Why is this procedure done?
Laser resurfacing uses a very strong beam of light to remove damaged skin. This lets new skin grow. Your skin will be more clear, smooth, and tight. ‚
This procedure is done to treat: ‚
- Scars caused by acne, chickenpox, or injuries
- Age spots or liver spots
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Sun damaged skin
- Uneven skin tones or blemishes
Laser skin resurfacing may be done in a few sessions every few weeks to get the best results. ‚
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What will the results be?
- Improved skin color
- Less wrinkles or fine lines
- Smoother texture of the skin
- Tighter skin
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Talk to the doctor about: ‚
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- What results you expect from the procedure.
- If you get cold sores. This procedure can trigger them to flare up.
- If need special skin care or drugs a month before your procedure.
- If you need to limit the time you spend in the sun for 2 months before the procedure. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will be awake during the procedure.
- The doctor will clean your face and give you eye protection to wear.
- The doctor will numb your skin. This will keep you comfortable and pain free during the procedure.
- The doctor will place the laser probe over the area to be treated. The laser releases a pulse of light.
- The laser may be used to:
- Heat and remove the outer layer of skin. Then, a new layer will begin to grow.
- Damage the collagen under your skin. Then, new collagen starts to grow.
- This procedure takes from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The time depends on the size of the skin area to be treated.
What happens after the procedure?
- The doctor may put an ointment on the skin to prevent infection. The doctor will cover it with a dressing.
- If you were given drugs to make you sleepy, you will need someone to drive you home.
- Your skin may be red, swollen, and itchy. It will feel like a bad sunburn. Your skin may also ooze liquid. The area may become crusty and dry after a few days. It may take up to 2 weeks to fully heal.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Prevent pain and swelling:
- Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel over the painful part. Never put ice right on the skin. Do not leave the ice on more than 10 to 15 minutes at a time.
- You may take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever, like Tylenol ‚ ®, to help with pain.
- Raise your head at night with an extra pillow.
- Encourage healing:
- Follow your doctors advice regarding proper skin care and bathing.
- Stay away from drinking alcohol for at least 3 to 4 weeks.
- Stay away from swimming pools or hot tubs for at least 4 weeks.
- Do not smoke.
- Ask your doctor when you can begin shaving.
- Ask your doctor when you can wear makeup and use skin products again. Try green based makeup to cover up red areas.
- Protect your skin:
- Be very careful in the sun. Try to avoid the sun if possible, especially for the next 6 to 12 months.
- Use sunscreen on your face each day. Talk to your doctor about the best products for you.
- Avoid wind exposure.
- Stay away from any activity or sports that might cause bumps to your skin for at least 2 weeks.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
Will physical activity be limited?
Get lots of rest for the first few days after the procedure. Avoid activities like heavy lifting and hard exercise. You should not do activities outdoors in the sun. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Infection
- Swelling
- Acne
- Change in skin tone
- Cold sores
- Scarring
Where can I learn more?
American Society for Dermatologic Surgery ‚
http://www.asds.net/LaserResurfacingInformation.aspx ‚
American Society for Plastic Surgeons ‚
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Cosmetic-Procedures/Laser-Skin-Resurfacing.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚