will have to ensure that you use sun block that is at least an SPF 30. |
