Technology has advanced to the point where science fiction now meets reality. One key element from sci-fi that is now part of daily life is lasers. It is used to read DVDs, cut and shape metal in laboratories, fix damaged eyes, and now, used to rejuvenate the skin and make people look and feel years younger.

Laser Skin Resurfacing

This is done through what’s known as laser skin resurfacing, a cosmetic procedure that is continuously gaining popularity in the industry. This is a treatment that is deemed very safe, very convenient, and most importantly, very effective. It is truly a viable option for those looking to have rejuvenated skin.

Skin resurfacing uses a variety of lasers, depending on the situation and what is required by the cosmetic surgeon and patient. The general ones include the CO2 laser, which is the highest intensity and most powerful, Erbium lasers which are less powerful, but more precise than the CO2 laser, and the Fraxel laser, which is very non-invasive and has very little side effects, but requires repeated trips and sessions over the course of a number of weeks, sometimes even months.

Skin Resurfacing Procedure

The skin resurfacing procedure involves the patient being sedated and anesthetized, along with having the eyes covered to protect them from being damaged by the light of the laser. Once the patient is ready, the surgeon takes the laser machine and passes it over the target area, removing damaged layers of outer skin while stimulating the production of new skin cells and collagen in the underlying layers. This results in having a smoother, healthier, and most importantly, younger looking skin. The skin can also feel tighter, eliminating the appearance of wrinkles and lines, scars, and uneven skin pigmentation.

Depending on the size of the target area, the amount of work that needs to be done, and the skill of the doctor, the procedure can last anywhere between 30 minutes, which is the average amount of time for partial facial skin resurfacing, to arount two hours for a full skin resurfacing.

But like all medical procedures, there are risks involved, even with the very gentle Fraxel laser. Possible complications can include permanent changes to skin color and pigmentation, infection, even laser scarring. It is highly recommended that patients diligently take the necessary prescribed medication, painkiller, and antibiotics given by the surgeon.

Recovery

Recovery time can take anywhere between a few hours to a few weeks, depending on the laser used and the intensity of the treatment. During this time, great care is advised in order to keep the newly resurfaced skin free from complications.

If all of these precautions are met, and medication is properly taken to prevent the possible risks, the result will be very satisfying.